Historic Nantucket, July 1963, Vol. 11 No. 1

Historic Nantucket

Guide to the Whaling Museum

JULY, 1963

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, Aloon Chadwick, W. Ripley Nelson, Albert Egan, Jr., Mrs. William Mather.

Secretary-Treasurer, Miss Ethel Anderson.

Auditor, Ormonde F. Ingall.

Councillors, George W. Jones, Chairman; Mrs. Joseph King, Herbert I. Terry, term expires 1963; Mrs. Francis W. Pease, H. Errol Coffin, term expires 1964; Henry Coleman, Norman P. Giffin, term expires 1965; Mrs. Nancy S. Adams, A. Morris Crosby, term expires 1966.

•» Publicity Committee, W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman.

Honorary Curator, Mrs. Nancy S. Adams.

Curator, Mrs. William Mather.

Finance Committee, Albert Egan, Jr., and Alcon Chadwick.

Editor, Historic Nantucket, A. Morris Crosby; Assistant Editors, Mrs. Mar­ garet Fawcett Barnes, Mrs. R. A. Orleans.

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, Henry Coleman; Old Jail, Norman Giffin; 1800 House, Mrs. Joseph King; Gardner Street Firehouse, H. Errol Coffin.

Chairman Receptionist Librarian

Mrs. William L. MatherMrs. Elizabeth Worth Mrs. Nancy Adams Oldest House Mrs. Francis W. Pease Miss Ida Parker

Chairman Receptionist The "1800" House

Mrs. Charlotte G. King Miss Ethel Clark

Chairman Receptionist The Old Gaol

Norman Giffin William Garnett

Chairman Receptionist The Old Mill Chairman Receptionist Chairman Custodian Receptionist Librarian Substitute receptionist Substitute receptionist Substitute receptionist

Henry Coleman John E. Greene The Whaling Museum

W. Ripley Nelson J. Everett Chapel Mrs. Herbert Foye Mrs. Ellen D. Chace Mrs. Reginald F. Hussey Bertram E. Morris John H. Kittila

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 11

/IpsPm llS3f

July 1963

No. 1

CONTENTS

Nantucket Historical Association Officers and Staff

2

Revolutionary War Service Roll

5

Two Editors and a Decennial

19

The 1963 Historical Lectures

21

Quaker Meeting, 1962, An Ecumenical Experiment .... 22 Annual Reports

23

Recent Events

34

Diary of William C. Folger

35

Legacies and Bequests

39

Historic Nantucket is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts, by the Nantucket Historical Association. It is sent to Association Members. Extra copies $.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, 1963. Nantucket Historical Association.

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

5

Revolutionary War Service Roll

BY EMIL FREDERICK GUBA

M

ANY NANTUCKETERS are credited with service in the American Revolutionary War, in the United States and Massachusetts State Navies, the Continental Army and the Massachusetts Line. There were, how­ ever, no muster rolls or enlistments here as in most every other town and county on the mainland. Circumstances would not permit them. Many young off-island men, who were employed in Nantucket or on her whaling and trading vessels upon the outbreak of the war, left for their respective home towns to enlist. The names are numerous and their service records appear in the "Soldiers and Sailors of Massachusetts in the Revolution," published by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Not being Nantucketers, they are not included in the records here.

The Quakers exercised every restraint against bearing arms and military service. Disownments for violations of their Christian principles were num­ erous. When the call came from Boston (April 19, 1775), the minutemen from everywhere in Massachusetts marched to Roxbury, but there were hardly any from Nantucket. The geographical and maritime position of Nantucket was an important restraining factor. Such an organized undertaking would have invited disaster to the islanders. Nantucket in her defenseless position, could not offend either side. The island was at the mercy of the British Navy and American privateers. Also the economy of Nantucket was tied closely to England and Europe. The rebellious movement on the mainland was lacking here. There was no desire or reason for war.

The men of Old Nantucket were expert in seamanship and many of them served on privateers, in the Massachusetts and United States Navies, in spite of religious principle and the penalty of disownment by their Christian Society of Friends. Near fifty members rebelled and gave their services to the cause of the American Colonies and were disowned. Many of them made the supreme sacrifice, perishing in sea engagements on American privateers, while others suffered and died as prisoners in the horrible confines of British prison ships moored in Brooklyn Harbor. Many joined with a spirit of revenge against the British side. Many of them were released on exchange for British prisoners, or escaped and most of them, deeply affected by their inhumane imprisonment, returned to the service of the American side on privateers and vessels of the United States and Massachusetts State Navies. A small few accepted British naval service in preference to imprisonment.

Many of the Islanders responded to the need for financial aid. About eighty of them loaned money. The adversity and suffering of the islanders throughout the many years of the American Revolution were dire circum­ stances and they make a sad story. Nantucket paid dearly for American independence. This came with the final Treaty of Peace at Paris, France, on September 3, 1783 after more than eight years of war. * Dr. Guba is Commonwealth Professor Emeritus, University of Massachusetts. He is the author of "Nantucket Odyssey" and numerous original documented papers on Nantucket history.

6

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

The Revolutionary War service records that follow were prepared front numerous original and official papers and authentic literature. Obviously some error and omission are possible. Authentic information and corrections to improve the records are welcomed.

The roll includes only Nantucketers who are known to have contri­ buted military service in one form or another. It does not include town clerks, selectmen, representatives to the Massachusetts General Court, tax collectors, individuals who loaned money to the Colonies and others in similar cate„ gories who are recognized by some patriotic societies of the American Revo­ lution as Revolutionary ancestors. A Nantucketer in these records was born or married in Nantucket or died in Nantucket, having had family association and a period of residence there. * THE ROLL ADLINGTON, JOHN — Resident of Boston, died in Nantucket April 10, 1853. Revolutionary pensioner. Navy, S32629. Midshipman, U. S. Frigate Providence, under command of Captain Abraham Whipple. Captured, on surrender of the frigate, at Charlestown, South Carolina, April 15, 1780.

BARNARD, JOHN — Cabin Boy, brigantine Massachusetts, Captain Daniel Souther, succeeded by Captain John Fisk. Cooper and Steward on brigantine Hazard, Captain John F. Williams, then Captain Simeon Sampson. Service from August, 1776 to September 1779.

BARNARD, JOHN — Commander, schooner Lizard, 4 guns, 10 swivels and 30 men. Commissioned July 31, 1778.

BARNARD, REUBEN — Disowned in 1777 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in a prize vessel. Prisoner on British prison ship in New York; released April 25, 1777. Son of Benjamin and Judith (Folger). Died June 21, 1784.

BARNARD, SHUBAEL — 1759-1778. Son of Shubael and Susanna (Gard­ ner). Disowned in 1776 by the Society of Friends for taking up arms. Died somewhere in the West Indies, June 21, 1778.

BARNARD, TRISTRAM — 1748-1837. Shipmaster. He bought the brig­ antine Hannah in London with Captain Chaddock and manned her with American prisoners in England whose freedom they purchased. They sailed to European ports and brought a cargo of needed supplies for the American Continental forces into Boston. Son of Abishai and Hannah (Coffin), husband of Betsey Mackey. Author has not been able to verify the service of Tris­ tram Barnard.

BOSTON, PETER — (Colored). Seaman, Massachusetts State Navy. Served on privateer ship Aurora under Captain David Porter. In roster dated Boston, June 16, 1781, age 22 years. Died in Nantucket, September 28, 1837. On Revolutionary War Pension Roll, March 10, 1834, age 72 years. Husband of Rhoda Jolly (W3650). * In 1900 Charles Scribner Sons, New York, published a two volume biography of John Paul Jones entitled, "Paul Jones, Founder of the American Navy" by Augustus C. Buell, which, to the surprise of every biographer of Jones included the first published roster of the American sloop of war "Ranger." This roster and many of the documents in Buell's bio­ graphy of Jones are an ingenious fabrication. Some of the names in the roster were Nan­ tucket whalemen with no Revolutionary War service and others cannot be identified with Nantucket. They cannot be included in the Revolutionary War Roll of Nantucketers. The circulation of Buell's spurious biography was stopped by the publishers in 1906 after its exposure by numerous investigators.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

7

BRIGGS, JONATHAN — On Revolutionary Pension Roll, Nantucket County (R.I.S38583). Pension began April 17, 1818, Son of Abner Briggs and Deborah Coffin, born in Nantucket, December 18, 1765. Married Sally (Cof­ fin) Barrett, widow of Samuel Barrett Jr. on January 11, 1775. Promoted to corporal, then sergeant. On muster rolls and pay accounts for Bristol County Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

BROCK, ANDREW — 1737-1811. Pilot, brigantine Hazard. Captain John F. Williams, May-September, 1779.

BROCK, JOHN 2nd — 1762-1825. — Mate, brigantine Hazard. May-Sep­ tember, 1779.

BROWN, FRANCIS — 1745-1803. Service on Massachusetts State brigan­ tine Hazard, also on privateer schooner General Putnam and seaman on ship Protector, June 1778-August 1780. Son of Francis and Eunice (Coffin).

BROWN, JAMES Jr. — Son of James and Mehitable (Dawes). Killed on board a privateer in 1780 off South Carolina.

BUNKER, BENJAMIN — Revolutionary Pensioner, (Mass.S19575). Arm­ ourer on privateer brigantine Hazard under Captain John F. Williams, July through September 1779. Captured by British and imprisoned on the notor­ ious British prison ship Jersey at New York. One in a list of prisoners sent from New York to Portsmouth, R. I., to be exchanged for British prisoners.

Released and returned to Nantucket. Bunker was one of the rebellious spirits in Nantucket to oppose the neutralist policy of the Quaker authority. He engaged in combat with British privateers guarding Nantucket Harbour. He captured a British privateer with its prize near Great Point, with a single four pound gun and took the vessel's prisoners to the mainland. He was called "General" from his likeness to General George Washington.

BUNKER, DAVID — Prisoner on the British ship Eagle at New York, re­ leased April 25, 1777 on exchange.

BUNKER, WILLIAM — Commander, privateer brigantine Hound, owned

by Thomas Russell of Boston. Commissioned Oct. 11, 1779.

