SKETCHES

from

LOCAL HISTORY

WRITTEN AND COMPILED BY WILLIAMDONALDSON HALSEY

BRIDGEHAMPTON, SUFFOLK COUNTY NEW YORK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page Page Foreword ...... 7 Stories of Ethan Halsey ...... 149 Historical Facts Relating to Founding of the First Eng- Faith in Prayer ...... I49 lish Colony in Xew York State ...... 9 A Temperance Story ...... 13 First English Colony in New York State ...... In Histoq- of Southampton Township ...... 15 Some Stories of North Sea ...... 1.51 -Area Covered by Maps ...... 16 A Bridgehampton Episode ...... 19 Dulce Domum ...... 18 A Ifan Out of Bondage ...... I53 -%n Old Resident Dies ...... 19 -4 Boy of the Last Century ...... 1.54 -%n Ode to Our Forefathers ...... 20 Several Stories of Local Interest ...... 1.54 Roads and Bridges ...... 20 Opinion Changed By Locality ...... 1-54 JIills and Millers ...... -35 Superstition and Witchcraft on Lmg Island ...... I jj School Houses and Schocl Teachers ...... 32 According to Scripture ...... 157 Sagaponack School District KO. 10 ...... 33 Diamond Cut Diamond ...... I# School District No. g ...... :.. 35 Expression of Loyalty ...... 15s School District No. S (Hay Ground) ...... 8 A Diplomat ...... I59 School District No. IS ...... 39 , The Stories of Aaron Drake ...... I59 School District No . 13 (Brick Kilns) ...... 31 . Wedding and Home Coming of a Sea Captain ...... 159 Water Mill School District ...... 41 The Wrong Date ...... 160 Churches and Ministers ...... 41 A Plover Story ...... 163 llusic in the Churches ...... 50 A Shoemaker's Joke ...... 161 Old Gravel-ards ...... 51 Stories of Luther Hildreth ...... 162 Jlecor Graveq-ard ...... 51 Sane Stories of Sag Harbor ...... 162 . Poxabo-e Graveyard ...... 51 -4 Sag Harbor Cooper ...... 163 M'ainscatt Graveyard ...... 52 Two Menhaden Fishermen ...... 164 Hay Ground Graveyard ...... 52 .\n Old Resident of Korth Haven ...... 164 Scuttle Hole Graveyard ...... 53 A Story of Kathan Cook (Tailor) ...... 16j \Vater LIill Graveyard ...... 54 An Old Resident af Noyack ...... 166 Old Graveyard in Bridgehampton ...... 54 Fashions Change ...... 136 Private Graveyards Now Discontinued ...... 5s Elbert Rose and Son Maltby ...... 167 Old Dwelling Houses ...... 60 Story of John Edwards ...... 168 Mlat Became of Some Old Dwelling Houses ...... 68 Some Residents of Wainscott ...... 168 Bridgehampton in the War of the Revolution ...... 70 An Old Time Mechanic ...... 170 Txo Lives Span 168 Years ...... 74 David Hedges and His Pigs ...... 170 Abigail Howell in the Revolution ...... 76 Daniel Talmage of Hay Ground ...... 170 John Hulburt and the First Stars and Stripes ...... 77 Same Stories of Bridgehampton ...... 171 Long Island Troops Sail for Albany ...... 78,79, 80 The Spilled Beans ...... 172 The First Flagstaff in Bridgehamptan ...... 81 A Story on Piety ...... 172 War of 1812 ...... 82 An Old Man's Charge to His Son ...... 172 The Civil War ...... 84 John Leek and His Dog ...... 173 Storms, Cyclones and Earthquakes ...... 9 -4n Old Resident of the Brick Kilns ...... I73 Electrical Storn~s...... 93 Embroidered Bed Curtains ...... I74 Cq-clcmes ...... 95 A Story of the Brick Kilns ...... I74 -another Cyclone ...... 96 Jehial Go~daleGoes Courting ...... 174 hrthquakes ...... Zachary Sandford znd His Wife ...... 175 Wrecks and Stranded Vessels ...... A Lfarriage Contract ...... I75 The "Money Ship," a Sequel to E. R . Shaw's "Pot z Stories of Howell Cook ...... I75 of Gold," a Stary of Fire Island Beach ...... 98 The Moon and Dry Weather ...... 176 Why Was the "John Milton" Wrecked? ...... 104 -4 Bedtime Stoq- ...... 176 The Whaling Industry ...... I07 Sto.ry of Arthur Loper ...... 176 Libraries in Bridgehampton ...... 11 j Israel Halsey of Hay Ground ...... I77 Some Landmarks and Colloquialisms ...... 118 Raising Beans ...... I77 Items From An Old Letter ...... 120 Women of Eastern Long Island in Early Days ...... 178 Items From Two Old Diaries ...... 123 Hannah (Pierson) Halsey ...... 179 Xoted Lawsuits ...... 123 "The Ballad of Pudding Hill" ...... 179 . -4 Jurar in the Foregoing Case ...... 128 How Phebe Saved Her Bread ...... 180 -4nother Juror in the Same Case ...... 123 Story of Hannah H . Brown ...... 181 -% Mutiny ...... 129 Mrs. Canstant Lhommedieu ...... 181 "The Fox Case" or "Pierson vs. Post" ...... 131 Abigail (Hempstead) Moore and her Daughter Fanny 181 Another Noted Lawsuit ...... 13 I Story of Two Shinnecock Indian Women ...... 183 1.Iecox Bay Oyster Case ...... 132 Some of the Noted Men of This Community ...... 184 Szhedule of Votes in Suffdk County ...... 133 Chancellor Nathan Sandford ...... I& . Items of Local Historical Interest ...... I34 David Gelston ...... 18j Lot Called Potash ...... 13/J Hon . Abraham Topping Rose ...... Picking Bayberries ...... 130 Judge Henry Parscns Hedges ...... 3 Stocks Built in Bridgehampton ...... I37 Deacon David Hedges ...... 186 "The Curse of Scuttle Hole" ...... 138 Colonel Edwin Rose ...... 186 An Old Assessment Rall for the.Year 1805 ...... 138 Judge Hugh Halsey ...... 186 Sketches From Koyack Hlstory ...... 140 Bridgehampton L4en of the Medical Fraternity ...... 187 Cemeteries in Koyack ...... 14 Dr. Stephen Halsey ...... 187 Sketches of "Korth West" History ...... 145 Dr. Stephen Halsey (2nd) ...... 187 Incidents in the Lives of Some Old Residents ...... 146 Dr. Kathaniei Topping ...... 187 The Story of Silas Cook (Drum Major) ...... I47 Dr. John L . Gardiner ...... 187 David P. Platt, An Old Time Peddler ...... 148 Dr. Levi D . Wright ...... 187 Samuel Brown, of Butter Lane s ...... 149 Dr . Edgar B. Mulford ...... 188 ILLUSTRATIONS

E age Page -Auld Lang Syne ...... s Ellis Squires House. built I730 ...... 83 North Sea Harbor and Rock 31onument ...... I3 Rev . Edward Hopper ...... 90 Tablet on Rock Jlonurnent ...... I3 Ocean in a Storm at llecox ...... 91,02 British Fort, 3 orth of Canoe Place during the Revolution 14 Ice on the Ocean Shore at Water JIill, Winter 1918..... 93 Tow of Coal Barges Off Slc:ox ...... I7 Founders' hlonument in Bridgehampton ...... 94.9j Panoramic View From Tower on John L . Gardiner Ship "Catherine" on the shore at Amagansett, August j, House ...... IS 18j1 ...... ss Toll House on Sag Harbcr-Bridgehampton Turnpike ... ..31 Brig "Jlars" wrecked at .\paquogue, IS&, photo taken Toll House on Sag Harbor-East Hampton Turnpike ... ..11 I931 ...... 100 Watermill, Water Jlill, built in 164-4-j ...... 27 French ship ''.Alexander Levalley," February IS, IS~Aat Spider Legged Mill, Bridgehampton, late 18th and early Miizkapogue ...... IOO 19th Century ...... 2s Schooner "Sorthcliff, " M'ainscott, llay, I923 ...... 100 Beebe 31ill built in Sag Harbor IS^ ...... q Sorwegian Bark "Clan Galbraith." July 22, 1916, Flying Corwith Windmill, Water -\Iill, built in Sag Harbcr 1800 3 Point ...... 103 Hay Ground Windmill, built ISOI ...... 30 Schooner "Geo . P. Hudson. " .April 9, I@, Shinnecock Wainscott Windmill, built in Southampton 1813 ...... 30 Hills ...... ~m -4tlantic Flour Mills (Roger Francis) 1sj1-1Sj9...... 31 "Lc.uis LePlace, " Lone Hill, February 9, ~Sgj...... IOO Daniel Hildreth Saw Mill, 1822 ...... 31 llontauk Lighthouse, built- 1791 ...... 106 WainScott School House, 1827-1884...... 3.3 Ponquogue Lighthouse. built 1Sj j ...... 106 Sagapcnack School House, District So. 10, IS~O-ISS~... 33 Whale on shore at Amagansett ...... 107 Stephen Burroughs ...... 35 Sailors' llonument in Oakland Cemetery, Sag Harbor . . I I : Secord School House in District 9 ...... First Hampton Libraq., Bridgehampton, 1877 ...... 116 Third School House in District So. 9, IS-~.I@I ...... 3 Present Hampton Lihrary in Bridgehampton ...... 116 Hay Ground Schocl House, District Xo. S, 1S30.1Sg1 .... 3s Charles Rogers ...... 1x7 North District School House, Distrizt KO. IS, IS^-1go3. 40 Capt . James R . Huntting ...... 117 Clinton Academy, East Hampton, built 1784 ...... @ John F. Youngs ...... 117 Southampton Academy, 1831-1Sg3...... LFZ \iTilliam Gardiner ...... I I j Bridgehamptcn Academy . 1Sj9-1907 ...... 4.3 Capt . Wickham S . Havens ...... 117 Site of First Church in Bridgehampton on Bridge Lane . 44 Henry P . Hedges ...... 117 First Church in Eridgehampton (Sagg) 1671 ...... 4 Daniel Hildreth ...... 123 Rev. William Vesey ...... 45 Mary (White) Hildreth ...... 123 Second Church in Bridgehampton, I 737-1Sq ...... 45 Deacon John Cook, 1722-1804 ...... 135 Present Presbyterian Church, 18- ...... 4 Old Van Scov Heuse and Oak Tree at Sorth West ..... 14; St. Ann's Episcopal Church, I@ ...... 47 The Author's Home ...... Roman Catholic Church, Bridgehzmpton, 1914 ...... 4s Sorth Haven Bridge Toll House and Jared LVade's Boat First M . E . Church in Bridgehampton, 1821.1S33 ...... 4s House ...... Second kl. E . Church. Bridgehampton, 1833-ISTI...... 19 Old .Arsenal at Sag Harbor ...... Present ?tZ. E. Church in Bridgehampton, IS~I...... 19 The Thomas Sandford Hc.me, Scuttle Hole ...... Old Haines House, Scuttle Hole, 1679 ...... 6 I Sathan Sandford. 17 77-1838 ...... Ezekiel Sandford's House, Bridge Lane, 16% ...... 61 Judge Hugh Halsey. I 7~1-18jS...... John Wick's Tavern, 1686 ...... 61 Henry P . Hedges. 1817-191 I ...... Job Pierson House, Sagaponack. 169j ...... 61 Colonel Edwin Rose. 1807-1861 ...... Thomas Strcng, later Abner, 1695 ...... 61 Judge Abraham T . Rose. I 792-18jj ...... Thomas Osborn, later Elisha, 1700 ...... 61 David Gelston. I 7~-1828...... Jloses Rose, later E . llooney, Sagaponack, I 705 ...... 63 Dr. Sathaniel Topping. I 790-1871 ...... Widow To9ping House, later Chas. H . Hildreth, I j2j ... 63 Dr. John L . Gardiner. 1823-1908...... Stephen Hedges, later Jared, later Charles O., I 730 ..... 63 Dr. Levi D . \\'right. 1810-1883...... Zacheus Rcse, later Stephen, later Henq- Martin, I 730 .. 63 Dr. Edgxr B . llulford. 1848-1926...... James Brown Parsonage, later Woolworth, 1730 ...... 63 Sylvester Strong, later Edwin, Wainscott, 1740...... 63 Map Capt . William Pierson, later Josiah Rogers, Sagaponack, Slap extending from C\iater Mill to \i7ainscott--.A bout I740 ...... 55 the year 1670 ...... I94 Timcthy Pierson. Sr., later L . P . Topping, I71j ...... 65 Map extending fiom M7ater Mill to \\-ainscott-Xl~out Ethan Halsej; later Widow Magee, 1775 ...... 63 the year 1700 ...... 195 Ebenezer Edwards House, later Gelston, Butter Lane, I 747 65 Sorth Side Division, October m. I 712 ...... 196 Ethan Topping, Hay Ground, 1775 ...... 65 Slap extending from Liiater llill to Wainscott-About Jlathew Halsey, later Richard, Lumber Lane, 1749 ...... 65 the year I jjo ...... Stephen Topping, later Paul, later E . 0. Hedges, I jjo ... 67 Map of Sag Harbor in Early Days ...... :9 Andrew- Barron, later Lemuel Haines, I jjo ...... 67 Bridgehampton Center-About the year 1890 ...... 199 Paul Halsey, Jr., later Watsc.n, I jjj ...... 67 ?\lap extending from Water Mill to Wainscott-.About Deacsn David Hedges, later Wilkes Hedges, I 7jj ...... 67 the year I& ...... 200 Old Hildreth House, Mecox, 1690-1Sj3 ...... 6$ Slap extending from Water Mill to Wainscott-About Stephen Topping, later Paul, later E . 0. Hedges, Ijjo ... 67 the year IS~O...... 201 Jonas Wood, later Ebenezttr Ik7hite, 1676-1Sj6...... 6s Bridgehampton Center-About 18j0 ...... 202 Abigail Howell Price ...... 76 Bridgehampton Center-About the year 1000 ...... 203 British Outpost at the Brick Kilns. captured ?\lay 23, 1777 77 Map extending from Water Mill to Wainscott-About First Stars and Stripes known as the John Hulburt Flap 81 the year goo ...... 204 FOREWORD On the 27th day of April, in the yezr 18j4, the the aid given by Mr. and Nrs. Addison 11. Cook. Rev. David 31. Miller was installed minister of the Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin Cook, Miss Elvira Sandford, Presbyterian church in Bridgehampton, Long Is- Mrs. Mary J. Graham, Mr. Charles -4.Ludlow, Mr. land, New York; he served in this capacity until his Maltby G. Rose, Mr. Fred Rose, Mrs. C. H. Lev- death June zgth, 185;. erich, Mr. Stephen Hedges, Mr. Elisha 0. Hedges, During his short pastorate in this place he made Mrs. James M. Hedges, Mr. James Ludlow, Mr. a pen-sketched map of this parish extending from Henry Howell, Mrs. J. B. Brown. Mr. Llrilliam Fos- Water Mill to Wainscott, and included all that ter- ter, Mrs. H. P. Hedges, Mrs. Leander P. Halaey, ritory from the ocean to that range of hills lying tc! Mr. and Mrs. C. Everett Halsey, Miss Mary Top- the north of Bridgehampton, giving the roads, locat- ping, Miss H. B. Hedges, Miss Cora Post, Mr. ing the residences, and in most cases naming the James S. Strong, Mr. George E. Strong, Mr. Charles residents. S. Rogers, Mr. Herbert Osborn, Mr. H. hlorgan In ascertaining the distances I think he adopted Topping, Mr. Augustus Cook, Mr. E. H. Dickinson. the old-time method of tying a cord to the rim of Mr. J. E. Jennings, Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Topping, his carriage wheel, measuring the circun~ference, Miss Antoinette White, Mrs. John IVhite, Sr. ; Ilrs. and counting the revolutions, this measurement Martha -4ldrich. Mr. and Mrs. -4. P. Rogers, Mrs. ll-ould be quite accurate. Melvin Halsey, Mr. James H. Corwith, 3Ir. and Upon studying this map I realized that here was a Mrs. John H. Hand, Mr. J. Hervey Topping, Mr. feature of our local history that had never been writ- H. D. Sleight, Mr. Morton Pennypacker, and per- ten or placed on record. that aroused my interest. haps others, \\;horn I may have omitted, but not and led me to undertake the compiling of a series of intentionally. maps beginning with the year 1900, and going back Then there were the diaries of Mr. Daniel Hil- in 50-year periods to the year 1700, and the last a dreth, Samuel -4. Cook, S. Ichabod Seabury, Noah 30-year period to 1670, when Bridgehampton \\-as H. Halsey and others. I then consulted old deeds, so years old; eliminating from the map of each Toll-n Records. Wills and letters and documents in period every road laid out after the date of that map, the County Clerk's office. The "Halsey Genealogy" and inserting every road that had been closed or dis- I am obliged to rank among the first and most im- continued since each one of those dates, so that each portant of all aids. then the "History of East Hamp- map should be correct as of its own particular date: ton" by the Hon. H. P. Hedges, "Howell's History locating the residences and naming the residents as of Southamptcn". "lfen~orialsof old Bridgehamp- of each date as far as possible. ton" by Mr. James Truslo\v -2darns was of great Had this work been done several generations ago assistance in that it gave the inscriptions on the it ~vouldhave been comparatively easy, but at this tonlbstones in the five old graveyards in this area, late date I realized the extent of the task before I also many incidents of local history related in that hegan, and hesitated at first, knowing that at my most interesting book. best there \vould be inany errors, but having been I would emphasize my appreciation for the pub- interested in local history all of my life. I at last lished articles by the late Mr. Charles H. Hildreth, decided to undertake this task. ancient local history as related by Mrs. -Abigail Much of the information I obtained by convers- Sweezey and Miss Clara Haines, and that as the ing years ago with Inen and women of this entire latter 11-35 past go years of age, this was information co~nrnunitywho were at that time well advanced in nowhere else obtainable. years, but whose memory was sound and active. I I would especially rnention the courtesy and kind- \\-as fortunate in having been blest with a good mem- ness of the "E.Belcher Hyde Company", in granting ory. so that I retained those facts and arn now able rile perlnission to copy fro11 their atlas-map of this to record them. area, whereby I could correct errors in measurements I owe very much to the efficient work of my niece, and angles in the hfiller map. Miss Gertrude T. Leverich, who. in research u-ork. I would also include "Griffin's Journal" published perhaps did as much as I myself. I ~vouldinclude by -Augustus Griffin in the year 1857. AULD LANG SYNE

Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to mind? Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And auld lang syne? SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

