Historic Nantucket, July 1961, Vol. 9 No. 1 by Nantucket Historical Association

Historic Nantucket

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This Poster Has Been Sent Out To Announce The Special Exhibit of The Allen Forbes Collection of Whaling Prints During July and, August.

JULY, 1961 ANNUAL REPORTS NUMBER Published Quarterly by

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION OFFICERS President, George W. Jones. Vice-Presidents, Miss Grace Brown Gardner, Burnham N. Dell, Stokeley W. Morgan, W. Ripley Nelson, Albert Egan, Jr., Mrs. William Mather.

Secretary-Treasurer, Miss Ethel Anderson. Auditor, Ormonde F. Ingall. Councillors, George W. Jones, Chairman; Richard J. Porter, Oswell J. Small, term expires 1961; Robert C. Caldwell, Alma P. Rohbins, term expires 1962; Mrs. Joseph King, Mr. Herbert I. Terry, term expires 1963; Mrs. Francis W. Pease, Mr. H. Errol Coffin, term expires 1964. Publicity Committee, W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman. Honorary Curator, Mrs. Nancy S. Adams. Curator, Mrs. William Mather. Finance Committee, Stokeley W. Morgan, Chairman,

Editor, Historic Nantucket, Miss Alma Robbins; Mrs. Margaret Fawcett Barnes, Mrs. R. A. Orleans, Assistant Editors.

Exhibits' Publications Committee. Burnham N. Dell, Chairman; Mrs. John Bartlett.

Chairmen of Exhibits, Fair Street Museum, Mrs. William Mather; Whaling Museum, W. Ripley Nelson; Oldest House, Mrs. Francis W. Pease; Old Mill, Robert Caldwell; Old Jail, Oswell Small; 1800 House, Mrs. Joseph King.

Chairman Receptionist Librarian

Mrs. William L. Mather Miss Alma P. Robbins Miss Alice Crocker

Oldest House Chairman Receptionist

Mrs. Francis W. Pease Miss Ida Parker

The "1800" House Chairman Receptionist

Mrs. Charlotte G. King Mrs. Susan M. Cowden

The Old Gaol Chairman Receptionist

Oswell J. Small Chester Faunce

The Old Mill Chairman Receptionist

Robert C. Caldwell John Greene

The Whaling Museum Chairman Custodian Receptionist Librarian Substitute receptionist Substitute receptionist Substitute receptionist

W. Ripley Nelson Archibald Cartwright Mrs. Herbert Foye Mrs. Ellen D. Chace Mrs. Reginald F. Hussey Bertram Morris Everett Chapel

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 9

JULY 1961

No. 1

CONTENTS Nantucket Historical Association Officers and Staff

A "Thank You" from the 6th Grade

Editorial, by Margaret Fawcett Barnes

Letters of Annie Maria Mitchell Edited by Mrs. Alice Payne Amey

The Clove Ship, by Stokeley W. Morgan

Annual Reports

Recent Events Briefly Noted

109

Diary of William C. Folger, Edited by Nancy S. Adams

110

Dr. Frank E. Lewis — 1884 - 1961

118

Legacies and Bequests

119

The Nantucket Historical Association Admission Schedule for 1961

120

Historic Nantucket is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts, by the Nantucket Historical Association. It is sent to Association Members. Extra copeis $.50 each. 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. Copyright, 1961, Nantucket Historical Association. Communications pertaining to the Publication should be addressed to the Editor, Historic Nantucket, Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, Massachusetts.

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This letter was received at the Historical Museum, Fair Street, after a visit of the 6th Grade class with their teacher, Mr. Dias, which was enjoyed by all.

Editorial SUMMER SPECIALS Two separate events, included in Nantucket's 1961 summer schedule, are of special interest to our readers—the Meeting of the American Astronomical Society—and the Exhibition of the Allan Forbes Collection of Whaling Prints. At the invitation of Dr. Dorrit Hoffleit, Director of the Maria Mitchell Observatory, the One Hundred and Eighth Meeting of the AMERICAN ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY was held in Nan tucket this past June 18-21. The Headquarters for the conclave was The Sea Cliff Inn, where the three-day program was con ducted for the over three hundred Scientists and their families at tending the Meeting, from as far away as San Francisco and one even from China. This is reported to be the largest attendance at any yearly Meeting so far. The President of the Society, Mr. Lyman Spitzer, Jr. was in charge of the varied gathering. Besides the business meetings and sessions for papers of the Scientists, there was a reception on Sunday night at the hotel, which was crowded with members of the Maria Mitchell Association and other interested friends, and on Monday evening the important Henry Norris Russell Lecture on "Some Characteristics of Galaxies" was given by Dr. W. W. Morgan, Director of Yerkes Observatory. At the Society Dinner, on Tuesday evening, Miss Margaret Harwocd, Director Emeritus of the Maria Mitchell Ob servatory of Nantucket, was the Speaker, and her forthright talk on the History of the Maria Mitchell Observatory, with "High lights, and some Lowlights," to quote Miss Harwood, proved most entertaining and instructive. The invitation from the Nan tucket Historical Association to visit the Museums and Historical Units of the Town, as their guests, proved most appealing, and the response was extensive; and many attended a tea for the ladies of the Society, at the Maria Mitchell Memorial House. The other outstanding summer event is being held under the sponsorship of the Nantucket Historical Association. This Ex hibition of Whaling Prints and Pictures, from the famous col lection of Allan Forbes, Sr., is on view now, during .July and August, in the Coffin School. Allan Forbes, Sr., Boston financier, and head of the State Street Trust Company, at the time of his

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death, spent many years assembling this collection and left it to the Nautical Museum of Mass. Institute of Technology, who have graciously loaned 1.80 of the prints and pictures for this exhibit, so appropriately displayed in its Nantucket setting. Mr. Forbes' son, Mr. Allan Forbes, Jr. and his wife have taken great interest in the plans for the exhibit and been most helpful in promoting it. To see this collection gives one a vivid idea of the spirit and courage of the men who conducted the world wide whaling in dustry. It is cleverly hung, in chronological sequence, guiding the viewer from the beginning of whaling, through the many danger ous and arduous tasks, depicted in detail, to the end of the era, which came in the middle of the 19th Century, when "ground oil" was discovered. Open daily, there is a small entrance fee, charged for running expenses, and anyone attending the Main Street Fete in August will be able to visit this very worthwhile collection, as it will be included in their exhibits. Even the poster for this Nan tucket Historical Association event should be commented upon for its stunning portrayal of a stove boat and a whale (see cover) in action. Margaret Fawcett Barnes, Ass't. Editor

Letters of Annie Maria Mitchell EDITED BY HER DAUGHTER, MRS. ALICE PAYNE AMEY

T h e s e letters written by Annie Maria M i t c h e l l , daughter of William Foster Mitchell, to her cousin, William Mitchell Barney, son of Maria Mitchell's sister, Sally, who married Matthew Barney, between the years 1864 and 1866, give an accurate and intimate picture of Civil War years. In Helen W r i g h t' s "Sweeper in the Sky," she writes, telling what each of the Mitchells were Copy of Civil War Daguerreotype doing in 1864, durby Universal Photo Shop ing the War. "FosAnnie Maria Mitchell—about 1860 ter stood, silently, and prayed for the war's end. Alone, on the hill, he resolved to give his life, to serve his fellow-men." He was in Nashville, Tennessee, where he, with his wife, Charlotte Coffin Dow Mitchell and their daughter, Annie Maria had gone to establish schools for the freed-slave children. Some of the letters were written from Tennessee, and some while Annie Maria was in Lynn, or Nantucket, during the years when she was young (seventeen) and impressionable. The hand writing is fine and flowing, and easily read to this day.

