HISTORY OF BETHLEHEM, GRAFTON COUNTY, NEW HAMPSHIRE ---------------------------------- Information located at http://www.nh.searchroots.com On a web site about GENEALOGY AND HISTORY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE and its counties TRANSCRIBED BY JANICE BROWN Please see the web site for my email contact. ---------------------------------- The original source of this information is in the public domain, however use of this text file, other than for personal use, is restricted without written permission from the transcriber (who has edited, compiled and added new copyrighted text to same). ======================================================== SOURCE: Gazetteer of Grafton County, N.H., 1709-1886 by Hamilton Child, Syracuse, N.Y.: H. Child, June 1886 page 154+ HISTORY OF BETHLEHEM NH BETHLEHEM lies in the extreme northern part of the county, in lat 44 degrees, 14' and long 71 degrees 45, bounded north and east by the county line, south by Livermore, Franconia and Lisbon, and west by Littleton. The territory, or at least the principal part of it, was originally granted by Gov. John Wentworth, under the name of Lloyd Hills; but exactly to whom, and under what date, it is impossible to state. We know, however, that Holland's map of New Hampshire gives place for a township designated as Lloyd Hills, which occupied a considerable part of what is now Bethlehem. The book of charters in the secretary of State's office contains nothing of the this township of Lloyd Hills, except one reference to it as a boundary of another town. Some light is thrown upon the history of this grant, however, by two documents which have not until recently been accessible to the public, viz.: First, the manuscript of a lecture on "The Early History and Geography of Littleton and the Vicinity," by the late Dr. Adams Moore, the historian of that town, and which is now in the possession of the Littleton committee on town history. The following passage in this lecture related to Lloyd Hills:-- "His [Gov. John Wentworth's] last official act was to dissolve the colonial legislature and retire to the Isle of Shoals, from whence he embarked finally for England. Some years after, somebody wrote him a letter of inquiry respecting a charter covering most of the town of Bethlehem, called Lloyd Hills. It appears by the charter of Whitefield that that town was bounded on the southwest by a town with that name. Some person interested in land matters, finding no record of it in the office of the secretary of State, wrote to Governor Wentworth, who it appears lived at a place called Hammersmith. I have seen his answer, which, from sinister motives, was kept rather prviate, as it was a key to some land disputes, and if seen would operate against the parties holding it. It contained a correct plan of the town of Lloyd Hills, how Bethlehem. The Ammonoosuc river [was] laid down with great accuracy,--the line between that town and this [Littleton] distinctly placed as crossing a certain bend in the river, near the Alder brook mills, where the proprietors of this town have supposed it to be, but from which they have been crowded back this way about fifty rods. The survey purported to have been made in 1774, by W. Coleman, who had surveyed this town [then Apthorp] four years before. The Governor must have taken from this country a book of plans of all these townships, furnished him by the deputy surveyors of his time, which would unravel the snarls of many a lawsuit, passed and perhaps to come." Second, the following matter relating to Lloyd Hills was copied by Philip C. Wilkins, of Littleton, at Portsmouth, August 8, 1850, from a paper purporting to be the original, in the handwriting of Gov. John Wentworth. It was in the possession of council in a court then pending in Portsmouth relative to lands in Bethlehem. One of these council was the late Ira Goodall, of Bath. The great mass of his professional papers were sold to papermakers in the time of the civil war, and it is not improbable that the original of Governor Wentworth's Lloyd Hills communication was thus destroyed. However that may be, no one appears to have known of its existence in recent years. Mr. Wilkins's record of surveys, Vol. 1, pp. 263, 264, 265, 266 contained his memoranda and copy, which are substantially as follows: "Province of New Hampshire "Portsmouth, 3d January 1774 "This ceritifes that this plan, beginning at a beech tree, standing in the northwesterly line of Greenthwaite, which is in the southwesterly corner of Apthorp; [thence running south 57-1/2 degrees east, two miles and fifty-six rods, to a spruce tree, which is in the northeasterly corner of Greenthwaite;] thence south 58 degrees east, three miles and 264 rods, to a birch tree; thence north 56 degrees east, five miles and 162 rods, to Britton Woods, so-called (now the town of Carroll); thence by said Britton Woods, north one mile and twenty-five rods, to a stake; thence north 58 degrees west, five miles and ten rods, to a fir-tree; thence south 56 degrees west, six miles and one-half, to the bounds begun at, containing 22,760 acres, is known by an original plan or survey of said tract, or township as retained to me by Dudley Coleman, deputy surveyor. "Attest: James Rindge, S.G." "It is certified that the within described land in the Province of New Hampshire was surveyed to Joseph Lorgin and others by authority of Government, part by his Majesty's mandamus and part on condition of settlement and cultivation, and that the grant of said lands was called in council according to the usual forms; also that an order was issued to the secretary of the said Province, for engrossing the patent, but I cannot recollect whether the patent was perfected, although the said tract of land was actually granted, and I do remember that about 20,000 acres was the property of Mr. Loring and that the township was called Lloyd Hills. "Hammersmith, 15 June 1783 "J. Wentworth." In November 1798, the inhabitants of Lloyd Hills, then "called