CALDER, ROBERT — Prisoner on British prison ship at New York. He was released and returned to Falmouth, Mass. on Sept. 2, 1777, on petition of Paul Hussey of Nantucket. Calder and Joseph Chase of Nantucket, com­ mander of the ship Rebecca were taken by the British in August, 1778 off the coast of France. They were taken to the island of Guernsey in the English Channel, then to England. Calder went to L'Orient, France and there joined the U. S. frigate, Alliance in February, 1779. The Alliance was in command of Captain Peter Landais, the "mad Frenchman" and the vessel formed a part of the United States naval squadron under the command of Captain John Paul Jones. Robert Calder was discharged from the service upon the return of the Alliance to Boston on August 16, 1780 after one year and six months in the United States Navy as a seaman or mariner.

The naval exploits of the Alliance carried Calder around the British Isles, into Bergen, Norway, into the engagement of the U. S. frigate Bon Homme Richard and the British frigate Serapis in the North Sea, then to the Texel and Amsterdam and back to France with the prizes the Serapis and Countess of Scarborough. The rebellious movement on the Alliance inspired by Captain Landais for prize money and back wages in June 1780 and finally the un­ justifiable departure of the Alliance from Brest, France on June 30, 1780 without Captain Jones featured the conspiracy.

8

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

The traitorous behavior and insubordination of Captain Peter Landais are related in every biography of John Paul Jones. The sinking of the Bon Homme Richard by broadside shots from the Alliance and the loss of life thereby are described in Jones' Journal. The sudden departure of the Alliance from France was in a measure inspired by Arthur Lee, one of the American commissioners in France, who accompanied the vessel to Boston.

Landais, now clearly insane, was relieved of his command on the voyage to Boston. He was replaced by Captain John Barry. Landais was courtmartialed in Boston and dismissed from United States naval service.

Robert Calder was born in Nantucket on December 11, 1757. He was granted a Revolutionary pension of $8.00 per month beginning May 13, 1818 at the age of 60 years. He died at Nantucket Sept. 4, 1825, survived by his wife, Lydia Brock Calder and a daughter.

CARTWRIGHT, JONATHAN — Disowned in 1780 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Either the son of Hasadiah and Abigail (Brown), 1745-1789, husband of Deborah (Macy) or of Samuel and Anna (Swain) 1753-1784, single.

CARTWRIGHT, WILLIAM — Prisoner on British prison ship Eagle at New York, released April 25, 1777.

CHASE, JAMES — Marine on sloop Defence, commanded by Captain James Nivens, Massachusetts State Navy. August and September 1781.

CHASE, JOSEPH — Commander, privateer brig Adventure, 12 guns, 20 men. Brother of Midshipman Reuben Chase who served on the Bon Homme Richard. Commander of the ship Rebecca of Nantucket which was captured by the British in August 1778 in European waters and taken prisoner to England. He was released and journeyed to Brest, France, where he saw Robert Calder aboard the U. S. frigate Alliance.

CHASE, REUBEN — Midshipman, United States Navy. On Revolutionary pension roll of March 5, 1819. Pension began March 13, 1818. Joined the Bon Homme Richard in France, March 19, 1779. His service on the Bon Homme Richard is fully related by this author in the Nantucket Town Crier issue of July 4, 1958. Husband of Judith Gardner; married in Nantucket in 1783. Reuben died in Nantucket February 15, 1824. An honest man, a Revolutionary Officer and pensioner. Brother of Captain Joseph Chase who commanded the privateer Adventure. Chase was of a powerful frame, over six feet tall. After the Revolutionary War, Reuben Chase commanded the American packet ship Governor Clinton sailing between New York and Europe. Later he mastered the whaleship Union out of Nantucket.

CHASE, THOMAS — Private in his father's Captain Nathan Smith's seacoast company, October to December 1775, January to November, 1776 on Martha's Vineyard. Born in Nantucket. Husband of Anna Smith of Martha's Vineyard.

COFFIN, ABEL — 1742-1777. Died as a prisoner-of-war in December in a British prison ship. He refused to be impressed into British naval service. He was the fourth child of James Coffin and Priscilla (Rawson); husband of Deborah Russell; married December 29, 1776.

COFFIN, ALEXANDER Jr. — 1740-1839. He was in London at the dawn of the American Revolution. He left London on May 23, 1776 with impor­ tant messages and intelligence for the Continental Congress. He brought his vessel and cargo to the British West Indies but was captured enroute to the

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

9

United States by a British privateer and kept aboard as a prisoner. He arrived in America in September 1776. Commissioned commander privateer brigantine Alexander, March 29, 1780, armed with six guns, eight swivels and twenty men. Also commander on ship Hero, July, 1782, four guns and twenty men, owned by William Foster of Boston. Coffin married Eunice Bunker.

They moved to Hudson, New York. He was mayor and postmaster at Hud­ son and died there at the age of 98 years.

COFFIN, BROWN — 1753-1835. Volunteer on Masachusetts State brigantine Hazard, 1778; service two months. Captain John F. Williams. The Hazard carried 14 guns. Husband of Deborah Coleman.

COFFIN, DANIEL — Taken prisoner February 10, 1777. Impressed on British packet Lady Gage which was captured by an American privateer.

Taken to Boston and imprisoned in American guard ship Rising Empire, Richard Whellen, commander. Released March 12, 1778 by order of Massa­ chusetts Council. Daniel was a first cousin to Kezia Coffin Fanning. The Rising Empire was built as a brigantine at Dartmouth, Mass., for the Massa­ chusetts State Navy in 1776, then dismantled and converted into a guard ship.

COFFIN, DAVID Jr. — Disowned by the Society of Friends in 1780 for going to sea in a prize vessel. Lost at sea June 6, 1783. Son of David and Ruth (Coleman). Husband of Elizabeth Swain; married in 1772.

COFFIN, EBENEZER — Prisoner on the British prison ship Eagle at New York, released April 25, 1777.

COFFIN, ELIAS — 1741-1780. Son of Elias and Love (Coffin). Prisoner on the British prison ship at New York, released August 12, 1777 on petition of Paul Hussey. Husband of Abigail (Coffin); married 1762. Died at sea, August 28, 1780.

COFFIN, ELIHU —• Disowned in 1778 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

Husband of Jedidiah (Hussey). Died June 30, 1825.

COFFIN, ELIJAH — 1747-1781. Husband of Abigail (Folger), son of Hezekiah and Lydia (Folger). Died July 15, 1781 enroute home from a British prison ship.

COFFIN, HENRY — Captain, whaling sloop Industry, 1778. Captured and imprisoned for five months by British at Newport, Rhode Island. Prisoner was exchanged at Newport and returned to Nantucket on petition of Nathan­ iel Barber Jr. COFFIN, JAMES JOSIAH — 1755-1838. Husband of Susanna Pinkham, son of Josiah and Judith (Coffin). Seaman, U. S. Navy. Revolutionary Pen­ sion Roll, March 10, 1834, (Mass.S29730). Died in Nantucket. Sept. 25, 1838 at age 83 years.

COFFIN, JAMES — Seaman on brigantine Tyrannicide in 1779, commanded

by Captain John Cathcart. Engaged from May 26 to June 23, 1779. Husband of Jeanette Coffin. James died in Nantucket in 1820, age 86 years. The Tyrannicide carried fourteen guns and seventy-five men. She was one of the first vessels built for the Massachusetts State Navy, commissioned May 18, 1776 at Salem, Massachusetts, John Fisk, commander. There was a James Coffin among a list of prisoners sent in the cartel Silver Eel from Halifax to Boston, October 8, 1779 to be exchanged.

COFFIN, JOB — Disowned in 1780 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

10

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

-Husband of Mary Ray, son of Stephen and Mary (Bunker). Died November 19, 1832, age 77 years.

COFFIN, JOHN — Marine, brigantine Hazard under Captain John F. Wil­ liams, July to September 1779. Seaman on ship Protector under Captain John F. Williams, February to August 1780. He is probably the same John Coffin who was a whaleman with Richard Pinkham, brother of Mathew, on the whaleship Alliance which was captured by the British and taken into Halifax.

COFFIN, JOSIAH 3rd — Husband of Eunice (Gardner); Died on board British prison ship Jersey at New York, February 9, 1778, age 28 years. „ COFFIN, NATHAN — Prisoner on British prison ship at New York, released August 12, 1777 on petition of Paul Hussey. Nathan was a ship's master.

COFFIN, NATHANIEL —Son of Elishai and Mary Gardner, born 1761.

Lost at sea in 1781. Revolutionary Pension Roll (Mass.S36989).

COFFIN, OBED — A Mashpee Indian, a Revolutionary soldier throughout the duration of the war. Died in Nantucket August 8, 1838, age 80 years.

COFFIN, OBEDIAH — Disowned by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Son of David and Ruth (Coleman). Lost at sea in the service of his country, year not recorded.

COFFIN, PELEG — Prizemaster, privateer General Putnam under Captain Daniel Waters. Service from July to September inclusive (1779).

COFFIN, RICHARD — On frigate Protector, Massachusetts State Navy; service eleven months, 1780-81. Captain John F. Williams. The Protector carried 26 guns.

COFFIN, ROBERT Jr. — Disowned by the Society of Friends in 1781 for being with armed men. Husband of Lydia Coleman. Son of Robert and Jemima (Gardner). Died September 28, 1797.

COFFIN, TIMOTHY — Prisoner on the British prison ship at New York; released August 12, 1777. Timothy was a ship's captain.

COFFIN, URIAH — 1751-1826. Prizemaster on ship General Putnam under Captain Daniel Waters, commander. Died in Yarmouth, Cape Cod. Engaged from July 10 to September 7, 1779.

COFFIN, VALENTINE — 1760-1782. Disowned by the Society of Friends in 1779 for going to sea in a prize vessel. Prisoner on British prison ship at New York, released April 25, 1777. Lost at sea December, 1782 returning from France. Son of Ebenezer and Mary (Cartwright).

COLEMAN, CHRISTOPHER — Son of Ebenezer and Mary (Gardner).

Seaman, privateer brigantine Lucy commanded by Captain Stephen Clay of Boston. Lost at sea May 31, 1780, age 18 years. The Lucy carried twelve guns and twenty-five men, and was owned by Benjamin West and others of Salem.

COLEMAN, GEORGE — Disowned in 1780 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in a prize vessel. Son of George and Eunice (Folger). Husband of Mary Ramsdell. Died in the West Indies in 1791.

COLEMAN, JOHN Jr. — Mate on schooner Hazard, Captain Benjamin Hammond. Service from January to April 1777, Boston.

