HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, 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 577+ HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH NH PLYMOUTH, one of the shire towns of the county lies in the southeastern part in lat. 43 degrees 44' and long. 71 degrees, 45', bounded north by Campton, east by Holderness and Ashland, southeast by Bridgewater, southwest by Hebron, and west by Groton and Rumney. It was originally granted by Governor Benning Wentworth July 15, 1763, to the following grantees:-- Stephen Ames* Jacob Hildreth Benjamin Parker* Theodore Atkinson X David Hobard*+ Oliver Parker Theodore Atkinson Jr X Gershom Hobart*+ Zachariah Parker*+ Joseph Blanchard* James Hobart*+ Richard Pierce* Elnathan Blood* John Hobart* John Phelps* Elnathan Blood Jr.* Jonathan Hobart* Amos Phillips John Brown*+ Peter Hobart* Francis Powers* Josiah Brown*+ Jonathan Johnson* Nahum Powers*+ James Cowan Abner Keyes* Stephen Powers* Ebenezer Cummings* Jonas Keyes William Read* Jotham Cummings*+ Oliver Lawrence* Col. Joseph Smith X Samuel Cummings Esq* Phineas Lund William Temple Esq. X Samuel Cummings* Thomas McCluer Samuel Thompson William Cummings* William McCluer James Underwood X Thomas Davis Onisephorus Marsh Joseph Warner David Emerson Jr.* Moses Merrill Meshech Weare* Nathaniel Garfield Thomas Merrill Abel Webster*+ Samuel Goodhue* James Nabor Benning Wentworth X Samuel Hale William Nevins* John Willoby* Ebenezer Hartshorne* William Nutting John Willoby Jr*+ John Harvell Matthew Patten X David Wright Legend: *=Residents of Hollis +=Became actual settlers X=Members of the Governors Council Many changes have been made in the town's original area, however. As early as 1780 troubles had arisen in this and other towns relative to charter bounds, and on the 27th of October, of that year, the legislature appointed a committee to settle the question. This committee returned in their report the bounds of Plymouth as follows: "Beginning at a pine tree on the western bank of the Pemigewasset river opposite Holderness Corner, where the line of Campton crosses the river, thence on Campton line south 86 degrees west about five miles, to a hemlock tree, the northeast corner of Cockermouth; thence south 30 degrees west five miles, one half mile and forty rods, to a beech tree; thence south 37 degrees west, five miles and two hundred and eighty-five rods, to a Beech tree on Grafton line; thence south 65 degrees east two hundred and sixty rods to a beech tree standing on the curve line; thence following the curve line about twelve miles and a half mile to a white oake tree standing on the bank of Pemigewasset river, and thence by said river to the bound began at." But these bounds took from the northern part of the town a tract of land which the inhabitants of the town considered belonged to them, and hence, petitioned the legislature to have it restored, which was done, by an act passed June 21, 1793. This act also annexed to Plymouth some lots of land belonging to Nathaniel Peabody, known as "the Everett farm and the Withey lot." By an act passed June 15, 1792, the southwest portion of the town was set off to form, with a portion of Cockermouth (now Groton), the new town of Hebron. But finally, June 26, 1845, some lots were severed from the northeast corner of Hebron, and annexed to Plymouth, while its area was still further enlarged by the annexation of a portion of Campton, June 27, 1860, so that it now has an area of 16,256 acres, 10,103 acres of which is improved land. The surface of Plymouth is charmingly diversified, though it is not so rough as to seriously retard cultivation of the soil, the fertility of its large areas of interval land being proverbial. But not alone for its fertility is the little town noted. Attractively situated in the beautiful valley of the mountain-born Pemigewasset, and crossed by the historic valley of Baker's river, surrounded by majestic hills and mountains, midway between the lovely lakes Winnipesaukee, Asquam and others on the south, and the grand and picturesque Franconia and White mountains on the north, the whole region is a grand resort for thousands of summer tourists; in fact, one of the chief summer resorts on the west side of the mountains. The charm of its intervales, according to many good authorities, rivals that of the celebrated ones of Conway, while from many neighboring mountain peaks most of the lake systems of the state can be seen, and much of the mountain chains. Its climate is pleasant and invigorating, while the map will show the extent and variety of the drives from the vicinity of Plymouth village, revealing rare views of the Franconia and Waterville mountains, and the emerald meadows of the two rivers. The venerable Episcopal church of Holderness, one and a half mile distant, should be visited; and the Livermore falls, two miles up on the road to the Profile House, will repay the ride, especially by the beautiful views from the road in ascending; the chief mountain excursion is that to the top of Mount Prospect, nearly five miles distant, and reached by an easy carriage road over the upland pastures. The view from the crest is famous for its variety and beauty, and includes a vast area of Central New Hampshire, Mount Washington, the Sierra of the Franconia range, the deep trench of the Pemigewasset valley, and hundreds of greater and lesser peaks filling all the north and northeast, with the delightful and variegated scenery of the lake country on the other side. A visit to the top of this mountain is justly considered 'de rigeur' for all sojourners at Plymouth. Aside from the Pemigewasset, which washes its eastern border, and Baker's river, which flows through its northern part, the town is well watered by numerous smaller streams. DESCRIPTION OF PLYMOUTH NH in 1880-1885 In 1880 Plymouth had a population of 1,726 souls. In 1885 the town had nine school districts, seven common schools, one graded school, and one high school. Its nine school-houses were valued, including furniture, etc. at $14,900. There were 400 children attending school, twenty of whom were pursuing the higher grades, taught during the year by two male and fourteen female teachers, at an average monthly salary of $32 for males and $24 for females. The entire amount raised for school purposes during the year was $2,666.10 while the expenditures were $2,725.00 with Rev.H.P. Peck, superintendent. VILLAGES PLYMOUTH is a handsome post village located on the beautiful terrace near the confluence of Baker's river and the Pemigewasset, in the northeastern part of the town. It has considerable prestige on account of being one of the county seats, and then, too, it "is a charming representative New England town, bright and busy all the year round, but especially attractive when the season of summer travel makes it the fair threshold of the hill region." The locality is rendered particularly pleasant in consequence of this large influx of metropolitan representatives of fashion and culture, though the society is at all times pleasant and agreeable, as churches of every principal denomination are found here, or very near in neighboring towns, courses of lectures, social and other entertainments numerous, and the leading secret societies well represented. Educational facilities are excellent, and always have been, as an academy, since changed into the State Normal school for both sexes, has existed here many years. The rapidly growing Holderness School for Boys, half a mile distant, fits youths for college, the United States military and naval academies and for active business life, very cheaply, pleasantly and thoroughly, while the common schools stand high. Aside from its public buildings, Normal school, many elegant residences, beautifully shaded streets, summer hotels, two weekly papers, and a fine public park, the village has three churches (Congregational, Methodist and Universalist), four general stores, two drug stores, hardware store and tin shop, jewelry and music store, two clothing stores, furniture store, two fancy goods and millinery stores, three meat markets, one bakery, a wagon and sleigh shop, two harness shops, several blacksmith shops, an extensive lumber-mill, grist-mill, marble and granite shops, several tanneries for manufacturing glove stock, several glove and mitten factories, etc., and about twelve hundred inhabitants. It was on the site of this village, authorities claim, that Captain Baker surprised the Indian village in 1712. For fifty years thereafter it was passed by raiding parties of both whites and Indians, and ultimately became the birthplace of Abolitionism in New Hampshire. Not alone for these interesting facts if the village celebrated, however, illustrating as they do the extremes of civilization; but in its court-house Daniel Webster delivered his first plea, and in its hotel Nathaniel Hawthorne breathed his last in 1864. WEST PLYMOUTH (p.o.) is a hamlet located in the northwestern part of the town. It has one hotel, a summer boarding house, and about a dozen dwellings. GLOVE HOLLOW, a hamlet at Lower Interval, has a few dwellings and a tannery and glove factory. It was here that some of the first settlers in the town located, and formerly quite an extensive business was carried on at this point. BUSINESS AND MANUFACTURES THE PLYMOUTH WATER COMPANY was organized in 1879, for the