Bethlehem," petitioned the legislature for an act of incorporation, for the said township [that petition included in the original document, is not included here]. The document was signed by Nathaniel Snow, Amos Wheeler, and Stephen Houghton, a committee for Bethlehem. On December 25, 1799 the act of incorporation was agreed upon for the town of Bethlehem. Thus the township exists to-day, except that a tract of land lying east of the town and south of the town of Carroll in Coos county was annexed to Bethlehem in 1849, and in 1873 an additional large tract of wild land, extending to the line of Carroll county, was annexed, so that the area of the township is now 31,154 acres of which 10,955 acres is improved land. The surface of the town is broken and rough, forming an endless variety of the most beautiful scenery. The principal streams are the Great Ammonoosuc and Gale Rivers, the former flowing in a westerly course through the northern part of the town and the latter flowing south into Franconia; there are, however, several other streams of considerable importance The principal mountain peaks are Mt. Agassiz, formerly known as Peaked Hill, and Round Mountain, near Bethlehem village, the former located nearest the village, though having a slightly lower altitude than the latter, is the most noted and affords one of the finest view in the White Mountains. It has an altitude of 2,390 feet and is under the control of Milo J. Corliss, who has constructed a carriage-way to its summit, on which he has erected an observatory. As it is claimed by some authorities that there is no other point in this section from which such an extended view may be obtained, we quote the following description thereof from Osgood's "White Mountains:"-- "About seven miles distant across the densely wooded valley of Gale river, a little east of south, is the thin and craggy crest of Mt. Lafayette, whose immense spurs and foot hills run far out over the wilerness. On its right flank is the rugged mass of Eagle cliff, with the deep gorge of the Franconia notch adjoining, and apparently blocked up by the low Bald mountain. Next comes the massive and round-topped ridge of Mt. Cannon, flanked by the sharp and rolling summit of Kinsman. Nearly south-south-west, up the long Landaff valley, is the high top of Moosilauke; and on the right much nearer, are Ore hill and Sugar hill. More to the west is the long and monotonous range of Mt. Gardner, which occupies part of four townships. Far beyond, along the horizon, is sa line of blue peaks in Vermont extending for scores of leagues down the Green Mountain range. Among these Camel's Hump is seen nearly west-north-west, and the high plateau of Mt. Mansfield is more to the right, with Mt. Elmore apparently adjoining it. In this direction, but close at hand below, are the hotels of Bethlehem, beyond and above which is the larger village of Littleton, with the high-school and the Oak Hill House on the heights. The Scythe-factory village runs to the east from Littleton over the Ammonoosuc, and Mann's hills are seen beyond to the right, over which is a distant mountain which may be Jay Peak. About due north, across the Ammonoosuc valley, is Dalton Mount, at whose foot is a bright lake shining among the forests. Portions of the great ranges towards Willoughby lake are seen far beyond, with the mountains near the Connecticut river. The view now passed over the plains of Whitefield, bordered on the north by Martin-Meadow hills, and the round summits of Mts. Pleasant and Prospect. Over the saddle between the latter two runs the Lancaster highway, and Cape Horn is seen beyond. Nearer at hand is Kimball hill in Whitefield, and over the right flank of Prospect are the two white domes of the Percy peaks, backed by the long Stratford and Bowback Mounts. The blue lines of the Pilot Mounts extend to the right, and much nearer, and fills a long section of the horizon. Then, nearly east-north-east, the view rests on the sharp and lofty pyramids of Mounts Jefferson and Adams, flanked by the rough ridge of Clay; and then the imposing crest of Washington appears, with portions of the railroad, the white station buildings, and the Summit House. To the east, down the long Ammonoosuc Valley, is the Twin Mountain House, while beyond rise the peaks which run from Mt. Washington to the Notch, Monroe, Franklin, Pleasant, and Clinton. Then come the huge and far-extending Twin Mountains, six to eight miles distant, and not far from southeast. Close to Agassiz is the wooded top of Round hill, over which appears the boldly cut peak of the Haystack (now Mt. Garfield) resting to the right of Lafayette." Among the elevations in the eastern part of the town are Hall, Osceola, Tom, Field and Willard peaks. DESCRIPTION OF BETHLEHEM IN 1885 In 1880 Bethlehem had a population of 1,400 souls. In 1885 the town had nine school districts, eleven common schools, and one graded school. Its ten school-houses were valued, including furniture, etc. at $7,100.00. There were 220 children attending school, thirty of whom were pursuing the higher grades, taught during the year by four male and fifteen female teachers, at an average salary of $38.50 for males, and $21.90 for females. The entire amount raised for school purposes during the year was $1,897.60, while the expenditures were $1,841.16, with Rev. D.J. Smith, superintendent. VILLAGE DESCRIPTIONS BETHLEHEM VILLAGE, or Bethlehem Street, as it is usually called by the inhabitants, is located for about two miles along one broad street in the western part of the town, having an altitude of nearly 1,500 feet above the level of the sea. Small though this village is, however, it is almost as universally known as that other rural locality of the same name in that distant Eastern clime. It occupies a position on a broad terrace near the summit of the mountain range which is bounded by the Ammonoosuc and Gale river valleys, facing the cool north and the wide strath which opens into the Connecticut valley, and is now