COLEMAN, SILVANUS — Commander, privateer sloop Dispatch, two guns, twelve men. Commissioned August 20, 1779.

COLEMAN, SOLOMAN — Disowned in 1781 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Revolutionary Pensioner.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

11

COLEMAN, WILLIAM — Marine, brigantine Hazard under Captain John Foster Williams, 1779. Also seaman on frigate Protector under Captain John Foster Williams, 1780. The frigate Protector, twenty-six guns, belonged to Massachusetts State Navy, commissioned in spring season of 1780.

ELLIS, SIMEON — Seaman, on privateer brigantine Lucy, Captain Stephen Clay. Age 24 years, husband of Deborah Long. Died in Nantucket in 1791.

FITCH, JAMES — Prisoner on prison ship at New York; released August 12, 1777. Husband of Judith Bunker.

FITZGERALD, HENRY -— Cooper, on privateer brigantine General Wayne.

In list of officers and crew. June 17, 1780, age 24 years. Married Lydia Wyer on November 9, 1780. Son of Henry and Deborah (Upham) of Nan­ tucket. The General Wayne carried eight guns and sixteen men, commanded

by Richard Quartermass. It was owned at Salem.

FOLGER, ASA — Disowned in 1780 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Son of Reuben and Dinah (Hussey). Seaman on privateer brigantine Lucy, age 21 years. Shipwrecked east of Boston and lost at sea January 31, 1781.

FOLGER, BENJAMIN — Disowned in 1781 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

FOLGER, HENRY — Seaman, brigantine Hazard. 1777-1778.

FOLGER, JOB -— 1760-1805. Son of Benjamin and Judith (Barnard). Dis­ owned in 1781 for going to sea on a privateer. Lost at sea in the whaling sloop Fame, October 16, 1805.

FOLGER, JOHN -— Disowned in 1780 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Died in the West Indies in 1780, age 34 years. Son of Abishai and Dinah (Starbuck).

Captain Joseph Hynson, a seafaring American, was employed in England and France by Silas Deane, one of the American commissioners at Paris, in mercantile affairs for the American commissioners. Hynson, while show­ ing great zeal for the American cause was secretly engaged by the British.

In October 1777 he was given secret documents by Silas Deane for the American Congress which he delivered in a package to a vessel in command of Captain John Folger about to sail from Havre, France. But Hynson had stolen the secret dispatches and gave them to the British. Folger, upon his arrival in America with the empty package was accused of the theft and imprisoned. Silas Deane was also suspected. Hynson's service was terminated abruptly upon the discovery of his betrayal of his trust and country. Folger was freed. The documents gave the British much valuable information.

FOLGER, OBADIAH — Disowned in 1779 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in a prize vessel. On roster of schooner Grampus, November 1780, age 18 years. The Grampus, commanded by Thomas Holmes, was commissioned May 27, 1780. She was captured by a British cruiser and taken into St. John's, Newfoundland after having captured four vessels off the "Banks" which were taken as prizes to Salem, Massachusetts.

FOLGER, OBED — Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in a prize vessel.

FOLGER, REUBEN — Disowned in 1782 by the Society of Friends for being on an armed vessel.

FOLGER, ROBERT — Disowned in 1782 for going to sea with guns.

FOLGER, SIMEON — Disowned in 1780 for going to sea in an armed

12

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

vessel. Listed as a prisoner January 18, 1777. Died on British prison ship at New York in 1782, age 34 years. Thomas Hiller in the narrative of his service aboard the Massachusetts sloop Providence wrote that "in June 1779 we took a little sloop coming from New York as a flag that had obtained some prisoners. Captain Simeon Folger of Nantucket was one of the prisoners and was aboard of our vessel one night and part of one day."

FOLGER, SYLVANUS — Seaman, brigantine Hazard. 1777-78.

FOLGER, THOMAS — Son of Seth and Phebe (Coleman) and husband of Jedidiah Pinkham. Killed in 1780 while a prisoner on board a privateer.

FROST, NATHANIEL — Seaman, U. S. Navy. Prisoner on British prison ship Eagle at New York. Released on exchange April 25, 1777. Revolutionary Pensioner, November 26, 1825, age 76 years (S32699). Husband of Hannah Dunham, married 1793 in Nantucket.

GARDNER, ABEL — 1741-1777. Son of Abel and Priscilla (Coffin). Hus­ band of Deborah Coffin, married 1761. Died on board prison ship at New York, December 26, 1777.

GARDNER, ALEXANDER — Disowned in 1782 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel. Prisoner on British prison ship Lord Sandwich-, landed at Bristol, R.I., March 7, 1778.

GARDNER, BARNABAS — Son of Jonathan and Patience (Bunker).

Barnabas was born in July 1740, married Abigail Cartwright in 1760. Died on board prison ship at New York, December 26, 1777. Barnabas Jr. (single) son of Barnabas and Abigail was also lost at sea in the war.

GARDNER, CHRISTOPHER — Prisoner on British prison ship Lord Sand­ wich. Sent from Newport, Rhode Island and landed at Bristol, March 7, 1778.

GARDNER, CHARLES — 1755-1778. Died on board British prison ship, March, 1778. Son of Bethuel and Catherine (Coffin).

GARDNER, DAVID — Seaman, brigantine Hazard, 1777-78, Captain John F. Williams; also other privateering service.

GARDNER, EBENEZER — 1764-1858. Served with other Nantucketers on Saucy Hound, American privateer which was captured by the British General Arnold and taken to Sandy Hook, N. Y. Gardner and others on the Saucy Hound were impressed into British service. Gardner served on the British sloop of war Rattlesnake which was engaged in convoying troops and supplies to General Cornwallis. Gardner was transferred to the British frigate Marlborough, serving as armourer for 28 months. The Marlborough was in Admiral Rodney's British fleet which engaged the French fleet under Admiral Count de Grasse in the West Indies in April, 1782. The British victory sustained the supremacy of Great Britain in the West Indies. Other Nantucketers reported in the naval battle serving Great Britain were Daniel Coffin, sailing master on the Formidable, the flagship of Admiral Rodney's fleet; Thomas Hussey; Prince Coleman; and Peleg Bunker. Gardner joined the Saucy Hound in May 1781 at the age of sixteen. He died in Nantucket at near 95 years of age. (Nan. Inquirer, July 13, 1858 and May 13, 1859).

Husband of Susanna (Jackson); husband of Rachel (Jackson) 2nd wife.

GARDNER, JOHN — 1749-1778. Died on board British prison ship, March, 1778. Son of George and Elizabeth (Chase).

GARDNER, JONATHAN — Seaman, Massachusetts brigantine Hazard 1777-78. Also other privateering service. The Hazard was first commanded

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

13

by Captain Simeon Samson, later by Captain John F. Williams. In 1778 the Hazard captured the prize ship Live Oak. GARDNER, JOSIAH — Disowned in 1781 by the Society of Friends for going to sea with guns. Lost at sea in 1781. Survivor awarded Revolutionary pension (S13126). Son of Andrew and Mary (Gorham), husband of Eunice Clark, married in 1770.

GARDNER, LEVI — Prisoner on British prison ship Eagle; released April 25, 1777. Husband of Rachel Glover, married in 1781.

GARDNER, NATHANIEL — Disowned in 1780 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel.

GARDNER, REUBEN Disowned in 1778 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

GARDNER, SHUBAEL — Disowned in 1781 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in an armed vessel.

GARDNER, THADDEUS Disowned in 1781 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

GARDNER, THOMAS — Seaman, brigantine Massachusetts, Captain John Fiske, March to October, 1777.

GARDNER, URIAH — Son of Uriah and Ruth (Bunker), husband of Sarah (Tilden) (Wendall). Prisoner on British prison ship Eagle at New York. Released April 25, 1777, on order of Admiral Howe. Petition dated November 13, 1781, Boston, asking that Uriah Gardner be commissioned commander of privateer brig Union-, advised in Massachusetts Council, No­ vember 20, 1781, that a commission be issued. Drowned in Delaware River.

1783.

GARDNER, WALTER — Disowned in 1777 by the Society of Friends for going to sea in a prize vessel. Either son of Eliphalet and Anna (Folger), born 1757 or son of Charles and Anna (Pinkham) born 1758.

GARRETT, ANDREW — Major, Revolutionary Officer in Continental Army. Died in Nantucket January 10, 1835, age 80 years, 9 months.

HEARN, DANIEL — Revolutionary soldier and pensioner, (W17064), husband of Elizabeth Ray, daughter of Samual and Elizabeth (Coleman).

H1LLER, THOMAS — Seaman, Massachusetts State Navy. Husband of Elizabeth Smith, married in 1784 in Nantucket. Died in Nantucket, August 14, 1839. Shipmaster. The Nantucket literature has Thomas Hiller as a sergeant under General Washington in the Continental Army (1778-1783) and that he served on Long Island, crossed the Delaware, and fought at Princeton and Trenton, N. J. His sword is in the Nantucket Historical Association museum. This is bad information. Thomas Hiller left an excel­ lent biography of his Revolutionary service. He was a seaman on the Massa­ chusetts sloop Providence, Captain John P. Rathburne, joining at New Bed­ ford on Dec. 1, 1778. He was born in Rochester, Massachusetts, Nov. 2, 1761 (not Albany, N. Y., according to Nantucket Vital Records).

The Providence now commanded by Captain Hoysted Hacker, captured the British armed Brig Diligence, 14 guns, off Sandy Hook, N. Y., and brought her with other prizes to Boston. Hiller continued on the Providence, in the shameful and fatal naval expedition to Penobscot Bay, Maine, com­ manded by Commodore Dudley Saltonstall. Everything was lost to the British. The American vessels were set afire and Hiller helped in the firing

s

14

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

of the Providence. Saltonstall was court martialled in Boston Harbor in December, 1779, and dismissed from the Navy.

Hiller returned to Boston in October, 1779, without receiving his wages of $9.00 per month as a seaman and there joined the armed brig Revenge, Captain James Robb. The Revenge was captured by the British sloop of war Camilla in the Strait of Canso, Cape Breton, and Hiller, with other prisoners, was sent to Halifax. The vessel was captured enroute by an American privateer from Providence and taken into Providence.

Hiller enlisted twice on two expeditions from Howland's Ferry near New Bedford to wrest Rhode Island from the British.