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Photo by Bill Haddon

Lynn, April 12th, 1864

Dear Cousin; We are at last settled in our boarding place on the Common and a very nice place it is. I received your letter while I was in Cambridge where I spent three days most delightfully. We went up to the college and into the library and after looking around there awhile (it is a very fine library), we went on further to see Longfellow's residence. He lives in a large old fashioned house, rather peculiar than otherwise. Then we went on further to see the poet Lowell's residence. His grounds are very pretty there being a great many trees and handsome trees too. Then Aunt Phebe said Mount Auburn Cemetery was not far distant—so we walked on to that and after wandering about there half an hour we started for home expecting to take a car but a car did not overtake us so we walked home. I think we walked six miles. I saw the Lawrence School. The next day we started to go to Agassie's Museum. It is a very fine one. The display of insects and butterflies is very fine. On our return we went into Hovey's gardens and we saw some beautiful violets all in bloom and the perfume was delicious. Willie is a regular rogue. I expected to have entered school the beginning of this week but the storm prevented so I shall not enter till the beginning of next week. I take books out of the public library now and mama is going to begin this afternoon. I took out the first volume of David Copperfield and think it splendid. Mama had a letter from papa this morning. There was a very interesting one last week. Three sheets! Papa has been establish-

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ing schools and he says he could establish twenty teachers if he had them. He says the suffering among the colored people is ter rible. He writes about a woman down there who follows the army. "She has an ambulance and two horses and carries a circulating library of magazines. She snubbs the petty officers and governors their superiors. Papa was trying to get the basement of a church for a school but thought he had failed but this woman found this out and procured it for him. He said while he was writing there were three soldiers there, come to get her to release them from punishment. Papa says she looks like a respectable washerwoman. I used to think that Lynn was the prettiest place I had ever been in but since I have been in Cambridge, I think so no more. They have the greatest fashion of moving houses here and while they are moving them, the people stay in them and live. While Dickens was in this country he says in his journal, " I was up at six o'clock this morning, houses not yet out." Will you please direct in the future, 78 North Common. How soon shall I see Aunt Sallie? Adieu Annie P.S. Papa wrote on Christian Commission paper and on the top of the sheets were these words: The U.S. Christian Commission sends this as a soldiers' message to his home. Let it hasten to those who wait for tidings. (Note—Aunt Phebe—Mrs. Joshua Kendall, sister to Wm. Foster Mitchell. Aunt Sallie—Mrs. Matthew Barney, sister to William Foster Mitchell, and mother of Mitchell Barney, recipient of these letters. Willie—Phebe's son, William Mitchell Kendall.)

Nantucket, August 3rd. (1864) Dear Cousin: We had a prodidgeous storm today and having read all I am inclined to, in numerous magazines and Cudjo's Cave into the bargain, and unable to obtain other literary food, I think of pen ning you a few lines. Nantucket is progressing. The steamboat arrives, the waves beat against the shore, the Sanitary commences, the girls go "down street", the fog still lowers, and the sand still gets into your shoes; so I conclude Nantucket is progressing. I went into your house the night I came and saw your sweet mother. I delivered your letter with my own hands to Johnny Whitney, also I carried Aunt Maria's bundle, (tell her) to Miss Starbuck at the Atheneum building.

LETTERS OF ANNIE MARIA MITCHELL

Did you have a good time the night of Miss Fuller's party? I did, a real nice time, and I had a ghostly walk home too; and of course that signifies a sloiv walk. The first Sanitary entertainment came off last night! And the fair itself commences tonight. I shall not go tomorrow night. Your father and mother seem to miss you wretchedly, and father said that he had to do all of the whistling himself, and I asked him how he got along, and he said not very well. I was rather too tired to go out last Sunday morning or I should have gone to Friend's meeting; but I shall go next Sunday after my own church. I like Friend's meeting the best of any but you need not think I am a convert, because I am not, by any means, for it is only that I like to sit still and think, and it is decidedly after my own church that I like it. Aunt Sallie tells me that you expect your cousin from Edgartown this week or next. I hope I shall meet her. Now it is going to clear off and we are going to have a beautiful afternoon and I shall try and get some literary food before the day is over, if I can. Besides that, the rain is going to make everything beautiful, and that is enough. As we were going across the bay the day we came, we ran into a buoy, and cut it off, and it came right up through the planks of the steamboat. There were a hundred and ten passengers the day we came. Have you got a letter from Annie Joy yet! I told you I would find out, so I didn't have to wait long. I told your mother that you went home from every party where she was with Miss Mary Louisa Neal; and she excused you, (do you need an excuse) on the plea that she was your first ac quaintance in Lynn? Oh Mitchell! If you get many more strings to your bow, what in the world will you do? You will have your hands pretty full. I hope you are having this splendid rain in Lynn, for you needed it awfully. Have you read Cudjo's Cave? I think it is perfectly splendid. I got it together with the magazines I read from Aunt Annie. I should like an answer to this letter, if you are so inclined. And if Miss Neal has had her party give me a "full description". Yours, Annie Mitchell (Note—Sanitary—a Civil War organization—forerunner of the American Red Cross. Annie Joy—daughter of Samuel and Betsy, who lived at 10 Gardner Street.

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.88

Nashville, Nov. 12th, 1865 Dear Mitchell, I received your letter this morning, and propose to commence answering it now. I promise you that it will not be finished tonight, for we are expecting company every moment to tea, and I shall not write after they get here. "Tempus does fugit" here, like everything. There is some thing new almost everyday, and one misses time as it flies. They thought it would be pleasant for all of the teachers to have tea together, so we invited all the teachers from the other "mess" here to tea tonight, so there will be five additional. I will sketch for you our usual supper-table as it is this week. Of course, the housekeeper's place changes every week. Mrs. Mitchell Mr. Mitchell Miss Mitchell

Miss Ault Miss Smith, housekeeper Miss Shoemaker

I have been down in the city all of the afternoon, and oh! such a city. It is either full of dust or full of mud all of the time. Today the dust was reigning. You have no idea how wonderfully different things are here from what they are at the North. It is just as though it were another world. Everything is government. We passed the pay department today, and crowded on the steps was a regiment of soldiers waiting to be mustered out. Sunday eve. I hear you say, "Well something has happened when Annie writes letters on Sunday." No, nothing has happened only I have reached the point where I do that thing. It is better than doing nothing, and I don't feel much like doing anything else tonight. We went over to the fifteenth colored regiment to see the dress parade tonight. They have it every night, but on Sundays it is carried on with more show. I only wish I could describe it to you. They took us into the colonel's room where we took seats and talked with the Col. and the Chaplain until the drum beat for the parade. Then we had our chairs carried out on the piazza, which faces the parade ground. The Col. took his stand in front, and the band passed, playing. Then the companies took their stand, and each officer drilled his men. The Adjutant then ordered the officers to step out, which they did. Seeing all was ready the Adjutant stepped toward the Col. and saluted him, which salute the Col. returned and taking his sword from its sheath drilled the regi-

LETTERS OF ANNIE MARIA MITCHELL

ment. And such drilling! Then the officers were ordered forward, and they marched up in file, and each saluted the Col., and so the parade was dismissed. They unfastened the ropes and the flag descended while the band played. Four men stood ready to catch the flag before it should touch the ground and then to fold it very carefully away, and escorted by soldiers with guns, brought it to the house. I only wish you could have seen it all. We are having the most beautiful Indian summer weather and today has been perfectly beautiful. I hardly think we shall have a very severe winter, although the colored people have got to suffer a great deal for fuel. I am going to give you a piece of information. I do not think I was cut out to be a school teacher. I am not interested. I go through the work as though it was my duty, which I had to do and not because I love it. By the way, I have promised a class in Geography that if they don't have their lessons tomorrow, I shall ferule every one of them! I am glad you won't be by to look on, because I know I should laugh. I just now made this remark to the assembled company, "Here is a young man who wants to know what he shall read. What shall I tell him, mama ?" Miss Shoemaker, who is writing a letter at my right hand, says, "Tell him a young lady says read, 'Josephus'". Miss Smith also writing at my left hand says, "Mother Goose". Mama says as you have probably read "Barclay's Apology", you must read "Baxter's Saints Rest". I will propose "Rollin's Ancient Rome". As a set off to those—a sort of desert after dinner—"Gayworthies" by the author of "Faith Gartney" and "Christians Mistake" by Miss Mulock are good. Have you read "Pique" or "Tom Brown at Oxford", or "Rutledge", or "John Halifax", or "Mistress and Maid", or "Melbourne House"? If you are not satisfied with this list let me know. I can supply you to any extent. I am so glad John Whitney is going to make a player. I should like to hear him very much. I envy him the enjoyment. I hope he will make a fine player. Please remember me to him. Is Lydia Folger the young lady who lives up next to Captain Joy? Is Minnie going back out West? How are your mother and father? I suppose, as he has been on a journey, the latter must be pretty well. The evening breeze brings to my ears the singing of the negro meeting a short distance from here. They have grand shouting meetings every Sunday and Wednesday evenings and some times