one of the foremost summer-resorts in America. There are several villages in the Carolinas which are higher above sea level but they are nearer the equator, and also more closely environed by highlands; so that Bethlehem's urgent claims for superior coolness based on altitude may still hold good. The hay-fever unfortunates also find here a safe refuge, and convene their national assemblies on these heights without fear of sneezing, save on rare occasions, the south winds blow through Fanconia notch. The view of the Presidential range from this long street is one of the best imaginable, being at the true artistic point of distance, and showing forth magnificent effects under the lights of morning and evening. The village has been made very accesible by the construction of a narrow-gauge railway, diverging from the Boston & Lowell line at Bethlehem Junction, and ascending the heights for about three miles, having its terminus in the vicinity of the chief hotels. And yet upon the plateau on which stands this "Star Village of the White Hills," the "Sneezers Paradise," only a small wayside inn and a straggling farm-house or two were the signs of human habitation presented to the vision of that poetical and sympathetic lover of nature, Star King, when he visited the region thirty years ago; but his penetrating eye discovered that the site was one that must some day become the 'locale' of a thriving mountain village. It is but five miles east of Littleton, for many years the railroad terminus of the western side of the White Mountains; and referring to the highway between the two villages that delightful writer remarks: "The peculiarity of this approach to the mountains is that the highest ranges are seen first of all. The ride from Littleton to Bethlehem brings into full view the whole extent of the White Mountain range and also the grand outlines of Mt. Lafayette and its neighboring peaks. And it is a great pity that Bethlehem is not one of the prominent stopping places for travelers who seek the mountain region. No village commands so grand a panoramic view. The whole horizon is fretted with mountains." IT was not till half a dozen years after these words were written that the first step was made to take advantage of the position which was here presented for a healthful and delightful summer resort, and like many other of the world's events, this village may be said to owe its origin to an accident. The overturning of a carriage, which had almost been attended with fatal results to some members of the family of a Providence gentleman, since favorably known as ex-Governor Henry Howard, of Rhode Island, necessitated a stay of some weeks at the little wayside inn already spoken of; and he was then so greatly impressed with the truthfulness of Starr King's remarks that he not only soon after returned for a further sojoin in this bracing atmosphere, but became the purchaser of a considerable tract of land, and the foundation was soon laid of what has become one of the most popular resorts of this mountain region. ISAAC C. CRUFT has also done much for the growth and prosperity of Bethlehem. Some years after Governor Howard's purchase, Mr. Cruft, a wealthy citizen of Boston, secured the Maplewood and became equally interested in property in the eastern end of the village. To these two gentlemen Bethlehem owes much, we might almost say it owes everything. By personal application and pecuniary expenditure they raised the little hamlet to a noble summer resort, whose name is known in every corner of our great county--the exertions of the one leading to boarding-house after boarding-house being erected on or near the "Street," while those of the other have tended to the erection of one of the greatest and best of the mountain hostelries. Mr. Cruft was born in Boston in 1824, and for many years was engaged in mercantile pursuits, giving up active business, mainly about 1865. His nephew, General George T. Cruft, who has charge of the property here, came to Bethlehem in 1873, and has made the town his home since. He was born at Lexington in 1844. General Cruft is a strong Republican and first voted here in 1876. In 1878 he was appointed State quartermaster- general, under Governor Natt Head, ranking as brigadier-general. He is postmaster at Maplewood, is a justice of the peace, notary public, etc. ********* HOTELS AND BOARDING-HOUSES ********* The village now possesses about thirty hotels and boarding-houses; Protestant Episcopal, Methodist and Congregational churches; a public hall, stores, cafes, etc. and is supplied with water from reservoirs situated on neighboring hills; while three miles of plank walks permit pedestrian exercise to be taken without fear of wet feet, even after a refreshing shower. Every point of interest in the Mountains can be brought within a day's excursion either by road or rail, and there are pleasant half-day rides to places in the more immediate vicinity, such as Howland's Observatory, Round Mountain, Echo Farm, Around the Heater, Cherry Valley, etc., while Mount Agassiz, Cruft's Ledge and Strawberry Hill are within comfortable walking distance. The following brief description of several of the more important of the hotels and boarding-houses gives a fair idea of the village's facilities afforded by the village as a summer resort.