In 1782 Hiller was engaged for six months in hard, perilous service in Long Island Sound. In this service about 73 American prisoners were taken after escaping from the infamous Jersey, an old British Frigate converted-prison-ship, and from other British prison ships at Brooklyn N. Y. Many American prisoners including many young Nantucketers met cruel suffering and death on these prison ships. In engagements with Refugees along the Long Island shore line, many of Thomas Hiller's comrades were killed, including his vessel's captain, Stephen Martin of Rochester, Mass.

Thomas Hiller settled in Nantucket in 1782. He was granted a Revolu­ tionary pension of $52.00 per year beginning March 4, 1831, at the age of 69 years.

HUSSEY, FRANCIS — (1754-1777). Taken at sea and killed outright with another Nantucket man, July 22, 1777, off Nova Scotia on an American Privateer in an engagement with a British frigate. Son of Nathaniel and Judith (Coffin).

HUSSEY, PAUL, Captain — Disowned in 1778 for going to sea in an armed vessel. Negotiated exchange of prisoners with the British at New York Appointed Commissary of Prisoners by Massachusetts Council of State, August 16, 1777.

HUSSEY, STEPHEN, Esq. — Judge of Superior Court of Common Pleas and Naval Officer. He belonged to a committee in Nantucket organized to raise men to go to Canada. None went and nothing is known about the com­ mittee or his naval office.

JENKINS, BENJAMIN — Seaman, Brigantine Freedom, Captains John Clouston or Joseph Hudson in command, December, 1776. The Freedom was captured by the British Frigate Appoilo in 1777. Service, one month and three days.

JENKINS, DAVID — Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in a prize vessel.

Lost at sea in 1780. Son of Peter and Abigail (Gardner); born in Nantucket March 24, 1754. Revolutionary Pension (S44459).

JENKINS, THOMAS — In list of prisoners sent from Newport, R. I. Prisoner in British prison ship Lord Sandwich. Landed at Bristol, March 7, 1778.

JONES, SILAS — (1748-1811) Son of Silas and Anna (Heath), husband of Judith Gardner. Commander privateer Brig Don Galvez of Salem, Mass., 6 guns, 16 men, commissioned, February 28, 1782 MACY, TRISTRAM — (1745-1781). Husband of Miriam Barnard. Listed as a seaman on privateer Schooner Grampus, November, 1780, age 43 years.

Met death at Charleston, S. C.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

15

MANTER, GERARD — Prisoner of British at New York. Released Au­ gust 12, 1777, on petition of Paul Hussey. Returned to Nantucket in Schooner Speedwell. Son of Joseph and Jerusha (Long). Born in Nantucket October 28, 1756.

MARSHALL, AMOS Disowned in 1779 by the Society of Friends for holding office connected with the war. Conductor of military stores: service from July 20, 1780, to December 31, 1780.

MARSHALL, JOSEPH JR. Disowned in 1780 for going to sea in an armed vessel. Service of three months, beginning May 4, 1775. Born in Nantucket in 1755.

MARSHALL, SAMUEL (1744-1818). Seaman on privateer Brigantine Lucy, Captain Stephen Clay, May 31, 1780.

MARSHALL, THOMAS — Resident in Nantucket and native of Dartmouth, Mass. Disowned by the Society of Friends July, 1775, for taking up arms.

Marched April 21, 1775, in response to the alarm of April 19, 1775.

MITCHELL, CHRISTOPHER — (1760-1839). Disowned in 1780 for go­ ing to sea in a prize vessel. Son of Richard and Hepsibah (Barnard) .

MORRIS, JOHN — Seaman on privateer Brigantine Lucy, May 31, 1780, age 30 years. Taken prisoner by British in 1780 and confined on British prison ship. Husband of Sally (Coffin) Calef, widow of John Calef. Died in Nantucket in 1848, age 86 years.

MYRICK, CHRISTOPHER — Prisoner on British prison ship at New York. Released on petition of Paul Hussey and returned to Nantucket on Schooner Speedwell August, 1777.

PINKHAM, MATHEW — Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in a prize vessel, the privateer Brigantine Hound commanded by William Bunker of Nantucket. Son of Richard and Miriam Pinkham. Born March 3, 1755.

Husband of Judith Norris. Died June 11, 1831.

PINKHAM, NATHANIEL — Son of Nathaniel and Mary (Ramsdell).

Taken by a privateer from Guernsey, south of England, and killed on board, December, 1778. Born February 12, 1760.

PINKHAM, OBED — (1760-1818). Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in an armed vessel. Son of Benjamin and Hepsabeth (Swain).

PINKHAM, SETH — Prisoner on prison ship at New York, released on petition of Paul Hussey, August 12, 1777. Mate on U.S. Frigate Boston, under Captain Samuel Tucker. Volunteer on ship Protector, Captain John Foster Williams, from November, 1780, to May, 1781.

PLAISTED, ICHABOD — Son of the wife of Timothy Fitch. Appointed naval officer for Nantucket on October 22, 1776, by the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Died in Nantucket in 1782, age 50 years.

RAMSDELL," JOHNATHAN JR. — (1753-1778). Son of Johnathan 2nd and Priscilla (Coffin). Carpenter's mate on board sloop of war Martin.

Perished in snow storm December 25, 1778, in St. John's Newfoundland.

RAMSDELL, WILLIAM -— (1748-1819). Mate, privateer Brigantine Lucy, Captain Stephen Clay in command, May 31, 1780. See Nantucket Inquirer, July 13, 1858. New England Hist, and Geneal, Reg. 29, p. 145. Brother of Johnathan Ramsdell Jr. RAND, SILAS — Commander, privateer sloop Hermione, 6, guns, 12 men, Commissioned August 20, 1781, for a privateering voyage to Virginia. Hus­ band of Parnel Coffin, married August 17, 1780. Son of Caleb and Catherine

16

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Rand. Husband of Anna Folger (second wife). Moved to Hudson, N. Y. RUSSELL, JEDIDIAH — Son of Daniel and Content (Norton). Died on British prison ship at New York, February 20, 1780.

RUSSELL, SIMEON — (1742-1819). Corporal in service in Rhode Island, 1777-1778.

RAY, CHRISTOPHER — (1756-1781). Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in armed vessel. Son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Coleman).

RAY, REUBEN — (1758-1845). Disowned in 1780 for going to sea in a prize vessel. Son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Barnard), husband of Hepsabeth (Gardner) (Coleman).

RAY, SYLVANUS — Disowned in 1779 for going to sea in an armed ves­ sel. Son of John and Mary (Macy), born 1759. Lost.

RAY, TRISTRAM — Disowned in 1782 for privateering. Born September, 1760, son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Barnard). Lost.

RAY, WILLIAM — Disowned in 1782 for being on an armed vessel.

SHADWELL (SHALDWELL), THOMAS — Husband of Hepsabeth Clark, married in Nantucket in 1775. Prisoner on British prison ship at New York; released August 12, 1777, on petition of Paul Hussey and returned to Nan­ tucket to his wife and four months' old daughter.

STARBUCK, BARNABAS — (1748-1781). Master of Sloop Lively of Nantucket, captured by American Privateer Brigantine Hampden on voyage from Bahamas to Nantucket and sent as a prize to Salem, Mass. Captured enroute by British and taken to Halifax. Died in Halifax prison December 11, 1781. Son of Sylvanus and Mary (Howes).

STARBUCK, JOHN — Son of Christopher and Mary (Barnard). Died July 4, 1781, age 19 years, 9 months, in British prison at Portsmouth, England.

STARBUCK, REUBEN — Disowned in 1781 for being with armed men.

Son of Thomas and Dinah (Trott); husband of Deborah (Folger), 1782.

Husband of Anna (Folger), 1783. Died in Nantucket in 1801.

STARBUCK, ZACCHEUS — (1757-1781). Husband of Sally (Wendall), son of Christopher and Mary (Barnard). Died in prison at Halifax, Nova Scotia, November 12, 1781.

SWAIN, BARZILLAI — Son of Francis and Mary (Paddock). Husband of Mary Hussey. Captured by the British Frigate Milford on voyage to the West Indies and taken to Halifax. Released, then captured on an English ship in the Bay of Fundy by the American Privateer Schooner Blackbird and taken to Boston and imprisoned. Released in December. 1777, in a serious physical state and died in Boston, December 20, 1777, age 25 years. Seaman in list of prisoners sent in cartel Swift from Halifax to Boston, November 9, 1777.

SWAIN, DAVID — Revolutionary Pensioner, March 10, 1834, age 72 years. Son of David and Hannah (Swain), husband of Phebe Coleman (first wife) and Lydia Coleman (second wife). Died in Nantucket, December 23 1841.

SWAIN, JAMES — Disowned in 1780 for going to sea in an armed vessel.

Revolutionary Pensioner, U.S. Navy, March 10, 1834, age 75 years. Died in Nantucket, October 5, 1839. Husband of Rebecca (Baker) of Cape Cod. Son of Daniel and Rebecca (Orsborne).

SWAIN, OBED — Seaman, Brigantine Hazard 1779. Captain John F.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR SERVICE ROLL

17

Williams. Son of William and Mary (Mooers) (Ellis), husband of Phebe (Allen) first wife, husband of Mary (Carr) (Edwards) second wife.

TRACEY, HENRY Prisoner on British prison ship at New York, re­ leased August 12, 1777, on petition of Paul Hussey. Husband of Elizabeth (Gardner); married 1773. Died in Nantucket in 1791. Came from New­ foundland.

WALCOTT, BENJAMIN — Revolutionary pensioner, April 20, 1818. In march from Boston to Bennington, Vermont, and in numerous muster rolls and pay accounts. Commissioned captain on January 30, 1777. On command in Boston. Born in Boston August 14, 1754, married Elizabeth (Hawes) of Boston. Elizabeth died in Nantucket June 19, 1831. Benjamin died in Nan­ tucket June 28, 1829, age 75 years.

WILBUR, JOHN — Revolutionary pensioner, Nantucket, April 7, 1819, age 72 years. Credited with service in Rhode Island under General Spencer.

(Pension roll March, 1818.) Another John Wilbur, age 78 years, was listed on pension roll, 6th Census, 1840. Several children of John Wilbur were born in Nantucket.