HISTORICAL FACTS RJXATING TO FOUNDING OF THE FIRST ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW YORK STATE! In the year 1620, King James the First, of Eng- so much goods either to thern their heirs, executors land, granted a patent to the Plymouth Company for and Assipes. (If they shall desire it,) as their all the land lying between forty and forty-eight de- Seuerall Somme or Somnles of Monney Shall -%rn- grees north latitude, extending from sea to sea. mount vnto, and moreover, to each of those persons That meant from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and -\boue named. or their -4ssignes, he shall transporte included Long Island and the territory thus granted to each man -4 person and A tunne of goods free. 11.-as called "Kew England". But in case that any of the forenamed Persons shall In 1621, the Plymouth Council granted the Yly- not haue occasion for the transportacon of soe much mouth patent ; in 1628, the Massachusetts patent : goods as his money shall Ammount vnto, that then in 1631, the Connecticut patent, and on the 2znd of the said Daniell is to make them payment of the re- .April. 163j, granted a patent for the whole of Long mainder of the monney by the end of two yeares Island to William Alexander, Earl of Stirling. next ensueing the date hereof, and likewise this ves- -4pril 26th, 1636, the Earl of Stirling appointed sell shall be for the vse of the Plantacon, and that James Farrett as his agent on Long Island, and by the said Daniell shall not sell this vessel1 withsut a power of attorney authorized him to act. the consent of the Major pt. of the Company. _And Farrett was allowed to take up a certain arnount that the vessell shall be reddy at the Towne of of land wherever he might choose upon the Island, Lynne to Transporte such goods as the -Aforesaid in consideration of his services. In exercising this vndertakers shall -Appoint, that is to say. three right he made choice of Shelter Island and Robin's tymes in the yeare, ffurthermore, if In case that any Island. Person or Persons shall not haue occasion to Trans- ol In the early part of the year 1G40, a company port any goods that then the said Daniell is to pay young Englishmen. eight in number, banded them- them their Somme or So~nmesof Monney together selves together at Lynn, Mass., purchased a sn~all with Allowence for tunne of goods and .i person sloop for the sum of 80 pounds, and started out to within the tearme of two years next ensueing the establish a new colony on Long Island. date hereof, And for the full performance of * * * This sloop was commanded by Capt. Daniel said Daniell hath* our [THREE LINES GONE] ffur- Howe. By a mutual agreement they made over their thern~orewhere as it is expressed formerly that the rights or shares as owners of this vessel to Capt. vessell shall come to our Intended Plantacon three Howe. for the consideration that he was to transport tymes in the yeare, we thought good to expresse the their goods and passengers for certain specified rates, tymes, viz: the first Moneth, the fourth nloneth and and keep the vessel. and make as many as three trips the eighth moneth. a year between Lynn and their proposed plsntation Furthermere for the rates of persons, goods and on the Island. "The Disposal1 of the Vessell" was chattell. if there proue any difference betweene vs, consulnmated and the agreement entered into before the vndertakers and the Said Daniell How. that they left Lynn. This document was dated March then it shall be reffered to two men whome they and ~oth,1639. (O.S.) he shall chuse. The Disposal1 of the Vessell Furthermore for as much as Allen Bread, Thonlas MARCH10, 1639. Halsey and William Harker Are by the Consent of In consideracon that Edward HotvelI hath dis- the company come into and party vndertakers with bursed I j Ib. and Edmond ffarington 10 lb., Josias vs, we Edward Howell, Daniell How and Henrv Stanborough j lb.. George JVelbe 10 lb., Job Sayre 1Valton have consigned three of our pts. that is to j Ib.. Edmond Needham j Ib., Henry Walton TO each man A howse lott, plantinge lott and farme Ib., and Thomas Sayre j Ib., Itt is Agreede vpon answerable to the rest of ye vndertakers for their that wee, the forenamed vndertakers haue disposed disbursement of five pounds A man to vs the aboue of our seuerall pts of our vessell to Daniell How. said vndertakers, That is to say whereas 1Ir. Howell In Consideracon whereof hee is to transporte then1 had 3 lotts he shall have but two, and Daniell How- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY for 3 lots shall have but two and Henry iValton for This was the reason that all criminal cases occur- 2 lots shall haue but one. ring in this Colony after this date had to be tried EDWARD HOh"LL, in Hartford. D-AKIEL HOW, In 1649, Phebe Halsey, wife of Thomas Iialsey. HENR. WALTON. 1st. was murdered in Southampton by Indians. The This company purchased cf James Farrett, the magistrates of Southampton sent for Wyandanch right to further ~urchaseof the Indians, and thus to (who was chief sachem of the Long Island Indians. possess, eight miles square anywhere on the Island and lived at Montauk) to come to Southampton and that they might select. The equivalent to be paid identify, if possible, the guilty ones. to Farrett for this right was four bushels of corn. This Sachem's counselors, fearing the colonists July 7th following this, Farrett defines the boun- would condemn him to death by way of retaliation, daries of the plantation as "beginning at the isthmus advised him not to go. Wyandanch asked the advice now called 'Canoe Place' and extending eastward the of his friend, Lyon Gardiner, who was his guest at whole breadth of the land as far as the present limits of the Town go". This grant included the area co17- this time. Mr. Gardiner advised him to go at once. and agreed to remain with the Montauks as hostage ered by the maps I have compiled, and the llalnes of some of the original colonists are still in evidence for his safety. in this locality, and their descecdants, whose names .Accordingly he went, in answer to his summons. have been changed by marriage, are many more. On the way he apprehended the murderers, and de- December 13th~ 1640, the Shinnecock Indians livered them to the magistrates in Southa~npton. gave to the settlers a deed for this land. in considera- They proved not to be Long Island Indians, but two tion of sixteen coats, already received, and sixty Pequots. who after being tried and condemned by bushels of corn to be delivered by the last of Septem- the courts in Hartford, were duly executed. ber, 1641, and a further condition that "the wltite In 1662 the Kew Haven Colony was united \vith settlers should defend them against the unla~vfuland that of Connecticut, and a more liberal charter grant- unjust attack of any other Indians". ed them by King Charles 11, and on the strength of The salne year that these colonists left Lynn and the clause in this new charter which included the established themselves in the new settlement at "islands adjacent", Connecticut claimed Long Is- Southampton (Old Town), the Earl of Stirling died, land. and was succeeded by his son, who also died soon This was the situation until March, 1664. when afterward. His heir surrendered the grant of Long King Charles the Second, made a new grant to his Island soon after, and it was embodied in the grant brother, James. the Duke of York, incitiding the of King Charles I1 with other territory. and Islands territory occupied b-the Dutch at New .\~nsterdam, adjacent, to his brother James, Duke of York. This and the whole of Long Island. This of course in- was on March rath, 1664. cluded all of the coionies on eastern Long Island, During the several years that had passed hetlveen which at this time were under the jurisdiction of the time Stirling's patent was abandoned, and the C'onnecticut. granting of the new charter of Connecticut in 1662, The Duke fitted out an expedition and was about the eastern portion of Long Island was not claimed to take his new patent by force. but Governor St~ij-- bj- any power, consecluently the settlers held the con- resant final&- decided to surrender rather than fight. trolling power in their own hands, and governed While under the protection of the Connecticut their affairs according to their own wishes. Colony the Long Island Colonists u-ere represented After managing their affairs in an independent by deputies in the Colonial ?issembly. This was manner for a few years. some of the settlements on highly satisfactory to them, and because they were Long Island, that cocld do so, voluntarily placed represented, they 11-ere very willing to be taxed. themselves under the protection of the Kew England The Duke appointed Cot Xicolls, (one of his of- colonies. ficers) Governor of his netvly-acquired possessions. Southanlpton was the first to do this, and sought and on the 20th of -August of 1664 Governor Kicolls the protecticn of Connecticut in 1641 Other towns issued a proclamation to the people of their pros- followed later. pective jurisdiction, promising to those who shall SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

submit to "His Majesty's" government as good sub- held in Hempstead, on the first of March ensuing. jects. the peaceable enjoyment of whatever God's \Vhen these deputies assembled, they were so much blessing and their honest industry have furnished pieased by the prospect of better things than they had them with, and all other privileges with his hlajesty's before enjoyed, that they all signed a memorial of English subjects. This proclamation was issued par- gratitude and loyalty, addressing the same to "His ticularly for the influence it might have on the Dutch, Royal Highness the Duke of York". who surrendered as I have stated, and it served also The delegates from Southampton Town were as a gentle reminder to all of the colonies of eastern John Howell and Thomas Topping. These delegates Long Island, that ere long a demand or decree would were given to understand that the object of the as- be proclaimed demanding that they withdraw from sembly was to establish the boundaries of the differ- under the jurisdiction of Connecticut, thereby sever- ent towns, but it really was to submit to them a code ing their political connection and transferring the of laws, compiled by the Duke, and to secure their same to the Duke's government. assent to the same, though the town boundaries were I have already intimated that other towns on east- established. ern Long Island followed the example of Southamp- These are known in history as the "Duke's Laws" ton. and sought the protection of Connecticut. There and united Long Island, Staten Island and West- n as, however, one exception. chester into one shire or province called Yorkshire. In 1648 Southold joined the colony of New This was divided into three parts called "ridings". Haven, after which the territory under the jurisdic- The territory covered by these maps, being in Suf- tion and controlled by the New Haven Colony con- folk County, was in the "East Riding of Yorkshire". sisted of New Haven. Jlilford, Guilford, Stanford. It soon became apparent not only to the delegates Rranford and Southold. which at this time included who attended this assembly, but to the Colonists as all of the land on the north fork of the Island from well, that the promises were mere "scraps of paper" IT'ading River to Oyster Ponds, now Orient, also to use a modern expression, and "that the people Red Creek, Flanders, Plum Island. Fisher's Island, were not to have a voice in the legislation of the Long Island Sound and perhaps Great and Little colony, nor the privilege of electing their own mag- Peconic Bays. istrates". .After the Duke of York had acquired Wen- .Am- Then it was that the people displayed a disposition sterdam and the western portion of Long Island to rebel, among whom were some of the men, the formerly held by the Dutch, he of course demanded location of whose holmes, as well as those of their that Connecticut should release to him the Long descendants, are shown on these maps. Island Colonies. Connecticut at first insisted upon On October 8th, 1670, (the year date of my first her clainl to them. Governor Winthrop was called map) "-1 special levy was made upon the towns or' upon to act as mediator, and through his influence, 1,ong Island, to raise funds to repair the fort at both parties finally consented to the change. Sew York. In reply to this demand, at a joint 011 the 30th of Xovember, 1664, Governor Nicolls meeting by delegates, Southampton, Southold and called together a few- representatives from both Con- East Hampton, expressed their willingness to sub- necticut and Long Island. -4fter listening to their nilt to the tax, if they could be allowed the right of reasons why the eastern towns of Long Island should representation in the legislature". East Haimpton not be separated from Connecticut, he decided that supplemented their vote with "But not otherwise". Long Island Sound should be the boundary betweell This was really the first evidence of that spirit of that colony and the colony or province of Sen- 1-ork. rebellion or retaliation that made itself so strongly 7'0 this decision, the colonial delegates finally as- manifest a little more than one hundred years later. sented, the!- really having no alternative. resulting in a war that lasted for seven long years, Then it was that Long Is!and for the first time, or froill I j 76 to 1783. came \~-hollj-under the control of English royalty. In 1667 Governor Kicolls was succeeded by Fran- In February of 1665, Governor Nicolls issued a cis Lovelace and he ordered the tax referred to above proclamation directing the people of each town on levied, but his adnlinistration \\-as cut short by Eng- the Island to send two deputies to a meeting to be land becoming illrolved in a war with Holland, so SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

that on July 3oth, 1673, Kew and the whole representatives. The fact that caused him to do colony surrendered to the Dutch, and Anthony Colve this was the fear of a general uprising of the colon- was appointed Governor. The former Dutch colon- ists and in compliance with the popular feeiing. ists readily submitted to his rule, but not so those of The first assembly of the colony of New York the East Riding. under Gov. Dongan was held October ~ph,rG3. Southampton, East Han~ptonand Southold re- when they repealed some of the most obnoxious ot' fused to consider any compromise. They at once the Duke's laws. At this session an act was passed sent delegates to Connecticut, and sought protection abolishing the "ridings" and organizing in their under that colony. Their request was granted, and stead the counties of Kings, Queens and Suffolk. these three towns were organized into a countj- King Charles 11, of England, died February 6th, (Suffolk) under the jurisdiction of Connecticut. 1685, and the Duke of York came to the thr~ne under the title of James He then appointed Sir On June zgth, 1674, the Duke of York received 11. Edmund Andros governor of all of the colonies oi a new patent from the King for the province of New Xew England, including New York. York, and appointed Edmond -Andros Governor. He The foregoing is a short account of the history took control October 31st. 1674. and conditions as they prevailed in the colonies from The three towns of Suffolk would not submit to the time of the first settlement to about the year his rule, but were finally obliged to, and so again I joo, and those people living in the area included came under the rule of the Duke's government. in these maps were subjected to the same unjust On the 27th of August, 1683, Col. Thomas Don- taxation, or securing new patents under each new gan was appointed Governor of the colony, with in- governor that all other colonists were compelled to structions to call a general assembly of the people's do.

FIRST ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW YORK STATE

In 1620 Britain's frontier had extended across the referring to that water or sea which formed the Atlantic to Massachusetts and the Plymouth Colony. northern boundary of the Colony, it was only na- It took twenty years for that frontier to reach tural that they should say, the "North Sea". Southampton and establish a colony at "Old Town" The fact of their landing at North Sea is enough in 1640, and it was another similar period before to Put that place on the map for all time- What- Bridgeharnpton was declared a separate parish in Plymouth Rock was to the Pilgrims and the llassa- T 660. chusetts Colony, Conscience Point, Korth Sea and A small band of adventurers left Lynn, Mass.. Old Town, Southampton. were to these Colonists. crossed the Sound, then went westward to Cow Bay, and should be to us all. This was really the begin- where they met opposition from the D u t c h; they ning of our history. The place of landing is now then returned by way of Peconic Bay, and landed well marked through the efforts of the Southampton Colonial Society. a.t North Sea. They had to trek their way through North Sea was for many years the seapcrt for the forest to a place they afterward called "Old this Colony, and at an early date was made a Port Town". cf Entry with an established Custom House. Col. There was no name assigned to that particular Docts., Vol. XIV, P. 608, "In June, 1670 John Lay- place of landing at that time, for a number of years ton was appc-inted a Sub-collector of Southampton this locality w-as known as and called "Northamp- and places adjacent". This establishes the date of ton" but later changed to "North Sea". The one the first Custom House in Southampton To\\-nship. main, important feature of the location of their new Here was also the first tavern mentioned in our local home. was the Ocean or Sea, that, in its boundless history, which w-as known as and called an "ordi- magnitude lay before them to the south, so when nary." SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

North Sea Harbor and Rock Monument Tablet on Rock Monument

On the 6th of September, 1620, the Pilgrims, as were back once more. The plaintive song of the they were called, began their long and perilous voy- Meadow Lark was an inspiration that stirred the age to America. Driven by storms and adverse soul of the Red Man to thank the Great Spirit, as 11-inds far from their intended course, they came to well as the spirit of the W h i t e M an to praise his anchor in Cape Cod Bay November gth, 63 days Creator for placing with them such a sweet-voiced out from Plymouth, England. What an unpropi- singer as a permanent resident. tious time to land on a bleak and barren coast to These were the conditions when Capt. Daniel undertake the founding of a colony. The forests Howe landed his passengers on Conscience Point at at that time were for the most part denuded of foli- North Sea. We all agree in saying what a contrast age. -411 nature was in the "sear and yellow leaf". was this, with the landing of the Pilgrims; yes, very The cold wintry winds and biting frosts were near true, but the one led to the other. Perhaps this con- at hand. No opportunity to plant crops until after trast is no greater or more marked, than if w-e com- passing through the bitter experiences of a long, pare our present surroundings and comforts that we cold, desolate, and as it proved, disastrous New Eng- look upon as commonplace, with the hardships, de- land winter. nials and dangers that those Colonists were called Let us place in contrast with this, the landing of upon to endure that we might enjoy the blessings of the Colonists at North Sea, the latter part of May today, which are really the fruits of their labor; the or early in June of the year 1640. In the first place, one led to the other. it \\-as the most beautiful time of the year. The for- The first year must have been a strenuous one, ests were in full foliage. The abundant growth of with building such shelters as could be constructed wild flowers that so profusely decorate the landscape hastily, and clearing enough land on which to plant today, were all in evidence then. The vast numbers corn and other crops. They bought the land for a of wild fowl, with no one to molest had already stipulated price from the Indians, and in no case did hatched their broods, and were at that time proudly they usurp land or property from the Red Man, but parading them on creek and upland, vying with one in the contract they agreed to assist in the defense of another in their ambition to rear the larger family. the Indians against hostile tribes, for the eastern The migratory birds that had spent the winter Long Island tribes were not at peace with the Pe- nlonths in southern climes, had returned to their cluots nor Narragansetts. former summer homes, in some cases to repair their The first Colonists formed a joint stock company old houses. but generally to build new ones. The with a capital of 6,000 Pounds Sterling divided into oriole, tanager, thrush. warbler, bobolink, wren, and 40 shares of I jo Pounds each. They afterwards 211 of the others including the humming bird, were added one more share and gave it to the Minister or all back from their winter sojourn. Yes; they had Pastor, this made 41 lots that each division of land follo~vedthe guidance of an -411 Wise Creator. and should be divided into before it was allotted. If a SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

man paid 300 Pounds, he could draw two shares or 1641, but so narrow in his religious views that his lots, if he paid only jo Pounds he could only draw fiock dissented, they being more liberal. This led at one third of a share or lot, and this, in the To\vn last to his removal. The colonists as a whole were Records is known as a "Fifty." very strict in their religious life, and passed laws There were cases where a mechanic was given that were truly stringent. some so much so that they land, if he xvould consent to stay and work at his were never enforced, nor transgressors of the same trade for a term of years. In the Southampton punished. Town Records. Vol. 11, page 75, "Ezekiel Sand- Iiihen the need for more land \\-as evident, the ford was to have Ij acres on condition of making natural and in fact the only way \\-as to extend to cart wheels for a term of seven years." -And again, the east because of its being the best land. and in this T. R. Vol. I. page 81, "Jeremy Veale is given a hun- extension of tillable territory we at once realize that dred pound lot if he settle here and do all black- n-e are within the area covered by our niaps. These smith work." different sections were called "Divisions" and the The names of the eight original "undertakers" nlen who had charge of this work \\-ere known as were as follows : Edward Hoxvell, Edmond Farring- the "Layers out of Land", 11-e ~vouldprobably call ton, Edmond Needham, Thomas Sayre, Josiah Stan- them surveyors. borough, George Welbe, Henry IValton and Job The Forty acre, Thirty acre or Twelve acre Divi- Sayre. Eleven other heads of families were added sions denoted that there were that number of acres to this number before they left Lynn, Mass. Their in each plot in that particular division :this. ho\vever, nzmes were John Cooper, Allen Breed, IVilliam Har- did net always hold true, for many tinles the men ker, Thomas Halsey, Tnomas Newell, John Far- assigned to this work sought to equalize the value ringon. Richard Odell, Philip Kirtland, Nathaniel rather than the area of these plots. -1 plot of pocr Kirtland, Thomas Tern-, Thomas Farrington. land was often supplemented by one of good iand. We know but little of this group of men, or of called in the Records an "-Amendment" or else given their individual characteristics, save in a few in- as an amendment to some ether plot. stances. They were evidently men who thought and In the next chapter I will give a short historicai acted for themselves, for the records clearly show sketch of the Southampton Township taken as a this to be the case. Edward Howell was the first u hole. one to be styled "gentlen~an". In all probability he was the leader judging from a financial standpoint, and one whose opinion was sought in all matters of importance. Thomas Halseq- was aggressive and self-reliant to such a degree that he \\-as often cen- sured and in some cases fined for contempt. but us- ually the fine was remitted, but, this was also true of 'henry Peirson*, the first Town Clerk. who joined the Colony some time after the first named group; a man of ability and truly I\-orthq- of honor, one to whom of this day ou-e a debt of gratitude for the thorough work he did in recording our early Town history. -Abraham Peirson was a man of sterling character, British Fort-North of Canoe Place during the Revo- the first minister in the Colony, probab1:- came in lution, as it appears at the present time.

*Later changed to Pierson.

G!ks2****** G!ks2****** SKETCHES FROM LOC-4L HISTORY

HISTORY OF SOUTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP

SOUTH-\&IPTOS, one of the ten townships The Bible was their textbook. Their government con~prisingthe County of Suffolk, State of New was founded on the "Laws of Judgnent, as gi\-en by S'ork. -Area, 91,500 acres. Sot named from the Noses to the Comn~on~vealthof Israel." They built town in the south of England bearing the same a church the second year of the colony, and settled name, but from the Earl of Southampton, who was -Abraham Pierson as their minister. Schools were very active in colonizing America. Eounded on the established almost as soon as the church. The min- south by that mighty ocean which takes its name ister, magistrate, doctor and schoolmaster were auth- from Mount -Atlas, one of the Titans condemnetl to ority in the settlenlents of all disputes. The Patent bear up the pillars of heaven : easterly by East Hamp- for this township antedates the Constitution of the ton tolvnship; northerl? by the waters of Shelter State of Sew I5.orkby many years. Island, Southold and Riverhead tolvnships : westerly The industries have been agriculture, stock rais- by Brookhaven township. ing, (now somewhat displaced by hotels and sum- Its main feature the glacial moraine; a real mer resorts), 11-haling, ship building, fisheries, cab- monument to that giant whose unmeasured strength inet work, flouring mills, cotton and stocking fac- scooped out the Connecticut valley. conveyed the en- tories, leather and morocco tanneries, watchcases, tire mass southward until checked by the sea, where ciock making, engraving machinery, brick-making, the outwash from the melting ice sheet fornled that cranberry culture and poultry. Some of the first series of valle5-s extending to the south. carrying the importations of thoroughbred livestock came into rich alluvial deposits. which, levelled by water ac- this township. Silk industry was tested but failed. tion, fornled that unequalled section of farm land Edward Howell built the first watermil! in 16-14, estending the entire length of its southern border. the11 followed the horsen~ili,the spider legged Inill Further north are huge granite boulders, torn from and the Dutch windmill, of which there are still four the mother ledge, and dropped where the ice melted, in this town. The Beebe (now Bern-ind) \\-indmill also nill lions of tons of pebbles, once rough chips is the best preserved of any. from rock ledges, now smoothed and polished The finest specimens of early 19th century archi- through endless ages of activity in Kature's work- tecture may be found here. The first flag bearing shop. Here is also located the most noted chain of the "Stars and Stripes," known as the "John HuI- "kettles." (geologica11~-speaking) in eastern -her- burt" flag, was made and carried from this town- ica. ship, and antedates the Betsy Ross flag by about Here \\-as the forn~erhome of the peaceful Shin-. seven months. necock, TVeeckatuck, and Koyack tribes of Indians. The first newspaper ever published on Long Island Southampton was the first English colony in Xew was the "Long Island Herald.'' by David Frothing- York State, established early in June of the year ham, at Sag Harbor, in the tolvn of Southampton, 1640. by a ccmpany of about t\vent)- men, of the May 10th. 1791. 1:est blood and highest type of manhood in the Mass- -4 vital political force in this Town was the town achusetts colony. plainly manifest to this day in the meeting, declared by Bryce, the English writer, to niental, moral and physical characters of their de- have been "the most perfect school of self goyern- scendants as illustrated in the Ho\vell, Hedges. Hal- ment in an)- modern country." sej-. Cook. Sayre. Post. Foster. Terry. Pelletreau, Fro111 the date of its earliest histor-, the citizens Sandford. White. Hand, Topping. Rogers, Pierson, of this township have ever been loyal to their coun- lTToodruff, Ludlow. Huntting, Jagger and many try, both in times of war and peace. JVe trust that other falnilies. the faith of our fathers is living still. and may that Here is the British fort, but little known, and sel- faith never grow less. dom mentioned. yet it was the key to British control The assessed valuation of the property in this of eastern Long Island during the Revolution. -- Town in 1933 was $38,378,203. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

The population in the year I930 was I 3,313. the said state. not included in the district of Sagg- The first Custom House ever established by the Harbor." United States Government in the Township of Sagg-Harbor is the first named port of entry in Southampton was at Sag Harbor. Kew k'ork State, according to this law and is estab- In 1-01. I, Chapter 3j, p. 168 of the "Laws of the lished as such. United States of America," I quote: "The State of The first post office in the township of Southamp- Kew York shall be two districts for the collection of ton was Sag Harbor. established Jan. s st, I jg j ; the duties: to wit: Sagg-Harbor on Nassau or Long Is- second, Bridgeharnpton, established -April st, I jg j, and then third. Southampton, established -April st, land, and the city of Kew York. each shall be a port I 804. of entry. The district of Sagg-Harbor shall include "This Act was signed by Frederick -Augustus all bays, harbors, rivers and shores within the two Muhlenberg, Speaker of the House of Representa- points of land which are called Oyster Pond Point tives ; John Adams, Vice-President of the United and Montauk Point; and a collector for the district States, and President of the Senate. shall be appointed to reside in Sagg-Harbor." etc. -Approved -4ugust the Fourth. 1790. "The district of the city of New York shall include George Washington, President of the United such part of the coasts, rivers, bays and harbors of States."