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they are interspersed with balls. We can plainly hear the fiddle and the calling off and the feet of the "gay revellers" as they emphasize themselves, so to speak, on the floor. If my letters are too frequent, let me know, and they shall be further apart. Remember me to the Island Home (steamboat) and that I shall be happy to make her acquaintance. Oh, how beautiful that bugle sounds. Affectionately, Annie P.S. I am going to give you some advise, as Uncle Andrew says, "Gratis". Don't be in too much of a hurry and don't be going to work before your health is fully reestablished. You don't write how you are. Have you fully recovered? (Note—Uncle Andrew—William Foster Mitchell's eldest brother lost at sea )

{To be Continued)

The Clove Ship BY STOKELEY WILLIAMS MORGAN Great-grandson of Captain Richard Mitchell

Photo by Universal Photo Shop

The Clove Ship was brought to Nantucket by Captain Richard Mitchell on his merchant ship Milton, between 18-50 and 1855. The exact place of origin is not recorded but it was undoubtedly somewhere in the East Indies, or possibly Zanzibar which was a famous market for cloves and also a common port of call on voyages to or from the East Indies via the Cape of Good Hope. Captain Richard Mitchell was a direct descendant of Richard Mitchell who came to Nantucket from Rhode Island in 1720. The Mitchells were merchants in whale oil and owners and part owners of whaling ships, but Richard Mitchell's father suffered crushing financial loss when two vessels in which he had large interest burned at the docks with their cargos of oil still on board in the Nantucket fire of 1846. Richard, then a young man of 27, entered the merchant marine and soon became a skipper and part owner of the Milton on which he made several voyages to the Far East taking part in the China and East Indian trade. He died in 1888 and according to family tradition his last words were: "I guess it's time for me to clew up and furl." The Clove Ship was presented to the Nantucket Historical Association by his daughter Mary Francis Mitchell Williams, and may be seen in the Historical Museum, Fair Street. To this day the odor of cloves is strong and every part of the ship intact.

Annual Reports The annual meeting of the members of the Association is scheduled to be held Tuesday, July 18, 1961, and to expedite the procedure, reports of Chairmen and Treasurer are recorded here. If any member has questions regarding the reports he may present such questions during the business meeting. The Presi dent's report will be presented at the meeting. MEMBERSHIP REPORT New Members since January, 1961

Everett U. Crosby 2nd Richard C. Wolfe

LIFE

Miss Ethel Clark SUSTAINING

ANNUAL Mrs. Louis R. Ayotte Harold E. Henderson Mr. & Mrs. Henry L. P, Miss Hazel Hoecker Beckwith, Jr. Mrs. Beatrice R. Killen Adrian C. Bronk Philip R. Macy Mrs. Doris R. Burgess Mrs. Arthur F. Martin Robert Parker Coffin Dana Bailey Page Miss Diana Bradford C 'offin Linwood Proctor Miss Caroline Crockett Coffin Miss Susan Nickerson ( loffin Mrs. P. E. Rollhaus DEATHS

Dr. Frank E. Lewis Mrs. L. D. Potter Mr. A. Stewart Rogers Life Members 169

Rev. Arthur Schoenfeldt Miss Florence Torr Sustaining Total 1145

Annual

892

Last year over two hundred "invitation to join" letters were sent to members of the Coffin, Folger and Macy families. The response was gratifying and we are still looking for other names to add to our list. Each year we have between eighty and ninety delinquent members (these are not included in the above listing). After the second notice is sent with no response the name is dropped from our list. We do appreciate members who either send a letter or

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card to notify us of their resignation. We find the majority of delinquents are the "one year" members who enjoy the advan tages the Association offers by presenting the card which entitles them to as many visitors as desirable during the season. After leav ing the Island their interest lags and they do not respond the second year. Our members have numbered more than one thousand for several years and we like to better that figure each year. Ethel Anderson, Secretary, Treasurer ADMISSIONS 1960 1959 1958 1956 1957 Historical Museum Fair Street 2,557 3,642 3,928 3,203 3,193 Oldest House 4,720 5,133 4,154 4,871 4,383 1800 House 1,268 1,123 1,265 921 1,221 Old Jail 2,029 1,865 3,355 2,504 1,968 Old Mill 2,832 3,460 3,128 2,815 2,825 Whaling Museum 16,817 19,244 17,742 20,118 18,308 31,326

34,238

31,889

34,147

32,992

Historical Museum and Friends Meeting House BY MRS. WILLIAM L. MATHER, Chairman

The season of 1960 brought many interested visitors, even though a smaller number than in the anniversary year—1959. Miss Alma Robbins and Miss Alice Crocker served as re ceptionist and librarian. Miss Bertha Eckert took over on two days each week to give our staff a day of rest. Mr. Jay Gibbs, as usual, kept the grounds in order as well as opening the Meeting House for Friend's services on Sundays during July and August. During the Spring of 1961 we have made some major im provements. The walls of the balcony have been covered with plywood, a repair that had been needed for some years, and painted a pale apricot color. This makes a fine background for our portraits, as well as giving us added space, for which there is much need. The old walls of cement had two strips of molding which allowed hooks for hanging pictures. This always created a problem with the many pictures to be hung. Mr. Allen McGarvey has done an excellent job in making the gallery more attractive. The display cases on the first floor have been painted which brightened the interior of the fireproof building and shows the contents to better advantage.

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We hope to welcome many visitors this year and believe that they will enjoy our exhibits and the changes made in the Museum. We have already had visitors from Australia who were able to find the record of their Nantucket ancestors in our genealogical records! We look forward to assisting many persons from other locales who may wish to search the records as well as those who come to view the many exhibits.

Photo by Bill Haddon The Interior of the Meeting House as it is today.

Report on the Meetings for Worship of the Religious Society of Friends BY HANNA D. MONAGHAN On August 28, 1960, the Quaker Meeting for prayer and wor ship, after its twenty-second year in the Fair Street Meeting house, closed its doors for the season. The building is an adjunct of the Museum, and for years was one of many Quaker Meeting houses on the island. With the courtesy and generosity of the Nantucket Historical Association is the use of the Meetinghouse granted in the summer to the present day Religious Society of Friends for meeting and

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worship. With their sanction it will open again the first Sunday of this July for another season. The past year was one of the most successful since the early whaling days when it was said that half the town had become Quakers. For years the Meetinghouse was idle, and the empty benches spoke of a world that was gone. Then, starling with a nucleus of five Quaker Off-Island families, during the years, the door on the stoop of the old build ing beside the Fair Street Museum has remained open on each "First-Day morning" as the early Friends called it. This past season came Friends from all over the nation, even beyond, from the Caribbean to Canada, to the Museum and to the meetings in the old Meetinghouse with its stiff wooden benches and austere atmosphere. Since it has become known that it is not a meeting for Quakers alone, that there is no creed recited, nor minister to open the services, but as in the early days, one enters to sit in silence in communion with God, the attendance has grown from some few stragglers, to thirty or fifty each Sunday morning. In this increasingly troubled age when it is apparent that materialism has failed, many of those desiring to find peace, individual peace, and peace for the warring factions of the world, come quietly into the old Meetinghouse and sit in silence, or speak with a few unprepared words, knowing that only through finding spiritual Truth can our way of life be saved. Let us hope that this season also will draw the seekers to the "Children of the Light," as the Quakers in the past spoke of themselves.