purpose of furnishing the village with an adequate water supply. J.F. Langdon was chosen president, and John Mason treasurer, to act with a board of five directors. The works were constructed by J.F. & W. Langdon, in a satisfactory manner. The reservoir is located about a mile and a half from the village, affording a head of 173 feet, water being brought in an eight-inch main. This affords good facilities for protection against fire, motive power for a grist-mill, planing-mill, carriage factory and printing office, and an abundant supply for domestic purposes. THE PEMIGEWASSET NATIONAL BANK, occupying a fine brick edifice south of the park, on Main Street, was organized November 21, 1881, with a capital of $75,000. The bank has an average deposit of $85,000 and a surplus of $5,000. N.H. Weeks is its president, and O.B. Copeland, cashier. THE GRAFTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY grounds at Pemigewasset trotting park, northerly from the village, has suitable buildings and a two-mile track. C.M. Morse, president; Nathan H. Weeks and others, vice-presidents; W.A. Cable, treasurer. The society is in a prosperous condition, its annual fairs are well attended and among the best in the state. THE STATE NORMAL SCHOOL, occupying a find brick structure near the center of the village, was established here in 1870. Its board of instruction is as follows: Charles C. Rounds, principal and superintendant of training schools, and instructor in psychology, didactics, school management, history of education and geometry; Flora McDonald, algebra, physics, chemistry, botany, physiology and history; Helen M. Cobb, Latin, geography and teacher and critic in high school grades; Mary L. Clifford, drawing and teacher and critic of primary methods; Hattie M. Springer, teacher and critic in grammar grades; and Frances S. Forsaith, teacher and critic in four and fifth year's grades. THE PEMIGEWASSET HOUSE, located on Main Street, is one of the finest summer hotels in the state. It has a frontage of 230 feet, with a wing of eighty-four feet, and is three stories high. It contains 150 light and airy rooms, which can be furnished 'en suite' when desired; also large and commodious halls, parlors and dining-rooms. The house is lighted throughout with gas, and the bath-rooms are amply supplied with hot and cold water. LITTLE'S HOTEL, G.W. Little, prop., located on North Main Street, will accomodate fifty guests. CHASE'S SUMMER BOARDING-HOUSE, located on Russell street, will accomodate twenty-five guests. HIRAM W. MERRILL's GRIST-MILL on Mill Street, built in 1882, has one run of stones and does custom grinding. W.R. PARK & Co.'s STEAM SAW MILL AND LUMBER MILL, at Plymouth village, built in 1884, manufactures about 4,000,000 feet of lumber per annum. H.S. & F.N. GEORGE'S GLOVE FACTORY is located on South Main Street, turns out about 1,000 dozen pairs of gloves and mittens annually. A sketch of the aboriginal occupation of Plymouth, the causes which led to the first visit by the whites to its soil, and the subsequent settlement made by them, has already been detailed in the chapter devoted to the general history of the town; the same may also be said of its erection into a half-shire town, its county buildings, and its railroad and newspapers. For the following additional remarks on the general history of the town, we are mainly indebted to the historical sermon preached by Rev. Henry A. Hazen, in the Congregational church of Plymouth, in December 1865. In November 1762, a party of eight explorers came up from Hollis to cut a path and select a place for settlement. Their names were Elnathan Blood, Josiah Brown, Jotham Cummings, Col. David Hobart, Zachariah Parker, David Webster, John Willoughby and his son, afterswards "Elder" Willoughby. The invaluable intervals on the rivers attracted them to this place. Returning to Hillis, they procured the charter of Plymouth, July 15, 1863, and pushed with energy their plans. Eight men were employed here through the summer of 1763, and others the last part of the year, in preparing for the reception of families; and some of these men spent the winter in the town. In the spring of 1764, the first families arrived. There is some conflict of testimony as to the time and order of their coming; but Abel Webster, John Willoughby Jr., Silas Brown and others were certainly here in June; James Hobart and Zachariah Parker, probably; and perhaps David Webster and Josiah Brown. Before the year ended Jotham Cummings, James Blodgett, Samuel Dearborn, Ephraim Weston and Stephen Webster, with their families, had arrived--all from Hollis, except Weston, Deaborn, and Stephen Webster, who were from Chester [NH]. In the spring of 1765 so many were ready to go to the new colony that in April the proprietors voted to hold their next meeting in Plymouth; and on May 19th they did meet at David Webster's. In 1767, when a census was taken, there were 227 inhabitants in the town. In 1774 the population was 345. Plymouth was then chiefly a Hollis colony. Of the fifty-five names mentioned in the charter, besides those of the governor and seven others, members of the council, or otherwise public men, two-thirds were Hollis men, counting as such half a dozen from adjacent towns. The following statement made by Jotham Cummings Jr., son of the early settler, gives a fair idea of the hardships attending the life of the pioneer:-- "My mother rode from Hollis on horseback, brought a child on her lap, and baggage which contained all her furniture to keep house with. Their sufferings for a few of the first years were most distressing. They had to go to the meadows and pull wild onions, and fry them in the fat of bear's meat, to subsist upon, without a morsel of bread. My father, with others, went to Concord [NH] on snow-shoes, with hand-sleds and hauled up three bushels of corn-meal each; and for a number of years--as late as the Revolutionary war-- I well remember how good a piece of bread tasted, after being without it for three weeks. Most of the efficient men were gone to meet the invading army of Burgoyne, and left their wives and chidlren to be a prey to wild beasts and Tories. In the night the woods would ring with the howling and fighting of wolves and other furious animals; and, what was worse, alarms would frequently come down, that the British and Indians were coming upon us from Canada. I remember well, that one Sabbath they had got down as far as Haverhill, and were hourly expected here. Every man who had a gun carried it to the meeting-house, where were assembled the women and children, to seek protection from the sanctuary. Though not five years old, I walked beside my mother, with an infant in her arms, three miles, to attend meeting; most of the way through woods. Heads of families, whether professors or non-professors, habitually taught the children the Assembly's catechism on the Sabbath; and our venerable pastor collected the children once or twice a year, at the meeting-house, to recite the catechism, and receive religious instruction." In April, 1765, Lydia Webster, daughter of Stephen and Lydia Webster, was born. She was the first English child born in the town. At this birth every woman in the town was present, and every husband attended his wife as far as the premises, and there remained until the vote was declared! This was a great day in Plymouth. Josiah Hobart was the first male child born in the town. Ephraim Lund built the first saw and grist-mill. PLYMOUTH DURING THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION In October 1775 the selectmen of Plymouth reported "eight men gone in the army." Of these, the first place, no doubt, belongs to David Hobart. Twenty years before he had been a sergeant in Captain Power's company, Col. Joseph Blanchard's regiment, fighting for Crown Point and Ticonderoga; and throughout the war he proved himself so competent an officer that when the Revolutionary war broke out he was appointed Colonel of the 12th regiment. In this capacity he did good service, and, at the battle of Bennington, distinguished himself, leading the attack on the right wing of the British, which was the decisive stroke of the battle. David Webster was the worthy companion of Hobart. He had also served in the seven year's war, being in Captain Hazen's company in 1757 and in 1760 in the famous Ranger's Corps of Rogers and Stark. The cannon of Bunker hill, heard in Plymouth, summoned him to the field. He was appointed ensign in Hobart's regiment, and rose through all the grades to its command. In this capacity he served in Poor's New Hampshire brigade, at Saratoga, and shared in the memorable victory over Burgoyne. His brother, Amos Webster, commanded a company in Morgan's famous Light Artillery, whose service were particularly effective in this campaign, and fell in the battle of Stillwater. Jotham Cummings was an officer in 1775, in a company of rangers, for the defense of the frontiers on the Connecticut river; and John Willoughby, besides other services, was one of the volunteers, and placed in command of a Coos company, when the approach of Burgoyne summoned Stark and the whole state to their brave and successful attack upon him. And there was, of course, many others from Plymouth, who, in humble station, shared the perils and glory of the Revolution. Their names deserve to be reverently sought out, and carefully