AREA COVERED BY MAPS

The territory covered by these maps is in extent In early days the forest covered almost all of this about j miles east and west, and about 4% miles area and extended nearly to the sea shore. Scrub north and south, covering an area of a little more oak and pine grew where the soil was light and poor, than 30 square miles; the Atlantic mean bounding it the different variety of oaks where the soil was on the south. and on the north that range of hills heavier, also maple and hickory. My Grandfather which was the glacial moraine. said that when a boy the section south of Hunting- The average altitude of the highest of these hills is ton Path was covered with heavy timber and that he about 200 feet, and the valleys with but few excep used to go after hickory nuts in those woods. tions run north and south, this occasioned by the There are a goodly number of upper springs aIong fiow of water from the glacier into or toward the this morainal section or ridge, some of which flow ocean. constantly, and some of these I have every reason In this area is located one of the most noted chain to believe are artesian, in most cases the water is very of "kettles" (geologically speaking) in this entire good. According to the U. S. Government survey. country, consisting of Mecox Bay, Kellis Pond. the corner of Huntington Path and Lumber Lane is Long Pond. Goldfish Pond, Jehu's Pond, Haynes' 115 feet above sea level. and the front piazza floor or Short's Pond, and Camp's Pond. all fonned dur- of my house is 10 feet higher, or 125 feet. Bridge- ing the glacial period ; a wonderful example of the hampton Main street is about 4s feet above sea forces of nature that scooped out what is now the level. I have never heard of a case where borings Connecticut Valley, and brought the whole mass were made down to sea level anywhere in this section consisting of immense boulders, masses of rock torn but that good water was found. from the mother ledge. alluvial deposits, and any- Mecox Bay is the largest body of water in this thing and everything that was in its way, pushed area. and covers about 1100 acres. It abounds in and ground the whole mountain of material until it oysters, clams and fish: when it fills up sufficiently. melted, 'spread out and finally formed what we of nature takes a hand and makes it an arm of the this day are glad to call Long Island. ocean, and again nature in due time closes it up. The SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Mill Pond is perhaps the most beautiful, located in meadow land sold by the Town Proprietors in the \\'ater Mill and covers an area of about 60 acres. year 1816. It \\-as originall? a stream or brook forming an out- To those who are inclined toward the aesthetic, let for the "Seven Ponds," but was dammed in the or wish to get away from the humdrum of every- vear 1644-5 and thus formed the Mill Pond. Kellis day business life, and long to behold nature in all Pond covers about 40 acres, Sagg Pond about roo of its beauty and grandeur, without spending any- acres. Georgica Pond is said to cover an area of thing but a little time and energy, just let them cIimb 7 50 acres, but that seems rather large. I k n o w the hills previously referred to, on a clear day when there are several large creeks, so it may be right. the cloud shadows are just right, and I will venture Of the smaller ponds such as Peter's, Fairfieid, that you would not exchange this view for that from Posabogue and others I have not named the area, the Rigi, Naples, Lookout Mountain, or almost any but \I-ainscott Pond covers about 40 acres, and prior other place you ever visited. Here, as a background to about IOO years ago broke out periodically into you have the old Atlantic, rolling on incessantly in the ocean like Mecox Bay. all of its beauty and grandeur, the same yet always I think the good tillable land in this map area different, carrying on its bosom the commerce of the would be around 10,ooo acres. most of which is oi world. These vessels range all of the way from the the very best for farming, grazing or market garden- sn~allfishing smack to the great "Ocean Liner," ing: this is almost entirely free from rocks or even which at this time might be classed as "Transatlan- pebble stones. arable and very fertile far beyond tic Ferry Boats," more often the coast-wise steamers most land on Long Island. fanned by cool ocean such as the Portland and Boston lines, then the ocean breezes that make work a pleasure, with heat rarely tugs with a string of coal barges bound for the manu- oppressive. and moisture-laden air that keeps vege- facturing towns of New England. Before you is that tation thrifty while other sections suffer from beautiful plain of farming land extending from drought and shrivel with intense heat. X land trulv Southampton to East Harnpton, a real panorama, to blest by nature and one seldom equalled as a home the southwest is the first named village about 7 miles for all classes of men. either rich or poor. Surely distant. then comes Water Mill, then Hay Ground we must honor the men who chose this section for a and Mecox, Bridgehampton lies due south from your habitation, and cleared it for future generations. lookout, then to the southeast is Sagaponack and This section includes a portion of the land laid still further east lies Wainscott. Scattered all along out between the years 1640 and 1648. Sagaponack this shore are the summer homes of city people, and Division laid cut in 1653- hfecox Division laid out many of them are of the finest types of dwellings. in 1677. The "40 Acre Division" laid out in 1679. If you look to the east you may see some of the The "30 acre Division" laid out in 1712: and the houses in East Hampton and Amagansett. Now

TOW OF COAL BARGES OFF MECOX

f 171 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

PANORAMIC VIEW FROM TOWER ON JOHN L. GARDINER HOUSE let us turn about and look to the north. here you be- DULCE DOMUM hold a fine forest extending away to the north shore. Upon a sun-kissed hill fair 'Dulce Domum' stands. beyond, you may see Gardiner's Bay, Shelter Island In form like ancient castle seen in other lands. Sound, LToyackBay, Little and Great Peconic Bays. Here, cron-ned with years of honored. useful life, then the north fcrk of Long Island, Shelter Island. Lives Dr. Gardiner and his loving wife. Gardiner's Island, and beyond these Long Island Here let us enter, for we'll always find Sound, and if the air is very clear you may see the -1gracious hostess, and a welcome kind. Co~~necticutshore. -q11 of the above named bodies IVe'll chat awhile on subjects old and new, of water afford wonderful privileges for yachting Then "go aloft," for you'll enjoy the view. and fishing, no better to be found anywhere on the -\tiantic seaboard, with sufficient depth of water for Far to the south stretch farms all clothed in green: -1quiet little village nestles in between. all classes of boats, and fine harbors for protection Whose church spires gleaming in the evening sun. in bad weather. Point man to Heaven, when earth's life's done. This \vonderful landscape as well as seascape made a very deep impression upon Doctor John Lyon IVhile farther on. _\tlantic's billows rise Gardiner, so much so, that he deternlined if ever he Till dark blue ~vatersseem to reach the skies. retired from active practice, if possible. he ~vouid Or circle eastward, past East-Hampton town build a honle on these hills. This act~zallytook place To where LIontauk's high cliffs are looking do~\-n. in the year 1891. The basement and first story of Slontauk's tall lighthouse, though so far awaj-, his new house, and the basement of his barn was Seems a near neighbor, on this calm. clear day. built cf native stone, and 475 tons of local rock was -And Gardiner's Island-this our genial host, used in its construction. The foundation of this Of all these scenes must surely love the n~ost. house is just 200 feet above sea level, it has a fort)- foot tower and the view fro111 this to\\-er is very fine. For there his English ancestors held undivided sway. The Doctor took great pride and extreme satisfac- Owned the \\-hole Isle, and even at this day ticn in entertaining his friends in this home tvhich Though near three hundred years since brave ~-oung he decided to name "Dulce Domum." On one occa- Lion came, sion Miss Hannah El-iston after a delightful visit Its lovely acres still are in the Gardiner name. wrote a poem descriptive not only of this beautiful Strange tales its ancient manor house could tell home but mentions particularly the kind hospitality Of things that in those early days befell. of both the Doctcr and Mrs. Gardiner. It gives me Of pirate raids and golden treasure hid great pleasure to insert this poem. -And roasted pig devoured by hungry Kidd. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Of feast and revel, beauty, wealth and pride. Xnd there may joy and peace abide, In days when Tyler came to seek a bride, Till sets their sun at life's fair eventide, Or days \\-hen England's queen had deemed it right Until their God in love shall bid then1 come The Gardiner title should be "Lord of JVight.'' Froin Duke Don~umto a fairer home. But, we must "go below" ere daylight flies. Hannah Elliston, And while descending, friend, just use your eyes, For time would fail me ere I'd half begun Bridgehampton, Sept. zlth, 1901. To tell the heirloonls, given from sire to son. The Gardiner coat of arms, the tattered battle flag, The flintlock musket, and the saddle-bag; The spurs, and powder flasks of quaint design, AN OLD RESIDENT DIES Gsed by brave huntsmen of the Gardiner line.

The ancient spinning wheel, and warming pan of old : In the "Old Cemetery" in Bridgehampton is a The samplers worked by dainty hands long cold. tombstone on ic-hich is the follo\ving inscription, There's scarce a niche, as we go do~vnthe stair, "Doctor David Gardiner, son of David Gardiner, of Eut holds some relic, kept with loving care. Flushing, S. Y., and grandson of David, sixth Yro- prietor of Gardiner's Island. Born Jan. I, 1799. IVe're doivn again-..And now we turn aside Died Feb. z j, 1880." To view the chimney, Mrs. Gardiner's pride. This David Gardiner was the eighth generation 'Tis built of rough-hewn stone found on this land, fro111 Lion Gardiner (I) the founder of the family -And set with treasures. by her own fair hand. in America, who came from England in 1635. Here's coral, from the distant ocean's brine, He was educated at Columbia College, New York, and taught school in Clinton Academy, in East -And shining ore fro111 Colorado's mine, Some relics from a far-fanled battle field. Hampton, for many years. For considerable time he practiced medicine in Chester, Ohio. after \\-hich -4nd shells, that strange, sweet music yield. he came to Xew York City, and for 26 years held Kay, here's a treat: The grand chance of your life. an important position in the Custon~House. He To take a taste of Lot's old salty wife; afterward came to Bridgehampton, but lived prac- -A little taste, for she's dissolving fast tically a retired life. He was always scholarly and So prize it highly, this may be your last. studious, a great reader and lover of nature. When his son, Dr. John Lyon Gardiner bought 'I-ou think while looking in that fireplace neat the property formerly owned by ,Aaron Drake. and ''So~lleone in the nest room has home1~-feet." on which he in late life built "Dulce-Dotnum," David -\mirror deftly bedded in the stone, Gardiner, then quite an old man, walked up the hill Reflects this floor-the feet, alas; your o1~1-n. to look over the property his son John had just Pride needs some falls. 'Twere well. at times, to pass bought. I at that time was but a lad, and the old Unprejudiced, before a neighbor's glass. gentleman stopped and spoke to me, and this \\-as -4 lesson in humility, perchance 'twill be the first recollection I have of this man: he said, To see our darling self, as other people see. "My boy, I have been to see my son John's recent purchase. you know that the Good Book says, 'a city -1nd. now be n-iser. and be on your guard, that is set on a hill cannot be hid'." This made quite The Dcctor 101-es his joke. don't take it hard an inlpression on me. If he should gravely ask you. "Do you know The particular incident in his life which I wish to This house is rocky when the high winds blo\\-?" telate was told b!- his son. Doctor John LJ-on Gard- I'm loth to go. but this long call m!- friend, iner. who attended him in his last sickness, though Like all good times on earth. must end, he was not reall!- sick. the clock had simply run down IV-e say good-bye to both, and chatting still, and then stopped. His bod)- was weak. 11-hile his TVe leave then1 in their castle on the hilI. mind remained strong to the very last. SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

He became very weak, and told Dr. John that he ROADS AND BRIDGES thought he would not stay much longer, and that he wished the whole family to gather about his bed. The first trails through the woods are called in which they did. He then pronounced in good voice. the Town Records "cart paths" or "cart ways." the Apostolic Benediction, from Hebrews 13, 20-21 : This is truly what they were, and not what we would "Now the God of peace, that brought again from call roads. The first time the term "high\vay" is the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of thc used in the Records was at a Town meeting held sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, -4upst ZIS~,1654, when "It was ordered that "Make you perfect in every good work to do his Thonlas Cooper shall have power to call forth those will, working in you that which is well pleasing in that are behind hand to work at the high\%-ay& to his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory mend the bridge" etc. for ever and ever. Amen." Probably the first cart path that could really be Then he requested that they all retire to the other called a road, was the one leading from Xorth Sea room, "for" said he, "I am going to die in just a few to Old Town for it was over this road that all of the minutes, and I wish to be alone when I go." merchandise had to be carted. Dr. John said they all left the room as father re- Without doubt the road to the IVater Mill \\-as quested, but in a very few minutes he went back, and the next in importance, and would of necessity have father had gone. ken in use when the mill was built in the year 164.4 This story concerning one of our old residents, or 1645. especially the matter-of-fact way or manner in which East Hampton was settled in 1649. Communica- he met the inevitable, to my mind was rather unique tion between these colonies was a necessity. -At first and unusual, and yet very sensible. this was carried on by the way of the Ocean beach, but when Mecox Bay and the various ponds were out. the people were forced to travel on the land- ward side of these waters, and at such times the AN ODE TO OUR FOREFATHERS creeks and streams would be shallow and easy to ford. -4t Water Mill they crossed the Wading May we within our stately homes, Place (see 1670 map) to Bay Lane in Mecos. Mie Where once their cabins stood; know that this was used as early as 1650, as was also Recall with reverence and pride, Mecox Road. Those who did not care to cross the Their labors for our good. Wading Place could go as far as Hay Ground and then take the Mecox Road. They sought this sea-girt Island, The path to East Hampton or Maidstone was in And built upon its sod; use in 1653. The first two Sagaponack Divisions That free from persecution, were laid out in 1653 ; unquestionably there were They might worship with their God. roads leading to these lots soon after they were laid out. The date assigned to Daniel's Lane on the Their sacrifice, their noble deeds, maps is 1670, which I think is too late a date - it Their aims and purpose true; should be as early as 1655 for I believe this road was Should linger in our heart of hearts, really an extension of Mecox Road. A tribute justly due. Here is a question: When and why was Bridge Lane opened ? As early as 1670, Anthony Ludlam. When generations yet unborn, Ellis Cook and Arthur Howell were living in Mecox, Their history shall read; 2nd several others owned land there but as yet had Thrilled by the spirit of their sires, not established homes. Josiah Stanborough in 1658 May emulate their deeds. and perhaps 1656 was living in his home on the ~lortherlyside bf Bridge Lane in Sagaponack. Jo- Written by Stephen Hedges siah's son, Peregrine, and John Topping soon after Bridgehampton, January jth, 1923. this were established in their homes on the south SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

side of the same lane, and they were followed by at tom. This was unquestionably the first bridge least four others, not to mention a goodly number across Sagg Pond. who had acquired land but had not as yet built their This to my mind is the reason that the Sagaponsck homes. Divisions were laid out and settled and the church The first church was built on the north side of built at such an early date. The significance of this Bridge Lane 11rods west of Sagg Pond about the is illustrated by the fact that it gave this locality its year 1671. At this early date the church was the name, "Bridge Harnpton." community center. Now, was Bridge Lane laid out On the 1670 map, the road marked "path into the and opened with two dead ends? Sagg Pond could woods" probably did not extend north of Bridge not be forded at this place, neither were there ferry Lane, except as it may have been a mere path or boats. Why did they build the church where they trail into the forest. I think Sagg Street extended did, and why did they locate their homes where they from Bridge Lane on the south, to East Hampton did, unless there was a means of crossing the pond Path on the north at an early date. There was also at this place? "Bridge Lane" was opened as early a ford where Channel Pond unites with Mecox Bay as June zoth, 1669. T. R. Vol. 2, p. 246. (see map for 1670). It has generally been accepted that the Sandford Thomas Stephens was one of the first settlers in bridge was the first across Sagg Pond, but I have IVater-Mill and lived just east of the road leading always claimed it was not. Ezekiel Sandford con- to Cobb, (see 1670 Map) where the bridge is today. tracted to build a bridge across this pond in accord- Just south of the Morse property was a ford until ance with a vote taken at a town meeting held -April about the year 1872, which was known as "Stephel~~s rst, 1686. The church was built and the men men- Water." tioned above had homes here long years before that The road from .Arthur Howell's to the beach date; and they had means of crossing the pond be- (1670) map) was a private road until abut 1870, fore they settled there or built their church. when it was changed to run west of the H o w e 1 l I believe it to have been a narrow causeway, too house, and where this road began were placed bars narrow for carts or vehicles, but sufficient for horses which had to be taken out when going to the beach. to cross single file, for most of the traveling was These are known in the Town Records as "Mecos done horseback in those days. and if sufficient for Bars" or "Gate." horses. then ample for people. In contracting for the Sandford bridge, they were The road leading from Hayground southeast and particular to specify that it should be "sufficient for uniting with what was later Paul's Lane was laid either men, horses or cartes to pass over," implj-ing out about 1677. that the former bridge had not been hence their de- I\-hat is Highland Terrace at this time, was mand in making this contract. known as Narrow Lane on the 1700 Map. This old When Mr. Baldwin Cook was past 91 years of road was probably closed for at least 125 years, anrl age. he told me that his grandfather, Stephen Cook. was about where the present road is located. said, that when a boy he heard the old men say that On the 17oo Map, the roads marked Sag Harbor there was a bridge across this pond before the Sand- Turnpike, and the Sagg Road to Sag Harbor ill ford one. but that it was about the same location; he ~850.are marked "Cart Path to Great Meadows." thought it was originally built by the Indians, and The "Sag Harbor and Bull's Head Turnpike" was was made of logs drawn together endwise and filled established under a legislative charter granted about with some material that wo~~ldpack so as to make a the year 1840. It was a stock company with a capital solid path; at any rate it bridged the pond. of $5.600. or a24 shares of $25. each. The contract This formed part of the trail used by the Indians for building this road was taken by a Mr. -Andrew, on their periodical pilgrimages from eastern Long and a large portion of the grading was done with a Island to Poosepatuck to attend their religious or sand scraper 6 feet wide drawn by t\vo yokes of tribal ceremonial celebrations, of which "June oxen. I own the steel shoe that belonged to that Meeting" (familiar to the older generations) is but scraper. In 1906 this road was taken over by the a faint shadow of the past and almost forgotten cus- Town, and the toll gate removed. In rgog the toll SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

house \\-as burned. In 1700 there was no Sag Har- surveyed, so that there is no Lumber Lane nor But- bor. The first record of that place was in 1707. ter Lane on this map. ( 1700). "llerchants Path". still known by the same name. There was. however, a road spoken of in the was a path cut through the woods from Posabogue Town Reco~dsVol. 2, page 307: "The path that to Korth \\lest, by the merchants of that day. Ed- comes from Sagaponack" that has been the cause ward Ho~velland John Wick, both being contem- of considerable controversy and discussion. porary merchants of this locality. The southeast corner of Lot 14 of the 40 acre -411 of their merchandise was landed at Korth Division "is marked upon a white oak tree standing \Vest, and had to be carted from there, for the most cn the right hand of the path that comes from Saga- part with teams of oxen. ponack". Lot 14 was what was later the Budcl 2nd It will be noted that in 1700 there was no Job's Stuart Lots, lying north of Huntington Path. and . Lane, nor Horse Mill Lane. The road running east riowv owned by the heirs of John Joblinski and the heirs of Samuel E. Edwards. IVhen William S. Pelletreau was compiling the To~vnRecords this was a problem that confused him much. and only that I had discussed this matter ~vithCharles H. Hildreth, who had given this par- ticular matter much thought and attention, and real- ly solved this problem, I fear it never would have been known. How Sagaponack Path could have any bearing on Lot 14 \vas a mystery, for it was generally conceded that Sagaponack Path was the road leading from Sagg to Sag Harbor, and Lot 14 was some nliles to the northwest. Toll House on Sag Harbor-Bridgeharnpton Turnpike The playground for School District No. 18 was on the north side of the road opposite the old School from Ephraiin Jones', in Water Mill, (now the home House. rlcross this playground from north to south of Charles B. Corwith) was a highway in those days was a depression or valley perhaps three feet deep and for many years later, but it was closed more and I j feet wide. This was really the key to the than roo years ago, and few, if any, traces of it whole problem, and starting frcm this. Mr. Hildreth can be seen at this time. traced this road its entire length. The Brick Kilns Road was opened in 1690. This road was a trail through- the forests to Great h4eadows, also to the Brick Kilns, where good clay for brick could be found on or near the surface. This road also led to Noyack, \\-here fish, and shell- fish were to be found in abundance. Mitchel's Lane \\-as opened in 1679, as was also the Scu:tle Role Road and Huntington Path. This was the date of the laying out of the 40 acre Divi- sion. At this time Mitchel's Lane did not extend to Butter Lane. for the latter at this time had not been opened, but it went through Snake Hollo\~-, (I700 map). The land lying to the north of Eridgehampton XI-as at the date of this map a forest known as "Brushy Plain" and had not as yet been laid out or Toll House on Sag Harbor-East Hampton Turnpike