WORTH, CHRISTOPHER — (1750-1782). Master, privateer Brigantine General Gadsden, 150 tons, 16 guns and 70 men. This brigantine is also listed under command of John Horn. Worth was commissioned to command vessel, dated Boston, August 18, 1778. Commission granted by Council. Worth also appeared in a list of prisoners sent from New York to Portsmouth, in exchange for British prisoners. Son of Christopher and Dinah (Paddock).

Lost on the "Bar" with Robert Barker in 1782.

WORTH, GIDEON — Son of Sylvanus and Rachel (Allen), husband of Phebe (Taber). Disowned by the Society of Friends in 1780 for going to sea in a prize vessel. Stranded in England before the war, joined a British vessel for Halifax, Nova Scotia, which was captured by an American Priva­ teer. Prize with Gideon Worth aboard, was captured by a British frigate on July 22, 1777. Francis Hussey was killed in the engagement. Gideon died in Nantucket, October 25, 1831.

WORTH, WILLIAM — Disowned by the Society of Friends for going to sea in a prize vessel.

We come to the end of our list of Nantucket men who served in the American Revolutionary War and who made the supreme sacrifice. It is clearly evident that Nantucket gave its share of support in young men to the American cause. The records should be a revelation to the reader and to every student of Nantucket history in the sense that the inhabitants gen­ erally were not neutral, in spite of the island's defenceless geographic posi­ tion as history has implied; rather that they contributed generously to the long American struggle for independence and at a great loss of life.

19

Two Editors and a Decennial WITH this issue, HISTORIC NANTUCKET commences its 11th year, and it seems appropriate to take some notice of the fact.

For the three years following the organization of the Nantucket His­ torical Association in 1894. there was no formal publication of its activities.

After the fourth Annual Meeting, however, a new policy was adopted, with the distribution of a pamphlet entitled "Proceedings of the Fourth Annual Meeting of the Nantucket Historical Association." It contained the minutes of the meeting, various committee reports including the President's, and articles on subjects of current and historical interest.'

The "Proceedings" grew successfully and continued annually up to and including the Annual Meeting of 1951. In 1952 the Proceedings were omitted due to unavoidable circumstances and the following year Dr. William E. Gardner and W. Ripley Nelson were appointed a committee of two "to bring in a report on the 'Proceedings'."

The requested report, which was accepted, recommended the substitu­ tion for the old Proceedings of a new quarterly magazine under some such name as "HISTORIC NANTUCKET," and that it be distributed free to members of the Association and also sold to the general public.

Mr. Nelson, who has supplied most of the information for these notes, has modestly kept in the background. But he was the originator and prime mover of the idea, and had pointed out that, with a total membership of only 495, the Association needed what we might call a "shot in the arm."

The Committee urged that the membership could be increased by giving the members more for their dues than admission to the exhibits and that the proposed new magazine would accomplish this. That opinion surely has been verified; for, in the 10 years since the birth of HISTORIC NANTUCKET. the membership has grown to nearly 1200. Naturally, Mr. Nelson, a New York bank executive, who had been a summer visitor to Nantucket since 1919 and a permanent resident on his retirement in 1950, was named Editor. Associate Editors appointed were Burnham N. Dell and Miss Helen L. Winslow, later succeeded by Harmon Tupper, a free-lance writer, and the late Mrs. Harold F. Page, an experienced publicity and magazine worker.

In the October. 1957, issue of HISTORIC NANTUCKET announcement was made of Mr. Nelson's resignation as Editor, faced by reasons of health. The associate editors also resigned in order to give his successor a free hand, and Miss Alma P. Robbins, a retired Boston Social Worker, who had been closely associated with the Nantucket Historical Association, accepted ap­ pointment as Editor. Mrs. Margaret Fawcett Wilson (now Barnes), daughter of the late George Fawcett, noted actor and co-founder of the 'Sconset "Actors Colony" and Mrs. Merle Orleans, whose father, the late Harry B. Turner, was for many years owner and Editor of The Inquirer and Mirror, (and who was also co-Editor of the newspaper for ten years) became Assistant Editors.

Again, because Miss Robbins was obliged for family reasons to leave Nantucket and return to her former home in Maine, a change in the Editor-

20

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

ship was in order. In June of 1962 the present Editor, who had retired in permanent residence to the land of his forebears, was induced to become the new Editor, Mrs. Barnes and Mrs. Orleans consenting to continue as as­ sistants.

In its first ten years, Mr. Nelson put the magazine at once on a high level of quality and achievement, and Miss Robbins ably kept it there. Dur­ ing the incumbency of these dedicated people, HISTORIC NANTUCKET pub­ lished many interesting and valuable articles pertaining to Nantucket's . "famed heritage and illustrious past," the listing of which here space does not permit. The five years of the Quarterly, however, from 1955 through 1959 have been bound and indexed by a fund set up by Dr. Gardner; one volume each may be found in the Fair Street Library, the Atheneum, the Whaling Museum, the Maria Mitchell Association, and the High School.

The first six numbers have been included in the last bound volume of the Proceedings. A similar Index is contemplated for the second five years.

Thus, HISTORIC NANTUCKET enters its second decade in good health and promise. It is the sincere hope of the present Editor to keep it so.

A. M. C.

Important Notice IF you have changed your address, or are intending to change it, will you please notify the Secretary at once! This will speed our magazine to you and eliminate the charge (ten cents a copy) collected by the Post Office upon its return undelivered for wrong address or otherwise.

21

The 1963 Historical Lectures

BY GEORGE W. JONES

THE NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION again sponsored a series of four lectures for the assembled High School students.

Starting early in the year. Mi. Laurence Bunker initiated the series with a talk on "Nantucket's Early Settlers and My Ancestors," and their con­ nection with Nantucket history and the significance of their work in the history of the whole country.

The second lecture was given by past president Edouard A. Stackpole on the subject of Nantucket's old houses, their builders, owners and former occupants, showing by slides how they appeared many years ago in com­ parison with their appearance today. It was a talk which connected us inti­ mately with the active and important members of this community in the last century.

Mr. Leroy H. True spoke in April about one of the earliest settlers, Thomas Macy, one of the original purchasers of the Island and one who did much to shape the early history of Nantucket. Mr. True stressed the worth of this man and of the others who came here to settle, and their qualities of courage, industry, and perseverance which could well be emulated by the present generations. He expressed his confidence that those calling the Island "home" would continue to be worthy of their heritage.

Mr. W. Ripley Nelson, a vice-president of our association, finished the series with a fine description of our popular exhibit, the Whaling Mu­ seum. He covered the subject well, furnishing a short history of the Museum's founding and what it contains of historic interest, inviting all to make use of its possessions and reference material to increase knowledge and appre­ ciation of local history. It was a talk which should have stirred interest in teacher and pupil alike.

In sponsoring these lectures it has been the hope of the Council that they would cultivate an active interest among the students in the extraordi­ narily unique community in which they live, that they might be more anxious to protect and preserve it. We trust that the talks are in some measure ac­ complishing this objective.

22

Quaker Meeting - 1962 An Ecumenical Experiment

BY HANNA D. MONAGHAN

TODAY the thoughts of the world are turned toward Rome, not by the passing of the Pope, however tragic that may have been, but because of the * universality of his message to which he gave his life. This is being brought to the forefront in all religious circles as an ecumenical experiment. The thought that there can be no schism for those who are carrying the Chris­ tian banner, as Paul says, "for whereas there is among you envying and strife and divisions (schisms) are ye not carnal and walk as men."

In the early days of the Quaker faith, this oneness of all those professing their belief in the power of the Divine Being was so tremendous, the urge to share the known glories so imperative, that Quakers were found often travelling around the globe, sharing even with the Sultan of Turkey the glad tidings.

On this island of Nantucket, the old Quaker Meetinghouse on Fair Street, although now legally belonging to the Historical Society, stands as a monument to this Quaker tenet and belongs to the world as a symbol of faith.

Last summer, 1962, the doors were opened again, as they had been for many years on Sunday mornings, not to revive the old Quaker meetings, but as a new experiment in the modern approach to the problems agitating and disrupting the precarious world today.

Seven or eight off-Island Quakers sponsored the opening of the Meet­ inghouse during last July and August, not for Quakers but for all sects and Seekers. Here no hymns were sung, no creeds spoken, but all joining in silent worship each with the other. The old Meetinghouse with its hard wooden benches mellowed by time and fog, the floor worn by scuffs and scars of many passing feet, was no deterrent to the oneness of the spirit.

Here came even those with no church affiliation, only a belief that the individual is not a cog in a vast machine, but a vital, living reflection of the Divine. Each can by thus meeting with others help to bring sanity and peace to a war-torn universe.

During last summer sometimes twenty, sometimes forty, sometimes sixty, of all faiths and sects, came and met silently or with a few spoken words, seeking unity. Here in a tiny way this meeting has come to be a part of the great ecumenical experiment.

24

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Mrs. Robert Longley Mrs. DeWitt Lounsbery Mrs. Herbert Lowe Mrs. John E. McKay Mr. Peter Malcolm Mrs. H. R. Marschalk Miss Nanette Mengel Mrs. J. T. Mengel Mrs. R. C. H. Miers .. Mrs. E. Milewaki Mr. Edmund Milewaki Dr. Broadus Mitchell Mr. Marshall H. Montgomery Mrs. Marshall Montgomery Mr. Stewart Mooney Mrs. Jane C. Mooney Miss Robin Morris Mr. Albert J. Pitkin Miss Alice Reno Mr. Karl Richmond Mr. Phil Richmond Mrs. Vincent J. Roggeveen Mr. Philip Gardner Roggeveen Mrs. Edwin R. Rooney Mr. Carl S. Rowe Mrs. Carl S. Rowe Rev. Glen R. Schwarz Mrs. Elizabeth J. Y. Sharp Miss

Mr. Randolph C. Sharp Mr. John Shaw Mr. B. H. Shield Jr. Mr. Joseph Shramko Mr. Russell A. Sibley Mrs. Lillian F. Smith Mr. C. Richard Soderberg III Mr. Bernard H. Stockley Miss Elizabeth M. Thomas Mr. Stephen M. Thomas Mrs. Stephen M. Thomas Mr. R. Van Arsdale Mrs. Helen Vroom Mr. William H. Vroom Miss Sara R. Watson Miss Mary E. Way Miss Marjorie Weirich Mr. John N. Welch Mr. Charles A. West Mr. R. T. Westbrook Mrs. R. T. Westbrook Miss Harriet C. Williams Dr. John P. Willman Mr. Gordon W. Winslow Jr. Mr. William G. Wood Miss Gladys Wood (Brookline) Mr. William Worm Mr. R. Donald Worth a W. Yedlin DEATHS

Mrs. C. Warren Austin Mr. Merritt Clark Mr. John H. Coffin Mrs. S. C. Coffin Mr. Donald Craig Mrs. Everett U. Crosby Mr. Lewis S. Edgarton Miss Mary B. Forbes Mrs. Leon C. Guptill

Mr. Hamilton Heard Mrs. Samuel McCullagh Mrs. Henry S. Morgan Mr. H. Franklin Norton Mr. Norris S. Oliver Mrs. Charles E. Satler Mrs. Elsie G. Sloan Mr. Robert E. Swain Mr. William T. Utter Mr. Burr Polk Wilson

Again we thank members who have sent in names of persons they knew were interested in joining the Association and look forward to the continued cooperation of each member in helping us increase our membership.