remembered. But Plymouth was not wholly patriotic. In 1775, February 17, the town voted "that the Honorable John Fenton, Esquire, represent this town in General Assembly." Previous to this time, Plymouth, like all the recently chartered town, had not been admitted to representation in the General Assembly, that body claiming the right, and contesting it warmly and successfully with the governor, to determine when towns should receive this privilege. Probably, authority had been received from Governor Wentworth for this Plymouth election; but when Fenton presented himself, with representatives from Lyme and Orford, they were promptly refused admittance. Possibly, political motives of favor at court, where he was evidently a favorite, may have influenced the selection of Fenton. But some distrust was felt, and they proceeded to instruct him as follows:-- "Sir: We, the freeholders of the town of Plymouth, being high impressed with the most favorable sentiments of you, from the eminent services conferred upon this county, and the town of Plymouth in particular, since your first acquaintance with us, should think it needless, at any other time than this, to give you instructions respecting your conduct as our representative in General Assembly. But when we reflect on the momentous affairs now pending between Great Britain and her colonies, and the imminent danger that threatens them (for we look upon the interest to be mutual), we trust that you will not contrue our instructing you to arise from any distrust or want of confidence, but from anxious wish and hearty desire to see the strictest harmony once more established between our parent state and her colonies, according to their charter and other rights, as they have been practiced from the first accession of the august House of Hanover, to the time of the Stamp Act. We, therefore, think it is our duty to instruct ou as our representative. "First, That you will do everything in your power to preserve the laws of the land inviolate, and, by every legal means, prevent a diminuation of them in every respect whatever; for, should the people either throw them aside, or in a manner disregard them, we apprehend that anarchy and confusion must quickly ensue. "Secondly: We recommend to you in the strongest terms, to discountenence every act of oppression, either as to the persons or properties of individuals, as we look upon such proceedings to be highly prejudicial to the common cause, and directly tending to fill the minds of the people with jealousies and distrust, the bad effects of which must appear obvious to every man of common understanding. "Thirdly: We desire that you will not, on any account, give up, or in any manner suffer a diminuation of the rights and privileges we now enjoy, as we live under good and wholesome laws; and, "Fourthly: That you will do the utmost in your power to keep harmony in the House, that the public affairs of the Province may be discussed with coolness and impartiality; much depending on such conduct at this time of our difficulties; also, that you will endeavor to have the House open, that those out of doors may be acquainted with the debates of their members, the practice of secrecy heretofore used tending much to the disquiet of numbers of their constiuents." Fenton needed their watching; and we surmise that his influence toned down these resolutions, and explains their cautious generalizations and the lack of the prevailing patriotic tone with which so many towns spoke when Lexington and Bunker Hill were at hand. This man was the clerk of the court of Grafton county, which was established in 1773, and was doubtless a friend of Governor Wentworth, who appointed him. He did not return to Plymouth. He sent, from Portsmouth, April 25, a warning to the people of Grafton county to stay home and attending to their farming; saying "I am informed that if the people of the back settlements take up arms, a number of the Indians and Canadians will fall upon them." The Provincial Congress asked his authority. He was forced to admit he had none and he made himself so obnoxious to the patriots that he was seized at the house of Governor Wentworth, dispossessed of the records of the courts, voted "not a friend to this country," and imprisoned at Exeter and at Hartford, where General Putnam's influence procured his release, on condition of his leaving the country. **** EARLY SETTLERS AND PROMINENT CITIZENS OF PLYMOUTH NH **** WINTHROP WELLES, one of the early settlers, married Dorothy Ely, and came to this town in 1765, locating on the place where William Gilson now lives. Winthrop Jr., one of his three sons, born in town, married Polly, daughter of Samuel marsh, and reared five sons and six daughters. His fourth son, Henry, born in 1804, married twice, first, Elizabeth Edson, in 1826, who bore him five daughters, and died in 1848, and second, Lovina Gordon, of Bridgewater [NH] in 1852, and has had born to him five sons and one daughter. Of these, Henry N. is in Texas; Fred A. and Frank E., twins, reside at home with their father, just south of the village on Hebron road; and Flora J. (Mrs. George Richardson) lives in Silver City, Mexico. Fred A. is a teacher. JOSEPH REED came to Plymouth from Westford, Mass. in 1773, with his wife, Martha Fletcher, and two children, Martha and Mary, and located on the hill a little south of Glove Hollow. One son and six daughters were born to him in Plymouth, of whom Joseph, born in 1792, married Susan, daughter of Jonathan Cummings, and reared four sons and two daughters. His son, George C. was born on the homestead in 1814, married Phebe C., daughter of Aaron and Anna (Hoag) Currier, in 1844, and died on the place where he was born, September 18, 1874. William H., born in 1822, married Mary E. Moses, of Campton [NH] in 1861. Of his four sons and one daughter, Charles W. was born in 1863 and married Mary E., daughter of Edward and Mary (Smith) Currier May 1, 1885; Henry W. born in 1865; George C. born in 1867, was drowned June 30, 1884; Jennie May, born in 1869, and Joseph M. born in 1872. Charles W. and Henry W. reside upon the homestead of their great-grandfather, where they were born. WILLIAM GEORGE and his family came to this town, from Hollis [NH] about 1775, and located upon the place where C.W. George now resides. Moses, son of William, was born in August 1774, and married Susannah Nevins in 1800. Of his children, Matilda died in 1848; Austin, born in 1803, married Sarah Morrison of Plymouth [NH] and reared one son, Henry S. born in 1838. The latter, when nineteen years of age, worked at the glove business for Ward & McQuesten. He married Mary J. Farnham, in 1859, and has one son, Fred N. born in 1860. Henry S. George and his son Fred N. are engaged in the manufacture of gloves and mittens, and manufacture annually about 1,000 dozen pairs, their shop and residence being located on South Main street. Austin died in 1849. Amanda, daughter of Moses, married Samuel Noyes, of Massachusetts, and died in 1865. Elmira married Noah Cummings, and died in 1874. Washington, born in 1804, married Louisa, daughter of John and Phebe (Wells) Abbott, in 1838, and had born to him two sons and four daughters, namely Ellen A. (Mrs. James Peabody) of Plymouth; Harriet A. who died in 1880; Martha C., Louisa V., Wilber O. who died in 1879; and Charles W. Washington George served as town representative in 1854-55, was selectman many years, and also justice of the peace. He was a prominent member of the Congregational church for forty-five years, of which he was deacon, and was also superintendent of the Sabbath-school. He died on the homestead, August 21, 1876. His widow, son, Charles W. and two daughters, Martha C. and Louisa V. reside at the old home. DR. SAMUEL ROGERS, eldest son of Dr. John Rogers, was born in Plymouth, August 24, 1785. He studied medicine with his father, and commenced practice at the age of twenty-one, and continued the same for nearly fifty years. His practice extended over a large territory, which embraced Plymouth, Holderness, Rumney, Campton, Thornton, Ellsworth and Woodstock, and he was one of the most successful physicians in this section of country. He was the first physician in New Hampshire that deviated from the rule of the allopathic school, and allowed his patients all the ice and cool water they desired when burning up with a fever. Other physicians pronounced his departure an absurdity, but in time his judgment was vindicated by all physicians adopting his method. He was one of those men that did not believe in running in one groove, but like the eclectics of to-day, believed there was good in everything, and to select the best from whatever source it originated, was, in his judgment, the highest duty incumbent on him whose calling was to alleviate the sufferings of humanity. Dr. Rogers was one of the earliest abolitionists in New England, when it cost something to be one. He espoused that cause, believing it to be right and just, and, not only were William Lloyd Garrison, George Thompson, of England, Parker Pillsbury and John G. Whittier, frequent guests around his hearth-stone, but the poor fugitive, guided by the north star, fleeing from bondage to Canada, always found shelter under his roof. Owing to feeble health, Dr. Rogers was obliged to retire from the practice of his profession towards the latter part of his