{ 22 1 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

This depression I have just referred to was a through to Paul's Lane in 1885, and on to Mecox portion of the old sunken road, made by erosion that Road in the year I-. Wheaton's Lane was also a had been going on for many years. I might say that private road, and led to Wheaton's house. (See 1800 after much discussion and correspondence with Mr. map). The same place as is marked Alva Halsey Pelletreau, he was convinced that this was the true ir, the 1850 map. This road was probably closed and only answer to this question, and that Mr. Hil- after that property was bought by the Halsey family. dreth was right. It is mentioned in the Town Records, Vol. 111, page This road branched to the north fro111 Sagaponack 213. Road just west of the present home of Charles T. The road connecting Butter Lane with Mitchel's Ludiow, went to the west of the swamp, and then Lane running northwest from the Long Island Rail- northivesterly and crossed East Hatnpton Path near road Station, at Bridgehampton, was laid out and Uriah Sayre's home, then northwesterly through the opened in 1763. forest on Brushy Plain and crossed Huntington Path Xorris Lane running north from the Main Street, near what was later the north end of Butter Lane, or, and east of Bridgeharnpton village, took its name as in the Records the southeast corner of Lot 14, of from Kathan Norris, who lived on the corner on the the 40 acre Division. east side of that lane. This road continued north\\-esterly until it came TVhat is now known as Church Street, was opened into the Mill Stone Road. This road at this tinie in 1763. The road in Scuttle Hole leading to the was the direct course of travel fro111 Sagaponack to David Rogers house in the hollow (see 1800 map) Soyac, or to -'rTorthatnpton, later North Sea. was at that time the main road, and was an exten- The road to To~vd,the Deerfield Road, Noyack sion of the Mill Stone road, and ran past the house Path, and the Xi11 Stone Road were all opened and of Silas Woodruff, down to the pond, then around in use in 1700. The road to Fairfield Pond was the east side of that pond, and so up to the present opened at an early date, probably 1670. road. The old road was originally where the gully Hedges Lane in Sagaponack was opened in 1677, is at this time. and Parsonage Lane in Job's Lane in Mecox 1694. Corwith Avenue in Bridgeharnpton was laid out \\-as opened in 1726. Lumber Lane and Butter Lane and opened in the year 1893. and runs from blain were both laid out and opened at the laying out of Street to Railroad Avenue. the 30 acre Division in 1712. Railroad -Avenue was laid out and opened in 1874 Cook's Lane in Poxabogue was named from and runs from Lumber Lane, west to the Railroad --!braham Cook, who lived on the East Hampton property, but not to Butter Lane, as the Railroad Path, and whose far111 estended north as iar as on-11s all of the land in front of the Station and this Lane. Freight House. The road to the beach at Peter's Pond. named for Peter Hildreth, u-as opened at a date not much later There were two bridges that I might mention, than 1660. Loper's Road in the north district took that did not affect the public, as they were both pri- its name fro111 the Loper family. nhc! lived just vate enterprises. One was built by Jeremiah 0. south of. and near it. Hedges across Sagg Pond at Deacon's Island, and IVooley's Lane in Scuttle Hole took its name served to connect his two farms. This stood but a fro111 a man by that name who lived on the south few years, when it was wrecked by ice. side of that road about 1750. and west of Salnuei The other was built by Capt. \Villia~n Denison Cook. (See 1800 map). across the gully in front of his house in Scuttle Hole, Horse Mill Lane was opened in 1763 and took its and nearly opposite the northerly end of Mitchel's name from a mill built near there. operated by Lane. This was washed away by a freshet, during horses. The road to "Xorth Side" north of Hunt- the s~un~ruerseason in the 18joys. ington Path and \vest of Sag Harbor Turnpike on Both of these bridges are shown on the map for 1800 map was discontinued about the year 1900. 1850. No one knoxs how long the Sandford bridge Halsey's Lane \\-as a private road in 1700 and led lasted. It was built of oak timber, and was probably to the house of Jeremiah Halsey. It was extended good for at least a century. Then came a long lapse SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY of years, perhaps another century, when there was not in the lot. not to come home without him, but to no bridge across Sagg Pond. look over in the other fields, for said he, you will In 1873, Silas Tuthill, of Westhampton, having find him where there is the best pasture. bought land on the east side of Sagg Pond, wished ''-And that is just what the Judge has done in this to have another bridge built, and sought to get the case. He has jumped the fence. because he thinks other adjoining land owners about the pond to unite it will be better pasture." with him in building it. It appeared at first as if he In the year rgoo, the Town built a substantial would succeed in his efforts, but when it came to an bridge across this pond near the site of the Sand- actual outlay of time, labor and money, they failed ford bridge. This stood until the year 1923, \\-hen him, and he had to build it alone. the present bridge was built. After the completion of this bridge, Mr. Tuthill The ford at "Stephen's Waters" in Water Mill went before the Annual Town Meeting, and sought was in use for many years prior to the date of the tc get a resolution passed, whereby the Town would building of the first bridge across that stream. take it over and reimburse him for the expense of building it, but he failed in getting this bill passed. Before the L. I. Railroad from Manor to Sag One of these landowners was an elder in the local Harbor was built the main road through \ITater Presbyterian Church and after all of his efforts with -Mill went across the mill dam, and around the pond him had fai!ed, in commenting on this matter he below the mill, and so up to the main road to South- said: "There are some portions of Sagg that will ampton, (this latter portion is now discontinued) produce good farm crops, and good men as well, but when the bay was low, much of the travel cross- but this is not true of all. I know of some that will ed the ford. grow nothing but elders, (alder) and my observa- -After the railroad was built, most of the horses tion has been, that it is very poor timber for any- driven at that time were afraid of a railroad train. thing. It is absolutely worthless for bridge timber, This above all other reasons, led to a demand for a and I am convinced it is no better for church bridge across Stephen's Waters. timber". This bridge was built in the year 1873. and con- Judge Henry P. Hedges was a large land owner sisted of a stone arch with earth embankments at on the west side of the pond at this time. At first either side. The mason work was done. I think, by he favored the bridge project, but after some of the Roger Maran. The highway leading across this land near the beach had been sold to city buyers, and bridge was not recorded until April aoth, 1880. See the price of this land advanced the Judge changed S. H. Town Records, Vol. VII, page 97. his mind, for he thought the bridge would obstruct While the following are not in a strict sense roads, the sailing of boats from the northerly part of the it appears to be the only place to nlention them. pond to the beach, and for this reason, not only op- When the live stock were turned out to pasture on posed the building of this bridge, but worked against the common land, in the early days of the settle- it, thinking it would affect the price of his land. ment, the problem was not how to fence them in the After Mr. Tuthill had completed his bridge, and fields, but how to fence them out. presented a Resolution to the Annual Town Meet- They had to have a supply of water, and to meet ing, the Judge led the opposition in the discussion this demand. every pond and s t r e a in had a lane before that body. After a heated debate, Mr. Tut- fenced from such water to the highway or conlmon hill at last got the floor, and said: land. These are shown on the maps of the earlier "Mr. Chairman, The Honorable Judge. in the dates. Especially marked as to its size is the one at stand he is taking on the matter of this bridge, re- the southerly end of Kellis Pond. minds me of an old gray horse that my Father own- -Another watering place was on the westerly side ed on the farm when I was a boy. of the Mill Pcnd at Head-of-the-Pond, and in the "This horse had a habit of jumping the fences, so 1800 map is called Baxter's Water, from Thomas that you never knew where to find him. One morn- Baxter (see 1750 map). ing, my Father sent me down to the pasture lot to Mr. Pelletreau did not know where Thomas Bax- get this horse, but charged me, in case the horse was ter lived, but he thought in Sag Harbor. I base my SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY decision on the fact that in an old deed in the posses- Lumber Lane, was at least 20 rods wide since my sion of Mr. \Villiam Foster. it mentions the road inenlory . going by Baster's and on to Goodale's. The old mill dam at "Sagg Head" might be classed I\-e know that Goodale's was about one half mile as either a road or a bridge, in fact, it was both, for north of Gideon Halsey's on the Towd road. the dam was also used as a road. -4t this time it is a Baker's Lane is the road running from H a y bridge. Ground road to Scuttle Hole road, on which -4bra- The roads were so wide at first, that when one haill Baker lived. ( 1800 map). path or track became badly worn, they simply drove The Gelston house on Butter Lane was built by i11 a new place, so if the ruts were deep, the carts go- Ebenezer Edwards not later than 1747, perhaps ing either way would take different roads, unless it some\\-hat earlier, and there \\-as a lane running were two men of the disposition of Deacon David across just south of this house to Mitchel's Lane. Hedges and Hiram Sandford, when there would I think this was the "Ed~vardsLane" spoken of in probably be a collision, either mechanical or verbal. the Town Records and was sold by the Town Trus- There were no light wagons until the latter part tees to Daniel tiroodruff of Bridgehampton, -4pril. of the 18th, or first part of the 19th centuries, ex- 1810,and discontinued as a highway. See Town cept it were two wheeled gigs or chaises, on which there was a tax of $2.00 for a chaise without a top. Trustees Records, Vol. 11, page 181. and $3.00 for one with one. Mill Stone Road was so called because one of the The roads since my memory had a wide ridge ir. original mill stones was found at Mill Stone S\vamp. the middle and two small ones, one on either side by on this road. the ruts. Horses driven singly could not travel in The roads were first opened rather than laid out. the middle of the road, so the shaft irons had an That came later. The land was all common Iand off-set, that allowed the horse to travel in the right until allotted. The live stock all ran on this common hand path. land. so why bother about the width of the streets The heavy wagons and carts tracked 5 feet wide or roads? until about 1868. when a Bill passed the New York After the land was all allotted, it became a differ- State Legislature ordering all horse-drawn vehicles ent matter. Then came a desire, that grew into a to track the same width, that is, 4 feet and 8 inches. demand, that the fences might be moved, so as to T can just remember this, and the excitement it take in some of the extra width of road. caused among the farmers. It was really a good This led to a re-survey of the roads, at which time move, for it meant better roads. This center ridge they were inade narrower, until finally, the roads a.fforded great amusement for the school children running east and west were made, as a rule, 5 rods in going and coming from school, the one who failed wide, this to allow for snow drifts made by the pre- to walk this ridge had to go to the rear of the pro- railing north winds in winter time. Those running cession as they walked single file. Mr. James M. north and south were usually made 4 rods wide. Halsey was Member of the Assembly at this time, There was some common land as late as the earl? and I here quote a petition to him in opposition to 70's. The westerly end of George Topping's barn, the Bil) authorizing the change of the width of track in Hay Ground. was the easterly boundary of the of vehicles. It is as follows : common Iand or highway at that date. There was "Bridgehampton, April 6th, 1868. a road on both the north and south sides of Hay "James M. Halsey, Esq. Ground graveyard. That to the north is now "Dear Sir :- It casually came to my notice a short closed. time since. to my great surprise and astonishment an The Thomas Edwards house was built facing and effort was being inade by some person or persons, near the old road running from Huntington Path somen-here in our Town, their names, location or to Mill Stone Road, and the land out to the south occupation being unknown to me, or to my inform- was common land. ant, to obtain the passage of an Act by the Legisla- Lumber and Butter Lanes were both laid out 10 ture. make it a penal offence for any person to use rods wide. and Huntington Path at the north end of any wheel carriage or vehicle on any of our public SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY roads or highways, whose tracks shall embrace more joining their own property, but as a rule these roads than 4 feet 8 inches in width, and that you have act- were rough and poorly kept, very unlike what we en- ually presented a petition to the Legislature in favor joy at this time, but there was but little money or of such action, which you probably thought it your time spent on them, and I might add, there was but duty to do, but that you will aid or countenance in little to spend. any other way, the passage of such an arbitrarj~ On May ~oth,1774, the Trustees of the Town measure, I will not for one moment allow myself to passed a resolution forbidding all sheep being pas- believe. Aside from the outrageously arbitrary fea- tured on the common land without a shepherd. and tures of such a measure, you probably know I think, ir, the woodland at all, because of the injury they and I hesitate not to say, (should such an Act be would do to the young growth. At that time the passed, and remain unrepealed) it would \vork great general term used in referring to live stock such as injury and inconvenience to an overwhelining ma- were pastured on the common knd was "Creatures," jority of our agricultural community in various and was usually pronounced "Critters." ways. Leaving out of account the inconvenience and expense of cutting up our axles to conform to what we consider so unjust and exceedingly arbi- MILLS AND MILLERS trary enactment. This whole matter judging from The great need of the colonists in the early days the careful and quiescent manner in which it seems cf the settlement was a means of reducing their to have been gotten up, must, I thought. have orig- grain to flour. They could pound or crack the corn inated in some corner where the general and public in mortars into satnp or hominy, but they needed a convenience were to be sacrificed or made subservient real mill. The streams of water were all considered to local and partial or private views and interests, and in some cases privileges were granted. and I think from what I have learned quite recently On January 7th, 1644, "-Articles of -Agreement" that I was not much mistaken. This Bill I consider between the "Town of Southampton and Edward in its origin and character unjust atld gotten up and Hou-ell" were signed whereby, The above sayd Ed- manipulated in about the same way, take for instance ward Houell doth promise to build for himself to the desire and apparent determination of the non- supply the necessities of the Town a sufficient mill taxpayers of this Town with some others manifested at Mecoxe. The Town of Southa~nptonwas to at a recent Special Town Meeting, when they voted grant him 40 acres of land near the intended mill. a vast sun1 from the taxpayers without their consent and that the Town of Southampton doe laye ye mill to donate to a corporated Company for railroad pur- stones at the place where the milln-right shall ap- poses. If we cannot look to our State Legislature poynt. for protection against such Frauds, Spoilation, Rob- This 1nill was built on the north side of the road bery and Oppression. then truly are we cursed in- (see 1670 map) and on the east side of the stream. deed. quite near the pond, the dam was not far fro111 ~vl-here Very truly yours, in haste, the railroad is now. It was operated by an overshot David Pierson." water-wheel. Its successful operation depended up- Then it was that the live stock were forbidden to on two conditions: One, to keep the Eay at a lo\\; pasture or roam on the roads or highways. This level, if it got too full, upon notice froln the Magis- caused considerable dissatisfaction for a while, some trate every man froin 16 to 60 years of age was claiming that it deprived a poor man of his privi- clbliged to assist in digging out the Seapoose, escept leges, but all of these changes were in the line of the Magistrate, Minister. Miller and Herdsman. progress and had to come. After the enactment of The other condition was to keep the water in the this Bill, the old order was reversed, and people had Mill Pond at a high level. To insure the latter on to keep their live stock fenced in, rather than out of, March 3rd. 165 I. "It is ordered that when the 34il- their farm land. ler calleth on 3 dayes warneing, the towne shail The roads were formerly under the control of gratishly afford him ao men to go to lett in the highway commissioi~ers,and the farmers were al- water of the seaven ponds into the mill pond." -At lowed to work out their highway tax on roads atl- an early date the people of East H a m p t o n were SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY granted the privilege of bringing their grain to-the came into the possession of "White Sr Hedges" that \Vatemill for grinding if they in turn would as- they manufactured paper in this mill (as far as I sist in digging out the sea-poose. There was no know the only paper mill in this whole township) streams of water in East Hampton Town \vhich in the manufacture of paper in the early days, the could be dammed for power purposes. rags after being reduced to a pulp were run over a The stones used in this first mill were native screen or sieve which removed a good share of the stone. One was found near Sebonac close by a water, it then was spread on a snlooth, even table brook that has ever since been known as "hlill Stone or block. brought to the proper thickness. and left Brook," the other at a swamp on the xvesterly side of the farm of David Sandford (see 1750 map) (or Mill Stone Swamp I 700) and the road passing this has ever been "Mill Stone Road." From Edward Howell, who must have died prior to 16jj, this property went to William Ludlam, who died in 1665. It then went to his two sons, Henry and Joseph. The latter left town and Henry becanie sole owner. The 111ill remained in the Lndlaln farn- ily for almost a century. In I727 it was owned by Jeremiah Ludlam. I do not agree with JIr. Pelle- treau that Jeremiah Ludlam sold it to John Conk- lin, of East Hampton. I think he did sell the land lying to the west (later the Hedges Sand ford farm. see 1700 map). "January- 4th, 1748, William Lud- lam sell one half of my water mill and stream, with one half of my bolting mill to Elias Petty, price 65 Watermill, Water Mill,.L. I., originaI one built by pounds." Edward Howell in 1644-5 A deed in the possession of the late William Fos- ter, of Water Mill, dated August 18th, 1760, "IVii- until dry enough to handle. The drying block used !jam Ludlam sells to William Foster one half of this by White & Hedges was of cast iron in size 27 in. mill." Of this firnl, Petty & Foster, Petty was a by 40 in. and a & 3/8 inches thick, and is now in weaver. Mr. Pelletreau saps that in 1790 this mill the pssessio.n of White's great grandson, Mr. John was owned by Hugh Smith of Moriches, but I can- C. White of Sagapnack, L. I. I quote from the not find proof of this. I do know, however, that "Suffolk Gazette" of June 1st' 180j, as follo\vs : John Benedict did not buy it in 1815, for he did not come to Water Mill from Danbury until 1817. Wrapping Paper In the 1800 map I have named White and Hedges Of a supericr quality may be had of Mr. John as owners, I do not know of whom they bought nor Sowden, superintendent of the paper mill belonging the price paid, but in the County Clerk's office are to White & Hedges, near Southampton. **** Cash recorded two deeds, each for one-half of this mill. will be paid for clean Linen and Cotton rags." April arst, 1825, Jesse Hedges and wife, Naomi, deed to John Benedict one half of this ~nill:then on On April 6th, 1697, the Town granted the right June 13th~1833, John White deeds the other half to to build a mill on the stream at Sagaponack Pond Benedict. In my opinion. John Budd who moved head, to a company consisting of Henry Pierson. here froin Southold at an early date, was miller in James Hildreth and ~heo~hilusHowell. This nlill this mill soon after it was built. v7as built and used for many years. Near the site This Watermill was originally built for grinding of this mill you may see on the map for 1800 the grain into flour for family use, and feed for live- location of a brewery-. This was on the southerly stock, later it was used for spinning yarn, weaving side of the road leading to Sagg, and was the prop- cloth and fulling the same. I think it was after it erty of Alexander Brown. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

"On the 24th of June of 1823 he applied to the Southarnpton Town Trustees for the right to extend his Brewery or Shop 26 feet larger for the use of a Malt-house at an annual rental of 37% cents." On the same 1800map, at the head of Calf Creek, is marked the site of Jeremiah Parker's fulling mill. His son, Rodney, worked in this mill when a boy. There may have been a mill here prior to Parker, but I have not been able to prove it. (The Iflater Mill at Koyack I will mention later j. There was one and I think only one "Horse Mill" built in this area, it was in Mecox, and Horse Mill Lane was named from it, an old resident pointed out to me its site years ago. (See 1700 map). It was operated by means of a sweep or shaft similar to a capstan bar. East Hampton also had a mill driven by cattle, that is. oxen. The Pilgrims had spent about eleven years in Holland before emigrating to America. There they had seen and probably operated the Dutch tvind- mills on the dykes. This I think is the reason they built wind-driven mills in their new home, for about the only section where they are found is in Kew England and eastern Long Island. Spider Legged MilI, Bridgehampton, late 18th and early 19th Century The first type of windmill built in this sectioil was known as "Spider Legged Mill." I found a draft of this mill among the effects of an old resi- About the year 1837 Judge i4braham T. Rose dent who remembered seeing them when a young bought one of these mills and moved it to his lot on lad. I had it photographed and it may be seen the east side of the Sag Harbor Turnpike and used ainong my collection. This was the mill that stood it for a hay barn. (See map for 1850). The other on the corner of Charles S. Rogers' lot on the west was bought by a company consisting of Messrs. Hi- side of Sagg Street. No one living at this time ever ram Sandford, David Pierson, Nathaniel Topping saw one. There were at least eight of these mills in and Smith S. Topping. They moved it to Poxa- this locality. The one just mentioned, one in Poxa- bogue, and later it became the subject of the noted bogue, one in Hay Ground owned by Josiah Top- lawsuit known as "The Sagg Mill Case or Cause." ping, one on John Wick's lot, from which "Wind- (See chapter on Noted Law Suits). mill Hill" takes its name, and one and perhaps two In the year 1820 a Mr. Beebe built a fine wind- in Wainscott. (See 1700 map). mill on what was later known as Sherry's Hill in the April and, I 706. it was "Granted to Capt. Theo- southerly part of Sag Harbor. This was the mill philus Howell, Elisha Howell. Lemuel Howell and from which a flag was flown when a whaleship was Jeremiah Halsey, Liberty to Build a windmill at sighted down Bay, hence : "Flag on the mill, ship on nleacox upon ye triangle commons Not Prejudicing the Bay." In the same year the other mills were highways." Bridgehampton was called Mecox in sold ( I 837) Judge Abraham T. Rose and Richard this case. This mill stood on what was afterward Gelston bought the Beebe mill and moved it to called Mill Hill, and some years after this another Bridgehampton and placed it on the same site from similar mill was built near this one. Charles H. Hil- which the two mills had been moved. They oper- dreth said that when he was a boy Stephen Norris ated it for some years, but finally sold it to a Mr. attended both of them, at that time one was used Norris, I think Charles K. Norris, and he in turn for grinding feed and the other for making flour. sold it to Roger Francis. After Mr. Francis failed SKETCHES FROM LOC-4L HISTORY