1800 House BY CHARLOTTE G. KING, Chairman This past year has been a busy one for the 1800 House. We were fortunate to have again as hostess Mrs. Susan Cowden, who has been with us ever since the House was opened full time. Be cause of her continuity of service and keen interest in the exhibits her observations are most interesting to visitors. Mrs. Cowden has noticed an increased enthusiasm of archi tects in the structure of the House, also an increase of interest by people who have bought homes of the same period and are plan ning their restoration; everyone is delighted with the furnishings. Our attendance was 1273—which was a substantial increase

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over the previous year, In fact, over the years the r e c o r d s show a steady in crease in visitors. To t h o s e who may return, and to those who visit for the first time, a more attractive exhibit will greet them. This year we have tried to make the most urgent re pairs as well as to do some much needed painting. The outside Photo by Paul Whitten trim was painted and The Dining Room of 1800 House as it appears today-the Keeping R o o m had a fresh coat of paint. Badly needed new window frames and sash have replaced rotting ones with great care being used to pre serve the same style. The ell kitchen has a sill, and new shingles on the west side. As in any home, there is always need of repair work to keep things "ship-shape,"so it is with us at 1800 House. It would not be fitting for me to close this report without thanking all of those who have helped to make the 1960 season a success, especially the Assistant Hostesses who gave so gen erously of their time.

The Oldest House BY MRS. FRANCIS W. PEASE, Chairman

During the 1960 season visitors to the Oldest House were welcomed by Miss Ethel Clark attired in her costume of the 1800's. Of the 4688 guests who registered we were pleased to note that 18 foreign countries were represented. It was also interesting to notice that within a week .116 children were ad mitted ; 46 in one day! This fascinating homestead lures and intrigues all ages. It was with much regret that Miss Clark's resignation was accepted, and we extend our sincere and grateful appreciation lor her thirteen faithful years as custodian. She will be greatly

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missed by all of us and the many visitors that return to the Oldest House each summer. Miss Clark has been replaced by Miss Ida Parker whom we sincerely welcome and wish much success. Mrs. Louise Hussey will be entering her second year as relief, her enthusiasm is a delight to all. There have been gratefully accepted donations of several items of furniture and authentic costumes which serve as realistic props throughout the house and lend a cheerful and ' lived in" atmosphere. The Oldest House is looking forward to another busy and successful season.

The Old Mill BY ROBERT CALDWELL, Chairman

The 1960 season at the Old Mill was a busy cne with a larger number of visitors than ever before. Mr. John Greene, the Custo dian, welcomed visitors as he has for the past several years, and with his usual quiet, dignified manner has interested many in the history of this unique Old Mill. Although we did not grind corn as

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in the 300th Anniversary year, 1959, the mill as usual gave many camera enthusiasts opportunity to take fine pictures. When the Mill was dismantlted for the winter it was discovered that the main shaft had rotted near the outer bearing so badly it could not be repaired but had to be replaced. After a great deal of inquiring a lumber dealer was finally located near Philadelphia who was able to supply the shaft at a reasonable price, and the timber, 18" by 18" by 22 feet, was trucked from Philadelphia to Steamboat Wharf. The timber weighed IV2 tons. It was taken tt Joseph Senecal's shop where it was "turned" and prepared for in stallation. In taking out the big gear it was found that the oak plank spokes were rotted in the center and six of these spokes 3" by 10" have had to be replaced. Altogether this has been a very expensive repair job but we have been fortunate in receiving one contribution of $1,000, and hope that other interested persons will help us with this major restoration of the Old Mill. This replace ment of the shaft was last done in 1952 and we hope this time to so preserve the wood that it may last over a longer period of time. We anticipate another successful season and we hope all who visit our Old Mill will feel rewarded. Not only is the Old Mill of great interest but Mill Hill is one of the most sightly spots in town where one finds a beautiful view of the Harbor.

The Old Jail BY OSWELL J. SMALL, Chairman

We are glad to report that this past winter, despite the extreme weather with heavy snow and high winds, very little damage was done at the Old Jail. Another winter, we believe, the door to the Jail will be in need of repair as it is rotting near the hinges. We did not have quite as large an attendance this past year but that was due in part, we believe, to the boat strike, and the tact that 1959 was the Anniversary Celebration year. Mr. Chester Faunce, Sr., served as receptionist again, and as usual did a fine job. He keeps the grounds in excellent condition, neat and attractive, and welcomes visitors with enthusiasm. My term as chairman expires this year and I wish to say it has been a pleasure to serve for the past three years.

ANNUAL REPORTS

The Whaling Museum BY W. RIPLEY NELSON, Chairman The paid attendance at the Museum for the summer of 1960 was materially affected by two adverse factors, first the strike of the steamship authority employees in June & July and second, the widely advertised threat of hurricane Donna in September. June and July showed a decrease of 1908 paid admissions as compared with 1959. August, September and October showed a recovery but still recorded a decrease of 923 paid admissions. May, with only a few days, showed the only increase namely 80. The season there fore showed total paid admissions of 16,817 a decrease of 2751 from the 1959 total of 19,568 which was an all time high except for 1957 when paid admissions numbered 20,118 persons. Looking at the "Guests Registry Book" the seasonal record presents a happier picture for our visitors came from far and near. This year 40 states and the District of Columbia were represented as against 39 and the District in 1959. Two of the states not rep resented in 1959 registered visitors in 1960, namely Arkansas and Wyoming which left only seven states, Idaho, Louisana, Mon tana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota and Wyoming unrep resented for two years. Foreign Countries were again well represented with 17 regis tered namely Pitcairn Island S.P.O; South Africa with Capetown and Johannesburg; Japan, Tokyo; New Zealand, Wellington; Hong Kong, China; Argentina, Buenos Aires; England with Lon don, Cheshire, Leicester, Surrey, and Bedford; Germany, Ham burg; France, Paris; Scotland; The Netherlands; Switzerland, Lucerne; Sweden, Uppsella, and Stockholm, Denmark and Can ada well represented from Toronto, Kingston, Hamilton in On tario and Winnepeg in Manitoba, Montreal in Quebec and Nova Scotia. The Museum library continues to attract many persons en gaged in research. Mrs. Ellen Chace continued her reading of the log books completing this past year 20 logs covering 22 voyages. This makes a total of 58 log books read, covering 68 voyages. In reading these logs, Mrs. Chace makes a permanent index record of all interesting entries, which includes places visited, ships spoken, new discoveries and innumerable other outstanding events. The Museum has over 135 log books and 152 account books, and when the reading and indexing is completed we shall have an

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invaluable and rarely matched library record for quick and reliable reference. In addition, Mrs. C'hace has started a file of "Privately Owned Log's". This has proven, even in its early stages, a valuable reference file for researchers. It will be greatly appreciated and helpful if any and all who know of "privately owned and held logs" will make a report thereof to Mrs. Ellen Chace, Librarian, who will record the information in our library. The Museum opened for the 1961-62 season Saturday, May 27th. The Annual Open House was observed that afternoon when 111 guests defied the wind and rain and visited the museum, as compared with 106 the previous year. AH of our veteran staff members are with us again for the 1961-62 season. Mrs. Bernice Foye at the Reception desk and in charge of the Scrimshaw Room; Bertram E. Morris watching over the Whale Craft Shops; Archie Cartwright, the last Nantucket man to have gone whaling, serving as Oustodian and in charge of the Sanderson Hall exhibits; Mrs. Ellen Chace in command of the Library and, finally, two able relief staff members: James Everett Chapel and Mrs. Reginald Hussey. Members of the Museum Com mittee also unchanged are: Henry C. Carlisle, Charles F. Sayle, Mrs. Marriott F. King, Albert F. Egan, Jr., and W. Ripley Nelson, chairman. In closing this report, special mention is made of a new exhibit now in preparation and which, when completed, will be set up in Sanderson Hall. Approximately 50 charts, most of them from 100 to 150 years old which have been in storage for many years, are being restored and mounted for display. Many of these charts saw years of service at sea and bear the notations of many "Mas ters as to their voyages which they plotted on the charts day by day. These charts are to be mounted on specially made swing ing leaves so they can be readily and easily inspected without public handling of the charts themselves. Work was started on this pioject last winter but it proved to be a greater project than anticipated. It is hoped, however, to have the exhibit installed bv mid-July. The Association is truly indebted to our committee membei Henry C. Carlisle, for his interest and generosity have made this unusual exhibit possible. All museums are always seeking for new material and the VI haling Museum is no exception. Log books are always more t an welcome and, then, there are at present two classifications for which we seek additions. The first is in the Scrimshaw field, w ere we need some of the crude instruments used by the carvers,

ANNUAL REPORTS

101

especially what is referred to as a "bone handle single blade Jack Knife". Our Sail Loft in the Whale Craft Shops also is in need of additional equipment used by the old-time sail makers. These and other donations pertaining to Whaling will be more than welcome. As was said last year, in the seventeen and eighteen hundreds, Nantucketers sailed the oceans and seas of the world and roamed foreign lands. Now the tide has turned, for the world is voyaging to Nantucket, for its historic fame and architectural preservation draw people like a magnet and our Whaling Museum is one of the leading attractions. Our staff members recognize this fact and their responsibilities as public representatives of the Island. They can be counted on to continue building good-will and friendship through their warm and cordial welcome to all visitors.

