Historic Nantucket, April 1955, Vol. 2 No. 4

Historic Nantucket

NANTUCKET TOWN From an original lithograph by Ruth Haviland Sutton.

APRIL, 1955 SIXTIETH ANNIVERSARY YEAR Published Quarterly by

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION NANTUCKET, MASS.

HISTORIC NANTUCKET Published quarterly and devoted to the preservation of Nantucket's antiquity, its famed heritage and its illustrious past as a whaling port.

VOLUME 2

APRIL 1955

No. 4

Historic Nantucket is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts, by the Nantucket Historical Association. It is sent free to all members of the Association.

Membership dues are — Annual-Active $2.00 ; Sustaining $10.00. Life—one payment $50.00.

Entered as Second Class Matter, July, 1953, at the Post Office, Nantucket, Massachusetts, under Act of August 24, 1912.

Copyright 1955 Nantucket Historical Association.

Communications pertaining to the Publication should be addressed to the Editor, Historic Nantucket, Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, Massachusetts.

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS Factual Information

2

Editorial

4

Local History and the Schools

8

Winter Gam

9

Nantucketers Build a Whaling Town in Wales

16

Our Nantucket Heritage

26

In Memoriam

27

History Making Events

28

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary

84

Membership Report

41

Whaling Museum Fund

42

Bequests

42

Officers

43

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EDITORIAL The Association's fiscal year ends May 31st so it seems ap­ propriate to review briefly the year's activities and consider ob­ jectives to which we might dedicate future efforts. This raises the question of what are the accepted functions of an historical society.

Of thirteen standards published recently, eight are excellent standards of measurement to apply to our activities, namely: 1.

Have some form of society activity monthly.

2. Engage in an historical records and museum col­ lecting program.

3.

Have an active research program.

4.

Have a publication program.

5.

Promote the teaching of local history in the grade and high schools.

6. Encourage the commemoration of special historical events.

7. Co-operate with other local societies—on regional and state projects.

8.

Mark historic sites.

Reviewing our past year's activities against these standards pro­ vides some satisfaction but considerable food for thought as to the future.

Last summer we conducted eight lectures on Nantucket his­ torical subjects with an average attendance of over 100 persons.

Our annual meeting, attended by over 360 persons, was high­ lighted by the address of the late Robert P. Tristram Coffin. In­ terest in such a summer program was proven. One special exhi­ bition of photographs of old Nantucket aroused much interest indicating that a series of special exhibitions during the summer is worth consideration.

The February "gam", the only activity during our long off season—October to June, this year brought together over sixty persons despite bad weather and several other events. Does this 4

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

not indicate need for an off-season schedule of informal activities for the year-round residents most of whom are unable to enjoy the summer activities because of their summer business?

Unsolicited gifts and legacies, no matter how valuable and welcome, seldom provide items needed for furnishing a building or additions to some collection. The Oldest House and 1800 House are far from fully furnished and the Old Jail is entirely lacking in equipment. Here are three examples of where a well planned col­ lecting program might produce many articles which would be willingly donated.

A list of writings about Nantucket includes many notable books and pamphlets, historical and fictional, but of which all but a few are out of print. Many untold stories are to be found in of­ ficial town records, the Atheneum and our own files. A wealth of historical information is at hand but practically none available for current distribution. The need for this was recognized last year and resulted in the publication of a pamphlet "Main Street" giv­ ing historical sketches of the houses from the head of the Square to the Monument. To insure accuracy weeks of research were re­ quired but the distribution of over 10,000 copies in a short period of time proved the public demand for information about the Is­ land published in pamphlet form. Research would prove to be fas­ cinating and rewarding work for many a member and such a pro­ gram leads directly into the next subject—a publication program.

Historic Nantucket, our quarterly magazine, now completes its second year, serving as a connecting link between all members and as a medium to keep interest alive. As announced in January, bulletins on Nantucket and its historic past will be published and sold by the Association, thus reviving a custom inactive since 1910.

The Folk Art of the American Whaleman (Scrimshaw), the first bulletin, is now on sale. The publication of additional bulletins and pamphlets is dependent upon the inauguration of an active re­ search program.

Courses in local history are being conducted in the High and Vocational Schools. As announced in this issue our Association will help promote this program through two annual awards. It would seem that the Association should consider additional ways, in co-operation with school authorities, of making all students local history conscious and alive to the responsibility each succeeding

EDITORIAL

6

generation inherits to respect, protect and promote Nantucket's greatest asset, its historical past, buildings, streets and customs.

The Sixtieth Anniversary of the founding of the Association was celebrated in 1954. The twenty-fifth anniversary of the open­ ing of the Whaling Museum will be celebrated this year. These however, are solely Association anniversaries which leads natu­ rally to the question—what about Town, State and National events? The year 1959, only four years hence, will mark the 300th anniversary of Thomas Macy and his family, Edward Starbuck and Isaac Coleman moving from Salisbury to Nantucket, the first white people to live on the Island. The same year, 1659, Mayhew deeded the Island to the ten original purchasers. Is this not an anniversary year worthy of an elaborate but dignified celebration in which the whole town should participate? If so, four years is little enough time in which to plan and organize it. Some one group must spearhead the work and the Historical Association would seem the logical leader. Research should develop many other local historical events worthy of celebration or at least special exhibits, and here again leadership by our Association would seem logical. Finally, why should we not participate with other civic and patriotic groups in establishing town programs commemora­ tive of national, state and local historic events?

The Bay State Historical League, at our invitation, held its annual meeting here last June and attending delegates toured the Island, visited our exhibits and were entertained by a "gam" which provided an interesting story of Nantucket's past. The elec­ tion of our President as a "Director at large" of the League and as a member of the Council of Cape and Island Historical Societies indicates our participation in state historical activities. Member­ ship in the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the American Association for State and Local History keeps us in­ formed about and permits us to co-operate in national and other state activities.

Marking historic sites is an established practice throughout the United States but on our Island barely a dozen public and privately placed markers are to be found. Looking back over the years we find that for the 1895 Nantucket Centennial celebration twenty-nine historic sites, all but a few dating prior to 1795, were designated with temporary numbered markers. They were briefly

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

described in a booklet but many interesting spots were not iden­ tified due to lack of time. Nantucket is literally alive with historic sites and buildings. To consider marking them all would be absurd and in many instances impossible because of private ownership.

Many could be designated with dignified plaques, and when this is not possible or desirable, pamphlets such as "Main Street" could be issued. This is a program in which various civic organizations, the Town and even the Commonwealth should participate but ob­ viously one organization should direct it. Is not our Association the logical one?

But what does all this add up to ? The answer seems obvious: that there is a great deal that should be done, not for the benefit of the Association but by the members of the Association for the benefit of the Town of Nantucket and its future from which they, in turn, will benefit themselves. Obviously such a program cannot be made effective except over a period of time and then only through the participation of a large number of the year-round and summer residents.

With one thousand members, with at least an equal number of talents, interested in helping to preserve Nantucket, it is hard to believe that there would be difficulty in obtaining the required personnel with the necessary experience and enthusiasm to carry out such a program. Eight committees, one for each activity, could in short order get such a program well under way which in turn would lead to the appointment of sub-committees thus insuring a large number of members participating actively in the program.

Think of the satisfaction each person would derive from contribu­ ting to a program that would insure the preservation of Nan­ tucket's greatest asset, its historic past, as a vibrant record of the experiences of the past from which residents and visitors alike may find inspiration needed to help solve the problems of tomor­ row.

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Local History And The Schools 'Tis said competition stimulates interest.

BY BURNHAM N. DELL

To help promote the study of Nantucket history in the High and Vocational schools, the Council of the Association decided to provide two annual awards, one for each school, for which Nan­ tucket history students will be eligible. In extending approval the School Committee and the Superintendent of Schools agreed that the competition offered should stimulate wider interest in and more intensive application to the study of local history.

The reason for the Council's action becomes apparent when two objectives of the Association are considered which are—first, to preserve the remaining ancient landmarks as tangible evidence of the beauty and distinction of Nantucket's past, and secondly, to encourage and foster by reading and study the knowledge of Nantucket history, and so maintain in the hearts and minds of the oncoming generations the pride and love of their native place, and respect and admiration for the traits of character that made it so preeminent in the past.

For the High School history class the award will be for the best essay presented on any subject involving the history of the Island or the achievements of the inhabitants. While no limit to the length of the essays has been fixed, fifteen hundred words should represent the average.

At the Vocational School each student writes in his own style and words a history of Nantucket. The award will be based on the student's presentation and understanding of the factors and events materially responsible for shaping Island history. No limit has been set for the length of each history.

The Association's award committee is composed of W. Ripley Nelson, chairman, Mrs. George W. Jones and Mrs. Joseph King.

Selection of the essays and histories to be submitted to the Com­ mittee will be handled by the respective teachers.