life, and August 20, 1858 at the advanced age of seventy-three years, he was called to pass the charmed boundary and join the loved ones who had gone before, while all united in saying "a good man has gone from our midst." MOOR RUSSELL was born at Derryfield NH in 1757, came to Plymouth in 1790 and located on the place opposite the present residence of Frank W. Russell, and here began a mercantile business in 1798. On December 23, 1790, Mr. Russell married Betsey Webster, who bore him children as follows: Nancy, born July 20, 193; David M., born July 3, 1795; Catherine M., born May 28, 1797; Eliza, born August 23, 1799; William W., born May 15, 1801; Mary, born January 26, 1804; Walter W., born March 8, 1806; Jane A., born August 9, 1808; Julian, born August 13, 1810; Charles J., born January 16, 1813, and Julia A., born September 27, 1815. Of the family there are now living, Eliza wife of Benjamin G. Edwards of Brooklyn NY; Jane A. widow of Milo P. Jewett of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Charles J. who was a member of the firm of Russells & Webster here for some years, went to Boston in 1853, was a banker there until 1867, and now resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. William W. Russell entered his father's store in 1813, at the age of twelve years, where he remained until 1822, when, with his brother, David M., he went into business for himself, establishing the business which, after many changes of partners, is continued by his sons, William W. Jr. and Frank W. William W. Jr. married Clara J., daughter of Stephen Smith, October 24, 1861, who died November 16, 1875; for his second wife he married Martha C., daughter of Arthur and Hannah (Dudley) Ward, May 24, 1877. Frank W. was born June 22, 1847, entered the military academy at West Point in 1864, graduated in 1868, and was commission 2d lieutenant of the 6th U.S. cavalry the same year. He remained in the service until 1872, when he returned to Plymouth, married Louisa, daughter of Philander and Louisa Augusta (Webster) Hall, October 1, 1873, and has children born as follows: William Wallace, May 22, 1876; George Moor April 28, 1878; Susan Carleton October 31, 1879; Walter Hall May 21 1882; and Louis Webster March 22, 1885. A daughter died in infancy. Alfred, another son of Moor Russell, graduated from Dartmouth college in 1850, later graduated from Cambridge Law school, and is now a lawyer, residing in Detroit, Michigan. PETER McQUESTEN, father of O.S. and Dea Alvah McQuesten, well known and eminently useful citizens of Plymouth for many years lived in the home still standing on Ward's hill. The ancestry of the McQuesten family is recorded in the town of Litchfield NH. Three brothers early came from the north of Scotland, two of them founding families in the southern portion of the State. James was the son of James, of Bedford, who died young in that place in 1810, leaving two children, one of whom died soon after his father's decease. James was carefully tended by his guardian, Dea. John McQuesten, attending school at Hanover, and fitting for mercantile life in Concord NH and Boston, Mass. He settled in Plymouth in 1837. His health failing early, he retired from active business. He read law and was admitted to the New Hampshire bar. For many years he was largely consulted, espcially in all matters of probate. Of the thirty children to whom he had sustained the legal relation of guardian at the time of his death, many remember his councils and care with tender gratitude. His wife, daughter of Capt. John Page, of Wentworth [NH] died but a few months before his death, which occurred in Chicago, ILL, May 28, 1875, at sixty-five years of age. Two infant sons and a married daughter had all deceased before his death, leaving but one member of his family living, in the old homestead. He made such a provision of a portion of his large estate that his works will live after him for good. ***TRANSCRIBERS NOTE: The above genealogy is corrected by the following information, which I believe to be more correct regarding this family, as follows: ---------- Peter-3 McQUESTEN (Simon-2, William-1) b. 23 Nov 1766 (O.S. Nov 11) in Litchfield NH; went to Plymouth NH in 1790 and was a blacksmith with his home on Ward Hill. He married 18 May 1792 to Judith GREENOUGH. She b. 9 Dec 1771, dau of William and Hannah (Wells) Greenough. The Masonic records show that Peter joined the Plymouth Lodge in 1803 but must have taken his degree before coming to Plymouth. In the same record mention is made of John McQuesten who took his Masonic degree in Plymouth and afterwards became Grandmaster of the lodge. Peter died 27 Jan 1814, of spotted fever. Judith maintained the home, reared her chldren and died 7 December 1858 at Plymouth NH, being the oldest member of the Congregational Church. THey are buried in Trinity Cemetery in Holderness NH. The dates are from the old family Bible in possession [1936] of Rev. B.C. McQuesten, and have been verified by the cemetery dates. Children born at Plymouth. Children of Peter & Judith (Greenough) McQuesten: 1. +Simon, b. 3 Dec 1792; m. 28 Nov 1822; d. 3 March 1837 2. +William Danforth, b. 15 Jan 1795; m. 8 July 1825; d. 10 Dec 1855 3. +Alvah, b. 3 March 1797; m twice; d. 2 March 1880 4. Valeria, b. 2 March 1799; unmarried; d. 11 Sep 1816 5. Charles Clark, b. 17 Feb 1801; unmarried; d. 23 Apr 1828 6. +Greenough, b. 5 June 1804; m. 28 Sep 1828; d. 24 Aug 1890 7. Peter Rockwood, b. 27 Aug 1806; unmarried; was taxed in Plymouth NH 1828-29. He went to sea, fell from a mast and was lost; d. 25 Jan 1830 8. +Oliver Spaulding, b. 2 Feb 1809; m. 11 Sep 1831; d. 31 May 1870 9. Relief Judith, b. 30 Oct 1811; unmarried; d. 14 Feb 1827 -------- James Milton-4 McQUESTEN (James-3, Simon-2, William-1) born 1 March 1808 at Merrimack NH. His father died when he was a child, and he was raised by his guardian, Deacon John McQuesten at Bedford NH. He started in mercantile business but soon began the study of law. He was admitted to the bar in 1837, and went to Plymouth NH in 1847, where he continued in the legal profession. He married 10 May 1835 at Wentworth NH to Louisa PAIGE. She b. 18 Apr 1811 at Wentworth NH and d. 6 Oct 1874 at Plymouth NH. He died 28 May 1875 in Chicago IL and is buried in Blossom Hill Cemetery, Concord NH. Children of James M. & Louisa (Paige) McQuesten: 1. Mary ELizabeth, b. 13 May 1836 at Wentworth NH; m. 22 Apr 1873 to Cyrus SARGEANT. He b 24 Aug 1824 at Candian NH. They lived in the old James McQuesten Homestead in Plymouth NH [he had been a life-long friend of her fathers, and was a widower with one child, Caroline Sargeant, b. 28 Sep 1857 and who m. 1 May 1884 to Dr. Robert Burns]. Cyrus died 24 July 1902 and Mary d. 12 Dec 1902. Children: [SARGEANT]: Cyrus Jr., Louise, Paul and Phillip. 2. James, b. 27 May 1839, d. 28 Aug 1840 3. James Greenough, b. 27 Dec 1842; d. 1844 4. Caroline Louise, b. 5 Aug 1845 at Plymouth NH; m. 17 Dec 1863 to Charles A. DOLE. He b. 20 June 1834 at Lunenburg MA. They resided at Lebanon NH. She d. 9 Jan 1865. Her husband remarried Jan 1866 to Helen M. Stevens of Haverhill MA. By her he had one son, Stevie Dole who died at age five months. Charles A. died 1 Apr 1914. Child [DOLE]: James Stephen (b Jan 1865, d. Sep 1865) ----- [for more information on this family,see this web site: http://www.nh.searchroots.com/HillsboroughCo/Merrimack/mcquesten.html JAMES FOGG LANGDON was born in Durham NH, April 27, 1804. He was the son of Woodbury and Mary (Woodlock) Langdon, and is a descendant of the old Langdon family so prominent in the colonial and state annals of New Hampshire. His father was a sea captain who died at City Point, Virginia, when James was an infant, and circumstances forced James, when he was a mere lad, to take up the burden of life for himself, and he carried it manfully, cheerfully and successfully. He lived in Durham until he was about thirteen years old, cultivating the soil, laboring hard, improving his time and limited school advantages. He was then employed as clerk for Ebenezer Coe, merchant of Northwood, for two years, and afterwards by Judge John Harvey in the same capacity for three years. At the age of nineteen Mr. Langdon commenced driving stage from Northwood to Meredith Bridge (Laconia), and continued on this route for several years, when he removed to Rumney, and drove from Rumney to Concord until 1837, when he purchased the stage route between Concord and Haverhill, which he continued until the advent of the railroad. He also ran a stage from Plymouth to Stanstead, and in connection with the B.C. & M.R.R., one from Stanstead to Meredith. For thirty years Mr. Langdon was connected with staging, occupying the "box" himself, even when proprietor, during that period, and his honesty, cheerfulness, and obliging nature made him very popular with the traveling public. He was the pioneer expressman in this section, commencing when railroad facilities were meager, and, as they advanced, taking advantage of them, until the business grew large, and "Langdon's express" reached to all points between Concord and Littleton. It was then consolidated with Cheney & White's express and became Cheney & Co.'s express which did business as such until Cheney & Co.'s express and Fiske & Co.'s express were consolidated, forming the strong corporation of the U.S. & Canada Express Co., in which Mr. Langdon retained an