-- MAPLEWOOD HOTEL, O.D. Seavey, is the handsomest and one of the most extensive erections of its kind in the mountains, having accomodations with the private cottages in connection, for over 500 guests. This elegant establishment possesses a large hall for entertainment, etc., has an elevator, is lighted with gas and electricity, is perfectly drained, has the Presidential and Northern ranges of mountains in full view, and is located within beautiful grounds, 800 acres in extent, comprising observatory, wooded walks, etc. It has post and express offices of its own, and a depot on the narrow gauge branch, midway between Bethlehem and Profile junction. [NOTE: this hotel currently has a web site at http://www.maplewoodgolfresort.com/ ] SINCLAIR HOUSE, Durgin & Fox, proprietors, is a large modern hotel in the center of the village, covering the site of the original establishment, the first of its kind in Bethlehem. It can accomodate 300 guests. The house has all modern conveniences, is lighted with gas, well supplied with water, perfected drained, delightfully situated and commands a full view of the surrounding hills. The hotel has a good livery attached. ALPINE HOUSE, C.H. Clark, proprietor, situated at the west end of the village, has accomodation for fifty guests. This house, from its peculiar location, commands extensive views, not only of the grand Presidential chain and the northern mountains, but of the beautiful valley of the Ammonoosuc, with Mount Mansfield and the green hills of Vermont beyond. It is full furnished with all the modern improvements, and is in connection with a good farm and an extensive and well appointed livery establishement. AVENUE HOUSE, J.C. & F.L. Kelley, proprietors, situated on the Main street, accomodates about 600 guests. The grounds surrounding the house have been enlarged and beautified and supplied with croquet sets, lawns, etc. It has in connection a good livery establishment. BELLEVUE HOUSE, David S. Phillips, accomodates ninety guests. This house, pleasantly situated on Main Street, has since last season been refurnished and repainted, and hot and cold water laid on to the upper floors. A fine lawn-tennis ground has also been added. Extensive views are obtained from the upper windows and cupola of the house. Livery stable connected. BETHLEHEM HOUSE, H.E. Richardson, proprietor, is pleasantly situated on Congress street, a few rods from the main street, and accomodates fifty guests. The location of this house, exempting it from the dust of a much traveled thoroughfare, renders it desirable residence for persons subject to hay-fever and asthmatic complaints. CENTENNIAL HOUSE, H.W. Wilder, proprietor, is situated on high ground at the western end of the village, and accomodates sixty guests. The house commands a view of the Presidential range on the east, the Stratford peaks and other mountains to the north, and the Ammonoosuc valley and Green hills to the west. It is a favorite resort of many families who annually frequent it. There is a spring of delicious pure water on the premises and a superior livery. HILLSIDE HOUSE, Mrs. E.S. Davis & Son, proprietors, on Mount Agassiz road, accomodates fifty guests. It is situated on high ground facing Mount Washington, and with Mout Agassiz in full view to the south. The rooms are large and airy, the drainage is perfect, and a livery stable is in connection. HIGHLAND HOUSE, J.H. Clark, on Main Street at the west end, accomodates eighty guests. This house possessed spacious apartments with closets, open fire-places and baths, hot and cold water on every floor, electric bells, and other modern improvements, and has a fine lawn tennis and croquet grounds. Good livery in connection. HOWARD HOUSE, C.E. Bunker, proprietor, is located on the main street, near the depot, and accomodates sixty guests. This house is conveniently and pleasantly situated, and the piazzas and windows command extensive mountain views in every direction. It has in connection a livery stable. MAPLEWOOD COTTAGE, Charles B. Goodwin, proprietor, nearly opposite to and northeast of the Maplewood Hotel, accomodates one hundred guests, who are privileges to enjoy the social advantages or the Maplewood Hotel with its delightful surroundings. MAPLEWOOD HALL, Charles B. Goodwin, added to the Maplewood estate last year, is on the opposite side of the road and northwest of the Maplewood Hotel. Its capacious and handsome apartments appropriated to the occupation of families boarding at the Maplewood Hotel and cottage. MOUNT AGASSIZ HOUSE, Horatio Nye, proprietor, on Mount Agassiz road, accomodates sixty guests. The house is centrally situated, near to the Sinclair House, postoffice and Cruft block. MOUNT WASHINGTON HOUSE, C.L. Bartlett, proprietor, located on Park avenue, accomodates, with adjoining cottages, sixty guests, pleasantly situated forty rods from the main street, and ten rods from the new depot, it commands mountain views from every window, forty peaks being visible from the piazza alone. It has an excellent livery and a large farm in connection. THE BROADVIEW, G.L. Gilmore, pleasant situated on Main Street accomodates forty guests. The rooms are large and airy and command extensive views of the mountains; while the grounds around the house are tastefully laid out. PROSPECT HOUSE, M.J. Phillips, proprietor, situated in its beautiful grounds one-third of a mile from the depot, accomodates eighty guests. The mountain views obtaining from this house are said by some to be more extensive that those commanded by any other in Bethlehem, it being the only one from which both Mts. Washington and Lafayette, with their neighboring heights, are visible. It has a livery stable in connection. RANLET'S HOTEL, D.W. Ranlet, proprietor, corner of Main street and Park avenue, and near to the depot, accomodates seventy-five guests. An elegant cafe, situated on the grounds, supplies ice-cream, sherbet, and other delicacies of a quality equal to any found in the leading establishments in the large cities. A croquet lawn adjoins the hotel, and fine views are obtained of the White Mountain range and the northern peaks. TURNER HOUSE AND COTTAGE, J.N. Turner, proprietor, Main Street, on Turner's farm, accomodate seventy-five guests. These houses are delightfully situated amid handsome shade trees, and possess a stream of water noted for its coldness and delicious purity. It has in connection a good livery. THE UPLANDS, W.C. Noyes, on Main Street, at the west end, accomodates forty guests. This first-class new house, situated on high ground about 100 rods from the railroad depot and separated from the main thoroughfare by terraced lawns, is superior in every respect and is