The awards will be handsome certificates, suitably framed, bearing the winner's name and a description of the award. The awards will be presented at the commencement exercises.

9

Winter Gam

BY NANCY S. ADAMS

The fourth in the series of winter gams took place on Feb­ ruary 17th at the Maria Mitchell Library at 7:30 o'clock. In spite of bad weather and many other public gatherings taking place that evening there were nearly sixty people present.

Mrs. Nancy S. Adams presided as Chairman of the "gam" and welcomed those present in behalf of the Nantucket Historical As­ sociation. Mrs. Adams said "I'm sure you enjoy as I do getting to­ gether to talk over old Nantucket days". Some of us "feel very young," but we are the old folks, and like to reminisce. Longevity is typical of Nantucketers. " "When my grandfather, Captain Charles Grant, was captain of the whaleship Mohawk, he was accompanied on the voyage by my grandmother. They put into port at Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand and there on February 25, 1855, a little girl was born.

Next week on the 25th I expect to go to New Bedford to the cele­ bration of the 100th birthday of this baby. Talk about longevity."

We are now going to have a pleasant evening, we hope, just talking over old times. There used to be a store here on the island kept by Annie Austin where pickled beans and other nice things were sold. When this store was closed up finally, a small boy was given the chance to take anything he wanted from the store. He chose the "reel of string" which he thought could be used for fish lines and other things. In later years this reel came to the Nan­ tucket Historical Association and here it is." (Mrs. Adams then showed the original string reel.) "Now let's reel off some stories."

Mrs. Adams then called on Mrs. George Jones to tell a story. Mrs. Jones told about old Grafton Gardner who used to sell "pickled eels feet".

Mrs. Elkins Hutaff read a letter about a trip to New York in 1852 on the "old Fall River Line." Mrs. Jones then showed a periodical called American Heritage in which were pictures of the steamers of the Fall River Line. Mrs. Jones passed around an album of blueprints of old Nantucket scenes and people.

Mrs. Charlotte King then read from a scrap book a clipping about the Nantucket steamboat running to Hyannis four times a week in the year 1871.

WINTER GAM

10

Winter Arrangement Nantucket & Hyannis Four Trips a Week

Commencing on Monday next, December 11, 1871 and thereafter until further notice, the steamer Island Home, Capt. N. H. Manter, will make four trips per week between this place and Hyannis, leaving here and returning same day, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 9 A.M. and leaving Hyannis upon arrival of the morning train from Boston. Baggage checked to New York, Boston, Providence, Taunton and New Bedford. N. B. The Steamboat Company reserves the privilege of going to all vessels supposed to need assistance, and they are at liberty to render such aid as may be required and also to tow vessels on the passage without notice.

Nantucket, October 7, 1871

O. F. Adams, Clerk.

Miss Grace Brown Gardner had in her possession a program of the graduating class of 1897 and read the list of graduates, one of whom was present at the gam, Mrs. Mary Lowell Gouin. Miss Gardner then read the menu which was used at the Centennial Supper held at one of the hotels. This consisted of soup, boiled swordfish, every kind of roast meat, and ended with ice cream.

Mrs. Jones showed a picture of the old Nantucket Hotel on Brant Point and told about a dinner held there for the Coffin School. This hotel was later moved and Mrs. Jones recalls seeing the horses going round and round the capstan. A northeast storm came up while moving. One section of this hotel is the present Red Men's Building or Dreamland Theatre.

Mrs. Adams read a clipping about an old bath tub, as far back as 186,8, in the basement kitchen of Captain Owen Chase's house on the Northeast corner of Orange and York Streets. Captain Chase was a large man and the tub built of tin was made large in proportion with a frame of wood. It seems a leader was put through the window, near the tub, through which water was led into the tub from a pump in the back yard. Captain Chase would pump as much water into the tub as he thought he needed for his bath, and then would light a fire under the tub and thus bring the water up to the required temperature. There must have been a brick hearth under the tub, and imagine the smoke pouring into the room! To empty the tub the water must have been bailed out.

Mrs. Charlotte King read a clipping about some of the old hotels on the island, the prices being $2.50 a day. The Veranda and the Wauwinet House being the best locations on the island.

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

She then read a letter dated May 30, 1889—to the Inquirer and Mirror: Having seen in your paper recently, a notice of improvements with flowers in the yard of the M. E. Church on Centre Street, I thought it might interest some of your readers to know the history of the three large trees in that yard. Soon after the writer of this went to the Island, now about fifty years ago, he asked the trustees of the church for liberty to plant some trees in front of it, which request they readily granted. He then procured four trees and set them out there; they grew well and got to be of good size, when a gale broke them all down—the same gale that blew a chimney down on Orange Street and caused the death of a young lady. He then got four others, and set them out in their place, and they grew to good size trees, when they were killed by the heat of the great fire. After that he got four more, but Mrs. Frederick Worth wanted him to leave out the one in the north end of the yard, as it would interfere with her view in looking down across the square, so three were set out, and they are the three large trees that are there now. I hope they will long remain to the satisfaction of the Nantucket com­ munity.

Most respectfully yours, A. K. Sprague.

Mrs. Adams read a list of old hotels that used to be in Nan­ tucket. Among them were Dixons Tavern on Cross Wharf; Wheel­ ers Tavern, corner of South Wharf and Whale Street; Sailor Boarding House, Old South Wharf; Washington House, Main Street; Mansion House, Federal Street and Atlantic House, Siasconset. These hotels were all "before the fire".

Mr. Jones read an article about old fire apparatus following which Mrs. King and Mrs. Adams both read clippings about old fire engines and where they were located.

Fire and Fire-Engines of 1830 Fires of any magnitude were of very rare occurrence fifty years ago, although slight fires were more numerous than they have been of late years, yet at the first note of alarm every man in town considered himself a fireman, and rushed to the scene of danger as though the put­ ting it out depended upon himself alone. This way of going to work constituted the Nantucket men as an efficient body of firemen.

It was a rare thing the fire ever spread beyond the building in which it originated; but as the strangers used to say, it was "scrawmed" out right where it was.

The fire engines of those days were hardly such nice looking ma­ chines as we are now in the habit of seeing. There was but one suction engine, and the tubs had to be filled with buckets, passed to them by rows of men, standing in line from the nearest cistern pump, while the

WINTER GAM

12

empty buckets were hurriedly passed back by the boys, who made up another row for that purpose. A constant stream of water was thus kept going into the engine, and the bars swayed by strong arms, were never permitted to rest until the last spark of the fire was extinguished.

Nantucket then boasted five of these engines; the No. 1 located on Pleasant Street, near Main, painted red, with 1770 in white figures on her side; the No. 2, green, bearing the date of 1763; No. 3, "Active", kept on Orange Street; No. 4, "Volunteer", on Centre Street; and the No. 5, "Nantucket", a new engine, with shining brass goose neck, the wonder of us boys, kept on what is now the garden of Mr. A. M. Myrick, Wash­ ington Street. When No. 1 was to come out on trial, what a time there was with the boys of the Town House School. Precisely at one o'clock, the doors of the engine house on Pleasant Street swung open, and the old No. 1 came rushing out and was pulled to the cistern on Main Street, the cistern house was tipped over, and two tall pumps exposed to view; the engine was filled, the hose stretched out, and the word "Play away, No. 1!" was given; the bars were worked with a will, the Friends Meet­ ing House was washed from ridge to foundation stone, the boys hurrahed, clapped their hands, ran under the stream, got wet and had a good time generally, and it was voted by them, unanimously, that the No. 1 was an engine to be proud of.

The other four engines have also gone, two of them, the "Volunteer" and "Nantucket", being abandoned and burned in the great fire of 1846, and the others broken up and sold. Their members have also most all passed off the stage, only one or two that I can call to mind being left.

There was also a small engine called the "Pioneer" kept at the Asy­ lum for the Poor, at the Quaise farm, which was brought into town about thirty years ago, and given to a company of boys. She was used by boys for a number of years, but was finally sold with the others. The "Cat­ aract", 6, was the first engine of the new or Hunneman pattern, which was brought to our island. She was followed by the "Torrent", 7, "Foun­ tain", 8, "Ocean", 9, and "Niagara", 10. After the fire of 1846, the new Philadelphia engine "Deluge", 4, was purchased, to take the place of the "Volunteer", and some years afterwards the "John B. Chaee" was brought from Providence. When the "Cataract" first came to the island it was claimed that she would throw water over the South Tower, and the trial was soon made. The engine was placed near the church, and a number of unbelievers stationed themselves in the observatory, opened the windows, and defied the firemen to wet them. They were, however, soon compelled to close them, for a good stream of water was thrown in, giving some of them a thorough wetting. The water was thrown fairly over the vane, and the superiority of this class of engines over the old ones established. This feat has been performed a number of times since by the other engines.