interest until 1881. The express business which he established has thus continued in successful operation until the present time (1886), and much of its prosperity is due to Mr. Langdon's pioneer shrewdness, ability and persevering enterprise. In 1853 he was appointed by President Pierce, route agent between Concord and Littleton, and continued in this position until his resignation after six years' service. From 1847, about forty years, Mr. Langdon has resided in Plymouth with the exception of a short residence in Concord [NH]. During this period he has not been an idle spectator of the labors of others, but has given aid and assistance to all matters for the benefit of the community. He owns considerable real estate, has constructed houses, was one of the originators of the Pemigewasset fire company, and in various ways has impressed his individuality upon the town. The chief public benefit derived from him, however, is the water works system introduced by him in 1881, at a time of life when most men of means prefer to rest from labor, but which he, assisted by his son Woodbury, has carried into successful operation at an expense of nearly $35,600. This not only supplies the village with water, but the railroad company has availed itself of its advantages, and receives the large amount it uses from it. Mr. Langdon married in October 1827, Rhoda Hill. Their children were Mary Elizabeth, who died young; Woodbury Fogg, who married Annie Merrill, of Stratham [NH], their only child being Frank, who died in 1881, at the age of twenty-one; Mary Elizabeth, who married Hiram Hill, of St. Johnsbury VT; John G. who died in 1869, aged thirty-four, whose wife was Helen M. Parker and who had two children, Fanny and John G.; and Josephine, who married Orlando Leach, and resided in Brooklyn NY, where she died in September 1884. Mr. Langdon, duly appreciating the advantages of liberal education, gave his sons a collegiate course of study at Bowdoin college, where they graduated. Politically he has ever remained true to those old democratic ideas of Jefferson and Jackson, and has represented Plymouth in the legislature. Universalist in belief, he trusts himself to the care and love of his Heavenly Father. He is a plain, unassuming man, with little taste or desire for ostentation or the manifestation of pride, and is as thoroughly democratic in all his walks as in his political affiliations, and probably no one in this section enjoys a higher degree of personal popularity and respect. JOHN KENISTON, son of William Jr., was born in Sanbornton NH. In 1820 he married Mary, daughter of Maj. Benjamin Baker, of Campton [NH], engaged in farming, then was a merchant for thirteen years, came to Plymouth in 1848, was a farmer here, and died September 27, 1874, aged seventy-seven years. His children were Cyrus, born in Campton in 1823; Mary, who married W. D. Blaisdel, and died in 1865; Martha J. (Mrs. Thomas F. Glynn) of this town; and Deborah (Mrs. Dr. Silas W. Davis) who resides at Tilton NH. Cyrus clerked in a store in his early youth, graduated from Dartmouth college in 1845, entered into mercantile business in 1855, and married Pamelia Hutchinson, of Reading, Mass. in 1856. Their children were Kathleen, who died in infancy; John, born July 15, 1859, and W.H., who died at the age of two years. John married Elizabeth P., daughter of Asa Freeman, July 15, 1884, and has one son, Carl Winthrop. Cyrus Keniston is still living, and resides on South Main street, in this town. STEPHEN BARTLETT came to this town from Massachusetts, with his wife (Elizabeth Barnard) and two sons, Sargent and Joseph, about 1779, and located upon the place where D.R. Bartlett now lives. The remainder of his children were Elizabeth (Mrs. Samuel Dearborn), Stephen born in 1786, and David, born in 1795. Stephen married Mary Ramsey in 1811. His son David R. was born in 1812 and when twenty-five years of age purchased the homestead where he was born. He married Louisa Frances Brown, of North Hampton [NH] and has had born to him four sons and three daughters. Of these, Stephen R. resides in Haverhill, George A. in Lyme, Mary F. (Mrs. George Redlow) in Conway NH, Elsie in Westborough, Mass., and Luella R. Glover, in Bridgewater NH. Mr. Bartlett resides on the old homestead of his grandfather, located on road 11, corner 12. SOLOMON BAILEY, a Revolutionary soldier, came to Plymouth with his wife about 1787, and located on the place where Frank Fogg now lives. Of his three sons and five daughters, Mary Jane and Henry died in town, Roxa became Mrs. James Stevens, and Benjamin born in 1790, married Ruth Eastman in 1810, and had born to him one son and two daughters, namely, Mary Jane, Phebe and Timothy E. The latter was born in 1829, married Susan G. Cochran, of Plymouth [NH] in 1855, enlisted in the late war, in 1862, where he served three years, and was mustered out as corporal. His four sons and two daughters are as follows: Mary Ann (Mrs. Perley M. Johnson), George E., Charles, William C., Herbert E. and Lizzie A. Mr. Bailey is chief of police and resides in the village near Langdon park. JACOB MERRILL came to Plymouth in 1780, located upon the place where Alfred Cook now resides, and died here in 1813. Ezekile, one of his ten children, born here October 7, 1782, married for his first wife Jane Bradley, who bore him five sons and three daughters. Mr. Merrill died July 28, 1879. Of his large family Joseph W., Mrs. Horace Eaton, Benjamin P., Ezra W. and Mary A. are living. Benjamin P. graduated from the Boston Dental college in 1872 and now practices his profession in Plymouth. NATHAN PENNIMAN came to Plymouth about 1790, married Bridget, daughter of James Blodget, and in 1799, located upon the farm now occupied by W.W. McDaniel. Caleb D., one of his ten children, born in 1804, located upon the farm now owned by his son, James A. He married Clarissa, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Brewster) Chesley, of Rumney, in 1829, and has reared six children, viz: Adna L., Charles D., Caroline (Mrs. William Harriman), James A., Justus B. (died from the effects of a wound received June 16, 1863, while a member of Co. B, 15th NH Vols), Clara C., and Nathan. Mr. Penniman is now a prosperous farmer on road 14. ENOCH WARD, son of Enoch and Mary (Carter) Ward, and grandson of Rev. Nathan Ward, was born on the Ward homestead, December 7, 1786. He married Lydia, daughter of Jabez and Dorothy (Bartlett) Church, of Thornton [NH] February 5, 1815, who bore him eight children--Artemus, Thomas C., Judith C. (Mrs. David Connell), Esther C. (Mrs. James Harrison), Catharine W. (Mrs. Charles Morrill), Philema C., Mary Ann and Enoch. Of these, Esther C. and Mary Ann reside on Ward's hill, the place where they were born. DAVID HAZELTON came to Plymouth in 1798. He married Mary, daughter of Enoch Ward, in 1800, and located at the south end of the village. Their children were Ruth, Mary Ann and Charles. The latter, born in 1813, married Hannah Sargent, of Hopkinton [NH] in 1843, and died in 1881. His widow and daughter Martha, occupy the homestead. Their three sons are all living, viz: Charles W., a civil engineer and member of the Massachusetts legislature; Henry W. a bank teller of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and Arthur S., a lawyer of the same place. JUDGE SAMUEL EMERSON, a Revolutionary soldier, came to Plymouth among the early settlers, and was keeper of the military stores here. He married Elizabeth, widow of Zachariah Parker, who bore him ten children, of whom David, born in 1787, married Lucy Blake, of Hebron, in 1810, who bore him three sons and two daughters--Roswell, David G., Deborah I., Ruth C. and Ira S. The latter married Eunice, daughter of Thomas and Eunice (Jewett) Nutting, and has one son and one daughter--Mary Lizzie and Thomas I. They occupy the homestead on Ward's hill. AARON CURRIER, son of Aaron and Abigail (Huse) Currier, came to Plymouth in 1819, and located at Glove Hollow. He married Anna Hoag, of Grand Isle VT, who bore him four sons and five daughters, viz: Phebe C., Daniel H., Mary A., James, Solon, Henry C., Eliza A., Armina J. and EMily. Daniel H. has been enaged in the manufacture of gloves and mittens for many years. Wilbur, son of Solon, born in 1855, married Hattie Fogg, and resides on Cooper street. DANIEL C. WHEELER, son of William N. and Hannah (Odell) Wheeler, born here in 1815, married Malinda French, who bore him two daughters, Mary and Leonora A., and for his second wife, Harriet Randall, who bore him two sons, Daniel B. who married Anna Howe, and William O. who married Rosa B. Avery. The latter occupies the homestead. WILLIAM G. HULL, son of Moses and Zilpha (Ward) Hull, one of Plymouth's enterprising business men, was born here in 1826. He married Elizabeth Crockett, in 1854, who bore him two sons, Arthur C. and Herbert W., and died in 1880. Mr. Hull now resides on Russell street. HON. JAMES A. DODGE was born at New Boston [NH] May 1, 1818, and died at Plymouth, August 10, 1883. His father's name was John and his grandfather's name was also John; his mother's maiden name was Polly Dodge. John, by his first wife, had three children, of whom Joseph A. was the oldest. He later married Mary T. Lovett, by whom he had five children. Joseph A. married Mary A. Tewksbury, by whom he had two children, John, who died some years since, and Lizzie who is married