thoroughly warmed for the comfort of guests who remain late in the season. ****** OTHER BUSINESSES AND MANUFACTURES ****** WILLIAM G. MOWRY'S "WAUMBEK" STEAM SAW-MILL on Ammonoosuc river, near the corner of roads 9 and 19, was erected by the Waumbek Lumber Co., in 1868-69, who operated it until July 1877, when they suspended operations. It then stood idle till 1880, when it passed into the control of Mr. Mowry, who has operated it until July 1877, when they suspended operations. The mill gives employment to thirty-five men, who annually convert about 3,500,000 logs into various kinds of lumber. James E. Viall is superintendent. M.C. NOYES'S SAW-MILL, on road 11, which was purchased by him in 1860, gives employment to seven men, and cuts annually about 300,000 feet of coarse lumber, 150,000 feet of clapboards and 200,000 shingles. JOHN PIERCE JR.'S SAW-MILL, on road 20, was built by him and his brother, E.O. Pierce, about 1847. He employs thirty-five men, cutting about 200,000 feet of lumber per year. CORTES BOLLES'S CIDER-MILL, on r6, built in 1884, manufactures about 350 barrels of cider per year. F.A. HASKELL'S CARRIAGE SHOP was built by him in 1879. Aside from a general jobbing business he makes about twenty new vehicles per year. H.C. LIBBEY'S SAW-MILL was built by him in 1877. It gives employment to about forty men and cuts 300,000 feet of coarse lumber, 100,000 feet of clapboards, 300,000 lath and a large number of shingles per year. CHARLES A. SINCLAIR'S GRIST-MILL, on road 11, operated by Allen Peabody, was built about 1844. It has three runs of stones and does custom work. ***** FIRST SETTLERS OF BETHLEHEM NH ***** The first settlers in the town, according to the best authorities, were Benjamin Brown and Jonas Warren, who came on from Massachusetts in 1787 or 1788. For a time there were only three families in the town, those of the two gentlemen mentioned, and one other, whose name or origin cannot now be ascertained. Mr. Warren, who had a family of four children--Otis, Betsey, Jonas and Anna--located upon the farm now owned and occupied by Charles Blandin. Mr. Brown, who had a family of eleven children--Abigail, Frances, Marcus, Benjamin, Ida, Cynthia, Anna, Susannah, Triphena, Oliver and Mahala--located upon what is now known as the James Dean place. In the spring of 1790 James Turner began his settlement in Lloyd Hills, there being at that time only two families in the town; afterwards, during the same year, others came in, among whom were Nathaniel Snow and Nathan Wheeler. In March 1794, Lot Woodbury settled in the town, from Royalston, Mass., bringing his family and effects on an ox-sled. The venerable "Sir" Isaac Newton Gay, who is still a resident of the town and whose celebrated "museum" is so much frequented by the habitues of the Maplewood, came here as an infant in 1797. Of a balm of Gilead tree near the residence of A.S. Phillips, Mr. Gay says: "On my seventh birthday, June 6, 1803, I set it out with my own hands; there were two of them, but one died." Nathaniel Snow, father of the Nathaniel Snow who died in this town, "originally surveyed Bethlehem, and the compass used by him is now in the possession of Reuben Baker." Mr. Gay also makes from memory, in substance, the following statement of the settlement of the town. He was born in Ipswich, Mass., July 16, 1796, and was brought here February 19th of the following year. He says the first eight families in town were:-- First, Nathaniel Snow, a land surveyor, who had six children-- Nathaniel Jr., Asa, Jerusha (Mrs. Dea. Thomas Hale), Mrs. Moses Eastman, Mahala (Mrs. Major Amos Wheeler), and one other. One lived where the rose bushes are now on top of Phillip's hill. Nathaniel lived in the two-story house opposite the Robbins place. Asa lived on the Lindsey Whitcomb place. Deacon Hale lived on the South road. Moses Eastman lived at the Amy place, and Major Wheeler on the opposite side of the road, and across the brook. Second, Simeon Burt, had six children--Levi, Simeon Jr., John, Lydia (Mrs. Dea. Willis Wilder), Mrs. William Sawyer, and Mrs. Oliver sawyer. Third, Jonas Warren, had two children--Mrs. Benjamin Brown, and Mrs. Lot Woodbury, Sr. Mr. Warren lived and began the settlement on the William Kelso place, and was the first man buried in Bethlehem cemetery. Fourth, James Crane, lived in a small frame house near the house of Reuben Baker, built a saw-mill there, had two children--Polly, and a boy, who died young. Crane soon moved away. Fifth, Benjamin Brown, began where his son Marcus has lived many years, and had ten children--Marcus, Benjamin Jr., Oliver, Abigail, Fanny, Tryphena, Juda, Mahala, Ada and Anna. Sixth, John Giles, began on what is called the Bray place. Seventh, Isaac Batchellor, began on what has since been called the Batchellor place, near the Kelso place, and had six children--Isaac Jr., Silas, Nehemiah, Stillman, Mary (married John Burt), and Betsey. Eighth, Peter Shattuck, began at the top of the hill near where the Asa Phillips house now stands, and had four children--Stephen, Peter Jr., Abigail and Ruth. None but Stephen lived in Bethlehem. Mr. Gay and his mother (Martha Breed) came with this family, Mrs. Peter Shattuck's maiden name being Rebecca Breed. By the petition for an act of incorporation, in 1798, it will be seen that the town had then "forty settlers;" while the census reports of 1800 give the entire population as 171 souls. The privations, sufferings and hardships of the early inhabitants were numerous, and had they not been hardy, persevering men, they could not have borne up against them. Starvation at one time almost stared them in the face; but they were saved from this lingering death by nurishment [sic] procured from green chocolate roots and other plants. ***** FIRST TOWN MEETING & FIRSTS ***** The first town meeting was held at the house of Amos Wheeler, March 4, 1800, when the following list of officers were elected: Moses Eastman, moderator and town clerk; Edward Oaks, constable and collector; Simeon Burt, John