A story was told about the undertaker attending a funeral in his best black attire, and then having to go to a fire all dressed up for a funeral.

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Mr. Clinton Andrews read a clipping from a scrap book about fishing and about an ice storm in 1888, the ice being twelve inches thick and one could skate from Tuckernuck to Madaket. Mr. Frank Conway told a very interesting story about a voyage on which his mother and her two children accompanied her husband, telling about how many days she was seasick; 63 out of 168 days, she was suffering from seasickness. Mr. Conway made the story very in­ teresting.

Mr. Reuben Glidden was called on to tell a story, and he told about old Joe Clapp and his friend Thomas Sayer. These two made an agreement that if one went before the other, the remaining pal would visit the cemetery once a month to report the doings of the island. Mr. Sayer died first and Joseph Clapp made his periodical visits to the cemetery and on one of these visits he told the hap­ penings on the island and then said, "If you are contented where you are, I think you had better stay there."

He then recited a few epitaphs which can be found in the old burying grounds, one of which runs like this: "However dear, she's not laid here; Some private grief was her disease, Laid to the North, her friends to please."

Another one was: "Here lies the body of Samuel Pease, With folded arms he went to ease, It is not Sam, but only his pod, Sam has shelled out and gone to God." Mr. Glidden also told a story about Dr. Jenks, the dentist, who would pull a tooth for fifty cents.

Mr. Kent King read an article from California Monthly mag­ azine by Ferdinand Ewer about a reunion of Nantucket people in California.

Mrs. Charlotte King read a clipping about Nantucket schools followed by some entertaining advertisements of 1871 from the Inquirer & Mirror.

Just received some of those very nice comfortable and cheap Popular Spring- Beds, which cannot be beat for comfort and price. Also, a new lot of Frames, Picture Cord, Croquet Mallets

WINTER GAM

14

and Balls, &c. Base Balls and Bats furnished at short notice.

Call and see the Popular Spring Bed, which can be used on the floor by placing a mattress on it without a bedstead.

F. B. Smith

JULY 1

Mrs. King commented this was the beginning of Hollywood Beds.

New Fall Goods Having just returned from Boston with new and desirable Goods, for Fall wear, I invite the public to call and examine them, if they are in want of Handsome Goods for Little Money Plaids in color for 33 cents, in black and white, a good heavy article for 37 cents. Black Alpacas, 42 to 50 cents. Pure Mohairs and Brilliantines, 62 to 95 cents in black, stone and slate colors.

A nice lot of new prints. New Black goods for 92 cents, $1.12, and $1.38. New shawls for women and children; Waterproof, of different qualities. More of those wide Boots for old women.

Blamoral and Hoop Skirts; Wallpaper and Paper curtains, sell­ ing for 10 cents, old stock for 6. Cassimeres for Men's and Boy's wear, all of which may be found at E. B. Paddock's.

Mr. George Jones read some interesting items from "God­ freys Isle of Nantucket." Mrs. Charlotte King read a report of opposition to Public Schools on the island: Opposition to Public Schools Doings of the Historico Genealogical Society It will doubtless seem quite as incredible to the rising generation at large as it did to me if there ever was any opposition to Public Schools in Nantucket, but there are many now living who can look back to the time when the Public or Charity School System, as it was sneeringly called, was bitterly opposed, and it was only when the Town was threat­ ened with indictment under the general laws of the State that the op­ position gave way and an appropriation of $2,500, just enough, as it was estimated by one of the leading opposing gentlemen, to clear the law, was made in 1827, and at that time there were 650 children in town need­ ing instruction whose parents could not afford to send them to any of the numerous private schools on the island.

Mrs. Adams spoke about the building of the Summer Street Baptist Church, and about how cheap labor and materials were.

One item was "paid Caleb C. Cook of Providence $19 for mahog­ any and carting and labor; Hiram Andrews received $5 for labor; Lot Fisher $13; Steven Easton $8; Alexander M. Adams $10; Joseph Ramsdell 50c for hoisting rafters; and Jesse Eldridge $4.

The church was built in 1840.

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Mr. Jones then told about old time auctions and some stories about Billy Clark. There was a saying, "No person if he has any­ thing to do at all can afford to attend an auction."

Mrs. Margaret Fawcett Wilson told an entertaining story about the old 'Sconset train. Mr. Powers of the popular hotel of the day, used to blow a bugle upon the arrival and departure of guests at the hotel. One of his favorite tunes was "Why Did I Ever Leave Thee?"

Mrs. Adams spoke about the old pump which used to be in the yard hidden behind the board fence on the Joy property at the corner of Cliff Road and Easton Streets. Later the house was re­ moved from this property and Dr. J. S. Grouard built a new home on the site.

This ended the "Gam" for this year. All who attended ex­ pressed enjoyment of the evening's entertainment and hoped there would be more future gams.

16

Nantucketers Build A Whaling Town In Wales

BY ROZELLE COLEMAN JONES Mrs. Jones tells the story of finding in her attic an old diary kept by a great aunt, Abiel Coleman Folger, from 1806 to 1811. The diary revives the unfortunate venture of our Island whalemen, Royal­ ists of Revolutionary War days, at Milford Haven, Wales, and gives some intimate background of the life of the families: the Colemans, the Rotches, and the Folgers.

When I read the diary of Abiel Coleman Folger which had been in my attic for over twenty years, a new interest in the Coleman family began.

Nantucket attics have always had the reputation of containing everything you might name or mention except money. Historically some of the articles found have turned out to be more valuable than money. How long Abiel's diary remained in my father's attic and how he ever got possession of it is unknown to me.

Who Were the Colemans?

Being a Coleman I was interested in it from a Coleman point of view. Who were the Colemans? Whence did they come? Why did they come to Nantucket and when ?

Coleman and Colman are ancient Anglo-Saxon personal names probably derived from the occupation of charcoal burning and consequently synonymous with Collier. The Anglo-Saxon "Colla" and the Old Norse "Koli" probably have the same derivation. They mean — one having a helmet.

It is known that members of the Coleman family have been intimately associated with civil, industrial, and commercial affairs of America. They have been builders, merchants, and men promi­ nent in the field of science and medicine. Some have been clergy­ men, educators, and lawyers and they have rendered patriotic service to our country in all of its conflicts.

The members on the island were mostly seafaring people either going whaling or engaging in industries connected with whaling. A large number of them were members of the Society of Friends.

The Nantucket Colemans, as well as a large per cent, if not all of those of the name in America, are descended from Thomas

17

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Coleman who came to this country from England in 1635. He lived for a while in Newbury, then moved to Hampton and finally to Nantucket where he died in 1682. Coffin's History of Newbury states that he came from Wittshire, England, in 1635 and was engaged by Richard Saltonstall and others in England and America in November 1635 "for the keeping of horses and sheep in a general place for the space of three years." When he first came to the island is not clear but evidently it was very early. In the original purchase of the island, Thomas Coleman was chosen by John Swain as his partner. It was probably on account of his knowledge of sheep husbandry that he was invited to join the original purchasers.

At a meeting of the Town, March 4, 1663, it was voted that "John Coleman shall have land Lay out on the North side of lots of Robert Barnard for the use of the said John Coleman, his father Thomas Coleman having given half of his accommodation on the Island ... his Lot already Layd out". Mr. Worth says that Thomas' house lot "was 1,000 feet square, bounded on the North by the lot of Christopher Hussey, on the East by the Long Woods and on the South by the lot of Capt. Pyke". John's house lot, a little west of the Elihu Coleman house, comprised 10 acres and extended Southeast to Robert Barnard's lot. In October, 1664, the Town chose Richard Swain and Thomas Coleman Surveyors of Highways.

Barnabas Coleman was a great grandson of the original Thomas. His older brother Elihu was one of the earliest advocates of the emancipation of slavery in America. He was a minister of the Society of Friends and in 1793 published a powerful manuscript which was a testimony against making slaves of men. The home which Elihu built and in which he lived is still standing, an evidence of the thoroughness of its construction and the excellence of the timber of which it was built. It is now the home of Mrs. Walter D. Blair, Elizabeth Hollister Frost, author of "This Side of Land".

Obed Coleman, a son of Barnabas, was the grandfather of Henry Coleman, my paternal grandfather. Henry went to sea at the age of 17, continuing whaling until he became master. In 1849 he went around the Horn to California in the gold rush. He made several successful merchant voyages between San Francisco and the Sandwich Islands. He went into the China Trade sailing for A. A. Lowe and Co., well-known importers of New York. An old Nantucket Journal says: "On his first return trip he superintended

NANTUCKETERS BUILD A WHALING TOWN IN WALES

18

the stowing of the cargo himself and brought home the largest cargo of tea the ship had ever carried, besides quantities of silk and other valuable articles of commerce netting handsome returns to the owners and raising him correspondingly in their estimation."