Advertising and Publicity BY W. RIPLEY NELSON, Chairman

The advertising program was divided, as is customary, into three classifications, namely: (1) Local Newspapers; (2) Maga zines and Directories; (3) Cards and Leaflets. Booklets and leaf lets for the Museums, bulletins and pamphlets such as "Rambles" are handled by the Publications Committee so are not included under advertising and publicity. Paid newspaper advertisments are limited to the local news papers. This past year there was a reduction in this advertising as compared with other years. It started with the invitation to the public to attend "Open House" the afternoon the Whaling Museum opened. This was followed shortly thereafter by the advertisement announcing the opening dates, weekly and hourly schedules and admission charges for all exhibits. The Annual Meeting was announced by the usual small legal notice followed by a display advertisement announcing the program and speaker. Magazine and Directory advertising was carried out in four publications. "Nantucket Holiday" and "This Week in Nantucket both of which are published weekly in Nantucket during the summer months, each carried a third of a page advertisement in each issue. Our six museums and buildings were listed in the "New England Council" summer directory, an annual publica tion. A listing was placed also in "Antiques" magazine summer directory. Our "Cordial Welcome Folder" which extends an invitation

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to Island visitors to visit our exhibits was distributed again through the hotels to their guests. "Main Street" is a pamphlet which, always well received, was distributed again through our museums and exhibits. The opening and admission schedules were distributed for seasonal display to the hotels, guest houses, restaurants, clubs and businesses of the Island. News stories were released throughout the year to the two local papers and one off-Island paper having a local circulation. The value of this form of publicity figured at approximately an average of the per column inch advertising rate of the three papers (at no cost to the Association) was well in excess of the cost of local advertising, although less in volume than the previous year, as there were no lectures during the summer, except at the Annual Meeting. The total value for the year, however, still exceeded $600. Comments in "Nantucket Holiday" and "This Week in Nantucket" are not included in this valuation. The same is true of syndicated feature stories circulated nationally and in some instances internationally, an outstanding example being an illustrated story on the WThaling Museum. Indications of its dis tribution was the receipt of copies of three leading newspapers — one in New York City, one in St. Petersburg, Fla., and one in Tokyo, Japan, all of which carried the story in full, running from 200 to 260 lines each. This committee has maintained the standards set in previous years which calls for advertising and publicity historically in structive and presented in a dignified manner but in such form as to attract public interest in competition with advertising for the modern day entertainment. The results seem to prove the sound ness of this policy and that it is being successfully carried out.

ANNUAL REPORTS

103

Treasurer's Report Balance Sheet, May 31, 1961 EXHIBIT A Free Funds Pacific National Bank Nantucket Institution for Savings Sidney Mitchell Fund Mary E. Macy Maria Mitchell Starbuck Fund Securities (excess of securities purchases over Florence Mitchell Fund) Total Less — Unexpended special funds Land, Buildings and Collections Fair Street Old Mill Oldest House Whaling Museum Old Jail 1800 House West York Street (Land) Collections Furniture and Fixtures Total Restricted Funds (Resolution) Life Memberships Old Mill Preservation Jethro Coffin Fund

Total Restricted Funds (Principal) Ella Starbuck Emma Hayward William Swift Florence Mitchell Susan E. Brock Total Restricted Funds (Principal and Interest) Will Gardner Fund Total Expendable Surplus (see Exhibit D) Restricted Funds and Capital Surplus Total

2813 24 7879 67 3000.00 500 00

3000.00 515.60 17708.51 176.00 17532.51 8800.00 4500.00 4000.00 10000.00 1834.00 5350.00 500.00 10304.00 407.92 45695.92 7708.22 726.39 509.92 8944.53 3000.00 2000.00 5000.00 18600.00 1000.00 29600.00 528.96 102301.92 17633.76 84668.16 102301.92

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET TREASURER'S REPORT (CONTINUED) Statement of Income and Expenses for Year Ending May 31, 1961 EXHIBIT B

Department Whaling Museum Fair Street Oldest House Old Mill Old Jail 1800 House Total General Office Annual Dues Sustaining Interest & Dividend Refunds Donations Miscellaneous

Expenses 7562.19 2782.46 1142.55 888.33 756.05 1518.03

Net Income or Deficit 1111.46 (D)1624.36 1397.70 (D) 217.78 (D) 114.65 (D) 870.03

14,331.95

14,649.61

(D) 317.66

3836.35

3454.32

382.03

157.25 13.50

703.31 1894.98 157.68

(D) 546.06 (D) 1881.48 (D) 157.68

18339.05

20859.90

(D)2520.85

1782.00 840.00 1084.35 75.00 35.00 20.00

Pamphlets Historic Nantucket Miscellaneous (small Repairs) Total

Income 8673.65 1158.10 2540.25 670.55 641.40 648.00

Special Projects EXHIBIT C Hose House Franklin-Folger Memorial Whaling Museum Charts Old Mill Shaft Forbes Exhibit — Expense Total

3430.00 160.00 823.26 1000.00

5413.26

1750.69 63.45 364.56 1307.58 935.37 4421.65

(D) 991.61

ANNUAL REPORTS

105

EXHIBIT D Reconciliation of Surplus Accounts Balance 5/31/60 Expendable Surplus Add — Income and Credit Adjustments Excess of Income over Expenditure Special Projects C Estate of Elizabeth Fitzgerald Interest General Fund Savings Account Miscellaneous Total Less — Operating Deficit — Exhibit B

18486.57 991.61 205.25 455.47 15.71 20154.61 2520.85

Balance 5/31/61

17633.76

Balance 5/31/60 Restricted & Capital Funds Add — Income and credit adjustments Life Membership Jethro Coffin Fund Florence Mitchell Estate Sandsbury Collection

65122.71

Balance 5/31/61 Total

700.00 16.45 18600.00 229.00 84668.16 102301.92

The foregoing Balance Sheet and Summary Statement of Income and Expenses have been prepared after an audit of the Treasurer's Books of Accounts and certification of Bank Balances. It is my opinion that they reflect the true condition of the Association. Ormonde F. Ingall, Accountant

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Gifts and Donors I960 - 1961 MRS. WILLIAM L. MATHER, Curator