to William R. Park Jr. of Plymouth [NH]. Mr. Dodge commenced life by working on his father's farm summers and teaching winters. Becoming dissatisfied with this method of obtaining a livlihood, he went to Boston and commenced railroading on the Boston & Lowell railroad as shipping clerk in the freight depot at Boston, under the venerable R. Sherburne, who was at that time master of transportation. When the Montreal road opened, Mr. Sherburne was apopinted freight agent of that road. He sent Mr. Dodge up as station agent at Sanbornton Bridge (now Tilton). When the road was completed to Lake Village, Mr. Dodge moved up and took charge of that station, and also broke in agent at intermediate stations. When the road reached Meredith Village, Mr. Dodge moved up and managed that station. In January 1850, the rails were laid to Plymouth and Mr. Dodge came up and took charge of this station and remained here until his death. He was appointed to the office of general freight agent in the spring of 1852, superintendent in 1860, and general manager on the death of John E. Lyon, resigning a year previous to his death, but retaining his directorship. Mr. Dodge was no office seeker, but at the earnest solicitation of his many warm admirers among the Democratic party, of which he was always an active member, he consented to stand for the legislature, being elected in 1868, 1869 and 1870. On February 15, 1859, he became a Master Mason, belonging to Olive Branch lodge. Mr. Dodge was a member of no church, but he was an attendant of the Congregational church. It is largely owing to the untiring energies of Mr. Dodge, John E. Lyon and Joseph P. Pitnam that the Boston, Concord & Montreal road and branches enjoy the prosperity of the present. He was a presidential elector from this state on the Tilden ticket in 1876, and was appointed by Governor Weston a colonel on his staff. He had been in failing health for a number of months, and the winter previous to his death took a trip to the far west and California in hopes of obtaining relief and new strength. He left an estate valued at $100,000 or more. JONATHAN HULL, from Hebron [NH], located on the place now occupied by Alfred Cook, about 1816. Luther C., son of Nathaniel and grandson of Jonathan, was born here in 1833, married Lucy M. Wood, and died here July 28, 1825. At the age of fourteen, Mr. Hull went to Lowell to learn the jeweler's trade, and, after twenty-two years spent in Boston, he returned to Plymouth and began the business, in 1875. His widow resides on Highland avenue. W.D.[WILLIAM D.] BLODGETT, son of Abial and Margaret (Davis) Blodgett, was born in 1810, came to Plymouth with his father, who located on the place W.D. still occupies. He married Lovina, daughter of Walter and Dorothy (Phillips) Melvin, and has two children, Fred R. of this town, and Nellie E. wife of John L. Potts, of Michigan, while one son died in infancy. Mrs. Blodgett's father died in 1859, surviving his wife four years. ELBRIDGE G. BLODGETT, son of Noah and Esther (Packard) Blodgett, born in Plymouth, Mass, in 1832, came to this town and learned the glove-maker's trade of Ward & McQuesten, and now resides on Mill Street. He married Sarah G., daughter of Samuel and Eliza Johnson, of Campton [NH], in 1862, and has one daughter, Effie E., a student at Tilton seminary. B.F.[BENJAMIN] ELLIS, son of Ichabod and Nancy (Richford) Ellis, born in Campton [NH] in 1832, came with his parents to Plymouth when one year old. He learned the jeweler's trade, marry Dorothy A. Sargent of Bridgewater [NH] in 1854, and has one son, Gilman F. JOHN H. GILL, son of William and Ruth (Hazelton) Gill, born in 1809, came to Plymouth in 1827. He married Atassa, daughter of Rev. Ebenezer Blodgett, in 1831, and for his second wife, the widow of Nathan Clark who died in 1875. He has reared a family of three sons and three daughters. Mr. Gill learned the potter's trade and carried on the business for himself from 1830 to 1853, when he sold out and engaged in farming. GEN. CYRUS CORLISS, son of Isaac and Dorothy (Heath) Corliss, born in Alexandria [NH] in 1811, married Alma, daughter of Samuel and Anna (Sayles) Reed, in 1832, and came to Plymouth in 1835, and now resides on Ward's hill. Of his family of three sons and three daughters, Cyrus served in Co. B., 15th NH Vols and was killed on a railroad in Iowa in 1875; Almira married Charles McQuesten, of California; Frank R. served in Co. A., 6th NH Vols and now resides at Clinton, Iowa; Clara A. married J.H. Morrison, and died in 1877; George H. born in 1846, married Eva Harvey and has two sons, Fred G. and Cyrus L.; and Emily married Martin Merrill, in 1859, and has one daughter, Rena A. General Corliss receives his title from commanding a brigade of militia many years ago. CAPT. EPHRAIM GREEN, son of Isaac and Abigail (Chamberlain) Green, born at Westford, Mass., in 1784, married Sarah French of Rockingham VT, in 1807. After residing in that State a number of years, he came to Plymouth, previous to 1840, and died here in 1872. Of his eight children, Hannah is deceased; Henry C. resids in Philadelphia [PA]; Harriet is deceased; Sarah P. is the widow of Jacob Kimball of Hebron [NH]; Charles resides in Topeka, Kansas; Samuel W. resides in Hebron; Elizabeth A.H., the youngest daughter, has followed the occupation of teaching, and occupies the homestead; and Frederick E.A. resides in Massachusetts. HIRAM W. MERRILL, son of Samuel, was born in Gilmanton NH in 1821, and came to Plymouth at the age of sixteen years, and learned the carpenter's trade. He married Mary E., daughter of Samuel and Mary (Sawyer) Foster in 1855, who bore him four children, Mary E., Carrie, James A. and Arabella M. GILMORE HOUSTON, son of David and Esther (Willy) Houston, was born in Thornton [NH] in 1807, and came to Plymouth at the age of eighteen years to learn the harness-maker's trade of Greenough & Kellogg. In 1853 he began business on his own account, which he continued since. He married Sarah Griffin, of Thornton, who bore him three sons and three daughters; she died in 1851, and for his second wife he married Lydia Snow. Annette C., his only surviving child, is the wife of C.A. French of Henniker. WILLIAM HARRIMAN, son of John, came with his father from Bridgwater to Plymouth when two years of age, and located upon the place he now occupies. He married Caroline S., daughter of Caleb D. and Clarissa Penniman, in 1855, who has borne him one son and four daughters, of whom Harriet G. married George A. Clark; Alma married H.H. Whittemore; Emily married O.B. Davis, and George D. and Lizzie M. reside at home. HIRAM C. PHILBRICK, son of Richard and Nancy (Pratt) Philbrick, was born in 1840, learned the carpenter's trade, and married Amy Harvey. In 1861 he enlisted in the Union cause, and was wounded at the battle of Gettysburgh. He has two sons, Hiram C. Jr. and Edward H. HARRISON PHILBRICK, residing on road 7, son of David Philbrick, was born at Ware [sic WEARE] NH, in 1822, and at the age of seventeen years learned the carpenter's trade. His first wife, Sylva A. Brown, who bore him one son, Adin H., died February 18, 1851. He then married Ann C. Dow, daughter of Elijah and Eunice (Robbins) Dow, and of their children, Hattie married George S. Pierce, of California; Sylvia C. married Albert C. Whittemore of Concord [NH]; Willis F. is in Santiago, California; and Belle A. resides at home with her parents. THOMAS CLARK, son of Thomas and Jean (Alexander) Clark, was born at Acworth NH in 1791, came to Plymouth in 1840 and purchased the Robinson farm of 400 acres, on road 7. His first wife, Sally Melloon, bore him one son and four daughters, and died in 1829. For his second wife, he married Margaret Currier, who bore him five sons and three daughters, of whom Thomas died young; Thomas F. and George are residents of Chicago; John C. resides on the homestead; Robert F. is in San Antonio, Texas; Helen M. and Martha M. reside on the homestead; and Clara W. died young. MANSON R. YORK, son of Stephen, was born in Holderness [NH] in 1832, came to Plymouth while yet a youth and resides on road 5. He married Catherine, daughter of James and Emily (Rowles) Fadden, of Franconia NH, in 1861, and they have two daughters, Orissa A. and Effie E. EUGENE SULLIVAN, a native of Ireland, came to America in 1852, and to Plymouth in 1856. He married Ann Sullivan, of Lowell [MA] who has born him three sons and one daughter, viz: William, who died at the age of five years, Nellie F., John C. and Joseph A.D. ELIJAH J. SMITH, a resident on the Benjamin F. Ellis place, on road 12, is a son of Josiah and Hannah (Morse) Smith, born at Brookfield VT in 1828. He was reared on a farm until he was twenty-two years of age, when he went to Haverhill NH, where he married Martha J.R., daughter of Benjamin and Polly (Smith) Glover, who bore him two sons and two daughters--Emogene, Benjamin F., Lydia L. and Leonard H. She died in 1873, and in 187? Mr. Smith married her sister, Cynthia D. HAZEN D. SMITH, son of John and Sarah (Gilson) Smith, was born at Sanbornton NH in 1828. At the age of seventeen years he went to Campton [NH] to work at shoemaking, and in 1868 came to Plymouth. He married Lydia B. walker, of Campton, in 1859, who bore him one son and one daughter-- Charles C. who died at the age of fifteen years, and Helen, wife of J.C. Storey. Mr. Smith was a member of the State