Robert Davis, who sold it to Mr. John E. Berwind. and he moved it to his property on Ocean Road, lvhere it still stands. The :'oregoing record I think is correct. I have know11 this mill froin the time I \\-as a small boy and always admired it. The Wainscott windmill was originally built in Southampton, on the west side of Windmill Lane in the year 1813. The owners were Jeremiah Jagger and Obadiah Fuster. It was bought and moved to IVainscott in the year 1852, where it stood until the year 1922, when it was bought by the Hon. Lathrop Brown, who moved it to hbntauk where it now stands. I presume its grinding days are over. The windmill at Water Mill, otherwise kncwn as the "Corwith Mill," was originally built in Sag Harbor about 1800.In 1814 it was bought by James Corwith, who moved it to Water hlill on its present site. He also bought the land on which it stands froin the Proprietors of Common Land that same year. It was operated by James Corwith for the il~ostof his active life, then it came into the posses- sion of his son, Samuel Corwith, who ran it until the year 1887, when he sold it and it also became a Beebe Mill built in Sag Harbor 1820 nlonument of a past industry, and still is such. This 1nill was turned about by means of a long spar or in business, this mill was bought by a company con- sisting of E. Jones Ludlow, Charles Henry Topping and Hedges Miller. They sold it to IYilliam Hand of -4magansett. In 1868 Hand sold it to :Ubert Tbpping. who ran it for about four years: and then sold it to Lafayette W. Seabury who ran it until the year 1880,then he sold it to the fir111 of Topping Sr Hildreth. In 1882 they sold it to Jaines -Ari.Sand- ford. He moved it from Mill Hill to a site near the Railroad Station south of the tracks and east of the East Halnpton Lumber Co.'s property. iVhile stand- ing there Sandford put steal11 power in so as to be independent of the winds for grinding. Soon after this Sandford sold it to Cotnlmissioner Kennedy for Frospect Park, Brooklyn. mis contract n-as can- celled because of the difficulty of moving it the length of Long Island. In the year 1894 it \\-as sold to Oliver Osbom, who moved it across the railroad tracks to a site north of the freight house, and put a brick foundation under it. In 1895 it was sold to the "Bridgehampton Milling Co." It was during their ownership that William Schellinger became the Corwith Windmill-Water Mill, built in noted miller. About I915 it mas bought by the Rev. Sag Harbor 1800 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY shaft attached to the upper frame and on the lower end was a large cart wheel, by which it was turned to keep it in the wind when grinding. The last of the grist mills operated and in actual use that was driven by wind, was the Hay Ground hiill. This windn~illis the only one in this section that still stands on its original foundation, and that has never been moved from its original size. It was built in the year 1801, by a company consisting of Gen. Abraham Rose, Capt. Benjamin Rogers, Xa- than Topping Cook and Ethan Topping. The timber from which it was built was cut from the local forest. Without doubt it has the distinc- tion of being the oldest and the longest in actual ser- vice of any windmill in this community. The mill- ers who operated this mill throughout the entire per- iod of actual service were Ethan Topping, his son Jesse, his grandson George, whom I remember, and his great-grandson. George, Jr. and Maltby Gelston Rose. Probably the most inlportant mill. the no st prom- inent business (while it lasted) and the largest steam flour mill in this entire section, was the "-At- lantic Flouring Mills" built by Major Roger -\. Wainscott Windmill, built in Southampton 1813 Francis, in 1851. and located on what was formerly the Triangular Commons. (See 18jo map). and in a line with the main building, was a store This mil consisted of a two-story main building house. A track or tramway was laid extending from standing parallel with Hull Lane, with a two-story the store house to the mill, on which a car wzs oper- wing on both east and west ends. It stood on what ated, not by steam as the cut of the mill would indi- is now the easterly part of the "Old Cemetery." The cate, but by hand power. Back of the steal11 illill engine house and smoke stack were on the south- and a little to the southeast stood the Beebe 1Vind- eastern corner of the mill. So~nedistance to the east mill. This business venture proved a failure fi~lancially, and after a time the whole property was sold. The inain building went to Sag Harbor, and became part of the "Maidstone Flouring Mills," and was oper- ated as such until destroyed by fire February 18th. 1877. The two wings were bought by John Chat- field, moved to Mecox, joined together and made into a dlvelling house, where it still stands. I think the store house \\-as ~noveddown the Sag Harbor turnpike and became part of the Edn-ard Gregory house. TVhile writing on n~illsI must not forget to men- tion that of Charles Henry Topping, on Church Street. IVhile he did some grist work, it really was a machine shop, where he repaired all kinds of ma- chinery. and built for a good many years 10 or more Hay Ground Windmill, built 1801 horse-tread-powers each year. There was a saw SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

near the railroad in Bridgehampton. Equipped it with modern machinery for making a high grade of flour; with rolls, bolts, conveyors and everything up- to-date. It was operated by steam power. They did a fiourishing business for a number of years. On Nov. 13, 1888, the big steam boiler blew up, seri- ously injuring Mr. Sandford, and blew the build- ing into pieces. This ended the operation of this Adantic Flour Milk (Roger Francis) 185 1-1859 mill.

mill connected \vith this business and a turning In the foregoing chapter I have covered a period lathe. They also had a factory for the nlanufacture in the history of this community from the founding of Squaw-Scrub-Brushes. IVilliam H. and his of the first colony to well near the end of the 19th brother, Charles P. Topping, built a j-horsepower century as it relates to "Mills & Millers", or in other steam engine to run the machinery in this scrub- words, it takes us from the period of the samp mor- brush-making mill. I think it is the only steam en- tar to watermill, horsemill, spider legged windmill, gine in existence ever built in Bridgehampton. It is the improved windmill of which several are still still preserved and I own it. The Topping Mill was preserved, to the steam roll flour mill. This is prob- bought by the East Hampton Lumber Co., but prior ably an industry which may never be revived in this to this the Toppings had moved their plant from location unless there is a radical change in crop Church Street to Railroad Avenue, -and in doing production. When more grain is raised there still this they acconlplished a remarkable feat in mechan- may be a necessity for mills to grind it. ics, when they loaded their tall brick smoke stack on skids, and moved it without damage. When I was a boy, Charles H. Topping erected a "Hubbard Patent Horizontal Wind Mill" at his shop on Church Street. I remember his corning to our house and trying to sell one to my father. It was a beautiful model, and would run with the slightest breeze. I certainly coveted that model. There was another type of wind~nillused exclu- sively for sawing logs into timber or planks. I re- member two of these. They were built quite low. The shaft was fitted with a crank on the inner end, to n-hich was attached a connecting rod that worked the saw, which was held in a frame that travelled between two upright guides which held the saw true. After the Civil War lnolasses was very high in rice, so that many of the farmers raised a small acreage of Sorghum for making their own molasses. Henry Edwards (see nlap for 1850) built a mill for that purpose and operated it for a number of years, pressing the cane, and boiling the juice into syrup or molasses. I do think it \\-as not a very high grade product. .ibout the year 1883 the fir111 of Sandford & Tif- fany was organized for the purpose of carrying on a milling and feed business. They built a new miil Daniel Hildreth Saw Mill, 1822

i31 1 SKETCHES FROM LOC-IL HISTORY

SCHOOL HOUSES AND SCHOOL TEACHERS

The Southampton Town Records up to the year many of these names ma? be found on the maps for 1651 are in the handwriting of Richard Mills, who I 700 & I 7 50 as residents and had established hoines appears to have acted as schoolmaster from the date at that time. of settlement. Without doubt this man was the first I find it impossible to ascertain the time at which school teacher in the Colony. In T. R. Vol. 11, page the first school houses in this map area were built. 224, we quote : "Sept. aand, 1663, by ye major voat There were schools kept in rented rooms in private it is ordered and concl~~dedthat Jonas Holds~vorth houses long years before they built any separate shall have 35 Pounds for his schooleing per annum, school houses. In writing of the school houses in for the term of two years at least, and his pay to bee the different sections or districts of this area. I will answerable to ye pay ingaged to him by Hempsted, begin with \Vainscott, which is in the township of with ye allowance of 1-3 days in ye yeare liberty for East Hampton. The first one built in that district his own particular occations." of which I can get any accurate inforination \\-as At a Town Meeting, held Sept. 5th, 1664, "It is built about the year 1730, and stood very near the crdered that there shall bee a school howse of 20 site of the present school building. J u d g e H. P. foot long and I j foot wide built at ye townes charge, Hedges in "Memories of a long life," says: and finished fit for use before winter." This is the "The old School House \\;as shingled all over, and first school house in this township of which there is time worn. The frame was of hewn oak timber, any record. grown probably nearby. It was hoary with age There is another school teacher of record some- when I first knew it. In the winter its loft had been what later, yet early enough to be mentioned. "I, storage room for the seine. In its northeast corner John Mowbrey, doe hereby binde myselfe faithfully was a cupboard, for what purpose nobody knelv ; in & diligently to teach and instruct a School in South- its dark recess naughty boys were shut up until the ampton att twelve shillings in cash per Scholler for terrors of confinement were supposed to have the terme of Six Months Commensing from ye first wrought reformation. John Cooper and Robert clay of May next and Ending ye first day of Novem- Hedges each taught in this school house two or three ber next Ensueing, and to teach thein in the hours winters. This was not far from the years 183j and following viz. from Eight to Eleven a clocke In the 1826. Cut in the boards were the initials of man>- forenoone and from one to five of the clocke In ye students. Cut on its south side \?-as the outline of afternoone, as witness my hard in Southampton this a full-rigged whale ship, "-Andes" or "Union" 1 28th day of April, 1694. think the former. Cut in the rude seats were notch- Signed in presence of us es and outlines of figures, faces, animals and birds: Matthew Howell John ?IIo\\-brey rude, unsymmetric work of jacknives, by inexpert Thomas Stevens boys; raw specimens of struggling art. Mr. Mowbrey's Scollers : "In the night, about 1826 or '7, the old school z I Matthew Howell Rich Howell house was in a blaze. The flame shone on the \I-in- Lift Stevens I Joseph Goodale I dews of the room, where. in a trundle bed, I was Ensigne f fordham 2 -4braham Howell I sleeping. My brothers ran to the fire. This \\-as the Hannah Sayre I James lihite I first building I ever saw burned. Chauncey Osborn. IValter Melvin I Sam Johnes I then courting his wife, Miranda Hand. at her Isaac Wilman I Mrs. Johanah Cooper I father, James Hand's house, first saw the fire and IVill Iierrick I Jonas Bower I gave the alarm. Joseph Foster I John lioodruff 3 - "The first witnesses coming, saw in the bushes Jcseph Hildreth I of the old grave yard, in a chair used by the school I have named this first list of scholars because master, the only chair kept in the school house, a SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY man sitting, whom they did not clearly recognize. The house burned to the ground. Ton1 Hopping. poor. crazy "Tom" was charged with the crime, arrested, imprisoned and tried, but not convicted. On his examination he professed ignorance of the cause of the fire, suggested that on account of the ulickedness of the people, fire might have ccme down fro111 Heaven, as it did on Sodo~nand Gomorrah. and that for the same cause it might conle do~vnon nlore houses. I iIn long years after it was reported that he con- fessed to carrying the firebrand from home, a nlile through the street, and setting the torch to thc huilding. Poor TCIII,Gone ; Long since gone. Thus Sagaponack School House, District No. 10, 1830-1885 perished the old school house. It must have been nearly one hundred years old, perhaps more. Full it to his home at kVainscott. Then a new school three generations of youth learned their letters. 11ouse \\-as built on the old site or near to it. ~hreegenerations, at j o'clock meetings, had 11-or- In Septelnber of 1813, the Town of Southamp- shipped therein. It was hallo~c-edby the prayers of ton was laid out into 15 school districts. Sonle \\-ere sincere and humble ~vorshippers. Its walls had absorbed later, and more of the larger ones divided. echoed and re-echoed with sacred hymn and psalm sung by devout and honest tongues. Center of prim- Sagaponack School District, or No. 10 ary instruction, center of seine meetings. center of The oldest school house in Sagaponack (district religious \\-orship, it had been an institution of en- So. 10) of which we have any kno\\-ledge. stood during benefit and blessing." just north of the north line of the late Henrq- Top- -A nen- hcuse was built soon after the old one was ping's far~n,on the east side of Sagg street. on the burned. and cn the same site. In this second house property cf Caleb Pierson. This lot was 4 by- j rods Thomas Rose, brother of Col. Edwin, and Josiah in area. This house was probably built about the IVhite. bcth of Bridgehampt~n,were school inas- year 17aj. This house was 20 by 25 feet, facing ters previous to 1833. This was used until 1884. west, n-ith a door to the west. and two ~vindoivson when it \\;as sold to David P. Osborn. who moved either side, and a fire-place and chimney at the east end. In later years a Franklin stove \\-as installed. The room \\-as walled and ceiled, had a bcard floor, but no underpinning. I have heard Mr. Charles H. Hildreth relate his experience I\-hile attending this school. but will ciucte his article in the "Seu-s" of -August ~gth, 1910. "I attended school at the old Sagg school house over 76 years ago, (this was written in 1910). The house was c~mparatively-new then, the paint bright and shining, and did not show the work of jacknil-es as it did in later years. The desks were built against the four sides of the rooin except at the door 11-ay into the entry. The seats were a continuous lmard in front of the desks. "There were two snlall benches for the small chil- Wainscott School EIouse, 1827-1584 dren, one of pine for the girls, the other a rough oak

-t 33 1 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

slab for the boys who had to sit with folded hands Kancy Peirson 10j -4bnn. Topping and allo\ved to breathe if we did it quietly. This Betsy Peirson 71 Daniel H. Haines house was covered with long cedar shingles, which Polly Smith 36 Josiah Peirson were good for at least a century, (for location oi Hannah Peirson, Jr. 20 Sylvanus Hand this house see 1800 map). Jesse Pierson, who figured Rachel \Vhite 61 Smith Topping in the famous 'Fox Law Suit,' the location oi -\bigail Hedges 49 Jeremiah Peirson whose house may be seen on the west side of Sag& Harriet Sayre 42 Hervey Peirson street (ISOO map) was the school teacher for a long Julian Topping 96 James Topping term of years in this school house. Harriot Peirson 69 James Edwards "This old house was in use until about the year Betsy Peirson, Jr. 137 Sand. Peirson Polly \Vhite 31 Matthew Topping 1830. when it was decided it was no longer service- Charity Hedges 14 Joshua Topping able. -\ new- house was framed, and the men of Sathl. B. Topping 19 iVilliarn T. Hedges - the district assembled to raise it on the site of the Sathan Peirson 120 Silas Topping old one. Lemuel Haines, who owned the adjoining 1Ialby Sayre 89 Charles Sayre land. protested so strongly, claiming that in case of Halsey Peirson I 3 j Rebecca Topping fire it would jeopardize his home, that the assenlbled Theoph. Peirson 137 Phebe Sandford company picked up the frame, carried it across the Silas Peirson 109 Jane Sayre street and set it up on the common land. Here it Charles Topping 108 Elizabeth Topping really stood in the street between the two roads un- Theoph. Howell 134 Sally Rloore til about the year 1885, when it was sold to Charles Reynolds Howel a8 Ruth Morris Fooks. who moved it to his farm on Parsonage John Peirson j Abigail Hand Lane. He has since sold it and it was moved to Champlain Sherman 14 Betsy Peirson \iiainscott. This \\;as the second school house in Jesse Strong 27 Nathan Saj-re that district, and was built by James L. Haines. John Strong 2 Meriah Peirson The present and third school house was built on a Jesse Peirson 103 Susannah White lot bought of Henry Topping." Ebenezer IVhite 80 Esther Peirson, Sr. The follolving is a partial list of the scholars in Francis Saj-re 36 Harriet Peirson, Jr. this District KO. 10 (Sagg) Number of scholars, Conkling Hand 56 Lorana Topping and days attendance. Time of school four months. Isaac Morehouse I I -4bigail Hedges, Jr. John White Jesse Pierson Esther Topping 28 Polly Moore Lucretie Pierson Hiram Sand ford Phebe Topping Sr. 46 Howel White

Silas Pierson Robert Petty ' Ruth Pierson 56 Theodore Peirson David Topping Ebenezer White Joanna Peirson 34 Daniel Sayre Richard Lester John Pierson Sally Smith '37 Danl. Hedges Lodowick Post Silas Wood Dency Peirson 49 Gordon Peirson Matthew Topping Daniel Haines Clarisa Hand 44 Sam'l D. Peirson Alfred Pierson Caleb Pierson Jerusha Peirson 87 Nathan Topping Henry White Isaac M. Pierson James Peirson 96 Silas White Hannah Peirson 47 Henry Topping Bridgehampton, March I jth, 1796. Phebe Sayre 45 Paul Topping -A Return of the School in the District of Sagg. Phebe Hedges 23 Peirson Strong Taught Two Quarters By Benjamin K. Hobart Ee- Rebecca Haines 80 Sylvester Strong ginning September 28th. 1795, ending March 12th. Sally Peirson 27 Jeremiah Rogers I 796. For Fort- Pounds Ten Shillings. Polly Hedges 32 Andrew Peirson Wilkes Hedges. Assistant, I Qr. Sarah Peirson I 7 John Sayre Scholars names, KO. Days. Hervey Topping 92 Solon Hand Martha Topping 34 Phebe Topping, Jr. 47 Job. Peirson I I j Oliver Sayre Sally Sayre 38 Sophia Peirson 68 Uriah Sayre I9 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

A true act. -\cross the Commons to the northeast was the Errors Excpt'd. "Bull's Head Tavern," owned and conducted by p. B. K. Hobart John \Vick for many years. -A favorite resort. On Jedeiah Peirson the opposite comer to the east of the Tavern \\?as Silas White the home and store of Capt. John Hulburt, where a David Topping goodly portion of the trade was in Kew England or IVilliam Peirson Trustees Jamaica rum, meted out to a line of custon~erses- School District No. 9 tending from Water Mill to Hog Xeck, as the en- tries in his ledger will show. Alan>- people have had the idea that the buildilig Let us pass over a period of say, fifty years, this used for a shop on the farm of the late Jalnes L. would bring us to the days just prior to the Revolu- Haines. and later his son Theo. F. Haines was the first school house in this district, but this is not so. tion, and who can picture or portray the scenes that -i11y one who studies the construction of this build- transpired in and about that old school house. This ing. ~villbe convinced of this fact. There was a was at that time the only room, save the church, school house that antedated this one by at least one u-here meetings could be held to enthuse the spirit hundred years. One that was far more pretentious of freedom and self-government into the minds and in size, appearance and accomn~odations,for this one hearts of the young men, who, ere-long would be had a seating capacity several times more than the called upon to defend their rights, and demand, if other. It also served the purpose in the cornmunity the>- must submit to taxation, then coupled with it that a Session room or Church parlors \vould at this must be representation. day and time. I verily believe if we had a record of the stirring The Tavern and Triangular Commons were appeals. the patriotic speeches, the pledges and prof- Ijound to change the community center from Bridge fered sacrifices that they knew would be an impor- Lane to East Hampton Path. After 1700 the lat- tant factor in their lives before the struggle was end- ter road gained a decided preference over the fornl- ed. we would have something that has never been er in the traffic from Southampton to East Hamp- surpassed in all the annals of history. ton. The growth of the settlement mas tending to- Tt was in t h i s ho~ise ward the northwest, and has ever since. that the noted or notor- This school house was probably built about the ious Stephen Burroughs year 1720, and stood on the Triangular Commons, taught school in the lat- 11ot far fro111 where James S. Havens' blacksmith ter part of the 18th cen- shop stood in later years. This was known in those tury. This man, a fugi- days as "The Two Chimney School House." It was tive from justice, came very much longer than the other school houses in to Shelter Island and this locality. It stood length-wise east and west, taught school for a time. with one door near the center on the south side, and and then accepted an of- one at the west end. This building had neither wall fer to come to Bridge- nor ceiling, and there was a large fireplace in each hampton to teach, for a end. I think it had a stone foundatioi and dirt or STEPHEN BURROUGHS much better money con- perhaps a tan bark floor; (for there was a tannery sideration than he had at Sagg Pond head owned by Joseph IVickham. received at the former place. This, coupled with the 1686, Silas White 1732). idea that it would be wiser and better not to go back The above description was given me by Miss to those localities where he was known, induced him Clara Haines when she was about go years of age. to accept the offer and locate here. She also said that she, when a child had attended There is little doubt but that Burroughs was a prayer meeting with her father, Deacon Jeremiah man of marked ability, and far better versed in lit- Haines, in this school house, and remembered just erature and general knowledge than the great ma- IIOII- it looked to her. jority of his contemporaries. He apparently won the SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-IL HISTORY