This year the Nantucket Historical Association has received a variety of articles and all have added to the interest in our exhibits. We are grateful for the continued support of our many members and friends, both local and off-island. Historical Museum, Fair Street Bean, Gilbert: Papers, pamphlets, and pictures of historic interest, from the estate of Fred V. Fuller. Bunker, Capt. Malcolm: Civil War records, and pension papers of William C. Hillier. Coffin, Mrs. Albert B.: Miniature "Wm. Henry Coffin"; Clippings, book, and photos. Crosby, Mrs. E. U.: Collection of books by E. U. Crosby, "95% Perfect" (three editions), "Eastman Johnson at Nantucket", "Susan's Tooth". Ehmann, Mrs. Neville H.: Adams blue "Andalusia plate. Elkinton, J. Passmore: Letters regarding Quakers. Emmons, Mrs. Claude: Basket. Friends of Irving Sandsbury: Collection of Arrowheads, collected and mounted by Mr. Sandsbury. Falmouth Historical Association:Photographs of Nantucket. Gardner, Miss Grace Brown: Slides of Nantucket taken by the late William Tripp. Gardner, Dr. William E.: Account book of Isaac Folger. Gouin, Mrs. Mary L.: Program of High School Graduation, 1881. Hallowell, Thomas: "Permission" papers. Johnson, Rev. Bradford: Surveyor's compass which belonged to donor's grandfather. Johnson, Foster Macy: Book, "I Followed the Sea", letter of Josiah Macy. Legere, Gilbert: Composition book of Benjamin Easton — 1845. Lombard, Edward: Loan — an early will of Ad. Sir Isaac Coffin. (Superseded by a later will). Nantucket Historic Trust: Portrait of Capt. Henry Phelon, Jr.; 2 Silhouettes of Capt. Peleg Folger; Silhouette of Mary Ann Folger (m. Capt. Phelon). Plimpton, Miss Grace: Miniature of Stephen West; Papers relating to Bunker - West Families; Napoleon Medal presented to

ANNUAL REPORTS

107

Dr. Benjamin Hussey. Ross, Mrs. Cyril:Liverpool pitcher decorated with Ship "Hector". Ross, Mrs. Blanche Skiff: Book, "Classified Quotions". Siefert, Miss Anna May: Fans, shawls, dresses, china, in Memory of her sister, Miss Caroline Seifert. Smith, Herbert: Records of the Nantucket Agricultural Society. Tripp, Miss Barbara: Scrap Books made by the late William Tripp. Watter, Mrs. Nathalie: Advertising Booklets of the New York, New Haven, and Hartford R.R. containing Nantucket data. Webster, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Folger: Time Table of the Nan tucket Railroad; Bound copies "of the New York Mirror and Gazette. By Purchase: Surrey with fringe.

1800 House Tuttle, Mrs. Emerson H.: Quilt, belonged to Eunice Coffin Gardner. Webster, Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Folger: Furniture from the Estate of Florence Mitchell. Hose House Ceeley, Mrs. Lincoln: Statue of Fireman No. 8. Deeley, Mr. Robert: Hose Cart.

Whaling Museum Alexander, Mrs. H. C.: Gordon Grant's Sketch Book. Brooks, Miss Mildred: Books. Carlisle, Mrs. G. Lister: In Memory of G. Lister Carlisle, Ivory plaque mounted on mahogany with 8 species of carved whales. Carving by Aletha Macv. Chapel, Mr. J. E.: Wooden Plane. Crosby, Mrs. E. U.: Bound Shipping book. Journal — 1848. Davis, Mr. F. W.: Picture of William M. Davis. 2 Copies of "Wm. M. Davis — Story of 19th Century America". Foye, Mrs. Herbert: Letters written to Miss Mary Jane Chase by Franklin Roosevelt, Acting Sec. of the Navy, informing Miss Chase that a torpedo boat destroyer was to be named "Chase" in Honor of her Grandfather, Midshipman Reuben Chase. Gardner, Miss Grace Brown: Log of the Ship "Columbus." Gray, David, and Deeley, Robert: Swampscott Dory. Neubauer, Mr. R. G.: Photograph of Wallace Long. Pease, Mr. Kenneth: Tools. Ray, Mr. Earl: Planes.

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Rav Lebaron: Stencil of Steamer "Gay Head"; Rib of surf boat. Rogers, Mrs. Elsie: Ship's Charts from the estate of Capt. llliam C. Fuller, timitli Mr Herbert: Tools.

Strong, Mrs. Austin: In Memory of Austin Strong, Ditty Bagbelonged to Reuben Chase. Tripp, Miss Barbara: Ivory gavel and stand which had been pre sented to the late William Tripp. Trustees of the Atheneum: Iron work of Bake Ovens from Bakery which was on Lower Pearl Street. The Oldest House Pease, Mrs. Laura: Loan — 2 sun bonnets, one beaded cloak, 1 black silk dress, 2 paisley shawls, 1 beaver hat. Pease, Mrs. Francis: Loan — 1 copper cooking pot, 1 drop-leaf table.

Corrections of errors which were included in "The Gam", in the April, 1961, "Historic Nantucket": Omit Veranda House from Orange street neighborhood. Fair street: "In the early days Ned Fitzgerald's rum shop was next to the Adams homestead and a small building next was one time used for a meeting place for the W.C.T.U. Hepsy Hussey's school was on Fair street at the corner of Charter street. Grave stones to be carved were prominent in the yard of Charles Robinson's property on Fair street.

109

Recent Events, Briefly Noted Mrs. Nancy Adams is welcoming guests who go to the Coffin School to view the Special Exhibit of Whaling Prints and Pictures which the Nantucket Historical Association is sponsoring during the months of July and August. There are several items which may be purchased there: Postal Cards; a very attractive Bro chure ; the Poster, in colors; and several books, all with Nantucket themes. The American Astronomical Society had an unprecedented attendance at their meetings during the week of June 18th. The weather too, was almost unprecedented in that it was bright and sunny with a fresh breeze from the west and south much of the time. Many were heard to say that the "Meeting House, and His torical Museum were a must"! Nantucket, never behind the times, is very much up-to-date with the new dials on the telephones.

Miss Marjorie Burgess, Chief Operator, Nantucket, placing the last call through the manually operated switchboard.

110

Diary of William C. Folger EDITED BY NANCY S. ADAMS

(Continued in each issue of "Historic Nantucket", starting October, 1960.) William C. Folger was a direct descendant from Peter the 1st. He was born in Nantucket June 8, 1806. After gaining his educa tion, he taught school here and later, on the Cape and in Ohio. He was also a land surveyor for 50 years. He commenced the work of Genealogical research about 1842 and pursued it until his death in November 10, 1891. He gathered his material first from his relative Benjamin Franklin Folger and from the1 public records, from family history and old family bibles, and by correspondents everywhere. He was quite an aid to Mr. Savage in compiling his Genealogical Dic tionary. It was entirely a labor of love and he left a worthy monument which has been carefully preserved. His diary starts in the year 1835. April — 1836 Fiiday 22 In forenoon I packed up some things to send to father. I sent down on board of Schooner — Oapt. Joseph Crowell a load of old rails I had up to John Curtis' and some cedar hooks that I formeily got at Coatue point and another load I sent 2 bblls. of sundries & my spade, shovel, muckfork, hoe & rake & pitchfork, a so a small basket and a dinner box and sent my trunk of clothes on board of the rail-road, paid for carting both loads 40 cents. I pan Aunt Elizabeth 54 cents for 2 weeks washings. I got of Asa unkei 2 lazors, one at 83 and the other at 88 cents to take off o Cotuit Port to Braddock Colemans. Slept on board of the RailRoad. f

morning & bot of Caroline Smith 2 biscuits ^ ^enf Up ' ® * Nantucket at about 1/2 past 6 o'clock in the RailR ap .' andy and arrived at Cotuit Bar at twelve o'clock, Qotnit «oi °UI hours and then went over the bar & up to sold hi'm /'t\, 01 passage' went up to Braddock Colemans and ti1\razors for 83 cents. Capt. Zaccheus Hamlin and Thmed a where I , Wh° t0°k US & my trunk to Centerville e Thatcher HinrVl" °+ odar and ^apt. Hamlin paid me his part. a letter had h d°Wn t0 my fathers gratis. I found letter had been received from Samuel W. Holbrook of Well6^C