legislature in 1877-78 and is extensively engaged in the manufacture of gloves. EBEN K. SMITH, son of Robert and Sarah (Keniston) Smith, was born in Campton [NH] in 1817, and came to Plymouth in 1865. He married Elizabeth E., daughter of John and Sarah (Foss) Adams in 1840, and has one son and one daughter--Sarah E. (Mrs. F.C. Green) and John A. BENJAMIN F. SMITH, son of Benjamin H., residing on Pleasant street, married Sarah A., daughter of Joshua R. and Huldah (Kidder) Wheat, and has three sons and one daughter, viz: Jennie A., Joshua W., Frankie H. and Iza J. Mr. Smith served in the late war, as a member of Co. G., N.H.H.A. JOHN CHANDLER, born in Campton [NH] in 1837, came to Plymouth in 1869 and now resides on road 19. He married Helen, daughter of Ware and Mahala Leavitt, of Campton, who has borne him six sons and three daughters, of whom Minnie F., Nellie G., and Charles E. are living. Mr. Chandler served in the late war, in Co. F., 2d NH Vols, and was wounded in the second battle of Bull Run. CYRUS SARGEANT, son of Rufus, grandson of Moses, and great-grandson of Capt. John Sargent, of the war of the Revolution was born in Candia, Rockingham County [NH] in August 1824. His ancestors have all adhered to the English spelling of their sirname. His earliest years were spent on the farm and in the country store. Later, like so many of his contemporaries, he left the state to engage in city industries. He remained in Boston [MA] from 1840 until 1862, when he retired from active business. He married Sarah J. Emerson, of Boston, in 1856, who died after three brief, happy years, leaving one daughter, Caroline, who was married to Dr. Robert Burns, of Plymouth in 1883. From 1862 ten years were passed in gratifying his taste for travel, alternating between Europe and different portions of our own country. In 1873 he married for the second time, Mary E., the daughter of his life-long intimate friend, James McQuesten. Of their four children, two only survive. Mrs. Sargeant's parents dying while they were in Europe, the old homestead of Mr. McQuesten came into their possession, which they now occupy. This ancient roof had the obloquy then, the honor now, of having hospitably sheltered Mr. George Thompson, of England, for one night, during his first memorable visit to this county, as guest of N.P. Rogers its builder. Mr. Sargeant, while an admirer and supporter of Webster, Sumner and Lincoln, has always deprecated what seems to him, too much bondage to party, and true to his conviction of duty voted solid for Mr. Cleveland in 1884. [TRANSCRIBERS NOTE: See ancestry of Mary E. McQuesten above]. NATHAN H. WEEKS, son of Benjamin and Betsey (Hoit) Weeks, born at Guildford NH, March 19, 1825, was educated at New Hampton, and at the age of twenty-one years went to Thornton [NH] and engaged in farming. He was a member of the legislature from that town in 1855, 1856, 1862 and 1863. In 1864 he went to Woodstock, where he was engaged in mercantile pursuits and lumbering eight years, and was a member of Governor Steven's council in 1869- 1870, and of the legislature for 1865, 1866, 1867, 1868, 1871 and 1872. In 1872 he came to Plymouth, was high-sheriff in 1874 and 1875, and in 1873 built a paper-mill at Bristol, in company with Mason & Perkins, where they manufactured 1,000 tons of paper per annum. In 1876 he engaged in mercantile pursuits with John Mason, at Plymouth, and built the Mason & Weeks block in 1878. The extensive business is now conducted under the firm name of Mason, Weeks & Co., R.E. Symth [?Smyth] having been admitted to the partnership. Mr. Weeks was a member of the legislature in 1879, 1880 and 1881, is an extensive land owner, and is president of the Pemigewasset National bank. In 1845 he married Harriet A. Hacket, who bore him one son and two daughters--Emerette L. (Mrs. Thomas J. Gillman), Edwin S. and Clara J. (Mrs. Frank P. Field). His wife died in 1859 and in 1860 he married Martha G. Philbrick, who has borne him two sons and three daughters, viz: Anna M., a graduate of Tilton seminary, class of 1880; Fred P., a student at Dartmouth, class of 1886; Lelia G., a graduate of Tilton seminary, class of 1882; and Scott N. and Martha F. at home. EDGAR MERRILL, son of Winthrop and Martha (Noyes) Merrill, a prosperous farmer on road 4, was born in Campton [NH] in 1841. He married Abbie Sanborn in 1871, who bore him one son and a daughter, Herbert M. and Martha E. Mrs. Merrill died in 1876, and in 1882 Mr. Merrill married Dora A. Brown. EZEKIEL MERRILL, son of Giles and Mehitable (Elliot) Merrill, was born in Rumney [NH] in 1819 and came to Plymouth in 1861. Here he built a saw-mill and continued in the lumber business seventeen years, when he located on the Whidden farm of 115 acres, on road 4. He married Mary Cook, of Campton, in 1848, and has one son, John E., who resides on the farm with his parents. ALEXANDER G. SMYTH, son of Joshua Smyth, was born in Holderness [NH] July 18, 1817, and died at Plymouth, November 17, 1884. In early life he engaged in trade at Holderness for a time, then entered the employ of Webster & Russell, as a clerk, where he remained ten years, when he engaged with Bond, Moody & Mason four years, and then began business for himself, continuing eighteen years. In 1847 he married Caroline Flanders, of Plymouth, who bore him a son and a daughter, Rodney E., of the firm of Mason, Weeks & Co., and Cora H. Mr. Smyth was a gentleman highly esteemed, was county treasurer two years and selectman five years. KIMBALL WHITNEY, son of Otis and Sarah (Taylor) Whitney, was born in Campton in 1810, and now resides in Plymouth on road 22. He married Eliza Elliott, and of their children, Anna P. became the wife of Hon. Manson S. Brown, Sarah T. resides at Glove Hollow, and Emma J. died in town at the age of thirty-five years. HON. MANSON S. BROWN, who occupies the Judge Blair farm, about two miles south of the village on road 22, was born in Bridgewater [NH] in 1834 and married Anna T., daughter of Kimball and Sarah (Taylor) Whitney in 1859. In 1868 he was made sheriff and in 1884 elected to the Senate. CHASE W. CALLEY, son of David and Martha (Masten) Calley, was born in Holderness [NH] in 1823, worked at glove-making a number of years, and is now engaged in that manufacture here. He married Mary E., daughter of Lewis Keyes, in 1856, and had born to him one daughter, who married Charles A. Jewell, and died in 1882, and two sons, Frank C. and Epes J., both residing in this town, the latter a law student with C.A. Jewell, and secretary of the Pemigewasset Relief Assocation. GEORGE H. COLBY, son of Leonard and Sarah B. (Rand) Colby, now station agent at Plymouth, was born in Pembroke NH in 1841, and graduated from the Manchester high school in 1859. He married Helen M. Hadley, of Milford NH, in 1860, and has two sons and a daughters--Leonard T. P., Sadie G. and Clarence G. DR. ENOS HUCKINS, son of Enos and Betsey (Ingalls) Huckins, was born in Warren [NH] in 1845, and educated in the eclectic school of medicine, graduating in 1876. He began practice in Warren, where he remained four years, was then in Ashland [NH] four years and came to Plymouth in 1884. He married Martha G. Merrill in 1868. HARMON L. SARGENT, son of Sylvanus and Emeline (Crockett) Sargent, was born in New London, Conn. in 1833, and now resides in this town, on road 18. He married Almira, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Carter) Randall, of Canterbury NH, in 1866, and has two sons and four daughters--Herbert E., Fannie E., Mary T., Ellie M., Grace O. and Alice P. WALTER H. SARGENT, son of Isaac and Rebecca Sargent, was born in Boscawen NH in 1825, and now resides in the northern part of Plymouth village. Mr. Sargent married Miss Serena L. Farrington in 1852, who bore him three sons and three daughters--Ellen, Arthur W., Anna J., Flora, Mary, and Walter H. In 1862 Mr. Sargent enlisted in Co H., 14th NH Vols, served through the war, was wounded and injured several times, taken prisoner and was mustered out of service in command of a company. Mrs. Sargent died July 25, 1883. SMITH ROWE, who owns and occupies a farm on road 5, was born in Andover NH in 1814. He married Elvira Wheat, of Canaan, December 20, 1835, who bore him one daughter, Eliza, now Mrs. Stephen B. Kendrick, of Madison, Iowa. For his second wife Mr. Rowe married Caroline A. Sanborn, of Andover, December 20, 1838, who bore him children as follows: Joseph B., in the lumber business in Olympia, W.T.; Caroline E., wife of John Bullard, of Boston; George D., a physician in Boone, Iowa; Abbie E., wife of W.L. Horner of Thornton; Frank L. of Cheney, W.T.; Asa M. of Olympia W.T., Fred S., of this town; and Ralph B. of Boone, Iowa. ROLAND A. AVERY, who resides in the southern part of the village, is a son of Jasper E. and Mary R. (Willey) Avery. He married Rosa J. Dow and has three daughters. IMOGENE FIELD, daughter of L.B. and Amanda (Cross) Thomas, was born in Pulaski NY and married S.L. Field in 1860. Mr. Field came to Plymouth and died here. Mrs. Field does ornamental hair work. Her daughter, Florence E. married George D. Spaulding, of Rumney. JESSE A. SANBORN, son of Dr. John and Susan (Hubbard) Sanborn, was born in Meredith [NH] in 1820, where his father was a physician for fifty years. Mr. Sanborn graduated from the medical department of Dartmouth college in 1841, began the practice of his profession