I have heard my father tell that the tea was so cheap in China and was such a light cargo that my grandfather had a deck load on the "Houqua". He figured that if they had rough weather they could easily let it go overboard but the passage was exceptionally smooth and the deck load of tea reached New York safely.

On one voyage, news came while at Whampoa that Commodore Perry had opened the ports of Japan. Several American captains and their wives, who had gone to China with them, made a trip to Yokohama. My grandmother was one who went and told her children many times how the Japanese stopped short in the streets to gape at the people from the other side of the world.

Ellenwood Bunker Coleman, my father, left the Coffin School in Nantucket at the age of 17 for a voyage of forty-five months and twenty-three days in the whale ship "Niger". By this time no ships were sailing from this port and most of the trade had gone to New Bedford. Petroleum had taken the place of whale oil for illumination and whaling was declining fast. On his second merchant voyage, a trip from New York to San Francisco, he was injured in a heavy storm off Cape Horn and while recovering in a hospital decided to study medicine. After graduating from medical school in Chicago he returned to his native town where he was a physician for thirty years. Always interested in muni­ cipal affairs, he served as a member of the School Committee, Board of Selectmen, and as a representative to the General Court.

He was particularly interested in the history of the island or, in fact, anything pertaining to Nantucket.

In the poem about Nantucket families one version says "A lying Coleman very rare" and the other, "a learned Coleman very rare". Honesty, of course, is a commendable virtue while being in the unlearned group is not so flattering.

When one stops to think that most of the able-bodied boys went to sea while in their teens there was not time for much formal learning. Their education was obtained from the school of life and by their own personal experiences. In whaling days a young man who hadn't doubled Cape Horn or harpooned a whale

19

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

had little chance with a girl in Nantucket. There is a story that the girls had a secret society here with a vow that they would not marry a man until he had struck his whale. The Nantucket way of saying "Why don't you speak for yourself, John?" was "Has thee struck thy sperm whale, John?"

The Coleman family is proud to claim Maria Mitchell as a member — she being the daughter of Lydia Coleman. Her discovery of a comet brought her world-wide recognition from astronomers. She was professor of astronomy at Vassar College for over 20 years and was the first woman elected to membership of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Probably I would have paid but little attention to the old diary had the word "Milford" not been at the top of the first page.

I had just finished reading Edouard Stackpole's book "The SeaHunters" and the story of Milford Haven was fresh in my mind.

The diary was difficult to read. It is written in a very small hand, the ink is faded, the spelling is fantastic. Sometimes it seems as though the writer was trying to simplify spelling and other times she went out of her way to complicate it. There is not one mark of punctuation and capital letters appear anywhere. Most of the people of whom she writes are designated by initials. However, it did not take long to find out who they were and that E. R. stood for Eliza Rotch and Cousin E. R. meant her mother, Eliza­ beth Rotch.

The introduction shows the diary was written for her children here in America: When you read and And it two much of a sameness pleas to let Abiel and Sally read it then seal it so that it cannot be seen and send it to thj. Sister Peggy. She will read it with more pleasure than any of you being acquainted with many of the caractures in it that are Strange to all the Rest. I only keep a Diary so that when I receive a letter from my children, I look back to see what I was doing or where I was — it makes it seam but little time since it was wrote "also" you may see that we are not neglected by our nibours.

The Colemans and the Folgers

Abiel Coleman Folger, the writer of this diary, was the second caughtei of Barnabas Coleman and Rachel Hussey. Her father's house stood on Black Horse Street (Lane on some maps), a short s leet which ran between and parallel to the present Broad and

NANTUCKETERS BUILD A WHALING TOWN IN WALES

20

East Chestnut Streets. It is probable that Abiel first saw the light of day in this, her father's house in which she lived with her six sisters and six brothers.

She was 17 years old when she married Timothy Folger, son of Abishai and Sarah (Mayhew). They had a family of four daugh­ ters and three sons. Timothy needs no introduction to anyone ac­ quainted with the early history of Nantucket, for his name is constantly coming up in connection with town affairs of politics and commerce. He was a sea captain, ship owner, and merchant besides being the man who first charted the Gulf Stream. He was four years older than his wife, having been born on February 29, 1732, just one week after the birth of George Washington. The Coleman girls must have been especially attractive to the Folger boys for three of the sons of Abishai Folger married three of the daughters of Barnabas Coleman.

Abiel and Timothy were loyal to the crown of England and remained British subjects to the end of their lives. She often refers to the King — in her entries as on June 4, 1808, "this is over Good old Kings birth Day" and on October 25, 1810, "This is Jubely Day the King long has Rained 55 years and 55 guns were fyred Dooley" (duly).

The Revolutionary War brought ruin to Nantucket. The whaling industry, which had been so successful, suffered a serious setback. The leading merchants were Quakers and wished to pre­ serve their neutrality. They had to face the hostility of both the British and of their own countrymen. Their ships were captured by both the Continentals and British and the seamen impressed.

One group of Continentals carried away over 850,000 of goods taken in a raid on island warehouses. Supplies from the mainland were cut off and food and fuel were scarce. The Islanders sought aid from both sides but got none.

The Migrations

By the close of the war many merchants and shipowners had decided that they must move elsewhere to carry on the whaling industry. Several moved to a site one hundred miles up the Hudson River where they established the whaling port of Hudson. When the governor of Nova Scotia sent a deputation from Halifax requesting whalers to settle there and to remove their ships to that place, thus remaining British subjects, it

21

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

seemed a solution to their problem. By the following year forty families had moved to Halifax and settled across the harbor at Dartmouth. Abiel and Timothy were among them and you can find several places in the diary where Abiel says that something re­ minded her of Halifax. Sometimes people whom they had known in Halifax visited them.

The settlement at Dartmouth lasted only a few years when an offer from the British Government to remove the colony of Nantucketers to Milford Haven, Wales, was proposed. Generous terms were offered giving the families full value of their property in Dartmouth, moving expenses and compensation for time spent while making the transfer. On August 31, 1792, a fleet of thirteen ships manned by 182 men and carrying 161 persons set out for Milford Haven, arriving according to the diary on September 22.

Abiel writes on Sept. 22, 1808, "this Day Sixteen years I stepd my feet on welch land and a grevous Day it was to me".

The Rotches

The name Rotch is written on nearly every page of the diary.

Rotch was an important name in Nantucket. William Rotch built the brick building at the foot of Main Street as a warehouse and office and it was occupied by the Rotch firm until 1803. He owned a large fleet of whale ships and was probably the richest man on the island. He worked unceasingly to better the conditions on the island during the war. He himself lost a fortune of $60,000 and finally decided he must carry on the whaling business at some place other than Nantucket. He tried to establish his business in England but there was so much delay that he finally settled in France. This was at the same time that the Nantucketers were making a whaling port at Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

He sent his son Benjamin to Dunkirk in 1787 with the Nan­ tucket group who established the business there and he was joined by his wife and young son three years later.

Elizabeth Rotch was a person of determination. She was tact­ ful and a quick thinker as two stories about her from Rev. Alfred Rodman Hussey prove. When a little girl, she was caught receiving a note from Benjamin Rotch by the teacher of the dame school they both attended. When asked to give it up she popped it in her mouth and said: "If thee insists on having it, I'll thwallow it."

NANTUCKETERS BUILD A WHALING TOWN IN WALES

The Rotches stayed in France until the revolution broke out.

Dunkirk was besieged by the British fleet and most of the wealthier inhabitants fled, but Elizabeth, refusing to leave her husband, valiantly stood her ground. Food became scarce, rationing was set up, allowing only a certain quantity of provisions to a family, lequiiing all superfluous supplies to be turned into the common store. Officers were appointed to visit every home, to see that the law was enforced.

Now Elizabeth Rotch had a large and varied store of goodies preserved fruits and vegetables, which the family ships had brought from home. One closet in her room was filled with them.

Would she give them up? Not she. Therefore, on the day when the official visitation was due, she got into bed, had them all taken from the shelves and arranged around her, under the bedclothes.

So she received the officers, politely invited them to come in, bade them inspect the empty closets, apologizing the while for receiving them thus, on the plea that she was in an interesting condition.

Embarrassed by this reception, after a hurried inspection of empty closet shelves, they hurriedly withdrew, whereupon she got up, and soon had the jars, canisters, and boxes back in their places.

As the revolution ran its course and heads began to fall the Rotches found themselves compelled to leave. They escaped from France in one of the Rotch vessels with their three children and finally made their home in Milford Haven.

Benjamin Rotch was a prosperous man and he chose a site on Hamilton Terrace for a house of considerable size. Before he had finished it he had the opportunity to purchase "Castle Hall", a beautiful villa within a short distance of the town. An 1809 description of the place tells us of its spacious grounds, gardens, hot houses, conservatories, and "other appendages of fashionable luxury and taste". There were woods and a wonderful sea view. It was here that the social life of the town was centered. The Rotches entertained continuously and their guests included nobility as well as sea captains and people of every rank.