DIARY OF WILLIAM C. FOLGER

111

fleet dated April 4th. postage 10 cts. His family had been sick but his wife was better and he was to start in 2 days for New York & the far west, he enclosed a recommend for me. Monday 25—I paid David Hinckley, Jr. $1.06c being the balance due him on the 25 dollars he sent me by mail for oil. Father paid me 29cts and 17 cts for oil that he had received. Wednesday 26—Finished my latter to Samuel W. Holbrook of Wellfleet and wrote to Capt. Joseph Hatch of Woods Hole for Texas Guide, sent both latters by mail. I paid Freeman C. Tobey postage on papers. Thursday 27—Father paid me for 2 qts. of whale oil. Ploughers began to plough fathers land. Friday 28—I bot at D. Hinckleys store 14 lb of black snuff @ 8cts. and twelve sheets of writing paper. Saturday 29—Stormy and I was unwell. Sunday 30—Father hired a horse & cart & took up at one load most of the articles I sent off by Capt. J. Crowell. May 1836 Monday 2—I wrote by mail to David Joy, Esq of Nantucket re questing him to send me a barrell of whale oil by Capt. Hatzel K. Handy. Wednesday 4—I went over to Barnstable and attended the Su preme Court, Judge Morton presiding. Attended in evening G. B. Newmans lecture on Moral Philosophy at the High School. Thursday 5—I got at Post office my Texas Guide & visit to Texas that Capt. Joseph Hatch sent me from Woods Hole. Sunday 8—In the evening went to the port with Z. B. Newman to meeting. Tuesday 10—Rev. Levi Chase of Fall River was at fathers to tea and spoke of Dr. Brandreths Vegetable pills as good for the cure of epilepsy. This evening went and heard him preach at one of the school houses. Wednesday 11—I went to-day to Crocker Neck in Harwich to take down there the wife of Warren Cobb Dined at Obed Smiths. Got Theodate Chase' wife to tell my fortune, paid her 25cts. and paid 6%c to some girls for going to call her.

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

112

Thursday 12—I wrote to Eliza Bailey of Nantucket, informing her of the cures done by Dr. Brandreth's Vegetable Pill, especially of the cures of epilepsy, paid the postage—lOcts. Sat. 14—Helped father plant corn & pumpkins. Received by mail a letter from David Joy, Esq. of Nantucket containing a bill of the barrell of Manufactured whale oil, he sent off by Capt. Handy it was 321/2 gals, at 55cts a gal—17.60. Capt Handy brought off the oil some days ago and I paid him 25cts. The Nantucket In quirer mentions a great fire that occurred at that place last Tuesday and burnt up the Washington Hotel, William C. Swain's store, Francis F. Hussey's house & two other stores & some out buildings, being the greatest calamity of the kind that ever occurred there. Tuesday 17—Bot 25 cts. writing paper and 8cts. worth of wafers at H. Underwoods store, in Barnstable. Stopped going and com ing at Asa Bliss's. Wednesday 18—1 bot at Freeman C. Tobey's 5 boxes Dr. Brand reth's Universal Pills at 25cts per box. Thursday 19—Bot two more boxes of pills at 25cts. Received lOcts for whale oil. Friday 20—1 wrote a letter to E~ B~ of Nantucket and started a out half past 10 a.m. afoot for Cotuit Port in order to get a chance to send the letter and six boxes of pills to Nantucket — arrived there about two o'clock being 10 or 11 miles. I went to Braddock Crocker's on an errand for Rev. Daniel Chessman and (if1 ,werd Braddock Coleman's where I found a young lady Morton of Nantucket) bound to that island. I gave ^ ,Wif6 °f 6 6 f1 fills her to take on for me. I returned via AT , ars on s mi s, Osterville, and Centerville & got back before dark. Mrs. — Cathcart at fathers to tea. 1833d&y

23—1 exammed the account

current with Fisk & Rice for

MeetW H~FatA? Paid me f0r a gaL of oil fur"ished the B— Meeting House. Attended the funeral of -- Bearse, wife of -counts current!

Company

yesterday & to-day. I examined ac-

Sunday 29—Mr. Newman visiting at our house.

DIARY OF WILLIAM C. FOLGER

113

Monday 30—Reading voyage of the Potomac. June Wednesday 4—Rec'd payment for 3 gals of whale oil sold at 75 cts par gal. Thursday 5—I painted the east end of father's house led color. Fri. 6—Bot lOcts worth of snuff of D. Hinckley, Jr. I began to prime north side of father's house. Sat. 7—I finished that end of house. Sun. 8—I took charge of a Sunday school at the Baptist Church. Mon. 9—Painted some on west end of house and visited West school kept by — in afternoon. Tues. 10—I was present both forenoon & afternoon at the ex amination of the High School kept by Mr. Z. B. Newman. Wed. 11—I primed front of house. Fri. 13—I visited again Mr. Allen's school. Forenoon & afternoon, at the examination and afterwards took tea at Samuel Pitchers with the teacher. He furnished me with some notes on school teaching. Wed. 15—I got at Tobey's store a box of Dr. Brandreth's pills for 25 cts. to return to Jonathan Snow, Jr. for a box he lent me. Got an emetic of Ipecacuana of Dr. Oliver Ford for 161/2 cts.—took it for jaundice. Rec'd 17cts for whale oil. Sat. 18—I have been complaining these two days past of tightness & oppression at the lungs. Visit of Mrs. — Sun. 19—Rec'd this evening a verbal message from Miss — by Mrs. —. Mon. 20—Wrote an answer to the message and had Mrs. Cobb to carry it. Tues. 21—Very stormy these two days. Wrote off some poetry for my friends. Rec'd 19 cts for a qt. of whale oil and 14 cts for a pint of sperm oil. Wed. 22—I went with father on board of the Sloop Sarah, Capt. J. Lewis at the wharf at Hyannis-Port this morning and arrived at Nantucket at a qr. before 12 o'clock noon. Took dinner at Asa

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

G. Bunkers. Paid 121/2 cts for taking- up my trunk. In the afternoon called on some friends. Put up at the Jediah Fitch house with Lydia G. Bunker's family. Thurs. 23—I took a walk with father to R. F. Parker's garden and from thence to my lot this afternoon. Fri. 24—Father left with Capt. J. Lewis for Hyannis to-day. I bot two boxes of West's Remedy for itch, salt rheum, etc. of Obed B. Swain's wife at 1 dollar per box. Sun. 26—I attended Friend's meeting and in the evening I went to the Hicksite meeting house & heard B. B. Thacher, Esq. on Temperance. Mon. 27—I paid Frederick F. Swain S2.60 less discount 10c. in full for my Town & County tax for 1836. Tues. 28—I went this evening to the Town Hall & attended a Bap tist meeting. Wed. 29—I again attended the meeting at the Town Hall this afternoon, saw Rev. D. C. Chessman of Hyannis. I bought 13.84 worth of materials from Benjamin, R. Ellis. I got of Asa G. Bunker an order on B. R. Ellis to this amount which he Ellis ac cepted and gave me a bill and charged to the A./c of Asa this amount of 13.84. Went to the meeting again this evening. Thurs. 30—Sent my cart tackling, also my new riding saddle & bridle to Coffin & Colemans harness-makers to be sold. Paid 17cts to carman to take them down. I attended again this evening the Baptist meeting at Town Hall. I got of W. C. Swain 2 cakes of soap at 8c per cake. July 1836 1 Got of Asa Bunker a sieve for father for which I had made an allowance when I settled with him (Asa) I gave 50c. Paid Armstrong Smith 12*4 cts for sarting down my trunk & bundles to Sloop Marione, Handy, of Hyannis. Paid Lydia G. Bunker 2.75c. for my board with her. Left about half past twelve and arrived at Hyannis and got ashore about 6 p.m. Sat. 2 I gave Owen Bacon for use of his horse & waggon to take up my things . . . Mon. 4—Hoed some this afternoon, in the forenoon I heard Rev. D. Chessman s address at the Baptist Church Meeting House.