Ethel Anderson, Secretary

ANNUAL REPORTS

Fair Street Oldest House 1800 House Old Mill Old Jail Whaling Museum Total

25

ADMISSIONS TO MUSEUMS 1962 1961 1960 3041 3334 2557 5593 4681 4720 1766 1265 1268 4479 4286 3460 2657 2898 2504 32815 21962 16817 50351

38426

31326

1959 3642 5133 1123 3128 1968 19244

1958 3928 4154 1221 2815 2029 17742

34238

31889

The Coffin Family THE new book, "The Coffin Family," edited by Louis Coffin of Cincinnati, Ohio, the full story of which was published in the October, 1962, issue of HISTORIC NANTUCKET, has had a successful year of sales.

Through the untiring efforts of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Coffin, many mem­ bers of the Coffin family, as well as libraries throughout the country, have been contacted with the result that 580 books have been sold. These went to 42 States in the Union as well as Canada and England. Libraries from 22 States are now in possession of the book.

As one member said, "I wish to compliment your association, Mr. Louis Coffin and others who have obviously done a very painstaking and remark­ able job in the production of this work."

With only a limited supply left, we hope members of the Coffin family that do not have this book will order early to avoid disappointment when the supply is exhausted.

Ethel Anderson, Secretary

Gifts and Donors

BY MRS. WILLIAM L. MATHER, CURATOR

Historical Museum, Fair Street Bunker, Col. Laurence: "Franklin at the Court of France."

Crosby, Estate of Mrs. Everett U.: Grandmother clock; "Peter Folger" by Eastman Johnson; Maps; Wood carvings, by James Walter Folger.

Gardner, Dr. William E.: Correspondence with Bassett Jones; Correspon­ dence concerning restoration of Baptist Church tower; Nantucket photographs.

Giffin, Norman: New England Steamship Co. Blanket Waybills, 1917-1918.

Graham, R. L.: Photos of Nantucket Steamers.

Guba, Dr. Emil: New Testament.

Hallowell, Thomas: Framed location of property, 1754.

Hospital Thrift Shop: Cobble stone hammer used on Main St., Nantucket.

Jones, George; Pictures showing construction of Baptist belfry and spire.

Spring, 1962.

Lamb, Michael: Model of Baptist Church tower.

26

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Macy, A. W.: Coat-of-Arms of Macy Family.

Marine Lumber Co.: Model of old Nantucket House, made by James Norcross.

Mitchell, C. B.: "Steamboat Bill of Facts."

Morris, Estate of Eugene: Newbegin family record.

Nantucket Historical Trust: Books, diaries; letters.

- Newhall, Ruth S.: "The Folger Way — Coffee Pioneering."

Parker, Allan H.: Bone stilettos.

Peabody Museum, Salem: "Captain Joseph Peabody," Whitehill.

Pinkham, Mrs. A. B.: Silver bosun's pipe, marked A. B. Pinkham for Lt. Alexander Bunker Pinkham.

Shawah, Henry: Brown velvet Waistcoat, marked B. C. Easton.

Siber, Helen Comstock: Silver dessert spoon, maker Hadwen, marked Eu­ nice Hadwen to Sarah Hussey, 1822.

Schenk. Miss Jessie: Child's plate and spoon used by Hannah Coffin, five times great-grandmother of donor.

Simmonds, Margaret: Tablespoon marked L. C. for Laban Coffin.

Small, Oswell: Old picture of Monument Square.

Swain, Charles: Map showing Barnstable, Dukes & Nantucket County.

Todd, James M.: Mitchell papers.

Tripp, Miss Barbara: Album made by William Tripp.

1800 House Brown, Miss Helen: Work box, Ivory trim.

Gardner, Dr. William E.: Chintz quilt.

Judd, Mrs. Alice S.: Governor Winthrop Desk.

Proctor, Linwood: Old wringer, wooden rolls.

Sibley, C. L.: Brass andirons.

Stillman, Mrs. Leland: Framed shell-piece.

Whaling Museum Barrett, Chester Sr.: Supply cabinet used on whale ship.

Beetle, Mr. and Mrs. Harold: Pictures of whale boat scale drawings.

Bunker, Col. Laurence: Navigation charts used by Capt. Reuben R. Bunker.

Crosby, Estate of Mrs. Everett U.: Ship models: Scrimshaw.

Foye, Mrs. Herbert: "Duffle bag" used by Reuben Chase.

Gray, Mrs. E. A.: Two Kahili Feather wands.

Law, A. G.: Pictures of ship models.

Levine, Morgan: "Whales for Food, Fodder and Fortune."

Nantucket Historical Trust: Scrimshaw; 83 Canes; books, etc.

Pollock, Miss Polly: "America Sails the Seas."

Rogers, Mrs. Elsie: Log, "Napoleon." 1868-1872, Capt. William C. Fuller.

Runk, D. F. Dewees: Fire bucket; tools.

Small, Oswell: Tools.

ANNUAL REPORTS

27

Historical Museum and Friends Meeting House

BY MRS. WILLIAM L. MATHER, CHAIRMAN

VISITORS from many states and countries were welcomed at the Fair St. Museum during 1962.

We have added several new showcases to hold our ever increasing number of exhibits — as well as rearranging the display of portraits. Some additional lighting on the first floor should make the collections more at­ tractive.

As we enter the new season we are sorry to report that Miss Alice Crocker who has done our genealogical work, has found it necessary, for reasons of health, to resign. We wish to thank her for many years of faith­ ful and cheerful service. Mrs. Walton Adams has been persuaded to take Miss Crocker's place as Librarian.

At the desk on the first floor will be Mrs. Elizabeth Worth who served some years ago as Treasurer of the Historical Association and thus is well known to many of our members.

We anticipate a most interesting season during the coming summer.

The 1800 House

BY CHARLOTTE G. KING, CHAIRMAN

THE 1800 HOUSE had another successful season and again we can report an increase in attendance over the preceding year with the usual interest and enthusiasm of those who visit the Exhibit. Our guests came from 27 states and Germany, England, Canada and Chile. South America.

When we opened Mrs. Susan Cowden, therefore disappointed cepted her resignation

in June we were happy to have again as our Hostess, who was starting her tenth year with us. We were that because of ill health she had to resign. We ac­ with regret and with appreciation for her faithfulness

and continued interest over the years.

However, we were most fortunate in arranging for Miss Ethel Clark, who formerly was hostess at the Oldest House, to take over. Miss Clark, with the assistance one day a week of Mrs. Rounsville and volunteers, carried on efficiently and will be back with us again this year.

Several copies of "The 1800 House" pamphlet were sold, also some copies of The Coffin Genealogy and other publications.

We are grateful to those who have in any way helped to make The 1800 House Exhibit worthwhile and are looking forward to another inter­ esting and successful season.

28

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Oldest House - Old Mill - Old Jail THE SEASON of 1962 saw a substantial gain in attendance at the Oldest House and the Old Mill, but with a slight falling off at the Old Jail, com­ pared with 1961. The respective chairmen of these exhibits, however, report that their charges are in good shape and in business; an improvement in - attendance this season, therefore, can be looked for. All necessary repairs were made early at the Old Mill and the Jail. In particular the grounds round the Windmill were cleared of underbrush, opening the circular stone track on which the long directional beam and wheel revolve, thus making it pos­ sible again to face the vanes into the wind. The Old Mill is now actually operational.

The Whaling Museum

BY W. RIPLEY NELSON

PAID ADMISSIONS for the summer of 1962 amounted to 25,842 visitors which accounted for more than 50 percent of the total admissions for all buildings. Of this number 4105 were children under 12 years of age, who in accord with the revised policy of the Association paid one half the regular admission fee. Deducting the latter from the total gives a figure of 21,737 which is comparable to the 1961 paid admissions of 21,962 or only 125 less than the largest season on record. The cold and wet weather of the 1962 Labor Day weekend not only curtailed the usual influx of holiday visitors but also prompted the unexpected and earlier termination of many vacation visits. Until then the attendance record had been running ahead of any previous year. The threat of hurricane "Daisy" shortly thereafter further curtailed visitors. The season's record is looked upon therefore as out­ standing.

The "Guests Registry Book" shows an equally interesting picture. Fortythree states were represented in 1962. The seven states not represented were Arkansas, Montana, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming.

Visitors from foreign lands represented 28 countries in 1962 compared with 22 in 1961. The list included Canada; Nova Scotia; Mexico; France; England; Italy; China; Shanghai; Germany; Guatemala; Greece; Sweden; Belgium; Ireland; India; Norway; New Zealand; Scotland; Finland; Israel; Bermuda; Egypt; Japan; Spain; Dominican Republic; West Pakistan; Wales; Australia and Holland. Several cities were listed in a number of countries.

Here is proof again, as has been said before, that the tide has turned for instead of Nantucket seamen roaming the seas, the world now comes to Nan­ tucket.

Many donations of a variety of articles have enriched the Museum ex­ hibits, as noted under the Curator's report of "Gifts and Donors." Five ship models deserve special comment. A one-quarter-inch scale model of the whaleship "Essex" of Nantucket, which was twice rammed and stove by a large sperm whale in 1820, has become the feature of our small but spe­ cial exhibition of Essex relics. Another unusual model is believed to be much

ANNUAL REPORTS

29

the earliest model now existing of an American Whaleship. The hull was made by William Meader of Nantucket in 1765 when 14 years of age. He became one of Nantucket s ship captains and an Island Street bears his name. Another interesting model is that of the whaling bark "Falcon" built at Medford, 1817, and finally abandoned, 1895.