On June 17, 1807, Abiel writes, "I was called to Castle Hallshe got a fine large son". This was the youngest Rotch child and the fourth to be born in Milford Haven. Later "Samll & Lee (her daughter) gon over to Castle Hall to Dine on Rost Swann theirs got shott", and "I Road over to Castle Hall in my carr" (donkey).

23

HISTORIC NANTUCKET Corn Pudding and Shearing Buns

It is interesting to note the things that were cooked in the Folger household. Two foods particularly are typical of Nantucket and are mentioned when in season, namely: corn pudding and shearing buns. Corn pudding should not be confused with scalloped corn. The corn is grated from the cob, milk, eggs, butter, flour, and seasoning added and the mixture baked for a long time in a very slow oven. The result is a substantial, golden brown supper dish enjoyed by all Nantucketers when green corn is available.

On June 21, 1808, the entry is: "Shearing Day bin making bunns Cousin D (aniel) S (tarbuck) wife hear & tea & eat sheering bunns." According to an old Nantucket newspaper there used to be from 9,000 to 10,000 sheep on the island. The Friday and Saturday nearest June 20th were spent in washing the sheep.

Sunday they were left to dry and on the Monday and Tuesday following they were sheared. Tents or booths were erected where the shearers were served all kinds of delicious food. The writer mentions "three-cornered shearing buns—the like of which will never again be seen". An old recipe shows that they do not differ much from modern buns so probably it was the three-cornered shape which made them "Shearing bunns".

When the Nantucket whalers and their families reached Milford there was no settlement there. The land belonged to Sir William Hamilton and his nephew, Charles Francis Greville, acted as his agent. Greville was very much interested in developing the settlement and he procured a French engineer by the name of Barrallier to establish a dock yard and to lay out the town. The Barralliers were next door neighbors of Abiel and are spoken of in the diary nearly as often as the Rotches.

On Aug. 1, 1807, she writes: "a grate sailing match Larkin won the Silver Cup". This was an annual Regatta which is still held on the anniversary of Lord Nelson's victory in the Battle of the Nile.

In 1808, October 13, she says: "a vast concorce people in town".

Oct. 14, the church consecrated & Stephen Rodes Child Crisend in it & the first which soon after Departed this life".

It is evident that the town was a busy place and well estab­ lished by the time this diary was written. A new wharf had been

NANTUCKETERS BUILD A WHALING TOWN IN WALES

24

built and several ships built at the shipyard. Noted on Dec. 20, 1808: "a vessel came to the new Quay for the first time".

April 1, 1809, she writes: "this morning I a roas by 5 oclock and wend Down with nibour Barrelear and saw such a sight as I never saw she (a ship) look like a wraith (?) on the moors and did not make the leas nois but gloided a long so butiful that it was a butiful sight in the Eve we ware sent for to tea into Barrelears to meet Capt Brinton the Capt of the 74 (gun ship) an old aquantance of our in Hallifax and staid & supd Grandly".

May 14, 1809, "the Milford 74 went out this Day".

April 22, 1809, "Charles Grevel Departed this Life this Day".

Friends Meeting House

For all there was Meeting House within a short distance of Milford Haven the settlers were very glad when their own was built. Abiel writes on March 1, 1811, "they went up to see the new meeting house & found it a snug neet thing we are to meet on first Day. Cousin B (enjamin) Ro (tch) came in the eve & Drank tea". The Friends Meeting House is still standing in Milford and in its yard two graves marked only by stones with initials and dates T. F. 1814 and A. F. 1816 are the graves of Timothy Folger and his wife Abiel.

The Regrets of an Exile

On March 2, 1811, she writes: "this Eve we had the disagreable news of non Intercourse with America".

As Abiel looked back over her years in Milford Haven it is not difficult to understand why she called the day she landed "a grevous Day". She and her husband, Timothy, both over 55 years old, had left the land of their birth and all the members of their families to make their home in this far away country. All of their children were in America, with the exception of one daughter who lived near them, and Abiel was desperately lonesome for them. She was old and her health was failing which added to her grief.

Reading through the diary makes one wonder whether she regretted remaining a Loyalist, forced to live in a strange land or whether she wished she had cast her lot with the Colonists

25

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

and lived out her days on her native soil. On the last page she wrote the following: "An epitaph on a virtous young and beautiful young Lady 'Underneath this Stone doth lie As much virtue as could die Which when alive did vigour give To as much buty as could live' I think that is saying as much as could be sayd"

26

Our Nantucket Heritage A Progress Report on Planning and Historic Districts

BY GEORGE W. JONES

The nine civic organizations, of which the Historical Associa­ tion is one, working to develop some type of guidance and control to care for any changes contemplated which might damage the historical appearance and charm of the Island as reported upon in our January issue, have been successful in their first step in this direction. Through the unopposed affirmative vote of Town Meeting in February the establishment of a Planning Board of five members under the provisions of Section 81-A of Chapter 41 of the General Laws of the Commonwealth was approved. The election of the five members cannot take place until Annual Town Meeting in 1956 because of certain legal reasons.

In the interim there is much preliminary ground work that can be done, so the Selectmen formally requested the Committee, representing the nine civic organizations, to recommend five citi­ zens who would be willing to serve as a special committee to do this ground work and who, it is hoped, would willingly be candidates for election to the Board in 1956. The Board of Selectmen acted favorably on the recommendations made to them, appointing Messrs. William Waine, Arthur Gibbs, Wesley Fordyce, Irving Soverino, and Kenneth Eldridge, who in turn accepted appointment to serve on the special committee.

The bill presented to the State Legislature to create an Historic Districts Commission for Nantucket and to designate historic areas in Nantucket and Siasconset is being closely followed up. A public hearing held February 1 in Boston before the Com­ mittee on Towns (House of Representatives) was well attended and the bill was favorably received. Senator Edward C. Stone appeared for Nantucket and described the plan as one of the most interesting items brought before the Legislature. A repre­ sentative of Richard J. Preston, Director of the State Department of Commerce, spoke in favor of the bill, maintaining that it is in the best interests of the Commonwealth to maintain historic areas wherever possible throughout the State.

Also present and speaking for the bill were Selectmen John L. Hardy, Kenneth N. Pease, and James Glidden. Our President Mrs. Walton H. Adams represented the Historical Association as did

27

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

George W. Jones who also represented the Civic League. Mr. Jones said in part: "Unlike Williamsburg, there is no need to rebuild or restore Nantucket. The only problem is to preserve what we have and to guard the town against destruction of the native beauty by commercialism". Summer residents who appeared in­ cluded Alexander E. Hoyle, Charles Eaton, Hamilton Heard, Mrs. George Clapp, Mrs. Frank Sylvia, Walter S. Barrett, and Mr. Stillman representing Gardner W. Russell. Letters and telegrams were received and filed from various organizations whose representa­ tives could not appear as well as from various individuals.

The bill was passed by the House and sent to the Senate where it has been placed on the calendar. Senator Stone has assured the Nantucket committee of his interest in this bill and its passage in proper form. Its progress is being followed closely through him.

In Memoriam George Lister Carlisle, Jr. The Association lost a valued member when George Lister Carlisle died, December 22, 1954, at his home "Robin Hill", Norfolk, Conn. He had a notable Nantucket lineage through his mother, Mary Coffin Carlisle, daughter of Henry and Eliza (Starbuck) Coffin whose married life was spent in the large brick mansion, No. 75 Main Street, built by Henry Coffin in 1833.

Mr. Carlisle and his wife, who was Miss Leila Laughlin, early in their married life took an active interest in our Island life.

Besides owning property on Orange Street, Mr. Carlisle bought a large part of the Old North Wharf from which the whale ships of his grandfather Henry Coffin and his great Uncle Charles G. Coffin sailed on their long cruises.

Mr. Carlisle became an annual member of the Association many years ago and at the time of his death was a life member.

He served faithfully as a Vice-President and member of the Coun­ cil from 1924 through 1935. His genuine and constructive interest in the activities of the Association and the Island will be greatly missed.

Surviving Mr. Carlisle are his wife and his brother, Henry Coffin Carlisle, of San Francisco and Nantucket.

28

History Making Events To celebrate a 100th birthday is an event few families are privileged to enjoy but our President had the satisfaction of par­ ticipating in such a celebration on February 25th when her aunt, Mrs. Eleanor B. Peirce, of New Bedford, reached that Red Letter day, the 100th anniversary of her birth. Surrounded by her four surviving children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, it was a gala occasion.