good Ivill and confidence of Judge Havens. of Shel- scheme in disposing of his supply of cheese, as well ter Island, for the Judge sent four of his children to as the comnlents of the Jew when visiting Hedges Bridgehampton, and placed them under the care of after a serious illness. (See Eurroughs' JIemoirs). Burroughs, and kept them here for two years. These lnay have been true. and they may not have Burroughs, "during this time, had formed a n~ost been, but told just out of spite. agreeable and intimate acquaintance \vith Dr. \Vool- Deacon David Hedges was the grandf2ther of worth." He writes: "I found hill1 a Inan of ver? Henry P. Hedges. The latter appeared to have an agreeable parts, and an entertaining companion.'' I in-born antipathy tou-ard Burroughs. and let no believe that Burroughs was a good teacher. He chance pass to express his contelllpt and disgust, brought his family here to live and rented a housc presumabl!- because of the incidents wherein Deacon of Elias Halsey, (see map for 1830). His \vide\\-. David and Burroughs were the principal actors. 1 Jerusha Halsey was there in 1850- This was later do not blame the Judge particularly, but he dicl - the farm bought by Judge H. P. Hedges. Burroughs carry this matter of conteml~tuntil he attained ad- appears to have gotten along ~vell,fcr he xvrites that vanced years. and freely espressed it on many oc- he had a large school, until theology was introduced casions, using such espressions as "tliat noted old into the equation. That ~nacletrouble. scoundrel Stephen Eurroughs" : and further, the Deacon David Hedges was the leading Inan in the Judge would confiscate and destroy every copy of church at that time, and he and Burroughs clashed "Burroughs' llemoirs" that he could obtain in any on their religious views. This led to heated argu- 11 a\-, regardless of o\vnership. These acts increased ments: Burroughs being by far the better read and rather than diminished the interest the public took educated, proved too nluch for Hedges. The !at- In Burroughs. It worked a prcblem in inverse ratio ter's disposition was such that he could not sublnit throughout this community, \\-hereby, instead oi nor yield. and to have Burroughs best him in their blotting out the memory of this man. it served to argunlents was more than he cculd stand. IVhere- 1:erpetuate that memory above any other method he vpn Hedges and others, including \'17001worth. be- might have chosen. gan an investigation into Eurroughs for~nerrecord. Late in life Eurroughs reicrmed, a11d be it said of This uncovered a whole lot of information very de- Hedges, and I wish to emphasize this statement. that trimentai to Eurroughs' character which finally led after he became convinced of the fact that Bur- to his eviction. One episode in his varied career roughs had forsaken his old ways, and \\-as follaw- was as follo~vs. _itone time he located in Pelham. ing a new life. he gave him credit for having re- hlass., and taught schcol in that town. -At that time fonnetl, and withdre~x-the charges he had formerly the church was without a minister and \\;as candidat- nlade against him. This was a fine illustration oi ing for one. Burroughs applied for the position, the true Christian spirit of a really great man. In but the officials oi the church were rather skeptical proof of the above statement relative to the reior~na- of his ability. and also of his religious character, but tion of Burroughs in late life, I wish to quote from finally agreed to submit him to a test. On a given an article published in a prominent Canadian paper day they were all to meet at the church. The church zbout the time of his death. officials were to select a text for Burroughs, and "Stephen Burroughs died at Three Rivers. Loxver give him twenty minutes to prepare a sermon, and Canada, in the winter of 1839-40- He Ivas a singu- ii under these terms he could preach a sermon that lar man. He \\-as both gocd and bad, wise and fo31- they all considered orthodox, they would hire him. ish. ever a blessing and a curse to himself and sgcie- They chose the text fronl Joshua 9, j. "-\nd old ty: kind hearted and at the same time weak, a mall shoes and clouted upon their feet." He took the in \\;horn the principles of good and cvii \\-ere so chosen test and within the allotted time \\-as ready, strangely mised up that it was difficult to decide and preached a sermon that passed the test, and they ~vhetherthe doing of a criluinal cr a charitable deed hired him : however. he did n~tstay verj- long in this gave him the most satisfaction. But after a Ian: charge. He afterward became a counterfeiter ant1 course of crime and goodness, a change, someho\~- had a home on the Canadian border. cr other came over the spirit of Stephen's dream, Burroughs in turn related Hedges underhsnded when he took up the business cf becoming a respect- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY able man, and well and honorably did he follo~i-that Uary Sand ford I 2 Chapman Jeniliilgs l-tusiness, as his many friends--enemies he had none Shadrach Hildret h 19 David Sand ford --who were long his neighbors, will all cheerfullj- Jno. Parker 34 Polly Rose testify. -Although the morning and noon of his life Lewis Cook I j Halse- Ludlanl \\-as cloudy and forbidding, the evening was blame- Caleb \\-oodruff 24 Tohn Halsey less and peaceful." Thontas Halsey 2 I Gordon Ccrn-ithee Jones Topping 29 Silas Cook "Eridgehampton School List Taught by \\-m. L). Luther Topping 14 Levi Howel Gibbs. for f 16 pr. Quarter began the 19th of Octo- Gabriel Halsey 28 Hiran1 Sandford ber. 179j and ended the 16th of January, 1796." Sylvanus Halsey 10 Cynthia Halsey Sanles So. Day sSames So. Days Thomas Gelston 27 Jeremiah Halsey Talnladge Hildreth 60 Hannah Korris 70 Satli'i. Halsey 20 Oliver Halsey John \Voodruff 20 Teppe 10 Jno. Gelston 9 Hervey Cook Seldei~Dayton 31 Huldah Parker ja Frank Corlvithee 33 Hoivei: IVoodruff Sylvanus Ero\vn 39 Phebe Sandford 70 Phebe Corwithee 28 Elisha Topping Frank Cor~vithee 70 Betsey Halsey 36 Partridge Hildreth 37 John hlitchel Levi Howel 70 Hannah \L700druff 70 Hedges Cook 40 Polly '\t:oodruff David Cook 70 Jerusha Jennings 70 David Holi-el a9 Moses Halsey Hervey Cook jo Moses Halsey 70 Haines Halsey 18 David Gelston Halsey Ludlam 70 Stephen Halsey 6s Topping Sandford 33 Clarissa Rose James Sand f ord 68 Shadrach Hildreth 70 -lbrrn. Loper 23 Piersoil Rogers Ruth Corn-ithee 70 Nath S. Hakey 39 Polly Cook I 4 John Hildreth Jonas Topping jo Burnett Cor~vithee 70 Caleb Halsey WI~.Corwithee The next school hcuse in this district was the one Thomas Halsey, Jr. Silas Cook, Jr. that stood on the old Sagaponack road about where Jeremiah Halsey Susanna Jennings the west gate is located on the ICahle property. I. Cynthis Halsey Nathan Hildreth cannot ascertain just when this house was built, but Clarissa Rose David Sand ford I know it stood there in the year 1832, ant1 \\-as in John hlitchell .lbr~n.Korris use until ~Sla,when it was sold to James L.Haines, Betsy ivoodruff Elisha Topping ~~homoved it to his farm for a shop. Jno. Gelstoit John Halsey Then follon-ed the school house as shown on the Obadiah Cook Hiram Sand ford n~apfor 1830, on the 11-esterly side of Ocean Road. Gordon Corwithee Lewis Halsey Henry Howel 70 Howel \Voodruff 30 Hedges Cook 61 Mary Woodruff 4s

Henry I-Io\\-el -38 Elias Halsey 3 1 Second School House in District No. 9 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

This was built in the year 1842 at a cost of $471.00. place. This-house \\-as in use until about the year It stood there until the year 1891, when it was sold 1830, when it was sold and moved some distance and moved to Narrow Lane for a dwelling house. to the west to a colored settlement, and used for a and another school house built on the same site at dwelling house. Timothy Halsey, Jr. known as "Master Tim", was born in 1764, and died in 181 I. He was the son of

Third School House in District No. 9, 1842-189 1 a cost of $2, j00. This last h o u s e was sold a.nd nloved to Wainscott for a chapel in the year 19(18. Then it was that the next school house was built on the corner of School Street and Church Lane. T'he lot cost $1,500, and the house $~o,ooo.

School District No. 8 (Hay Ground)

The oldest school house of which I can find any Hay Ground School House, District No. 8, 1830-1891 record in this district, stood on what is now the high- way or street, about opposite the honle of the late the first Timothy, and his home was in Scuttle Hole, Charles Strong, on the Hay Ground Road, the site now the home of William Haines. (1800 map). I-Ie of which was pointed out to me by the late Edward taught school in this locality for a good many years. M. Rogers. much of the time in Hay Ground. I think 111y grand- This building was about 15 by 20 feet in size, mother, Elizabeth Tuthill Rogers and her brothers both roof and uprights were shingled, one door to and sisters attended his school. He was an excellent the west, three windows on either side, and a huge teacher for those days. chimney and fireplace at the east end. This fireplace Jesse Halsey, (see 1800 map) the son of Lemuel. was large enough to hang three kettles on the crane. (1750 map) related the following story of an it~ci- which swung from one side, and wide enough to dent while attending school in this old school house take in a whole cordwood stick four feet long. The when Master Tim was teacher. andirons were of such ponderous size that a fourteen "For punishment at school one day, one of II:~ year old boy could hardly lift one of them, and the schoolmates was given the generations of Shem to tongs were in keeping, both as to size and weight. commit to memory as follows: Eber, Peleg, Reu. There was a board floor, but neither \\-all nor ceil- When called up before the august Master to recite, ing. The furniture consisted of slanting tables with the poor boy rendered it thus: Angle, Pangle. Row. seats or benches on either side of the room, for the The irate Master reaching for the boy's collar with smaller children, and a double row of desks through one hand, and for the ever present sappling with the the center of the roo111 lengthwise, for the older other, exclaimed, while vigorously plying the rod, pupils. The teacher's desk stood before the fire- _lggle, Paggle the Devil, go to your seat." SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

This old house was used until about the year 1830. Nan~es No. Days Sanles KO. Days when the second house was built about where the Frederick Halsey 69 -\brm. ll'oodruff @ present school house stands. Daniel S. Halsey Catherine Rogers 9 Martin Rose 6 I taught school here when I mas a boy, and at an Ludlow Halsey I j Polly Rogers 8 earlier date Abraham Halsey of Water Mill. This Agnes Corwithee 8 Hannah Rogers I 6 house was sold to James H. Rogers about the year Jane Corwithee 18 John Lupton I 6 1891, who moved it to his farm, and a new school Job Woodruff 7 Abram Miller 4 house built. This one stood until 1912 when it was Dan'l Talmadge 86 Steva Rogers 12 sold to John Kale, and the present house built. I am Nathan Rogers I 14 Elizabeth Rose 78 not sure but I think the second house was built by Halsey Cook 69 Silas Corwithee Ioj Deacon Jeremiah Haines. William Convithee 31 Sally Lupton 8 I here give a list of the scholars for the tern1 fro111 Susanna Halsey 26 Silas IVoodruff 72 September 28th. 1795 to March 15th. 1796, kept by Frank Brower ; lVilliain Rogers 97 Timothy Halsey, in Southampton. This was Master Polly Lupton 19 Hannah Ludlow 21 Tim, and it was in the Hay Ground District. -An Harriett Cooper 43 Elizabeth Ludlo\v 20 account of the school kept by Timothy Halsey for Stephen Haines 8 Folgier Halsey -33 - f 33, 3s. 4d- Rogers Woodruff LOI Puah Tarbell 43 Elias Ludlow 48 Stephen Rose Sanles No. Days Kames So. Days Zuba Rogers 39 David Haines James Rogers IOI Phebe Brown 24 Peleg Cooper rqSylvanus Halsey Hiram Lupton IOI Silas Cooper 58 James Terry jo Trustees of Sd. School. Polly Halsey 91 David Loper 8 Herrne Halsey I 6 Susanna Rogers 41 Hobart Halsey I34 Mary Rogers 33 Ananias Cooper School District No. 18 James Woodruff 4s Luther Corwithee James Topping 19Stafford Squires As early as 1750 a sinall dwelling house was Phebe Halsey 128 Jubal Tarbell owned and I presume built by Sylvanus Sandford, Jasper I3alsey 68 Jane Halsey on the small orchard lot opposite the home of the late Henry H. Sandford on Butter Lane. -it Syl- Luther Rose 17 Jeremiah Haines Stephen Talmadge 67 Hannah Rose vanus Sandford's death it went to his son, Maltby Sandford. I do not know how soon. but after a Sullivan Cook I 12 Hannah Howel time it became vacant, and was then used as a school Daniel Jennings 98 John Rogers, Jr. house. Mre do know it \\-as used as such in ~Sro. Wilrnan Halsey 107 John Cook. Jr. ior Edward Sandford was one of the pupils. At Mary Paine 15 Phebe Tarbell a much earlier date than this my grandfather, Gab- -\nthony Ludlow 47 Peleg Rogers riel Hakey, the children of the Loper, Mitchel, Halsey iVoodriifi GI Squire Sandford Woodruff and Corwithe families attended school Shadrach Topping 17 Harriet Halsey here. This was used as a school house until the year Sally Miller 34 Stephen Topping 1824, when the new house \\:as built on the triangu- Wheeler Cooper 51 Malby Rose lar lot opposite the residence of Silas IV. Corwith? Stephen Rose 46 Job Haines Jr., on the westerly side of Huntington Path. Jesse Halsey 17 Hugh Halsey The following is a copy of the minutes of the -4brrn. Baker 135 Catherine Halsey first school meeting held in this district. Samuel Cook 140 Samuel Brown ".At a meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants Hezekiah HaIsey 43 Hannah Cook of the 18th cominon school district held at the house Ezekiel H. Rogers 7" Austin Haines of Mr. Silas Woodruff, Jr., on the 29th of -\pril, Elnathan Topping 48 Luther Loper 1824. Mr. Jesse 'CVoodruff \\-as chosen moderator, John Scluires 59 Herrick Aldrich Jason Loper, Clerk. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

spirits turpentine I/ brick & hair Hooks staple 8r hasp 8/ - Door handle 4/ - Stove 8r pipe ...... to 2000 lath at 13/...... to 20 lbs. do. nails at / ~octs to 5 days maison work at 6/ to inside door handle 8r screws ...... to cash paid Jeremiah Haines for building House .

North District School House, District No. 18, 1824- 1903 .At the last named site the house was built, the "Voted that Gabriel Halsey, John Corwith, Jr., district buying the building material, the above be- Jason Lcper 1;e trustees for the ensuing year. Jared ing a true copy of the original list. and Jeremiah Loper. Collector. Haines was employed as builder. His labor bill "The site of the school house voted to be at the a~llountedto $58.00. The total cost of the b:iild- head of the lane called Mitchell lane. ing was $I 70.98%. "Voted that this meeting be adjourned uiltil the X fen- years later this house was moved to the 27th of May next. at f cck P. M. at the house oi hill near the residence of the late Melvin Ed\\-asds. Silas TI!-oodruff. The locaticn of this site is shown on the 1850 map. ";lgreeable to adjournment a meeting was held The Edwards house was not there at that time. at the house of Mr. S. Woodruff, on the evening of but was built later by Thom~sEdwards, arid the -37th of May, 1824. Silas Woodruff chosen Chair- lantl where the school houze \\-as placed was at that man. Jason Loper, CLK. tinle common or Town land. When the school "It was moved and seconded that the vote fcr the house stood on this site, Miss .\bigail Halsey (later Site of the school house should be reconsidered 8r Sweezey ) taught school there. that the site should be at the Northeast corner of The house stocd on this site until 1853, when it Mr. Corwith's orchard lot." was moved to the corner of Silas Corwith's lot on The fcllo\ving is a true list of materials used and Eutter Lane (see map for 1900). While here it cost of salme for this school house, also the hill for xvas enlarged to meet the needs of the district, and labor : remained on this site for just fifty years or until "to 2300 shingles at 16% doll's. & 40 pik. 1903, when the present school house was built, and at I /8 $46.28 the cld house sold to Samuel E. Edwards. who to cartage of j loads at a/6-freight 3.jo j.06 mcved it to his farm where it still stands. It was to I 14. ft. mercht. boards at $I 1.09...... I 1.00 sold for $p.oo. to 285 it. refuse boards at 7 dcll's 2.00 The first boy who ever attended school in this to 2 casks lime at 14,' carting /6 ...... 3.56 house was Richard Cook. H's father though a res- to wrought nails 8/4 ... I .o4 ident of Hay Ground sent him to this new house. to 8 111. cut nails, 57 cts...... jf "because the old cne in Hay Ground (the one 1 tc nails ...... -41% have already lnentioned previously in this chapter) tc 300 feet spruce bcards at 1-3 doll's ...... 6.00 was so old, cold and dilapidated." The above was to 53 3/4 Ibs. cut nails 3.80 told me by Mr. Cook himself. about the time the to 30 Ibs. af nails ...... 2. jo new hcuse was built in District No. 18, in the year to hinges, screws & nails 3-54 1903- to I bcs a-elass 3.12% J~hnCocper, quite a noted teacher in his day, ic linced c1 6/ 9% Ibs. let1 a. 19% taught school in this district for sol~letime. He SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY was a very bright man and a great athlete. Many sought to change his position, when the roller car- of the boys in the schools at that time were from ried his feet from under him. The tin pan flew and some Orphan -Asylum or House of Refuge, and Henry nleasured his length on the floor. \\-ere a pretty tough lot. Miss Mary Gertrude Hildreth and Jliss 3Iary The former teacher had had sonle trouble with Topping also taught school here; also Charles H. these boys. so the trustees decided to employ Cooper Hildreth and Daniel S. Haisey. as teacher. When school opened the first day. No. Cooper was there. and part of his equipment was a School District 13 (Brick Kilns) g-ocd bunch of Hickory saplings, which he stood JVhile writing about the schools in this section, I in the corner by his desk. and told the boys what think perhaps I had better mention a district school of which but little is known. This was formerly they were for. He hoped he should not have to use Schooi District No. 13. would say that is an them. but if occasion required, they would be handy. Seine unlucky number, no wonder it canle to naught, but He displayed another feature that had an eclually in its day it filled a very important place in our local gcod effect upon these incorrigiljle youngsters. He history. It was known as the Brick Kiln District and bcarded with Jesse Woodruff at this time (the place the school house was located on what was later owned by the late George H. Miller). When he known as Peter's Garden, at the junction of the ~entto school, it was said. he alivays went across Brick Kiln Rcad and the road leading to the beach the lots, and never touched a fence going either -,vay. at Soyack Bay. He could jump and clear every fence with great "Schoo1 at the Brick Kilns February ye 1st. 1796 ease. and with little apparent effort. This had such cont. to March the 15th. 1796 taught by Daniel , a soothing effect upon the bcys that he never (lid * . Gibbs at Scven Dollars pr. month." 9 have any trouble. San~es No. Days Sc. Days Later, this same teacher \\-as employed in Sag Elizabeth Mary Hand 3s Harbor. One of his pupils \\-as the son of a prom- Stanborough 38 Jane Hand 38 inent Inan of that town, who sought protection fro111 Zernviah Hand 38 Patience Edwards 38 punishment for any misdemeancr, under the social Fanny Hand 38 Russel Edwards 38 prestige of his father. One day, up911 being reprov- Sandford 29 John Edwards ed, made ansxver : "You had better not touch me. I Isaac Edwards 38 ye 3rd. 5'9 guess you do not know who I am. I am Colonel Elizabeth Edwards 38 Lucretia Edu-ards 38 's scn." IVhereupon Cocper gave him a good Jerema Edwards 38 Dan'l. Edwards 3s trouncing. and then told him, "So\\-, you cnn go Joseph Edwards 28 Sayre Stuart 38 home and tell Colonel -, that his son is a d-n -1bigail Stuart 38 Sathan Stuart -3 I fool." Nicholas Payne 30 Henry Edwards Ji-. 30 Charles IV. Dickinson was another teacher in thi- James Talnladge 25 Elias Ho\\-ei 2 schocl. Henry H. Sandford when but a big boy. Polly Bennett -3 was cne of his pnpils. He was very uneasy. ant1 John Edwards hard to keep cluiet during school hours, so Dickin- Josiah Hand son aclopted a novel method to kcep him still, and Henry Edwards Trustees not distract the nlinds of the students from their lessons. Water Mill School Distria Part cf the school equipment \\-as a tin pan used I am confident that there was a school house in tc bring chips from the wood pile, with xhich to IVater l/lill that was built about 1740 to I jjo but i kindle the fire. Henry was called 1-1p by the side of can find 110 record to prove this. One elderly nlan the teacher's desk, made to stand on a piece of in that locality told me, fro111 \\-hat he renleinbered broom stick, or round stick fro111 the n-ood pile, and hearing the old people say, there \\-as a school house on his head xas placed the tin pan full of chips. at an early date solnewhere on the Cobb Road. This -A11 was quiet for a time. but he socn tired, and is the estent of my information. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

The school house that is marked on the 1850 map, "was built in the fall of 1812, but school did not open until January rst, 1813. with Hugh Hal- sey (later Judge) as teacher. His salary for the first quarter was $30. and I think he boarded him- self." This was from the diary of Daniel Hil- dreth. This house was used until the year 1870 when it was sold to Frank Benedict, who moved it north of the railroad for a tenant house. here it stood for some years, and finally was destroyed by fire. Thz nest school house was built in 1870 and was used Southampton Academy, 183 1-1893

In 1839 a stock company was formed in Bridge- hampton, consisting of 50 shares of $25. each, to build and establish an academy in this place. This was built on the east side of Ocean Road, opposite Mill Hill. The first trustees were five in number as follows : Edn-in Rose, Silas \V. Corwith, William Darius Halsej-. Xlanson Topping and James L. FIaines. The building was a two story frame structure, the lower story to be used for the school and the upper story for a hall. Ichabod Sheffield Seabury was the architect and builder. School was opened in the fall of 1859 with Albert White, of Southampton, as teacher or prin- Clinton Academy, East Hampton, buiIt 1784 cipal, who taught one year. He was followed by Samuel Herrick, who also taught one year. Then for seine years, when it was rebuilt and enlarged Albert White taught another year. Then came An- into the present school house. drew E. Warner, of Chester, Conn., who taught for In this district have been a number of teachers five years, or from 1862 to 1867. He was the first u-hose ability and influence should be recognized. 1 principal that I remember, and that was from the cannot name all who should come under this list, fact that he used to come to my Father's home and but will name especially Miss Elizabeth Burnett and bring a small organ, on which he played to lead the Abraham Halsey. company in singing. It has been, and still is, the opinion of a goodly The Rev. George R. Howell succeeded Warner, number of men whose ability and experience should then came the Rev. William Lawrence, each of give them a right to know and judge discreetly. these teaching one year. Then Edwin Hedges that there never was a time in the history of taught for three years. This brings us to 1872. schools and educational advantages in this State, That year Prof. Lewis W. Hallock began a very when there was illore thorough and efficient work successful career as principal of this academy. In done in preparing students for college and the high- 1873 this institution was incorporated under the er educational pursuits, than in the days of the dis- Board of Regents of the State of New York, and trict schools and academies. the name changed to "Bridgehanlpton Literary and The oldest academy in this State 11-as Clinton Cominercial Institute." At this time Prof. Charles Academy in East Hampton built in 178.4 among H. Howell was the efficient and highly respected as- whose alumni n-ere man>- noted men. sistant principal. and this school became one of the SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY P most prosperous institutions of learning on all Long Island. and deservedly so. The bell in the old academy was bought with the proceeds of an exhibition or play given by the students. and is at this time in the custody of the Hampton Library, and may be seen in the -Art Room of that Institution. Prof. Hallock taught here until 1908, when the school was discontinued, and the building sold, Xbra- ham Osborn buying one half, moved it to Poxabogue for a dwelling. Arthur Hallock bought the other half and moved it to the north side of Sagaponack