A small but beautifully executed model is that of the "Red Jacket" which made the ali time record for crossing under sail from New York to Liverpool. A "whale boat" model made by Capt. H. Percy Ashley, the tamed New York model-maker is of special interest for its includes properly placed in miniature the equipment carried by a whale boat of which a list and description is shown with the exhibit.

A collection of charts formerly owned and used by Captain Reuben Ramsdell Bunker, Master of ships "Brutus"; "Boston"; and "Logan" in the decade of 1800-1810 have been added to the collection of "World Wide Navigation Charts." These charts dated 1787 to 1795 donated by three great, great-grandchildren, were in three portfolios, pasted back to back, folded and bound in a single binder. To separate and mount these charts presented many problems which took months of painstaking work to solve.

A Commemorative U. S. Navy Pilot Chart donated by the Department of the Navy, recording the commemorative services for Mathew Fontaine Maury "Pathfinder of the Sea" has been added to the original collection of Lt. Maury's charts issued in 1853 and 1854. Scale drawings of the Whal­ ing Bark "Sunbeam" added to the chart collection gives a real picture visitors can readily visualize and understand.

Other interesting charts have been added which greatly enlarges the special exhibit of "World Wide Navigation Charts" which necessitated adding 10 additional 66 by 54- in., double face display screens and mounting the charts thereon. Thanks to the continued interest and generosity of Henry Coffin Carlisle the addition to the original exhibit, which he had made pos­ sible, was completed during the winter months.

Additional tools of interest have been added to the Whale Craft Shop.

The front of each shop has been enclosed with transparent sheeting which permits the more natural display of the tools on the work benches and the lighting has been greatly improved.

Notable additions both in quality and quantity have been made to the scrimshaw collection. Two new three-shelf display cases, with special il­ lumination, are being made to provide, at least in part, the needed additional space for these articles. Interesting additions will be found also in the Library. An unusual one, two Kahilis feather ceremonial wands used by Hawaiian Royalty, are displayed in a special case with a picture and de­ scription as to their meaning and use.

The Museum welcomes its veteran staff members who start the 1963-64 season with us. James Everett Chapel serves again as Custodian of the Mu­ seum and supervision of Sanderson Hall. Mrs. Bernice Foye, who has a host of loyal visiting friends, is at the main reception desk and in charge of the Scrimshaw and Counting rooms. Bertram E. Morris keeps watch over the

30

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

• Whale Craft Shops. Mrs. Ellen B. Chace, widely recognized as an authority about whaling, especially as recorded in the Museum log books, records and files is in charge again of the Library. Mrs. Reginald Hussey is serving as relief for the Reception desk and Library and we are glad to welcome back again, John H. Kittila as relief member for Sanderson Hall and the Whale Craft Shops. Members of the Museum committee remain unchanged from last year and are Henry C. Carlisle, Charles F. Sayle, Marriott F. King, Albert F. Egan, Jr. and W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman.

The Museum opened for the 1963-64 season on Wednesday May 29th so those who visited the Island over the Memorial day holiday weekend could " visit the museum. The Annual Open House, when a cordial invitation is ex­ tended to Island residents and visitors to attend as guests, admission free, was celebrated Sunday afternoon June 2nd. Four hundred and fourteen persons, which included 300 Boy Scouts, were welcomed as visitors.

Our Whaling Museum enjoys a world wide reputation and is one of Nantucket's leading attractions. Our staff members, fully conscious of the Museum's importance and their responsibilities as public representatives of both the Association and the Island will make every effort as in the past to build good will and friendship through a warm and cordial welcome to all visitors.

Advertising and Publicity

BY W. RIPLEY NELSON, CHAIRMAN

THE ADVERTISING PROGRAM, as in past years, was divided into three classes (1) local newspapers; (2) magazines and directories; and (3) cards and leaflets. Bulletins and pamphlets are not included as they are handled by the Publications Committee.

Newspaper advertising was limited as is customary to the two local news­ papers. It included at the start of the season the cordial invitation for open house at the Whaling Museum, Friends Meeting House, the Historic Museum and the Oldest House together with the admission schedule for all exhibits.

The legal notice of the Annual Meeting of the members in July was followed by display advertising for the program and the speaker. Another display advertisement was run in August announcing a lecture arranged by the Association. The final advertisement, placed in February announced the holding of the "Fourteenth Annual Gam." Magazine and Directory advertising was unchanged from the previous year. It included one third page display in "Nantucket Holiday" and "This Week in Nantucket." These advertisements list our exhibits, their location, and a few descriptive words about each. They are run each week throughout the summer. The usual listing of exhibits was obtained in "The New England Council," an annual summer publication.

The Opening and Admission Schedules, in the form of cardboard signs were distributed, as usual, in June for seasonal display by the hotels, guest houses, restaurants, clubs, and some Island businesses. The Association leaflet describing its buildings and exhibits was distributed to visitors at each build­ ing. Copies of "Main Street" and "Rambles through the Historic Nantucket District" also were distributed.

32

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Treasurer's Report Balance Sheet — May 31, 1963 EXHIBIT A Free Funds

Pacific National Bank Nantucket Institution for Savings Sidney Mitchell Fund Mary E. Macy Fund Maria Mitchell Starbuck Fund Securities Coffin Genealogy Whittenken Fund Mary C. Milleken Fund Total Less — Unexpended Balance of Special Fund

$ 3,784.68 8,518.70 3,000.00 500.00 3,000.00 525-78 4,000,00 1,000.00 5,273.46 29,602.62 176.00

$29,426.62

Land, Buildings and Collections

Fair Street Old Mill Oldest House Whaling Museum Old Jail 1800 House West York Street Land Nantucket House Hose House Collections Furniture and Fixtures

8,800.00 4,500.00 4,000.00 10,000.00 1,834.00 5,350.00 100.00 30,000.00 400.00 10,304.00 407.92

Total

75,695.92

Restricted Funds (Resolution)

Life Memberships Old Mill Preservation Jethro Coffin Fund

8,658.22 781.04 584.70

Total

10,023.96

Restricted Funds (Principal Only)

Ella Starbuck Emma Heywood William Swift Florence Mitchell Fund (Securities) Susan Brock Total

Restricted Funds (Principal and Interest)

Will Gardner Fund Total

3,000.00 2,000.00 5,000.00 20,100.00 1,000.00 31,100.00 565.32 $146,811.82

ANNUAL REPORTS

33

Surplus and Net Worth Expended Surplus Restricted Funds and Capital Surplus Total

26,661.62 120,150.20 $146,811.82

Statement of Income and Expenditures Year Ending 5/31/63 EXHIBIT B Income Departmental Operations Income Expenses or (Loss) Whaling Museum $12,767.55 $ 8,407.67 $ 4,359.88 Fair Street 1,491.16 1,767.39 (276.23) Oldest House 2,932.18 973.65 1,958.53 Old Mill 805.20 980.95 (175.75) Old Jail 890.30 963.27 ( 72.97) 1800 House 783.05 1,214.32 (431.27) Hose House 0 278.12 (278.12) Total $19,669.44 $14,585.37 $ 5,084.07 Other Income and Expenses Annual Dues $1,700.78 Sustaining 870.00 Interest and Dividends 2,132.78 Refunds 30.00 Donations 27.00 Miscellaneous 19.15 4,779.71 3,362.81 1,416.90 Special Operations (Authorized by Council) Pamphlets 280.25 129.00 151.25 Historic Nantucket 11.50 2,385.37 (2.373.87) Lectures 17.00 54.00 (37.00) Whaling Museum Craftshop 725.58 (725.58) Addressograph 626.41 (626.41) Sale of Land 400.00 400.00 Total $25,157.90 $21,868.54 $ 3,289.36 EXHIBIT C Special Projects Balance Income Expenditures 5/31/62 1962-1963 1962-1963 Franklin Folger Memorial $ 72.71 148.50 Whaling Museum Chart (135.89) 800.00 Whaling Museum Boat 0 20.00 Old Mill 1,000.00 0 Coffin Genealogy 4,000.00 3,838.63 $3,936.82 $5,807.13

58.00 779.92 4.00 875.60 5,092.31 $6,809.83

Balance 5/31/63 163.21 (115.81) 16.00 124.40 2,746.32 $2,934.12

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 re­ flect the true condition of the Association.

Ormonde F. Ingall, Accountant

Recent Events SATURDAY afternoon, last May 25th, the management of the Jared Coffin House opened the main building on Broad and Centre Streets to public in­ spection. A beautiful spring day ushered in the long-awaited event and Nantucketers and visitors took full advantage of the invitation. The little park across Centre Street, where the "Annex" formerly stood, was bright with spring flowers and shrubs and the close-cropped lawn in the center was as smooth and green as the top of a billiard table. All of this made a striking foil for the richness and dignity of Jared Coffin's mid-19th Century mansion, shorn of the ugly encumbrances which it had endured as the "Ocean House."

Inside, the admiring throng saw walls decorated with old-time prints and paintings, and bedrooms authentically furnished with hand-worked bed­ spreads. The crewel embroidery in one room was done expressly for the Inn by Nantucketers during the winter and represented a variety of Island scenes. The total effect was almost that of a richly endowed but livable museum. Any suggestion of museum atmosphere, however, was dispelled by the sounds of merry conversation floating up from the Tap Room in the basement, receiving its baptism of conviviality. This enticing room, entered by a stairway from the lobby and also from a terrace on Broad Street, re­ flects the atmosphere of an old English Tap Room and the effect is strength­ ened by the comfortable old wooden arm chairs which were actually discov­ ered by Architect H. Errol Coffin in an English "pub" and bought by him expressly for the Jared Coffin House. (For a technical discussion of the res­ toration of the Jared Coffin House see the article by Mr. Coffin in the April, 1962, issue of HISTORIC NANTUCKET.) All in all, this gift to the Island by the Nantucket Historical Trust, while naturally a business venture, richly enhances the historical aspect of the Town and uniquely restores to it what had been merely a nostalgic memory. We wish it all success! *

*

SH

*

*

According to a note in the February, 1963, issue of Preservation News, the monthly bulletin of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, there are some thirty windmills still operating in northern Germany, which have been saved from destruction by the march of "progress" through the timely formation of an "Association for the Maintenance of Windmills."