Mrs. Peirce was born in Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zea­ land, where her father, Captain Charles Grant, landed with his wife during one of his long whaling voyages. Contrary to the history of most of the Grants she made but one whaling voyage, the return trip to Nantucket when she was 3l/2 years old. On this voyage her baby carriage was a box fastened to the back of a big turtle which had the freedom of the deck.

On being 100 years old Mrs. Peirce commented, "I can't im­ agine why I've lived so long, nobody in my family lived to be so very old. My father (our President's grandfather) was only 90 when he died, and my two grandmothers were in their 80's, one being 87 as I remember." Aside from many other reasons, history alone indicates sound judgment in our having chosen Mrs. Walton H. Adams as our President for we should be privileged to benefit for many years from her unusual knowledge of Nantucket his­ tory. 'Tis commonly said, when in historical doubt—"Consult Nancy Adams who will either give you the answer or tell you where to find it". * As this issue goes to press, we learn with sorrow that Mrs. Peirce died April 13th after a very brief illness.

"Archie" Cartwright, the last Nantucket man who has shipped out as a whaler, has agreed to serve this year as Custo­ dian of the Whaling Museum, the position held for many years

by Wallace Long, who because of ill health has been granted a leave of absence for this season. It is hoped that a complete rest will help to restore "Cap" Long, as he is known to many friends and visitors, to good health as he will be greatly missed.

The Museum will open for the season on Saturday, May 28th, when "Archie" will be on hand to steer visitors on a steady course through the intricate phases of whaling and the many exhibits.

29

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

It will not be surprising if once again the walls will echo "Thar she blows" as they did when George A. Grant served as the first custodian.

Mrs. Bernice Foye will serve again at the reception desk where she will welcome visitors and help them to enjoy the ex­ hibits by her pre-tour suggestions of features not to be missed. It is expected that Miss Helen L. Winslow will again preside over the library and that until her arrival about the end of June, Mrs. Ellen D. Chace will serve as her alternate.

Albert Egan Jr., and George W. Jones have agreed to serve as members of the Whaling Museum Committee of which W. Rip­ ley Nelson will serve again as chairman.

This year is the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Whal­ ing Museum which naturally calls for suitable recognition and cele­ bration in which both year round and summer residents will be participants. The anniversary schedule will be announced before opening date.

The Historical Museum has received some interesting items including several genealogies of Nantucket families: the Barnard and other families from Mr. Arthur W. Barnard; McCann-Gilman families from Mr. Kenneth S. McCann; Gardner family from Mrs. Elizabeth Gardner Bohannon. A quilted Friends bonnet from Mrs. Martie Post has been added to the Quaker collection. One New Latin Tutor edition of 1839, which formerly belonged to Eliz­ abeth B. Chase, from Mrs. Lyman Wakefield. A work box with cut out pictures covering its entire surface from Mrs. George Rich­ mond. From the Manuscript Society we received a hand-written facsimile of the original "Farewell to the Army of Northern Vir­ ginia" written by Gen. Robert E. Lee, called Lee's Order Number Nine. Mrs. Beatrice Friebus sent us a dainty sterling silver spoon with a spray of goldenrod for its handle and the Old Mill in the bowl. A bequest from the late Mrs. Charlotte W. Pitman included seventeen pieces of Benjamin Bunker silver.

The 1800 House has received a handsome blue beaded pin cushion marked with an H and the date, 1800, a family heirloom of the donor, Mrs. Eugenia Snelling. Two beautiful old counter­ panes were donated by Mrs. William Wallace. A mourning piece, beautifully wrought, which formerly belonged to Mary Gorham Coffin and came from the Stephen Coffin house in Damariscotta,

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

30

Me., fiom Mrs. Eleanor Dixon Glidden. Two pieces of ancient needlework made into a towel bar and a newspaper rack from the Misses Florence & Josephine Mitchell.

For the Whaling Museum we have purchased the book "Cali­ fornia Gold Rush Voyages". A copy of "Moby Dick" written en­ tirely in Geiman and illustrated with drawings has come from the Board of Selectmen, having been sent to them by the author. To our vast collection of letters we have added two old and interesting items donated by Mrs. Peter Hussey, and from Mr. William Tripp, three letters sent to Capt. Seabury of New Bedford. A handsome grandfather s clock, made by Benjamin Bunker, and a small col­ lection of scrimshaw were two additional bequests received from the estate of the late Mrs. Charlotte W. Pitman.

Through the kindness of Mrs. Ruth Wood Hoag your Cus­ todian of Collections has been able to make extracts from the Journal of the Ship Alpha, Capt. Joseph Coffin, 1838-1850, kept

by Alexander Coffin of Nantucket whose former home was the Davies house on Vesper Lane. This journal also contained lists of plantings of fruit trees on the Coffin property and the sale of many to people all over the Island.

The Harwich Historical Society of Harwich Center held its second annual meeting March 21st with our President, Mrs. Wal­ ton H. Adams as the guest speaker. "Milestones of the Nantucket Historical Association", the subject of her address, led to a lengthy and interesting question and answer period on developing an his­ toric society. Only two years old the society now has over 100 en­ thusiastic members. Its headquarters, located in the Brooks Library building, are open twice a week when a receptionist, dressed in period costume, welcomes visitors.

Harwich is an excellent example of the steady growth under constructive leadership of historical societies in the United States.

In 1895 about 20 historic buildings were reported open to the pub­ lic, ranging from Independence Hall, Philadelphia, to a log cabin in Nebraska. In 1930 the number of historical societies numbered over 400 but in 1954 they are said to number over 2,500 with the number of sites and buildings under their supervision and control far in excess of that number. The Society for the Preservation of New England antiquities being an outstanding example with over 50 properties.

31

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

A regular meeting of the Directors of the Bay State Historical League was held in Boston on March 10th. As a Director-at-large, our President attended the meeting. Mrs. Adams reports it was decided that the spring meeting of the League members will be held at Springfield, Mass., where the Connecticut Valley Historical Society, a new member of the League, will be the host. The summer meeting of the League probably will not be held until August. Our July issue will give final news as to the host, location and date.

"Quakerism on Nantucket" by Burnham N. Dell brought forth much favorable comment when it appeared in our last issue.

This interesting essay has been reprinted in bulletin form by the Association and is now on sale at 50c a copy. The publication of this bulletin is part of the Association's publication program under which, as announced in January, it is planned that bulletins on subjects pertaining to Nantucket and its historic past will be pub­ lished from time to time and sold by the Association.

Town Meeting appropriated $100 for the maintenance and repairs of the "Old 'Sconset Pump" and, as in past years, the Board of Selectmen have delegated to the Association the care and custody of the "Pump" and the grounds immediately surround­ ing. Councilmen John W. Grout and Albert Egan Jr. have lost no time in carrying out plans approved for repairs and restoration of the pump so that its appearance will be more nearly as it was in the days it served the town. The unsightly protective pipe fence has been replaced with a cedar post single rail fence which will afford protection and yet be in keeping with the site. The area around the pump inside the fence is being paved, as it used to be, w ith old cobblestones. It is planned also to erect near the pump a plaque giving a concise story of its inception and subsequent his­ tory.

Our members were saddened when they learned of the sud­ den death of Robert P. Tristram Coffin, a descendant of the Coftins of Nantucket, Pulitzer prize winning poet, professor, writer and lecturer. He helped the Association celebrate its sixtieth anniveisaiy b\ deliveiing at our 1954 annual meeting an address on "Nantucket and the Rest of America." In his passing New Enganc as lost a worthy son, champion and interpreter, especially of his native state of Maine.

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

32

"San Francisco Street Names", an interesting booklet, pre­ sents brief sketches of the lives of pioneers for whom San Fran­ cisco Streets are named. Wood engravings of the city, sites and buildings as they were in the historic past and a map published in 1854 are features of the booklet. The author is none other than our member, Henry C. Carlisle, who lives in San Francisco during the winter but whose summer home is the brick mansion at 75 Main Street built in 1833 by his grandfather Henry Coffin. Free distribution of this 52 page booklet by the American Trust Com­ pany of San Francisco is outstanding recognition of the current interest in the historic past. A similar booklet on Nantucket streets would be in real demand if made available for summer visitors.

Here is a timely subject for the research and publication pro­ grams discussed in our editorial.

The recent acquisition of 100,000 acres by the State of New Jersey for development as a state park at an initial cost of $3,000000 evoked considerable newspaper comment. Known as the "Wharton Tract" it will offer to visitors adventures in hunting, fishing, botany and history. The historical aspects of the tract are far from the least striking of its attributes for it is said to "reek" with history as the area was a hot bed of patriotism before and during the Revolutionary War when bog ore was fashioned into cannon balls.