Road. near Sagg Swamp, where it now stands. Bridgehampton Academy, 1859- 1907 There were numerous private schools throughout this entire section from the time of the first settle- and Miss Elvira Sandford, when a little girl, at- ment. On the map for 1850 may be seen the loca- tended her school. Miss Corwith afterward mar- tion of the schoolhouse of Andrew Fordhain, a most ried Jason Loper. efficient teacher, and a remarkable penman, as is evi- Back of where James S. Havens' blacksmith shop denced by the penmanship of so many of his pupils. stood and west of the J. Havens' house on the 1900 He \\-as the son of John Fordham, the blacksmith. map was a select school kept for a time by a Mr. (see 1800 map) in Hay Ground. This house was Gray. brother of the Presbyterian minister, and I afterward bought by Charles Topping and moved to think others kept school in this building after Mr. llecos (see maps for 1850 & 1900). Gray went away. Some think this inay have been Miss Emma Rose taught a school in her Father's part of the old "Two Chimney School House." I house in Hay Ground (Dr. Rufus Rose), she also doubt it, though it is possible it may have been. taught embroidery and sewing and the making of samplers. many specimens of the work done under In IVater Mill, Miss Abigail Halsey and a Miss her instruction may be seen in the homes in this Burnett both kept select schools. cotnmunity to this day-. She was a sister of Col. In the early days the school houses were used for Ed\vin Rose. other purposes than day schools. Religious services lliss Sophronia Topping (later Burnett) taught n.ere often held in the different districts. a private school in Poxabogue. The Misses Nancy The late Judge Henrv P. Hedges said that when and Maria Halsey also taught for years in their 11e was a boy, the general election was held in the home on Ocean Road, now the Peck property next school districts. The Town Meeting was held in to the Kahle home. It was in this ho~~semany East Hampton. This tvas entirely new to me, and years later that they were assaulted by Charles Rugg. I have since wondered if that method applied only (of Maybee murder fame). to the township of East Hampton. He being a resi- Mrs. Nancy K. Hedges and her daughter Maria dent of that town ought to know. taught for many years in their home on Lumber In closing this chapter on schools. I wish to Lane, and Miss Susan Beard (later Convith) was quote from an old spelling book in my possession. a very successful teacher in Bridgehampton for In the year 1693. by act of the Colonial Legisla- some years, as was also Miss Katherine P. Halsey, ture the name of Long Island was changed to "The \rho had a class of young ladies in this place, and Island of Sassau." taught in the rmrn that was formerly the law office I have a "Guide to the English Tongue," by of her grandfather, Judge Hugh Halsey, (see map Thomas Dyche. "School-master at Stratford Bow. for 1850). On this same map inay be seen the loca- London, Published in 1730." On the fly-leaf of tion of the ho111e of Miss Ruth Corwith, on iilit- which is written : chel's Lane, who taught school there some years. "Edward Howell. His spelling book, given him SKETCHES FROM LOCXL HISTORY

by the Society In England for the propagation of "Ezekiel Howell, His Book, Given him by his the Gospel in Foreign Parts, and Delivered to hi111 Father, December Ye md, 1763." by said Societies School Master at Bridgehampton This Ezekiel was the ancestor of the Ho\vell on the Island of Kassau, In the Colony of Ke\v family of Posabogue. His father was the Edward s~rk, (Nork) North -America. January 13th, 1731- mentioned above. This Edward's father and grand- 5. father were both nained Richard, and going back to By Edward Davis." the next generation we have the Edward who was Then are the following inscriptions : the first settler in the Southa~llptoncolony by that "Edward Howell, His Book, Given him by his name. and the one who built the first \vaterrnil1 at Father, December Ye 2, 1~4a." 11-ater Mill.

CHURCHES AND MINISTERS

The Church history of this locality has been so - fully written by the different historians that it ap- pears superfluous to dwell upon that subject. The Hon. Henry P. Hedges has covered the ground thoroughly. The Rev. George R. Ho~vellmade it almost a life study. Xr. Jan~esT. Adams gives a full account cf the Churches and their history. IVhat llloi-e can be said on this subject? I am just going to nlake a fen- comments, and relate a few incidents concerning the Churches and their Minis- ters fro111 the date of the first colony, to the year 1900. the date of the last map.

IVe have always been taught to revere and honor First Church in i3ridgehampton (Sagg) 167 1 the Pilgrims, but ~vhenwe lock into and stt~dytheir history, and note the manner of treatment the>- met- little band that settled in Southail~ptonmust have ed out to those who differed from them, especially heen about the best men of all the ~lassach~~setts in their religious views, I am led to helieye that the Colony. I think as a rule they were religious. I>ut 1)- no means wild fanatics. The first church was of course built in Soutl~ai~~p- ton, and n-as the only one in the Colony for many years. -ifter the land froill Water lfill to Saga- ponack had been settled on. for at least 30 years, the people all went to Southampton to church. The first church in Bridgehalnpton was built on Bridge Lane about the year 1671, (the exact date is not known) and stood 14 rods west of Sagg Pond on the north side of the road, (see Iroo map). 111 size it was aj by 33 feet, with a thatched roof. and a fire- place. Ministers fro111 Southampton as a rule, came tc Eridgehan~ptonand conducted services quite fre- cluently. There was no regular lninister until the Site of First Church in Bridgehampton on Bridge Lane spring of 1694, though there had been for sonic SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-LIL HISTORY tilne a desire on the part of many to have this sec- year returned to the City of Sew York, where I tion set off as a separate parish, and have a ininister have Officiated to this day in the discharge of this of their own. office and of the Office of Conllllissary of New York On -August 24th. 1686, it was voted "That ye In- 2nd Sew Jersey, as appointed by the Right Rever- habitants of nlecox and sagaponack that is eastward end Fathers in God, John and Edillund Lords Bishop of the wading place shsll be Released from paying of London." their proportion of the yearly maintenance of llr. He was ordained Rector of Trinity Church Feb- il'hiting fro111 October nest upon condition that if ruar1 6th, 1697. IVe see by this that he preached they shall be without a minister there at Sagaponack for the space of a year," etc. (Mr. TVhiting was the minister at Southampton). \jTe know that they did pay their proportion of the yearly nlaintenance referred to until the year 1694. we also know that I:!- I:!- an -Act, passed May 16th. 1699. Bridgehan~pton was lnatle a "Distinct Parish." There is little doubt but that the church peol>le had ~vrittento the Massachusetts Colony as to pro- curing a minister for the Bridgehampton Church. I here quote frcnl a letter written by the Rev. Iliilliam I'eseq-. (The Inan for whom Vesey Street in Sew 1-ork City was named.) "I have been a com- municant of the Church Second Church in Bridgehampton, 1737-1842 of England ever sincz I three months in Eoston, two years in Hempstead, was I j years. and aft:ar and six n~onthsin Sagg. This would make it May, I had my Degree in the 1694, when he canle to Sagg to preach, and prob- College of Sew Engl~nd. ably stayed until about Kovember of that year. Mr. by the advice of some of lVhite was ordained October gth, 169;. our Church (not being of I think it fair to presunle that Mr. IVhite may age to receive Orders) have preached here sonle time before he was ordain- I ~reachetl six months ed. This n-ould account for the intervening time. in Sagg. tivo years at Dr. Epher iVhitaker called these first churches, Hemstead. in this P~ov- To~vnChurches, I think Community Churches REV. WILLIAM VESEY ince, (where I presume First regular Minister in ti-culd be a good name. They were not Presbj-ter- 1714. ]ife and d 0 c t r i n e First Church ian. but quite nearly Congregational in their form were no disservice to ou; cf government. They were sul>ported by taxation Church) and after that, three nlonths in the Church cn all of the property in the Parish, and if a tas in Boston at the request of lfr. Miles and the Church \\-as not paid. the property of the delinquent could be liiardens, and then in the 24th. year of 111y age I sold by the authorities. This method of support \\as called Kov. Znd, 1696. by the Church \\'ardens was bound to be a short-lived arrangement. Ee the 2nd 1-estry of the City cf Kew 1-ork to officiate as doctrine of the first church what it ma>-,it was cer- llinister persuant of an --kt of -Assembl~-as will ap- tainly Calvinistic. Judge Henry P. Hedges thought pear in the enclosed minutes of the said 1-estry ; -4c- the first two churches were Congregational until cordingly I departed hence for England, and there about 1747, the provisions of the grant of ao acres \\.as honored by the Universit>- of Osford with the cf land in 1712 notu-ithstanding. There were no Degree of Master of -Arts, July ~zth,1696, ordained Elders until 1801. and none were ordained until af- Priest the 2nd of -August follo~\-ing,and the same ter the year 181I. SKETCHES FRO11 L0C;IL HISTORY

vide and separate, all of which are non-essential ant1 immaterial as they relate to true Christianity. The second ~rdainedminister was the Rev. Janles Brown, who was born about 1721, and died -April z~nd,1788, in the 68th year of his age. He \\-as a graduate of Yale in the class of 1747 and was or- dained here when about 27 years old, on June IS. 1748, the day of Mr. White's resignation. The third minister in this church \\-as the Rev. -Aaron Wool\vorth, who was born at Long Meadoiv. Mass.. Oct. a j. 1763, graduated at Yale, 1784, was ordained Aug. 30, 1787, received the honorary de- gree of D. D. from Princeton in 1809. and d i e d -April 4. 1821. -After a long period of religious inactivity and apathy there came what was known in Sew Eng- land as the "Great -A\\-akening" in which the Re\-. Jonathan Edwards was the noted leader. This re- ligious excitement was supplemented by the effecti~e work of George Whitfield, who on about his sixth evangelistic tour of America, visited Bridgehainp- ton and preached in Paul Halsey's dooryard, stand- ing on a barrel for a pulpit. This was Paul Halsey Sr., whose home was about 20 rods west of Ocean Present Presbyterian Church, 1842 Road on the north side of Paul's Lane in Bridge- I~ampton. The first church (the one on Bridge Lane) was The story of the next religious excitement is best used fro111 1671 until the year 1737, when a ne\v told in "Prime's History of Long Island," which I church was built on the northerly side of Sagapon- quote: "The Rev. James Davenport while at college ack Road east of Ocean Road (see map for 17jo) . The second church edifice was used until 1843, a became ~n~ichattached to and influenced by a wild period of 10s years, when the present church build- enthusiast by the name of Ferris. He claimed to ing was erected. According to Ichabod S. Seabury. know the will of God in all things: and that he had who helped to raze the old church, and also to built! not committed sin in six years, and that he should the ne& me, solne of the best of the timber in the have a higher seat in Heaven than Moses." I quote old was used in the new building. only very little of Prime's article. The first ordained minister in the first c h u r c h Davenport becanle a11 ardent follower of Ferris was the Rev. Ebenezer White, who graduated from and a genuine fanatic. At one time he became so Hanrard College in 1692 at the age of 20, and he satisfied that he had a special call to labor for the was about 23 when called to this church. In the advancement of God's Kingdom, that he addressed Sagg graveyard stands the tombstone marking his his congregation for 24 hours continuously. He did grave. He died February 4th, 1736, and is called have quite a number of converts who became scat- "Pastor of the Church of Christ in Eridgehamp- tered far and near, many of these were on Long Is- ton." What a wonderful title for the first minister land. (He preached for a time at Southold). Those of the first church. Would that it might ever have in Bridgehampton united in I 748 and built a church remained as it originally was, and under that name. in Hay Ground (see 1730 map). This was in use with no man-made denonlinational differences to di- for one-half a century, or until 1798. The building SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

was later moved to Bridgehan~pton,where it now at sea a ship called '\Velconle,' which has on board stands, just north of the Kahle property. one hundred or more of the heretics and maligna~its The Rev. Elisha Payne was minister in this church called Quakers, with \V. Penn, who is the chief from 17j2 to 1775, when he died and was buried in scamp, at the head of them. The General Court has the Hay Ground grave-yard. The inscription in accordingly given secret orders to PIIaster llalachi part is as follows : " **** preacher of ye Gospel and Huscott, of the brig Porpoise. to waylay the saitl was Ordained ye first Minister over ye Congrega- IVelcome slyly as near the Cape of Cod as may be. tional Church of Christ in this place May 11th. -4. and make captive said Penn and his ungodly crew, D. I j5~." so that the Lord may be glorified and not mocked on I do not propose to give a list of the ministers of the soil of this new country with the heathen wor- the different churches, for that has already been ship of these people. Much spoil can be made by lvritten in full. selling the whole lot to Barbadoes. where slaves -4fter the church becatne Presbyterian, about fetch good prices in rum and sugar, and we shall not 1747, and was subject to the rules and laws govern- only do the Lord great service by punishing the ing that body, Calvinistic theology was dwelt upon \~ickedbut we shall make great good for His Minis- and preached more than true religion, and to such ter and people." an extent that to some it became very obnosious. "Yours in the bowels of Christ, -4t that tin~ethe only college-bred nlen in the con^- Cotton Mather". munity were the minister, the doctor and the magis- IVe of this day can hardly believe that a minister trate or lawyer. It was only natural that these n3en of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, claiming to be His should be looked up to. and their opinion regarded ambassador could ever have entertained any such as "the end of the law." Then the minister was thoughts, but such was the case. generally looked upon as the "chosen of God" and Doctor Aaron Woolworth was a good man. and the one whose opinion none dared to oppose or did what he thought was God's will, but note his at- cluestion. titude, his ideas and his belief, when a parishioner, I think the influence of those conditions was about upon losing a little child by death, called upon the as bad for the minister as it was for the people. Rev. Doctor to attend the funeral. -After the little They preached the Creator as being. "God the .All- rough box in which the child was placed, was lowel'- Terrible. mighty Avenger, Thunder Thy Clarion. ed into the silent grave the Rev. Doctor turned to and lightning Thy sword," \i-hose in~mutablelaw that father. and said, "There is nothing in the 11-ord was irrevocable and whose decrees were from ever- of God that gives us any assurance that that child lasting, to retleenl the elect chosen for eternal salva- can be saved, having died b e f o r e the age of ac- tion, or to dainn the elect chosen for eternal pun- ishment. and this election was made fro111 the foun- dation of the w or1 d. Then it appeared as if the ministers delighted in. or thought it their duty to preach, the doctrine of "infant damnation," a doc- trine 1110st hideous and hellish in all its phases. (I am glad that the Confession of Faith has since been changed). And I rejoice that at this day and time such doctrines \vould not be tolerated nor allolved tc be preached in any nlodern pulpit. The very thought of it is repelling and savors of anything hut true Christianity, and yet, these inen were really good- and meant well. but Oh, how narrow and big-- oted. On Sept. I jth, 1682, the Rev. Cotton Mather A wrote to a dear friend, as follo\vs: "There be IIOTV St. Ann's Episcopal Church, 1908 SKi;ErI'C;3ELS FROM L,OC-11, HISTORY countability." That father, moved by all the an- guish of a loving parent, replied, "Doctor IYool- worth. I would rather take that child's chance in the Final Judgment than to take yours." The above conditions were really the cause and reason for the withdrawal of some of the leading and influential men from the old church. and the establishment of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Eridgehamptcn. -A pendulum in swinging one side of the central point of gravity, will, by the laws of r~at~re,s~ving in return just as far in the opposite direction. Fronl all I can ascertain, that is just what the new church organization did. First M. E. Church in Bridgehampton, 1821-1833 They gave way to enlotions and excitement that savored of anything rather than true religion and in the old Hay Ground school house, "in the even- adorable \vorship. In my opinion it must have low- ing at early candle light.'' This was the old school ered the standard of reverence to such an extent that house that stood on the colnrnon iand which is at it. like the other condition mentioned, became cb- this time part of the highway southeast of the home- nosious. The penduluin had swung too far the stead of the late Edwin 11. Rogers. -All of Long other way. It seems a pity that men in the same Island outside of Brooklyn was in one circuit at community, who profess to be followers of the "One this time. Lcrd. One Faith and One Baptism" could not live :It this memorable service. Capt. Jeremiah Hal- together in unity. I am sure that the time is not far sey Ccok was converted, and accepted Christ as his distant when the different denominations will come Lord and Master. He being the first fruits of together in "Unity of Faith," when bickerings and Methodist preaching in this community. This inan strife will cease forever. was the son of Samuel Cook and brother of Sulli- St. -Ann's Episcopal Church was built in the !-ear 1gc8 cn the south side of Montauk Highway. in van, both of ~vhomlater subscribed toward building Eridgehaml~ton. the first Methodist Church in Eridgehampton. The "Queen of the Most Holy Rosary," Roman Jerenliah went to California during the so-cslled gold Catholic Church, was built in the year 1914. on the fever with many others fro111 this localit!-, n-here north side of 3lcntauk Highway in Bridgehampton. he died. He married Mary Rogers, my paternal In the year 1815 the Rev. John Reynolds. a grandmother's sister. Slethodist Circuit Rider, preached at a meeting held -It the close of the meeting referred to above, a Methodist class was formed consisting of sis Inem- 1;ers. viz : Jeremiah H. Cook, Silas Wcodruff, Sr., Silas TI-oodruff, Jr.. Rcxanna Halseq-, IVillianl Halsey. and Hiram Sandford, who mere assigned to the Sag Harbor Parish. Preaching services were held fro111 time to time by the Circuit Riders, either in the honles or in the school houses of this co~umunity. -it a meeting held in Bridgehampton. in February- of the year 1821, it \\-as resolved that they for111 a society and solicit subscriptions for the building of the first llethodist Church in this place. The anlount of ~noneyraised at this time was $302.~q. This church was built on a lot .;o feet front on Roman Catholic Church in Bridgeham~ton,1914 what is no117 "Ocean Road," and 40 feet deep. This

1 4s 3 SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-IL HISTORY

They \\-ere obliged to borrow some money to com- plete the building. The total amount subscribed and bcrroived was $2.938:50. The first quarterly conference was held at the home of \Villiam Halsey March ~gth,1833, he act- ing as secretary. The cornerstone of this church was laid .April rst, 1833, by the Presiding Elder, the Rev. Samuel Merwin, he preaching to an audi- ence of 400, from the text 1st. Peter, 2. 1-5 "To \vhonl coming, as unto a living stone *** but chose11 of Gcd and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to oi- fer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Second M. E. Church, Sridgehampton, 1833-1871 Christ." The contents of the cornerstone \rere as f ollo\vs : \;.as cn the propert>- no\\- o\vned by the Kahle es- Republican IVatchman, Sag Harbor, dated March tate. The church building was a woodell frame 3oth, 1833. structure in size 22 by 33 feet, and fronted on Christian -Advccate and Journal. dated IIarch Ocean Road. Its construction was under the super- zgth, 1833. vision of the Rev. Ruben Harris, a circuit rider The Corrector. Sag Harbor, dated March 30th. who made his headquarters in Sag Harbor at thxt 1833. time. On June rgth, 1831, the Rev. John Trippett \!-as assigned to the Eridgeharnl~ton llethodist Church as its first pastor. :it this time the congregation had increased to such an extent that it became yery evident the cld church was outgrown. and the build- ing of a new and larger one necessary. .\ lot was bought on the south side of Main Street no\v lion- tauk Highway. just east of where St. -Ann's Epis- copal Church no\\- stands. The building co111111itte consisted of Silas Woodruff, Hirani Sandford, and Alva Halsey. Contributions were made in monej-. labor and timber. One stick of timber was brought and used for a girder that was 36 feet long, and was hewed by Robert Hedges. The architect and builder \\;as IVilliam Leffing- well. the other mechanics for the ll~ostpart \\-ere loca! men. The size cf the building was 36 by 3-3 feet. Sag Harbor at that time was a prosperous seaport tcxvn, and through the efforts of the Rev. John Trip pett was the largest subscriber, and gave $269. Thc nest largest was Silas IYoodruff and family. 11-ho gave $210. The old church was sold to \I-ilIiam Corwithe fcr $-3j~.2j,who moved it to his hoine- stead, and added it to his house for a kitchen, tvhere it n1a- still be seen in good order and well preserved. Present M. E. Church in Bridgehampton, 1871 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