DIARY OF WILLIAM C. FOLGER

115

Thurs. 7—Comfort Eddy cut out a thin coat and pantaloons for me out of the crape lasting. I paid him 1 dollar for both. Fri. 8—Susan Lewis came to fathers this morning to sew for me making coat & pantaloons. Fri. 15—I settled at night with Susan Lewis for work she had done for me sewing and repairing some coats. Sat. 16—Took tea at Capt. J. Snow's. Reading Capt. Owen's voyages. Tues. 19—I sent by father to Barnstable & he purchased for me of 0. M. Hinckley a box of Dumfries Piles Electuary and a box of the ointment @ 50c. each. Wed. 20—I took tea at James Snow's and attended Mr. Newman's lecture on the sabbath, at the High School this evening. Fri. 22—Le denoument d'une perfidie des amis faux. Sat. 23—I paid Deacon Anthony Chase for the use of his pew since I have been here 67cts. Sun. 24—Le seconde fois que ces amis faux m'insulta en person. Sat. 29—Have set glass and repaired the windows this week. 1836 August Fri. 11—I have been painting sashes to house etc. But to-day I went over to Barnstable & took two of father's deeds of land to record. Sat. 12—I have been greening sashes. Have seen and conversed with George Washington Lewis about Michigan etc. Sun .13—I heard Mr. Chase preach at widow Rachel Cathcart's this evening. I forenoon heard Rev. John Peak at Baptist Church. Wed. 17—Finished painting sashes green and painted over two of the doors. Mon. 22—I packed up my books and also other goods and chattels in order to be ready to leave. I got Z. B. Newman's two vols, of American Institute of Instruction Lectures also Conner's Treas ury of Knowledge part lv and v and the little Spanish grammar I lent him. My father gave me a receipt for balance in full for

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HISTORIC NANTUCKET

board up to this date. I assisted father in getting in his oats. Parted with my friends down on the point. Tues. 23—Gave my friend 50 c. cash as a present also a picture. Went and visited my friend R. Cathcart. I gave Daniel Chessman direction to call on my father for a gal of sperm oil. I had agreed with Owen Bacon, Sr. to send his boy & horse & waggon to Cotuit Landing with one to-day & I was to pay him nine pence pr. mile— he was to have half a gal. whale oil for 37 \/> cts. and the rest in money. I started about 9 o'clock and got to Cotuit Port about 20 minutes before 12 m. I got of . . . Coleman half a sheet of paper for let. and wrote to my father to send by the boy enclosing a dollar bill — I requested father to pay Owen Bacon 8714 cts. cash & half a gal of Man. whale oil as the distance was ten miles. I took a walk of about 3 miles into Mashpee Plantation and went & saw a wigwam. Wed. 24—After breakfast I paid Braddock Coleman 50 cts. being for two meals & lodging and 12Y2 cts. besides for storage of my goods in his father's store and embarked on board of sloop Charles Adams for Nantucket. Thurs .25—We arrived at Nantucket about 12 o'clock last night & I went up to Asa Bunker's to sleep. Thurs. 26—Edward P. Coffin late of the firm of Coffin & Coleman paid me 10 dollars for my saddle & bridle that he sold for me and I gave him 25 cts. for selling them. Rode out to the bug-light with Uncle Aaron Folger. Sept. 1836 VVed. 1st I paid Ansel Snow 50c. for tapping shoes. I have been burning some old papers & letters which could be of no conse quence to me. ^ri- 3—1 Paid George Parker 1 dollar being my Atheneum tax due

the first of July. Aunt Elizabeth has washed and ironed 10 pieces this week on account. I got at Wm. C. Swain's 2 cakes of shaving soap, I gave a brush I got there in June and 4 cts cash. Tues 7—John Custis paid me $4.56 being for the articles I sold him last Spring. Paid me twelve dollars for the use of my

watches for Mc.

^ *** d°ne some repairs

on one pf

»>

DIARY OF WILLIAM C. FOLGER

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Fri. 9—I agreed to sell my Washman's Island lot to Hadwen & Barney for 180 dollars. Sat. 10—I paid Capt. Thomas Whitney for "Peck's New Guide to Emigrants to the West" for 75 c. Uncle Walter wrote a deed for me for Washman's Island lot & took the acknowledgement and I gave it to Nathaniel Barney & he gave me 180 dollars. I took up my note to Uncle Walter Folger dated April 24th, 1834 for 142.73 for which sum I had given him a mortgage deed of my lot as collateral security — he released the mortgage yesterday. Sun. 11—I settled with Hon. David Joy — I had bought of him May 6, 1836, one cask of Manufactured whale oil — 17.60. I had let him have the other day Carters Latters from Europe — 2 vols, at 3.00 dollars — Town Officer — 1 dol. French Grammar — 50c. Mudie's Guide to Nature — 50c. amounting to five dollars from 17.60 leaves 12.60 which I paid him. I sold David Joy the follow ing books as he expected to leave in the morning to be gone some days I traded to-day. "Neill Arnot's Elements of Physics" in 2 vols. "Telemaque," 75c — "St. John" in french total 4.25 I wrote father yesterday and sent by Capt. J. Lewis and to William Hamblin by mail. Mon. 12—I sold Uncle Walter six silver spoons for their weight in silver — viz. 22 half dollars. Paid him for writing deed for sale of lot and also for a deed of my land in Squam & taking the ac knowledgement — 75c. Sold to E. R. Folger a saw set & a gouge for 25c. Sold Nathaniel Barney my Areometer for 50c. and a tap borer for 26c. I sold Nathaniel Barney my land in Squam I bought 3 years ago, he gave me 20.00 for it. I contracted with Ansel L. Snow to make me a pair of calf skin shoes for Buck's Theological Dictionary. Wed. 14—I wrote by mail to W. H. S. Jordan of Boston requesting him to send me the 3 last numbers of Tanner's Atlas by first packet. Paid postage of 1 2 c . Thurs. 15—I got of Walter Folger, Jr. one of my watches that he fitted and he has cleaned and put a new dial to another. Paid Caroline Smith for two weeks board 2.50. Fri. 16—I sold William C. Starbuck Ainsworth Latin Dictionary 1 vol. Nicholson's Mechanics Comparison & Jefferson's Manual for 4.00. Sat. 17—I commenced boarding with Lydia G. Bunker. I received from father a letter by mail containing 7.00 in bills for sale of oil. (To Be Continued)

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In Memoriam DR. FRANK E. LEWIS — 1884 - 1961 In the sudden death of Dr. Frank E. Lewis on June 1, 1961, Nantucket has lost another distinguished citizen, and the Nan tucket Historical Association a member and friend. Dr. Lewis, born in Wellesley, Massachusetts, June 21, 1884, was a graduate of Amherst College, and Dartmouth College Medical School in 1912. In 1915 he came to Nantucket and has made his home here since that time. During World War I Dr. Lewis served as a surgeon with the American Expeditionary Forces overseas. Upon his return to Nantucket he became a member of the Medical Staff of the Nan tucket Cottage Hospital. During World War II he again offered his services and was stationed at Fort Ethan Allen in Vermont. Dr. Lewis served as President of the Pacific National Bank for a total of sixteen years. He had a keen and active interest in community organizations and supported them with tireless work and good will. But most of all he will be remembered by the many persons to whom he gave sympathy and encouragement in times of trouble and illness. Without fanfare he served many and served them well. Dr. Lewis is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Brock Lewis, and two children, Mrs. John Paul Elder, and Mr. Brock Lewis. Not only will his family miss him but all Nantucket feels his loss, will miss his quick step, and alert attention to all community duties.

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Legacies and Bequests Membership in our Association proves that you are interested in its program for the preservation of Nantucket's famed heritage and its illustrious past, which so profoundly affected the develop ment of our country. 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 Nan tucket Historical Association are allowable deductions under the Federal Estate Tax law. Legacies will be used for general or specific purposes as di rected by the donor. A sample form of bequest may read as follows: FORM OF BEQUEST "I give, devise, and bequeath to the Nantucket Historical Association, a corporation duly in corporated by the Commonwealth of Massachu setts, and located in the Town of Nantucket, in said Commonwealth, the sum of dollars." 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. Please send all communications to Miss Ethel Anderson, Secretary, P. 0. Box 1016, Nantucket, Massachusetts. Office, Fair Street Museum.

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION WHALING MUSEUM: Broad St., near Steamboat Wharf. Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. HISTORICAL MUSEUM and FRIENDS MEETING MOUSE: Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays 2 to 5 p.m. OLDEST HOL'SE: Off West Chester St.; Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. WINDMILL: Prospect St.; Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. OLD GAOL: Vestal St.; Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1800 HOLTSE: Mill St.; Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission 50c to each exhibit except Gaol 25c and Mill where visitors are asked to make a donation towards its upkeep.

FOLGER-FRANKLIN SEAT: Madaket Road. Always open; free. Rest, Meditate.