Gile and Edward Oaks, highway surveyors; Lot Woodbury, fence viewer; Amos Wheeler, sealer of weights and measures; James Noyes, tithingman; and John Russell and Edward Oaks, hog-reeves. Otis, son of Joseph Warren, was the first child born in the town. Mrs. Lydia Whipple died March 17, 1795, the first death in the township. Reuben Baker was the first mail carrier. Moses Eastman was the first shoemaker. The first blacksmith was Abel Hale, whose shop occupied the present site of the Sinclair House. The first physician was Dr. Petter [?Peter] Shattuck, though the first to practice his profession here was a Dr. Rawson. The first grist-mill was located at "McGregory Hollow," Stephen Houghton being the proprietor. ****** EARLY SETTLERS AND PROMINENT CITIZENS - BIOGRAPHIES & GENEALOGIES ****** LOT WOODBURY came to Bethlehem from Royalston, Mass in 1795, traveling by marked trees, and brining with him his family, household effects, and two yoke of steers. He located upon a portion of the farm where his grandson, H.W. Wilder, now lives, cleared a farm and reared four children. He kept a hotel for about fifty years, opposite the place whre Horace W. Wilder now lives. The latter has the old hotel sign in his possession. Mr. Woodbury took an active part in town affairs, represented the town, served as selectman, and as justice of the peace. His daughter Eliza became the wife of Joseph Wilder, and the mother of H.W. Wilder of this town. WILLIS WILDER came to Bethlehem, from Templeton, Mass., in 1796, and settled where the Maplewood Hotel now stands, where he cleared a farm. He reared a family of eight children, nearly all of whom located in this town, and all are now dead. He took an active part in town affairs, and held most of the town offices. His son Joseph was born in town in 1800, and always resided here. He died while on a journey south, in New Orleans, of yellow fever. Two of his children now reside in town. His son Horace W. is proprietor of the Centennial House, served as town reprentative in 1865-66, and was town clerk twenty-four years. JOEL WINCH was born in Framingham, Mass., and when a young man spent several years in Boston, where he married Sarah Sessions. They came to Bethlehem about 1808 or 1809, bought the farm on which the widow and children of his grandson, Richard H. Wilder, now live, and spent their lives in town. He was an honest, hard working, farmer, a leader in the early Free Will Baptist Church, reared to lives of honor and usefulness seven sons and one daughter, and died at the age of ninety-six years. His eldest son, Joel, now resides in Columbus, Wis.; Minot F., George F., and John C. are successful business men in New York; Dr. Albert was a physician in Whitefield, where he died; Franklin and Sewell F. were respected citizens of Bethlehem, and died here. JOSEPH BARRETT came to Bethlehem, from Winchendon, Mass., about 1798, and located on road 18, where he cleared a farm. He had born to him five children, who lived to maturity, of whom, Joseph K. resides in this town, James J. resided in Littleton until his death in 1885, and Mrs. Sally Bowles also lives in Littleton. Mr. Barrett died in 1858. JESSE PHILLIPS came to Bethlehem from the southern part of the State, and located in the western part of the town, on the farm where Artemas S. Phillips now lives. He reared a family of nine children, two of whom are living, Reuben and Jeremiah, who reside in Littleton. Mr. Phillips died in Richmond, while on a visit to that place, about 1828, but was buried in town. His son Moses was born here, and lived in this town until his death in 1874. He was a farmer, and reared nine children, five of whom are living, viz: Mrs. Amanda Taylor and Mrs. Martha B. Jesseman, of Bethlehem, Frank B. and Dennis of Littleton, and Willie B. of Lisbon. George W., a resident of Bethlehem, died in June 1885. JAMES TURNER came to Bethlehem, from Bernardston, Mass about 1790, there being at that time only two families in town, and commenced a clearing on the farm where James N. Turner now lives. He worked here three summers, returning to Massachusetts during the winters. He married Mrs. Parker, and had born to him three children. His son Timothy P. was born in 1795, and resided on the home farm until his death. Samuel, father of James Turner, also came to this town, and resides with his son until his death. James Turner died in 1835. Timothy P. served as town clerk many years, was captain of militia, justice of the peace, and also represented the town in the legislature. He reared a family of six children, only one of whom, James N., resides here. The latter lives on the homestead. NOAH SWETT came to Bethlehem from Gilmanton NH, when there were only nine families in the town, and settled near where the Maplewood Hotel now is. He was a shoemaker and farmer, and reared a family of eight children, four of whom are now living. His death occurred in 1869, aged seventy-six years, and his wife, Sarah, died within twenty-four hours after, both being buried in the same casket. His son Elisha has held ever office in town, except that of town representative. SAMUEL MORRISON came to Bethlehem from Gilmanton, about 1800, settled on Gilmanton Hill and cleared the farm where his son, William M., now lives. He was a farmer and died in this town about 1867. Of his six children, John C. and Gillman K. reside in Littleton, Mrs. David Oaks lives in Lisbon, and William M. resides on the homestead. SAMUEL F. GILMAN came to Bethlehem from Gilmanton about 1823, and located upon the farm where his son Albert now lives. He reared a family of nine children, two of whom are living, Mrs. George C. Cheeney and Albert. Mr. Gilman died about 1857. David, brother of Samuel, came about the same time, lived for a while with his brother, and afterwards bought him out. He died in Laconia NH. The Gilman family, consisting of three brothers, originally came from England, settled in Gilmanton, and from them that town derived its name. LINDSEY WHITCOMB came to Bethlehem