Many deserted tiny ghost towns are scattered throughout this 150 square mile area. One of them, Batso Village, not yet entirely deserted, boasts of having a pre-revolutionary war grinding mill, a general store, a forge, one mansion house and about twenty small wooden houses, 100 years or more old, which still are occupied at rentals of $8 to $10 per month. There are hopeful dreams that Batso Village may be restored and reconstructed into a miniature "Williamsburg". Here we have the most recent recognition of the nation's growing public interest in historic sites and areas but a project, if ever undertaken, involving costly restoration and recontruction.

In comparison think of what Nantucket has to offer today without restoration or reconstruction, but in the same breath think how almost overnight this, Nantucket's greatest asset, could be wiped out unless educational and protective measures are adopted to insure its preservation for the future. A progress re-

33

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

port on the work of the nine civic organizations in this field is given in this number under the heading "Our Nantucket Heri­ tage."

The Marine Historical Association, Mystic, Connecticut, re­ cently announced the establishment of the Frank C. Munson Me­ morial Institute of American Maritime History. The announce­ ment states in part "A new and unusual opportunity is now offered graduate students in a vital field of our nation's history. With the launching of this Institute, the study of a long-neglected phase of our rich background is made possible. In so doing, it is essential to make use of a new approach—that of the use of a living mu­ seum. Thus, this interpretation of the heritage of America's sea­ faring past is given life, made a compelling force, strengthened in its understanding of our traditions of freedom". The establish­ ing of this Institute was made possible by a gift for its endowment

by Mrs. Munson, in memory of her husband.

The 1955 summer program to be held at Mystic Seaport July 11 through August 12th is open to men and women who have baccalaureate degrees or better and are either studying for ad­ vanced degrees in the fields of history or economics, or are now holding teaching positions. Applications are to be screened by a committee on admissions as the enrollment is limited to thirty students. The faculty will include eleven recognized authorities in the field of American maritime history and economics with Dr. Robert G. Albion, Gardiner Professor of Oceanic History, Harvard University and Honorary Member Society of Nautical Research in England, serving as coordinator of the phases of maritime history in the program.

This announcement is of special interest to Nantucketers for Edouard A. Stackpole, former President of our Association and now Curator, Marine Historical Association has been appointed Director of the Institute. It is of interest also as an outstanding example of just one of the many ways an historical society can be a potent factor in education.

34

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary

BY NANCY S. ADAMS (Continued)

1780 Sept. 13—There has been a small British Privateer around the Island these two or three days taking vessels. The people were on shore here Monday last. They took Thad Swain yesterday, he was from the West Indies. The owners ransomed her to-day for 250 pounds sterling. This afternoon Alexander Ray came in from fish­ ing ; they took her in chase Ray ran up the Harbor; the Privateer pursued but little way up the Harbor. She turned and ran under the Cliff and anchored and sent her boat in pursuit of the vessel.

She ran ashore at Quaise. Major Dimick of Falmouth being on the island mustered a number of strangers and several Nantucket people and went with two boats up the Harbor after the Privateer's boat. They took her without one gun being fired. Some of the Privateer's men were on board Ray's vessel kindling a fire to burn her; others were hoisting on board our boat bringing her off. Dim­ ick marched the men down by land. Before night Dimick and others went out in a little sloop, ran alongside the Schooner, ordered the men not to fire, if they did they were dead men. They surrendered themselves prisoners. Dimick brought the Schooner into the Har­ bor; the men are on shore.

Sept. 22—The Doctor came in the eve from Falmouth last week from Boston—he has appeared before the Superior Court, they have dismissed him without any trial.

Sept. 28—Mary Swain, Barzillai's widow Batchelor Hussey's daugh­ ter died this afternoon.

Sept. 30—The Doctor & Matty set sail with Francis Coffin for Kennebeck. She is going to spend the winter there. Damaris Starbuck, Edward's wife died this morn.

Oct. 10—Hannah (Porrege) Simon's wife with a young child came this morning in a boat from Chabbequidick, their house has lately burnt down, they think it was burnt wilfully.

Oct. 15—12 o'clock last night the dog gave alarm. Mr. F. got up & saw a fellow running very fast westward, ran in & got his gun & fired at him, heard this morning that some one broke in Shubael's

35

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

kitchen, drank milk and stole cheese. Mr. F. found cheese scat­ tered on the ground w. of our bars.

Oct. 25—Mary Mitchell died yesterday.

Nov. 5—Benjamin Coffin died yesterday. Thomas Bunker s wife died Friday the 3rd.

Nov. 25—Timothy Folger sailed (a flagg) to New York went to carry a gentleman there. Mr. Johnson has gone with him.

Nov. 30 George Hussey (Ebenezer's son live down Eastward) was married to Eliza Gardner's daughter. Peter Barney (Ben's son) to Sally Coleman (Nat's daughter). Gilbert Coffin (Micajah's son) to Phebe Barnard (Uncle William's daughter deceased). Obed Cole­ man (Barnabus' son) to Eliza Swain (Joseph's daughter deceased).

Dec. 19—Sam Hussey came here yesterday from Wood's Hole, lately from Kennebunk.

Dec. 26—Dr. Tupper came this day from Oyster Island.

Dec. 27—Masons dine at Timothy Coleman's.

Dec. 30—Dr. Tupper & Mr. Butler sailed for Newport.

1781 Jan. 1—Timothy Folger (?) last night from New York, went a flagg.

Jan. 29—Joseph Cathcart's wife died at her father Jethro Swain's yesterday.

March 1—Mr. Butler lying at Point of death at Vineyard, sailed in his boat (for Rhode Island alias somewhere else) four weeks hence. On the 5th he is reported recovering.

March 11—Three strangers, Public Friend's spoke. One from Carolina and two from Philadelphia or Virginia.

March 18—Mr. & Mrs. Sampson & family moved to the Island last Tuesday.

Apr. 2—Capt. Thorp with load of provisions for sale from Con­ necticut is here.

Apr. 6 Cos. Elihu & Judah Swift dined. Swift came last week from Nine Partners.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

36

Apr. 13—Eben Hussey arr'd to-day from the West Indies; they lost Robert Hussey (Robert's son) last Monday when he went up to look out & fell off the shrouds, it was so very rough they could not save him.

Apr. 20—Thomas Brock arrived from W. Indies to-day.

Apr. 26—Widow Eliza Gardner buried yesterday.

May 1—Land loomed so over the Cape that we could see the trees & vessells along the shore. Old Town was to be seen very plain, it loomed nera two hours. Pleasant but foggy Wednesday.

Mry 3—Mr. Delano here pays addresses to Betsey Hussey.

May 7 John Noble & one Knot have lately come here from abroad, bi ought the smallpox with them. Noble died this afternoon at the smallpox house at the Creeks.

May 17—Stephen Hussey lodged two nights here. (Quaise) has been at work on the Fulling Mill. Nicoll has left the Mills. Edward Allen has taken them for his son David.

May 27—Timo. Crocker arr'd with load of wood.

June 1—John Chadwick is off the end frm Turks Island loaded with salt, he spoke a vessell that sailed 25 days ago that sailed in company with Silv. Coffin.

June 3—Keziah's mother gone to Boston with Mrs. Butler, re­ turned July 1st.

July 8—Before 9 o'clock 2 boats called Shaving Mills from NYork came into the harbor after small stores they took a small schoner from Connecticut loaded with provisions, the owner ransomed her for 20 pounds paid in provisions. Stephen Hussey went off to assist somebody in getting their vessell clear, they kept him three hours prisoner. He saw Mr. G (?) Calef and Star? in one of their boats that went off in and was taken last night. They took them out and released their boat. After 12 o'clock they went out in the harbor; they chased 2 or 3 little vessells into the harbor. They stopped one at Brant Point. Don't know whether they intend to keep her.

When we rode over the hills for Quaise the boat lay at anchor N. side the light house, a vessell with her.

July 9—One of the Shaving Mills roaming about from the bar to a point, in the Sound.

37

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

July 10th—Dimick and a number of others in a small vessell came yesterday in pursuit of the two Shave Mills boats. The large boat was westward. They came nigh enough to exchange shots, but not to do mischief on either side. This morning Dimick went up by land to the bend (the small boat & several prizes lay under the land) when the fog cleared he pushed off with several boats; ran alongside a prize where the Shave Mill and her men were. They fired at each other. One man was killed & two were very much wounded. They came round into the harbor this after­ noon, but soon went out again, bound Westward. The Refugees have taken and sent to York, William Barnard's schooner from Boston; he and his people they let come on shore.

July 22—Myself, Eliza Polly & the two children went to Esq. Hussey's & the Salt works.

July 24—Mr. Fuller came here to drink tea. He married Mr. William's daughter of Sandwich, he lives at Chilmark. Preaches there, is a very agreeable man, is called a Tory.

Aug. 26—John Ramsdell buried a daughter to-day about 18 yrs. old.

Aug. 20—In a trip to Tuckernuck after visiting at Peter Coffin's and Jacob Alley's (the latter not considered very neat) Mrs. F. goes on to say, "we walked into the woods over to the North of the Island & back to Peter's (he lives East side of the Isle).