at Gardner, Mass in 1842, where he remained one year, was then at Wolfsboro three years, Campton twenty-four years, and came to Plymouth in 1872. He married Sarah Sanborn, daughter of Dr. Nathan Sanborn of Henniker NH in 1842, who bore him two sons and a daughter, Sarah E., John A. and Fred M. and died in 1879. W.R. [WILLIAM R.] PARK, son of William and Lydia Park, who with his son is extensively engaged in the lumber business here, was born in Townsend, Mass, in 1828, and came to New Hampshire at the age of eighteen years. He married Lucy M., daughter of Walter H. and Nancy Ayer, and has one son and two daughters. The son, W.R. Park Jr. born August 22, 1856, married Elizabeth A., daughter of Col. Joseph A. and Sally (Tewksbury) Dodge, and is in business with his father. The daughters are Jennie S. (Mrs. Charles R. Gilson of Woodsville NH) and Cora L. at home with her parents. DR. HAVEN PALMER, son of Lewis and Susan (Somers) Palmer, was born at Jefferson NH in 1843, studied medicine, graduated in 1861, practices at Wentworth, Haverhill and Meredith, and came to Plymouth in 1883. He married Lucy G. Ellis, of Lancaster, in 1875, and has one son and a daughter, Bessie F. and Harold H. GEORGE A. BROWN, son of Abram Brown, was born in Bristol [NH] in 1844, and now resides on Mill Street in this village. He married Augusta S., daughter of Thomas and Mary (Emerson) Shute, in 1869, and has three daughters, Dora E., Flora E. (twins) and Milzano. HENRY CUMMINGS, son of Daniel and Lois (Kidder) Cummings, was born at Groton in 1833 and came to Plymouth in 1874. He married Hannah, daughter of Abel and Alfreda (Foster) Bailey, in 1857. GEORGE W. GARLAND, son of Jonathan and Deborah Garland, was born in Holderness in 1832. He married Eliza A., daughter of Increase and Susan (Hart) Batchelder, in 1863, and has one son, Willie R., born in 1865, who graduated from the Dartmouth Medical college in the class of 1885. WILLIAM H. WELCH, son of William, was born in Canada in 1852. He married Marietta, daughter of David H. and Emeline L. Fogg in 1875, and has two sons, Henry W. and Harry W., twins. LEWIS P. GRANT, son of Willard, born at Groton in 1859, married Marian F., daughter of Benjamin H. and Sally M. (Smith) Smith, and resides on Cooper street. ROBINSON LeBARRON, son of Ira, was born at Hardwick VT in 1822, and now occupies the Cummings homestead of two hundred acres on Cummings' hill. For his first wife Mr. LeBarron married Julia Barrett, who bore him one son and seven daughters, of whom the son and five of the daughters are now residents of Vermont. Mrs. LeBarron died in 1869, and he married for his second wife, Jane G., widow of William H. Shepard, who had one daughter, Sarah B., who became the wife of James A. Baker, and died in 1879. In 1861 Mr. LeBarron enlisted in Co. E., 8th VT Vols and served till the close of the war. ALONZO F. MORSE, son of William, born in Campton [NH] in 1856, now resides on North Main Street in Plymouth village. He married Mary E., daughter of Levi F. and Maria (Copp) Jewell, of Warren [NH] in 1882, and has one son, Lenwood O. JOHN C. BERRY, son of Otis and Esther Berry, was born in Campton [NH] in 1845 and now resides on Langdon street. He married D. Jennie, daughter of William P. and Louisa (Avery) Garland, in 1868, and has three sons and a daughters--Albert L., Hubert E., Arthur G. and Ethel L. GEORGE P. COOK, son of William G. and Judith (Merrill) Cook, was born in Rumney in 1845, and now occupies the Dr. R. Burnham farm, on road 3. He married Elizabeth, daughter of Moody and Emily (Hobart) Paige, in 1871, and has two sons and two daughters, Emily E., Hettie E., William G. and Jason O. **** CHURCH HISTORY **** THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF PLYMOUTH--This church was gathered, not on the ground, but in Hollis, and went into the wilderness beneath the banner of Christ as their avowed leader and king. The same year, 1765, after the organization of the church, Rev. Nathan Ward was ordained as their pastor. This, too, was done at Newburyport, Mass., July 10, 1765. The pastor inducted into office at one place, the church constituted at another, thereby bringing upon them the united and fervent prayers of many hearts, to meet the few people scattered over the hills of Plymouth, and receive their welcome and their blessing. Mr. Ward labored here until January 4, 1798, when he was dismissed. He died in June 1804, aged eighty-three years. He was minister about twenty-nine years. He was converted under Whitefield, and imbibed much of his spirit. He pressed the doctrines of the gospel upon the heart. In 1767 the town voted to build a meeting-house. Until this was done, Mr. Ward must have preached from house to house, or very probably at Colonel Webster's, whose dwelling was already a public house, a prophecy, however humble, of the stately Pemigewasset, which has been built on the same grounds. After much discussion it was decided that the new house should stand at the foot of Ward hill. The road then ran southeast from that point, and came into the present river road, near the carriage-shop, below the village. The meeting-house faced south on this road, standing a few rods south of Mr. Harris's house. Behind it stood "the whipping-posts and stocks, designed for those who were disorderly on the Sabbath, and who were builty of other crimes; but they proved such a terror to evil-doers, that they were seldom, if ever, used." This house was rude in architecture, though, doubtless, superior to the dwellings of those who built it. It was of logs of uniform size, and hewed in the best manner, fastened at the ends, neatly matched, and the cracks were stopped with clay. It was about 40x50 feet, and two stories high, with glazed windows. It had galleries on three sides. There was a square pew in each corner, and an elder's seat. The rest of the floor was occupied with long seats on each side of a central aisle, the right side and gallery were occupied by the women, the left by the men. This house was first used in 1768, though not finished until 1770. It stood till November 1787, when it was burned. The town had been talking and voting for three years, about a new church, and the fire was supposed to indicate some person's unregulated zeal to hasten the building thereof. After the old meeting-house burned, worship was held in "King George's" barn, and at Colonel Webster's. The second house, located on Ward hill, was voted into being in 1783, the frame being raised in October 1787, though the building was not completed until several years after. The present building at the village was first occupied January 1, 1837, having been dedicated the week previous. It will comfortably accomodate 500 persons, cost $6,000 and is now valued, including grounds, etc. at $10,000. Rev. Drury Fairbanks, who succeeded Mr. Ward, was installed January 8, 1800, and dismissed March 18, 1818. The same year Rev. Jonathan Ward, son of Rev. Nathan was engaged and continued until September, 1829. Rev. George Punchard was installed March 11, 1830 and dismissed in 1844. Rev. William R. Jewett was installed June 25, 1845. Rev. J.W. Parsons having been briefly employed previously, and his ministry here continued seventeen years. Rev. Henry A. Hazen became its pastor January 21, 1863, and remained until July 15, 1868. On September 30, 1869, Rev. CYrus Richardson was ordained, and dismissed May 1, 1873. Rev. George H. Scott was ordained September 3, 1873, and Rev. Henry P. Peck is the present pastor, the church having about 100 members. Colonel F.W.A. Robie, the present town clerk, has acted as sexton of the church forty years, and as clerk twenty-one years, while Dea. W.W. Russell served in the latter capacity twenty years. METHODIST CHURCH--THe first Methodist meeting-house was built in 1826, the old brick church in the western part of the town which was taken down in the spring of 1865. In 1833 a church was erected in the village, which was twice enlarged, and finally superseded in 1872 by the present fine structure. Until 1839 these churches were supplied with circuit preachers; since that time preachers have been stationed in the town, and the church has prospered. Rev. James Crowley is the present pastor. THE BAPTIST CHURCH--The Baptists, in 1780, secured by vote of the town exemption from paying minister's rates. In 1796 the town gave them the use of the meeting-house one-third of the time, but they did not long use it. A small church was organized in 1837, and for five years or more had some preaching in the schoolhouses; but it soon became extinct. FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH--Previous to July 1, 1881, no regular services were held by the Universalists of Plymouth, except for a few months during the summer of 1879, by Rev. R.S. Ralph, and during the summer of 1880 by Rev. T.E. St. John; but on July 1, 1881, Rev. Q.H. Shinn began his labors with the parish, and soon after began the work of raising money for a church. The result was that after over three years of incessant labor by Mr. Shinn, on October 28, 1884, the present beautiful brick church was dedicated. It stands on Main street overlooking the Pemigewasset river. Mr. Shinn severed his connection with the parish January 1, 1885. The church was without a pastor until July 1, 1885, when Rev. F.W. Betts was settled and is now preaching for the society. (end)