from Easton, about 1831, and located on the farm where his son now lives, on road 23. He was a farmer and a lumberman, and died in 1883. Two of his sons, C.L. and H.E. reside in town. NOAH BURNHAM came to Bethlehem from Gilmanton, about 1806, and located about half a mile from where his son now lives. In 1820 he removed to the farm, where his son Benjamin now resides, and lived there until his death in 1855. He reared a family of nine children, only one of whom is now living, Benjamin, who resides on the homestead. SAMUEL BURNHAM came to Bethlehem from Gilmanton, and located in the western part of the town, on what is known as Gilmanton hill. He died about 1844. Two of his children are living, Mrs. Joanna Phillips and Mrs. Elizabeth Richardson, of this town. DUDLEY F. LADD came to this town from Gilmanton NH, about 1840, and located on road 15, on Gilmanton Hill. He afterwards removed to Gilmanton, where he died. His children are Lorenzo S., Plummer B., Mrs. Daniel Crane, Josiah M. and Mrs. Morrison. JOHN WESLEY, a native of Kent, England, located in Bethlehem about 1843. He was a farmer and died in 1869. Of his children, Mrs. C.C. Shattuck and John L. reside here, and Mrs. G.B. Merrell and Mrs. Frank Blake live in Warren. PHILIP HOIT, son of Samuel, a Revolutionary solider, moved to Piermont, from Littleton, at an early day, and resided there for many years. His son, Wells P. now lives in this town, and has resided in the same neighborhood for forty-two years. CALEB BAKER, a native of Rhode Island, was a surveyor. He located in Franconia at an early day, and in 1815 came to this town, locating in the southern part. He was selectman in Franconia, did some legal business, and also kept the only store at that time in town, drawing his goods with an ox-team from Concord. He reared eleven children, three of whom are now living. Reuben, the only one residing in this town, was born in Franconia in 1797, was eighteen years of age when he came to Bethlehem, and has resided here since. CYRUS E. BUNKER was born in Barnstead NH in 1823, came to Bethlehem in 1853, and was one of the first to engage in teh boarding-house business. He built the Mt. Agassiz House, now operated by H. Nye, and in 1878 built and still conducts the Howard House, erected on the site of a house named after ex-Governor Howard, of Rhode Island, which was destroyed by fire in 1874. ALLEN THOMPSON was born in Woodstock, VT in January 1814. He studied surveying, and in 1835, came to Bethlehem to reside, thought at first he came here to hunt, and has killed one hundred deer in this section in the course of a single year. He surveyed much of the town, in the employ of individual owners, but for the past forty years has also acted as guide to sportsmen in the White mountains and among the lakes of Maine and Canada. He married, first, Lucinda Barrett, of Bethlehem, who bore him eight children, of whom Mary P., Luella A., Ellen E. and Frances, are living, and second, Harriet (Chase) Phillips. DANIEL WHILCOMB was born in Atkinson, Mass., July 28, 1783. He married twice, first Betsey Page, January 23, 1812, who died October 25, 1815; and second, Hannah Eaton, February 21, 1816. Six children were born to him, three by each wife, only two of whom are living--Daniel P. Wilcomb, in St. Johnsbury VT, and Moses K. in this town. Daniel Wilcomb moved to this town in 1812, locating onthe farm now owned and occupied by Moses K. He represented the town in the legislature in 1840-41. He died September 7, 1862. NATHANIEL NOYES was an early settler of Landaff. Only two of his large family of children, Rufus and John, located in that town. Rufus died there and John moved to Bethlehem, and resided with his son, M.C., where he died. Nathaniel's grandfather, with two brothers, came from England at a very early date, and subsequently settled in Newburyport, NH. JAMES M. KIDDER, born in Weathersfield, VT, came to Bethlehem in 1845, where he purchased and cleared wild land. In 1867 he engaged in the manufacture of lumber, in company with W.A. McGregory, and also the manufacture of potato starch, at Dalton and East Concord VT. They also built up most of the present Congress street, Bethlehem. Mr. Kidder has held various town offices, including selectman in 1871-72, and representative in 1872-73. He married Lucy L. Houghton of Bradford VT and has three children--William H. of Lowell, Mass; Cynthia A. and Josie F. ******* CHURCHES IN BETHLEHEM NH ******* THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH--The first edifice devoted to religious purposes in Bethlehem seems to have been built by the Congregationalist and Methodists about the year 1825. It was erected a little east of the ground on which the Centennial House now stands, and then known as the common. The inhabitants, previous to this, had worshipped in barns, in the school-house, private dwellings--any place, in fact that could be made use of conveniently. Shortly after 1830, the Methodists erected a church of their own, where their present edifice now stands. This was disheartening to the Congregationalists, who had suffered many vicissitudes since the establishment of their society, October 15, 1802, and the result was that in the course of time their church building became so dilapidated that in 1853 they decide upon resigning it, and made arrangements with the Methodists to occupy their church, after needed alterations, upon alternate Sundays, which agreement was in force until 1865. Eventually, in 1876, the Congregationalists decided to erect a new church. The severe vicissitudes to which this denomination has been subjected, the lack of a church of their own, and the continual falling off of members by death and otherwise, had reduced their numbers to such an extend, that in January 1876, there were but eight members left of the congregation. Two of them were over seventy years of age, another was unable to attend, and consequently there were but five members able to assist in the duties of the church. In that