Sept. 1—Burton Hathaway arrived at the Island last night after almost 3 years absence, he was lately taken & carried into New York was bound here with a load of flour.

Sept. 7—Speaks of a muskmelon raised at farm on Tuckernuck, weighing 16 pounds.

Sept. 13—Silvanus Hussey came to the Island last Saturday & with him Lydia Wing (sister to Wm. Coleman's wife) the young woman he is published to and intends making her his wife.

Sept. 20—Kate Heath died yesterday.

Sept. 21—McFarlen came this afternoon in a small vessell from Penobscot. John Barnard came in the vessell he was taken & car­ ried into Penobscot, brought this vessell ballanced her with salt & came here.

Sept. 30—Juda Robert & Johna came up (to Quaise) before sun­ set, tell that they was 2 Shaving mills with 90 or 100 men in them

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

38

came into the harbor last night, they have taken a number of vessells to-day, the Town in great confusion.

Oct. 1 About midnight Dimick with about 6- men came into the haiboi aimed. He and the Shaving Mills gave each other several shot. On the whole Dimick thought he would wait until day, be­ fore he made an attempt. In the morning Dimick and they fired a number of times at each other. The Refugees had taken a Brig that was loaded and ready to sail for the West Indies. Dimick concluded to wait until 10 o'clock before he retook her, for at that hour she would be wholly his. It would be 24 hours from her being captured by the Refugees. The Refugees with their Shaving Mills were alongside the Brig near Brant Point. They had made up barricades in the Brig to defend themselves. Dimick with his two vessells was outside of them. About 9 o'clock a number of Con­ necticut men (who had lost their vessells) & strangers from other parts went on Brant Point, threw up a breast work, carried swivels and small arms and attacked the Shaving Mills so warmly that they were obliged to get off with themselves as fast as pos­ sible towards Coatue. Dimick at the same time fired from his vessells for fifteen or more minutes. There was a great firing from Dimick and the shore. The Refugees ne'er fired until they were out of reach, and then they fired with cannon and shouted with their hats off. They killed one from the shore on board the Shaving Mill, and it is thought several were killed after they shoved from the Brig. They rowed and sailed as fast as possible out over the Bar. Dimick did not pursue. George Lawrence was in sight all the morning between the Point and Bar. Between 8 & 9 o'clock they perceived there was something amiss in the harbor.

His men all got into the boat (left only Lawrence and his little son on board) got to the haul-over place at Coatue, hauled their boat over and put immediately over here. They got up to our house at 10 o'clock. Uriah Gardner, Josh Bunker, Jr., Paul Pinkham & Macy (Jonathan's son) as soon as they really discovered there was trouble in the harbor they took their clothes, and what other things they could and shoved off. Lawrence stood for the other side. A boat's crew came up from Town & seeing the boat come from Lawrence, they came immediately here. The two from Lawrence went down directly in the boat that came from Town, and left their own boat here. The Shaving Mills when they got over the Bar, saw no one pursuing them, immediately pursued Lawrence and took and carried him away westward with a small S. E. wind.

Dimick with his recaptured prizes remained all day in the harbor.

39

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Oct. 2—They say that the owners of the Brig are going to give Dimick $1,800 for her. Dimick and a number of others went out about noon bound westward.

Oct. 6—News from Town is that the two Shaving Mills that escaped last Monday on their way to New York overtook a large Roe galley and came into harbor last night. In the night they cut a number of vessells from the wharves before morn. They tarried all day in the harbor. At sunset they set fire to a Connecticut vessell and went off with another. As soon as they were out of reach with their guns our people put out the fire. She was considerably burnt in her stern.

Oct. 12—Abner Coffin, son of Abner, died at noon to-day.

Oct. 18—Mr. Beane went off to-day bound to Boston.

Oct. 19—A number of vessells came in to-day.

Oct. 23—Uncle Daniel & Clarinda Folger came to-day from Slocums River.

Oct. 25—Thomas Delano & Betsey Hussey were married this eve.

Oct. 27—Jethro Starbuck's wife had a son born last night.

Nov. 2—News came of the death of Bartlett Allen of the Vine­ yard. (The name of the pond near Sancoty is spelled Sersaccecher.)

Nov. 7—Reuben Fitch's wife was taken about noon this day with a bleeding at the mouth, in 15 minutes after she was taken she expired. She was about house but poorly when she was taken.

Nov. 17—Uncle Daniel & Clarinda bound to Slocum's River with Nat. Russell. Mamma bound to Boston; ret'd Dec. 7 Nov. 21—Benjamin Coffin (son of Benjamin of the Vineyard) was coming in a vessell night before last, he was at the helm went to jibe the tiller, came about and he and the tiller went overboard.

The people threw their oars over to him. got out their boat & behold they had no oars 7 he was drowned. Tis thought his life would have been saved had they had oars. Yesterday afternoon he was found on Shimmo.

Nov. 29—Eliakim Coffin & Judith Starbuck married.

Nov. 30—7 o'clock P. M. went to Abiel Barney's, she sent for the women there were 15 women besides myself, at 11 o'clock she was delivered of a son.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

40

Dec. 8—Mary Coffin, Shubael's wife died at 9 p.m. had a child 6 or 8 weeks ago—had not been well since.

Dec. 11—Timothy Folger arrived off the South side, came on shore himself and Shubael Coffin. Mr. Jackson is come that went with Timothy-Sampson & 2 other blacks have gone out awhaling from London. Folger's sloop reached the wharf Wednesday night & unloaded.

Dec. 14—The Flagg arrived to-day with the Committee from NewYork, 26 hours passage from the city. Mr. Johnson tells Mr. Fan­ ning the melancholy news of the death of his brother Brown.

He and his brother were drowned passing from Long Island to Shelter Island.

Dec. 23—Silv. Macy's wife had a daughter born A. M. Dec. 31—Thomas Neazer died last night was in consumption.

To be continued

41

Membership Report To our list of members we are happy to announce the addi­ tion, since our last report, of three new annual members: Mrs. Bethel Day

Mrs. Elizabeth Frye

Mrs. Ruth Ley Two life memberships have been added: Mrs. George Sykes and W. F. Hunnefield both of whom formerly held annual mem­ berships. One sustaining member has been added, Mrs. Thaddeus DeFrieze, formerly an annual member.

In addition to three resignations we are saddened by the loss through death of two of our members, Mr. G. Lister Carlisle, Jr., a former Vice-President and Council member, and Mr. John A. Locke, who was always a very interested member.

It is with regret that we have been obliged to remove from our membership list the names of several members because of unpaid dues. We hope it has been only a matter of forgetfulness on their part and that they will rejoin another year.

Our total membership now stands at 1,000 made up as follows: Life members—147

Sustaining members—63

Annual members—790

42

Whaling Museum Fund One thousand two hundred dollars is the amount still needed to pay in full the cost of installing the sprinkler system. 1955 marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Whaling Museum.

One of the most fitting ways in which we can celebrate this anni­ versary would be an announcement that the sprinkler system has been paid for in full. Won't you help to make this possible by send­ ing a donation, large or small, so that such an announcement can be made on May 28th, the opening date of the Whaling Museum ?

Counsel advises that such a gift is an allowable deduction for Federal Income Tax purposes.

Bequests Membership in our Association proves that you are interested in its program. You can perpetuate that interest by naming the Association to receive a legacy or bequest under your will which will help to insure the Association carrying on in the future.

Counsel advises that legacies or bequests to the Nantucket His­ torical Association are deducted from Federal estate tax by virtue of Internal Revenue Code, Title 26, Section 812(d). Legacies will be used for general or specific purposes as directed by the donor.

Bequests may be made also in real estate, bonds, stocks, books, paintings, or any objects having historical value in which event a brief description of the same should be inserted instead of a sum of money.

Officers 1954 - 1955

President Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Vice Presidents Howard U. Chase Burnham N. Dell George W. Jones

Everett U. Crosby Miss Grace Brown Gardner W. Ripley Nelson

Secretary

Treasurer

George W. Jones

Mrs. Elizabeth B. Worth

Auditor Ormonde F. Ingall

Councillors Mrs. Walton H. Adams, Chairman Term Expires

Albert Egan, Jr. Mrs. Cyril C. Ross Mrs. Lewis S. Edgarton John W. Grout Earl S. Ray James A. Norcross Mrs. Joseph King Mrs. Mitchell Todd

1955 1955 1956 1956 1957 1957 1958 1958

Custodian of Collections Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Finance Committee W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman Earl S. Ray

Howard U. Chase

Membership Committee Mrs. Walton H. Adams, Chairman

Historic Nantucket W. Ripley Nelson, Editor Burnham N. Dell Associate Editor

Miss Helen L. Winslow Associate Editor