•

•

•

sjs

He

The Gardiner Building, in Main Street between Union and Washington Streets, has been bought by the Nantucket Historical Trust. Mrs. Gardiner's gift and novelty store, so long a familiar landmark to visitors coming up from Straight Wharf, has been discontinued and the Trust is adapting the building to studios and work shops for handcrafting by Nantucket residents.

During the winter and spring two groups were busy turning out material for use in the Jared Coffin House. Eventually, after full renovation, it is ex­ pected that the building, now called the Nantucket Historical Trust Building, will become the work center for Island handcrafters.

35

Diary of William C. Folger EDITED BY NANCY S. ADAMS (Continued from the April Issue of "Historic Nantucket") 1837 Aug. 20—At the Baptist Church this evening I heard Rev. Richards of the Sandwich Islands mission tell the history of the Mission, he is from Lahaina Mowee. I gave 25cts towards the Mission.

Aug. 27—At the Second Presbyterian Church this forenoon. Dined & took tea with Capt. Robert B. Chase and family.

Sept. 1—I got of Ira Hunt, Farmer's map of Michigan with the sections, am to give him one dollar if I conclude to keep it.

Sept. 2—Received a letter from father dated the 23rd. of Aug. stating he was well etc. Saw a number of Indians from Maume valley, bound to Miss­ ouri territory.

Sept. 3—Wrote to Francis G. Macy and directed it to Detroit. R. Champion returned from the East.

Sept. 5—I heard last evening & again this morning Alexander Campbell preach at the Court House. I consider him a very talented man. I paid Ira Hunt one dollar for the map of Michigan I got of him the other day.

Sept. 5—I left Cleveland about dark this evening in the Schooner Helen, Capt. Robert B. Chase for Buffalo, about one o'clock we were run foul of by the Schooner Texas, had our foresail torn, shrouds broken off & railing broken, but otherwise escaped much injury.

Sept. 6—Passed in sight of Erie, Penn. and arrived at Buffalo the morning of the 7 th.

Sept. 8—1 called on Francis G. Macy at the United States Hotel saw him & his family but could not get anything of him for my demand note against him. Visited this evening Capt. Alexander Ramsdell & family with Capt.

Chase.

Sept. 9—Let Capt. Chase have a three dollar bill on account.

Sept. 10—I went with Capt. Robert Chase to Niagara Falls, went down to the foot of the Falls on the U.S. side, a grand sight. Bought a can for 1214 cts. and paid 6'Acts for going down to the foot of the Falls. We left Buffalo for Niagara Falls at 9 o'clock got there just before 11, went in Rail road cars through Black rock & Tenewanta, stayed till 2 p.m. & got back about 4 p.m. paid 1.50 for passage in train.

Sept. 11 It rained yesterday which detracted from the pleasantness of our visit and to-day is very cool.

Sept. 12—I saw William H. Palmer of Nantucket. I have spent for groceries 50cts.

Sept. 13—Took a long walk with William H. Palmer.

Sept. 14—Took a walk with Palmer in another direction. I found John G. Coffin's chest at M. Kingman's store & had it shipped on board of the Canal boat Fort Wayne Capt. Wiman, on the 7th. and written to John by

36

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

mail on the 8th. and I have now written to Asa G. Bunker and to father

by William H. Palmer.

Sept. 15—I took leave of Capt. Chase on the forenoon of the 15th. and left Buffalo at VA past 11 on board of the Steamboat Thomas Jefferson, Capt.

Wilkinson and had a pleasant voyage to Cleveland where I arrived at 9 p.m. on the 16th. Two dollars for steerage passage.

Sept. 17—Saw Capt. Edward Gardner of Nantucket.

Sept. 18—I wrote to Cousin Alexander M. Folger of Huron Co. by Capt.

Gardner. Paid 50 cts. for tapping shoes.

Sept. 20—Took a walk out to the Stone Quarry railroad with I heard , the Rt. Rev. John B. Purcell Roman Catholic Bishop of Cincinatti speak in the Court House this evening explanatory of the Roman Catholic belief.

Sept. 23—I exchanged a duodecimo bible with Sanford for the Debate on the Roman Catholic Religion between Alexander Campbell of Bethany, Va. and Rt. Rev. Purcell, Bishop of Cincinnati.

Sept. 24—I went in forenoon to Roman Catholic meeting and in afternoon to Baptist.

October 4—I went out to Bedford this afternoon with Seth T. Hurd who had some business that way.

Oct. 8—Saw John Munroe, Jr. this evening at Capt. R. B. Chase's. I have purchased a Directory of Cleveland by Julies P. Boliver Maccabbee for one dollar. I have read through the dispute between the Bishop & A. Camp­ bell. Visited Seth Macy who has been at Capt. Chase's sick, and passed away some weeks without any benefit to myself & without any very bright prospects of better times for myself. I have not been earning any thing and have felt desirous to return to Nantucket but have not thus far been able to get my affairs settled.

Oct. 27—I got Charles Bradburn to change for me 15 dollars Cleveland money for Boston, Mass., bills. I had got the other day five dollars changed at the Brokers for silver by paying 25 cts. discount.

Oct. 28—Wrote to-day a long letter of three sheets to Charles Worth and one of two sheets to father to send by Seth Macy.

Oct. 30—Wrote to Asa Bunker and to uncle Walter to send by Seth Macy and gave him twenty-eight dollars Eastern money to take to J. & F. Law­ rence & Co.; of Nantucket for me to pay my bill for clothing had of them of $27.97. I also sent by Macy the Dispute between A. Campbell of Bethany, Vir. & J. B. Purcell of Cincinnati to be presented to the Nantucket Atheneum.

1 had written to John G. Coffin by Macy some days ago. On the 31st. Seth Macy left for home.

Nov. 1—I left Cleveland before breakfast this morning in Schooner Helen Capt. R. B. Chase for Huron & Munroe, Mich.

Nov. 2—Arrived at Huron about 12 noon to-day and walked about & viewed the place, left about 7 p.m.

Nov. 3—Arrived at Munroe or rather at the River Raison & Lake Erie rail road wharf before daylight to-day. I walked to Munroe city on the railroad with Capt. Chase got there about 10 a.m. I walked about and viewed the city, crossed the river Raison went to what was formerly called French-

DIARY OF WILLIAM C. FOLGER

37

town to the neighborhood of the place where the Kentucky youths were butchered during the last war. Inhabited partly by French settlers. Saw women riding in one horse carts and driving, carrying produce to the city.

Munroe has a Catholic Church a Presbyterian and an Episcopal church finished and a French Catholic and a Methodist & a Baptist Church building, also a large County Court House, of light colored stone, an elegant build­ ing. There is the Bank of the River Raison, Bank of Munroe and the River Raison & Lake Erie Railroad Banks. More than one hundred buildings have gone up this year. Tis a flourishing place with a rich country a round it.

Bot 6cts worth of pie.

Nov. 4—Left La Plaisance Bay this morning at 7 o'clock, wind easterly.

Passed Cunninghams Island and got some distance east of Sandusky Light when a heavy squall of wind came on and Capt. Chase took in all sail but the jib & shifted his course & ran back for Sandusky Light and went into the bay at Cunninghams Island and cast anchor, about 4 a.m. the vessell rolled considerably.

Nov. 5—The Captain had the second anchor cast over board this morning but the wind blowing on shore strong the anchors dragged and we were obliged to heave the anchors & make sail to keep from going ashore. We came very near to the shore after raising the anchors but we did not strike.

We got clear of the island at a little after 11 a.m. and arrived at the wharf at Cleveland at 5 p.m., a heavy sea all day.

Nov. 7—Reuben Champion paid me four dollars in silver and a two dollar bill on account. I paid R. B. Chase 1.88 for 5 days board in his vessell.

Nov. 8—I left Cleveland for Parma where I arrived about 1 1 a.m. visited J. R. Feeman's & D. Huntington's, where I dined and took tea was Joseph Huntington's and lodged at Jesse R. Feemans, took breakfast there too. Left with him my history of Nantucket.

Nov. 9—When in Parma I was informed that they would be glad to have me teach the school there.

Nov. 11—Had the offer of a school in Newbury, nine miles from Cleveland.

(To Be Continued)

38

Part of the chinaware cabinet at the Fair Street Museum showing large collection of salt-and-pepper shakers.

39

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 development of our country. You can perpetuate that interest by giving to the Association a legacy under your will, which will help to insure the Association's carrying on. Counsel advises that legacies to the Nantucket Historical Association are allowable deductions under the Federal Estate Tax law.

Legacies will be used for general or specific purposes as directed by the donor. A sample form may read as follows: "I give, devise, and bequeath to the Nantucket Historical Association, a corporation duly or­ ganized under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and located in the Town of Nantucket, in said Commonwealth, the sum of dollars."

Legacies may be made also in real estate, bonds, stocks, books, paint­ ings, or any objects having historical value, in which event a brief descrip­ tion of the same should be inserted instead of a sum of money.

Please send all communications to Miss Ethel Anderson, Secretary, P. O. Box 1016, Nantucket, Massachusetts. Office, Fair Street Museum.

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION WHALING MUSEUM: Broad Street near Steamboat Wharf Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

HISTORICAL MUSEUM and FRIENDS MEETING HOUSE: Fair St. Weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 2 to 5 p.m.

OLDEST HOUSE: Sunset Hill off West Chester Street. Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OLD MILL: Prospect Street. Weekdays only. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OLD JAIL: Vestal Street. Weekdays only, 10 a.m. to 5 pm.

1800 HOUSE: Mill Street. Weekdays only, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FIRE HOSE-CART HOUSE: Gardner Street. Weekdays only, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FOLGER-FRANKLIN SEAT: Madaket Road. Always open free, for rest and meditation.

Admission is 50c to each exhibit, except the Old Jail, 30c, the Old Mill and the Fire Hose-Cart House, where visitors are asked to make a donation toward their upkeep. Children will be ad­ mitted to the exhibits for half-price, if under twelve years of age and accompanied by an adult.

Group tickets entitling holders to all six exhibits may be obtained at the reception desk in - the Whaling Museum for $1.50 per ticket. "Group" is defined as ten or more persons from any one organization.