year, however, these eight and four more, making twelve all told, came together and resolved to build a church and perfect an organization. Isaac F. Cruft, of Boston, owned some land near the "Street," and he offered to make the society a present of the land and $150.00 in money if the members would built the church. He also promised to open a road to the church. The promises he carried out to the letter. Another gentleman, a former resident of the town, Mr. J. Pierce of Littleton, gave $1,000, others signed in smaller amounts, and the balance was assured by the Home Missionary Society. George T. Cruft, nephew of Isaac S. Cruft, aided in many ways in laying the foundation and raising money. Messrs. Mead, Mason & Co. of Concord, took the contract for the foundation and building at a cost of $3,000 and the building was opened for public worship in the summer of 1877. The first Congregational minister ordained here was the Rev. William Hutchinson on January 27, 1830. He resigned on January 12, 1833. He was followed by the Rev. Edmund Burt, who was ordained at Franconia, January 13, 1841, and resigned August 20, 1845. The Rev. Daniel McClenning, his successor was ordained April 28, 1852, and dismissed, at his own request, August 15, 1854, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Hall, who commenced his ministration on December 15, 1854. The Rev. Charles W. Richardson and the Rev. Mr. Esty devoted several years to this congregation at the time when it was without a regularly ordained preacher. There is no minister in charge at present. THE CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY, PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL--Though no communicants to the Protestant Episocopal Church resided in Bethlehem previous to 1879, the village was annually visted by hundreds of its members, whose only opportunities of participating in its services were occasionally in the parlors of the hotels and boarding-houses. The need of a proper edifice in which to worship became, in time, so much felt, that at a service held September 12, 1875, by Rev. Dr. Rankin, initiatory steps were taken toward the erection of a permanent structure for summer worship. The principal mover was George W. Tinges, of Baltimore, who had then resided three summers in Bethlehem, and it is to his untiring energies during the two succeeding years that the present church owes its existence. Mr. Tinges proposed to head a subscription list if ex-Governor Howard, of Thode Island, would give the necessary land, which the latter not only promptly acceded to, but supplemented his gift with a liberal subscription. Pledges of $500 were immediately received, which sum was sufficiently increased during the season of 1876, by offerings at occasional services, by futher subscriptions, and by pledges of labor, to justify the commencement of the building, for which a design was obtained from C.C. Haight, of New York. The Rev. J.B. Goodrich, then of Littleton, supervised the erection, the funds at his command being, however, little more than enough to put the building under roof. The Church of the Nativity was opened for public worship on the afternoon of Sunday, July 8, 1877, by the Rev. A.R. Graves of Littleton, and services were continued throughout that summer, for the most part, twice each Sunday, the edifice being only supplied with common pine seats and chancel furniture, and with cotton cloth in the windows. Before the close of the season, however, additional funds were obtained for providing stained-glass windows, the cost of which was almost entirely defrayed by individual contributions, and for some other requisites. The offerings in 1877 were applied to the building fund, but have since been devoted to the support of the services, with occasional exceptions, a clause in the deed of gift making it imperative that sittings shall be entirely free. Several clergymen visiting Bethlehem officiated during the summer of 1877, the Rev. Dr. Rankin taking charge in August of that year. When the church was re-opened in 1878, it was placed in the charge of the Rev. A.R. Graves, of Littleton, who continued until his removal to Vermont, at the close of the season of 1880. Since then it has been each summer in charge of one or more clergymen, who have been assisted by many visiting prelates and clergymen. The church was consecreated on Wednesay, July 28, 1880, by the Right Rev. W.W. Niles, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese; the sermon on that occasion being preached by the Rev. W.B. Buckingham, of New London, Conn. After 1877 Mr. Tinges rarely visited Bethlehem, and the good work which he had so zealously begun was thereafter continued with equal zeal by G.B. Du Bois, of Boston, and it is to the energy of the latter gentleman that the church is mainly indebted for the completion of its interior. The total amount of money collected for the erection and furnishing of the church has been $3,127.77, all of which has been expended. The building is of pointed style, with high gable roof, and--in the interior especially--is of neat appearance, the chancel being tastefully carpeted, the floor covered with matting, the roof oiled and the rafters painted. Its seating capacity is about 250, which it is hoped to increase to 325 by a proposed addition, trustees now having about $1,000 in hand for this purpose. THE METHODIST CHURCH--As already stated, the Methodists erected a church on the site of their present edifice about 1830, and in 1853, when the Congregationalists desired to join them in the use of the building, it was materially renovated and improved, and for some time continued as a union church. The new Methodist church grew and prospered well, and about 1874 extensive improvements were made to it. The structure was raised, and a vestry built at a cost of $6,000.00. FREE WILL BAPTISTS--Many years ago there was a Free Will Baptist church in this town, situated about one mile west of the village, but it has long since ceased to exist. (end)