Long Island Star, Brooklyn, dated March ~7th~ been a student- at Oxford, the latter at Cambridge, 1833. and they "were determined that the Lord's praises Discipline of 1829. should be sung according to His own will." 2 j~ piece 1831, marked W. S. T. I think this Few congregations knew more than five tunes, means W. S. Topping. Spanish Coin, Ferdinand and but ten are known to have been used in the nrst VII. 1820, marked A. T. R. 1833- I think this half century of the Bay Psalm Book's existence. means Abraham Topping Rose. One Dime, mark- But few of these books ever came to Bridgehamp- ed 1828. ton. I have never seen any of the original ones, but This church was dedicated June 20th. 1833, by I own several copies made from the original ones, the Rev. Samuel Merwin, preaching from the text, and these with a quill pen. Romans, st, 16 at the morning service. The after- The singers were taught to sing their particular noon sermon was preached by the Rev. C. \\:. Car- parts independently of the others, that is, the air, penter, from text 1st. Peter 3, IS. The evening counter. tenor and bass, and when the singers were sermon was preached by the Presiding Elder, Satn- so trained, the four parts were brought together in uel Merwin, from the text, Hebrews, 4. 14. harmony. The key was given to the singers by the In the year 1835 Bridgehampton and Southamp- chorister, who got the key from either a pitch pipe ton became one circuit with the Rev. Herveq- Hus- nr tuning fork. The chorister also lined out the ted as Pastor, and on July 31st of that year this hymns, one or t~volines at a time. -4 bass viol or Church Society was incorporated, and in 1836 be- 1-iolin or sometimes both were used to lead the came a separate charge with Nathaniel Mead as music. Singing schools were held where the young Pastor. The large stone door steps still in use at people were taught to sing by note. the front of our church \\-ere bought July ~1st. I will relate a true story concerning one of the r836 and cost $29. choristers in the early church. This story came to In the year 1870 this church was moved to its nie from an absolutely authentic and reliable source, present site and rebuilt, an addition. of -30 feet was or I never would relate it. built on, the galleries removed, two towers built. -A descendant of the Rev. Janles Brown. a former This at an entire cost of about $7,000. The win- pastor of the church, was chorister at this time. In dow in the front of the church was a gift of the that same family was a slave by the name of ]\-ill, Sunday School. This building was re-dedicated who had as great musical talent as did the chorister. -it the time in question, the chorister was away from December I 3th, I 87 I. home, so the minister asked \\'ill if he ~vouldstart In 1873 a bell.\vas bought at a cost of $600. and the tunes and lead the music in the church. This in 1873 the parsonage was built. In 1875 the he did, and for aught I know did it with credit. chapel was built at a cost of $1.400. In 1880, $80. \Vhen the chorister came home and was told was raised and presented to the Sag Harbor Church about IVill's leading the choir. he was very indig- tc help pay their debt, and in 1883 $300. was pre- nant, and said, "I think it a great note to let that sented to the Southampton Church toward their fellow lead the IIILIS~C in the church. He is a d-n building fund. In 1890 through the efforts of bliss nigger, without any soul." Belle C. Cook, a pipe organ was bought and install- ed. In 1902 the chapel was enlarged, oak pews. It is very evident that the people of this commu- altar rail, metal ceiling and other improven~entsat nity had a more exalted opinion of the slave \Vill. a cost of about $7,000,all paid for and no debt. than did the chorister of that old church: for in Vol. The next noted improvement was the one so re- a, page 17 of the Southampton Ton-n Trustees Rec- cently accomplished in rhe year 1902. ords. at a meeting held in October. 1795. is the fol- lowing item which I quote: ''1,-oted that the Segro Music in the Churches Man IVill servant of Mistress Ero~vnshall have The first book of sacred music published in the fift\- rods of land for the purpose of setting a house colonies was the "Bay Psalm Book" compiied by on & to improve for a garden during the pleasure of Richard Mather and John Eliot. The former had the said Trustees." SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

There are still a few of the old pitch pipes pre- David Pierson, a very bright and talented man. served and owned at this time by the descendants oi Jesse Pierson is also buried here. He \\-as one those old musicians, who value them highly. as well of the parties in the falnous law suit known as "The they might. Fos Case" that established a precedent in the Law Courts in this State that holds even to the present time. This case was known as "Pierson versus OLD GRAVEYARDS Post." He also became one of the most noted school Probably the oldest graveyard within the area teachers in this entire locality. covered by these maps is the one in Sagaponack. This cemetery was incorporated in the year 19 I I. The records indicate that this settlement was made and received a small endowment from Mrs. Rus- as earl? as 1656, Josiah Stanborough being the first sell Sage. man to locate there. In his 1341 dated July 6th. 1661, he gives his "body to bee burried at Saga- Mecox Graveyard ponack by my fornler wife". This infers at least, The next oldest graveyard is that in SIecos. This that his "former wife" had been buried there prior has the distinction of having the earliesl inscription to the date of his Will. on a tombstone of any graveyard in this entire lo- The above, in my opinion establishes this grave- cality: it is that of -Anthony Ludlun~,one of the vard as being the oldest one. The earliest date 011 earliest settlers of AIecox. i~hodied March 17th. any tonlbstone there is "John Topping. Justice oi 1681-2. age 3 I. Others are Isaac Suton, who died the Peace, Aged fifty Years, IVho departed this life May 20th. 1703-4. Eenoni Nuton, March 4th, 1703- in the a9 day of May, in the Year 1686." 4- Johanna Suton. January qth, 1703-04- Patience Then "Peregrine Stanborough. D. C. in ye Par- I,udlum, October r I th, I 708. Susanna Cook, Janu- ish, departed this life January 4th. 1701. Mrs. ary 4th. 1707-8: and others. but these are the earli- Eunice Stanborough. November I j th, I 701. John est dates. Pierson. January I jth. I 704. Mary, wife of El- This cemeter- \\-as incorporated _August I jth. nathan Topping, -April 26th, 1704. Edward Petty. 1917. >la>-I ~th.I 704. Captain Elnathan Topping. ;\larch 26th. I/'o~." There are Inany more that might be Poxabogue Graveyard mentioned here but those named are the earliest dates. The oldest inscription here is that of Mrs. Martha In this old graveyard lie the bodies of 9 people Pierson, who died September 8th. 1773. Then Mrs. who lived to be 85 years old or more. Their names Phebe Pierson, February 23rd, 1782. Matthew are as folloxi-s, \-iz : Pierson. October 17th. 1798. It was in this grave- Elizabeth Pierson. \\-ife of Lenluel Pierson. 96 yard that the man with the "Pirate's Belt" \vzs years of age. -\bigail Hedges. wife of Daniel Hed- buried. I have heard Mr. Charles H. Hildreth re- ges, 92. Job Pierson. 91. Gardiner B. Topping. late this story many times. He said, "I had often 91. Phebe Haq-nes, 90. -inns Topping, 87. Eunice heard this story told about the 'Money Belt.' Uncle Howell, 86. Elizabeth C. Pierson, 86. Matthew Stephen Topping said that years before he had Topping, 8 j. talked with an old Montauk squaw about this mat- Here also lie j men n-110 were llembers of _is- ter. and she said that a brig came in and anchorerl semblj-, viz : off Shagxvannock. and that the Indians \vent off to Henry Pierson, at one time Speaker of the House. her in their boats, and never canle back. In the David Pierson, son of Henry. Deacon David Hed- nlorning the brig was gone. Some supposed they ges, who sen-ed in the Sew 1-ork Legislature 7 n-ere pirates. and, planning to disband, wanted the !-ears. He also held the office of Super]-isor of boats to scatter in different directions, then scuttled Southampton Ton-n 20 years. Doctor Kathaniel the brig and sent her with the Indians to the bottom Topping, who also practiced nledicine in this local- together." I think probably she was a Slaver, and ity for the greater portion of his active life. that the poor Indians. instead of going to the bot- SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

tom off Shagivannock, were taken down South and November, 1814. He was a private in Capt. Hal- sold into slavery. lcck's Militia Co. of Bridgehampton, in the Revolu- -About this time a sick man stopped for the night tion, tock part in the battles of Trenton and Long at the home of Timothy Pierson, Sr., in Posabogue. Island. Then Jedediah Osborne, Jonathan's father, (see 17jo map). In the morning he was so ill that and Daniel Hoppin, a private in Capt. Ezekiel Nul- he could not ccntinue his journey, and soon died. ford's Co., also \Villiam lliller, and no doubt many Just before he died he said to Xrs. Pierson, "I wear ethers. ( See 1800 map). a belt". She said they buried him in his clothes, belt and all. -About midnight, follo~vingthe burial. Hay Ground Graveyard lights were seen in this graveyard. which is just I here quote Mr. riddiscn 11. Cook. "In the bury- across the road from the Pierson house. (See sanle ing ground at Hay Ground are inany silent sleepers map). Mr. Hildreth said, "I have 111y own opinion who in their day witnessed stirring scenes, and took on this subject, others are welccme to theirs, but I an active part in many of the great events of the suppose that grave was robbed. -At any rate, soon past, that. could we know them, would be intens~ly after this incident, a certain fanlily in that neighbor- interesting to this generation. It may be quite as hood appeared to be in very different financial con- i~nportant,however, to keep the nlemory of their dition, and the change \\-as very apparent, for that service green in the country where they first saw sanle year a new house was built on the hill east of the light, where they lxrformed their life work, and the old Pierson home." This was the Timothy Pier- where those of us living are reaping the benefits that son. Jr. house. which was bought some years ago their strong arms, deter~niiledwill, and undaunted by Mrs. Russell Sage. patriotis111 bequeathed to us a legacy of l~riceless \Vhen the Sylvanus Topping farill (which is lo- worth, secured to us by unremitting toil. hardshil~ cated just south of this graveyard) was bought b\- and suffering. the Town of Southa~nptonfcr a "Poor House", a "On adjoining farins at Hay Ground there lived strip of land several rods wide across the south end in ancient times, two men, long since dead, whose of this graveyard was taken in from the highway, lives are worth recording, if for no other reasoil a12d added to the graveyard fcr a burisl place for than that they were soldiers in the struggle for lib- the Town poor. erty and independence, they served under Gen. This cemetery was incorpcrated in the year 1898, Washington, both survived the war, and lived to a when Mrs. Russell Sage gave a small endo~vment, great age, each being upwards of ninety years of the inconle of which was to be used in caring for age at the time of his death. and their bodies are this plot where some of her ancestors were buried. buried so closely together in the graveyard at Iiay Ground that on the resurrection morn they iviil be \\-ithin easy speaking distance of each other. Wainscott Graveyard "Capt. Svlvanus Halsey was born Decenlber jth, Many of the older graves in this graveq-ard are I7jj, and died May a7th, 1851. He served for not marked with monuments. The earliest inscrip- about seven years, or through the war. He was tion I find there is that of Joseph Stratton. who died honorably discharged and paid off in continental December ~jth,1732. Then John Talmage, KO- currency. _After his retirement fro111 the regular \-ember and. 1764. The other dates are around rSno army. he was made captain of militia. and later. "The other was David Cook, born in the year This cemetery was incorporated in the year 1838. 1720, and died December I 5th. 1814, in the 94th a snlall endo\vment fund. Here lie the renlains of year of his life. He was at home on his farm dur- a number of men who took an active part in the ing the greater part of the time that the Ivar of the history of their ccuntry, but 11-hose last resting place Revolution was being waged on eastern Long Is- is unnlarked by any monument. This should not land. His stock and farin crops were constantly be so. 1:eing taken by troops of Hessian soldiers, until he There is Jonathan Osborne, born June, 1737, died ljecaine esas~eratedto such an extent, that at the SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-I\L HISTORY

age of about 60 years. he enlisted May 3rd, 1780. Scuttle Hole Graveyard in the 5th Sew 1-ork Regiment of the line, and For the location of this old graveyard see nlaps served until the fcllom-ing December 6th. It is said for 1800 and 18jo. There is no way of detennin- that Stephen Talmadge, another veteran of the \;CTar ing just how early this was used as a burial place. for Independence, is buried here but there is no but from an old record, Silas Cook, son of Silas marker to his grave. It is very probable that .\bra- Cook n7asburied there in I 732. Prudence, wife of hanl and Thomas Halsey. sons of the elder Ethan Silas Cook, 1754. Daniel, son of Daniel and -i\bi- are also buried here, but there is no wap to prove it. gail Baker died 1760. Xathan Sandford, died Feb- "There are also veterans cf the war of 1812 in- ruary 27th. 1778, aged 66 years. Thomas Sandford terred in this old graveyard. Brigadier General (see 1750 map), February ~3rd.I 787; and the -Ibraham Rose. born in I 765, and died -August Rev. James Browne, who died April zznd, I 788. ~2nd.1843. -A man of marked ability and achieve- Some of the mcnu~nentswere removed by the inent. During this war he had conlmand of all the relatives of those interred there, and a goodly num- troops on eastern Long Island. Then there \\-asDr. ber were ~novedtc; the Old Cemetery in Bridge- Rufus Rose, brother of General -Abraham, born hampton. This work was done by Messrs. \lrilliam March 19th. 1775, died June 9th. 183j. was sur- E. Overton and George McCaslin, who were em- geon of the militia. -4 graduate of Columbia Uni- ployed by Mr. Henry N. Cor~vith. versity of New 1-ork, and practiced in Bridgehamp- I wish to relate an incident in connection v;itb the tlisinternlent of those bodies, which is really the ten for about 40 years. ;Inother 111211 oi marked sequel to a story I will tell later, but in this case ability, Elisha Halsej-, a younger brother of Sylvan- I will reverse the order and relate the sequel iirst. us, born Septenlber I ~th,I j 76, died October aoth, In cllgging a grave the soil becomes mixed, so 1859. was drurnnler for his company in the 11-ar of \?-hen put hack into the grave it never settles as it 1812. n as originally. If at any time in the future this grave "There is one more grave where rests the mortal is dug out, the walls of the grave remain intact, and rr~nainsof one of Eridgehampton's greatest men. tlie inixed soil remains separate. In digging out a great son of a great man. It is that of Colonel the graves in this cemetery these men found in every Edwin Rose, born February 14th. 1807, and died case, the walls of the graves were not plumb. but suddenly at Jamaica. Long Islmd. while Provost all slanted toward the valley to the east, and this Marshal of the first Congressional District of New s!ant was froin I j to 18 inches out of perpendicular. 3-ork, on the evening of January 12th. 1864. It I subtnitted this problen~to a noted geologist, whose \\-as said, 'He died as he wished to die, in the uni- solution was as follows: "This graveyard is on the forin of his ccuntry's service.' He entered IVest xvesterlq- side cf that valley where is located that Point Military -\cadem~-as a cadet in June, 1826, range of ponds, kno~vnin geology as 'kettles'. and graduating therefrom in the class of 1830. and was at some time since these graves were dug, there has commissioned to duty in the Third ;irtillery, U. S. been an earthquake that shook this ground and \ .* caused it to settle toward these kettles. In other --L. words there has been a landslide." Here, as in many other graveyards, are graves utl- Mr. -1lanson Cook said that between 179; and marked. The earliest date I find is that of Sarah the year 1800, there was a severe earthquake in this Haine, December 2 I st. I 72 I. Then Captain Josiah locality. This withcut doubt caused this landslide. Topping, January I I th, I 77 5-6. Mrs. Sarah Cook, In digging out one grave they went so deep that Ma>- 1729. Ja~nesHains. September 6th. I 732. thev became discouracedu in their efforts to find the Jcl~athan Rcgers. Octoller /-tll, 173'. Olladiah ranains. yet they kept on. until at a depth that 110 Cock, -August 1733. man could have gotten out of alone they found the This cemetery was incorporated in 191;. and is remains. On the map for 1800 ma>- be foui~dthe endo~vedby a gift fro111 Mr. Rufus Rose. location of the hcines of two men bearing the saine SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

name, viz: Elisha Halsey. The one on the Hay these places see map for 1750). 'l'his is the time Ground Road was a loyal citizen, and served his that this graveyard was established. This vote taken country in time of war, while the one living on the at a Town Meeting held -April st, 1729, was later ~orthroad was a "Tory7'. He was also called supplemented by an order of the Town Board of "IVicked Lish". Trustees passed at a meeting held October 3Ist. This man had a neighbor with whom he had 1746, and recorded in Vol. I of the Town Trustees quarreled, and as time went on this belligerent con- Records, page j I. Martyn Rose was the first Inan dition grew worse rather than better until it becaine of the Rose family to locate here, and was also the al~llosta feud. Now, it happened that this neighbor first one to be buried in this graveyard. The date was the one employed in that locality as grave dig- of his death is not given. There are but few very ger. Then as now, the years came and went, and in cld inscriptions in this burial place. It was incor- the course of events, Lish was taken sick and died. porated in 1924. plot was selected in the Scuttle Hole Graveyard, and the neighbor, the grave digger, was asked to Old Graveyard in Bridgehampton dig the grave, to which he agreed. There was more In writing the history of this "Old Bridgehamp- or less superstition prevailing at that time, particu- ton Burying Ground" I am certain I cannot write larly in regard to graveyards and such places. anything that will be so complete as the article writ- -4 lone man was passing along the road the day ten by the late Judge Henry P. Hedges and publish- in question and his attention was attracted by ed in the Bridgehampton "News" of Sgtember 2gth, strange, weird sounds and groans. He stopped and 1910, which I quote as follows : listened. became very much alarmed and fearful, fcr "East of the Presbyterian Church and south of the sounds appeared to emanate from the nearby the Main Street in Bridgehampton, lies the ancient graveyard. This fact made him still more fearful. burying ground, used in cominon by residents near but it being day time, he mustered courage enough that center, to which was added on the east many to investigate. lots, part of Mill Hill, and-title to which was in the On approaching the graveyard he saw a mound name of individual owners, all these lots are. fenced of fresh earth, and the groans and mutterings be- together as one enclosure and now incorporated. came more and more distinct and were interspersed "I have been urged strongly to write an article with utterances not altogether of a pio~~scharacter. on this burying ground, on the plea that if I don't Then he became bold and advanced to where he nobody will, and thus much of its history will be could look into the open grave, where he found the lost in oblivion. The undertaking would be forn~icl- old gravedigger engaged in a desperate but futile able to one in midlife. and is more so to me, in my effort to get out of the pit he had just dug. IVhen 93rd year, with powers so deficient and memory im- asked "What in the world are you trying to do?" paired. He replied. "I am trying to get out of this hole, as "I commence with alarm at my own temerity. you might know". "Well, what is it for?" "It is Within this enclosure rests the bodies of three per- a grave for old Lish Halsey", said he. "Why did sons over 90 years of age, and I must soon be laid you dig it so deep, you can never get out of that with them. There rest the remains of two County hole without help". "I do not know as I can, but Judges and Surrogates, and there, and not long. I will tell you it is just this, I meant that old Lish survivors will carry my body, to where their b~dies Halsey should be the last man up at the Resurrec- repose. tion, if getting him down deep would do it." The "In that hallowed ground was buried all that is sequel proved the story. mortal of two presidential electors, of six ministers Water Mill Graveyard of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, of three Members of At a Town Meeting held April st, 1729. "I Assenlbly of this State, of twelve master mariners. was vote yt the neihbors att ye water Inill shall have of two surgeons of the Revolutionary War, of four- one acre of land for a burying place between Israel teen dead veterans who fought in the war for the Rose's and ;ibiel Cook's." (For location of all of Restoration of the Union, of a son of Bridgehainp- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

ton who made a name nlemorable and illustrious as peared to be, and more. He was honest from prin- an artistic painter. ciple, not policy. He was no creature of freaks, or "If ive look at eminence attained, eloquence dis- queerisms. The balance of his mind was even. His played. enterprise exhibited, herois111 illustrated, pa- sense of justice dominant. His perception clear. triotism signalized, virtue enthroned, piety predom- His judgment correct. He was not gilded over, but inate. all this speaks specifically from the mounds in gold clear through. As Member of Assembly in the Bridgehampton Burying Ground. From the 1823-24, as Surrogate from rS27 to 1840, and general I now state personal examples. first judge of the County, from 1823 to 1847, as "-Aunt Phebe Smith, so commonly known, died presidential elector in 1814, and as secretary of the -April 24ti-1, 1872, aged over 94 years, &n exai~~plroi electoral body, as surveyor general of the S t a t e industrj- untiring, of resolution unswerving. of self from 1845 to 1848, and Member of the Senate it] tlenial persevering, a person persevering under the 1854 and 1855. he was weighed often and not most arduous conditions, attaining a competency by found wanting. honest endeavor, and leaving a name untarnished. "James M. Halsey, son of Judge Hugh, born May "Oliver Halsey died January Gth, 1885, having znd, 1825, died March aand, 1899, was supervisor attained nearly the great age of 95 years. The son of this town. and in 1868 was Member of Assembly oi IYilliam Halsey, a farmer, he lived and died in of this State. the same occupation, leaving to his descendants un- "The gravestone over the body of Samuel H. encumbered and unimpaired, the inheritance re- Rose, father of Judge Abraham, records his birth ceived from his father, much improved. as dated May 29th- 1761, and his death as occurring "Jerusha Halsey, widow of Daniel Halsey, died July ~oth,1832, and the fact that he served as sur- August qth, 1843, aged 92 years. She was the geon in the army of the Revolution, in the War for great-grandmother of William D. Halsey. a woman Independence of the united States. He was a physi- of strong character and saintly faith. In a terrible cian in Bridgehampton, practicing there almost all thunder storm, her family proposed nloving into his manhood life. Sa~nuelRose. grandson of this another room, she said, 'Stand still, and see the Samuel. and son of Judge Abraham T., bcrn June salvation of God.' They did so, and the other room 2Gth, 1827, died August 3oth, 1850, graduated M. was soon struck so hard. that if there, death would D. at the Medical Coliege in New York City, March have been their fate." 8th. 1850. cut down an only son in early manhood, Daniel Halsey. my great grandfather, who was a 2nd mas buried near his father. and with hiin was private in the war of the Revolution, is buried in ljuried that father's hopes. The tragedies recorded this graveyard. in graveyards are real, are fearful. ' 'Tis the sur- "-\braham T. Rose, born in 1792, died -4pril 1-ivor dies'. 28th. 1857. and Hugh Halsey, born January 25th. "The mortal remains of Doctor Stephen Halsey, 1794. died May 29th. 1858, were both Judges of lying near those of his son. Judge Hugh. He died the County of Suffolk, both chosen presidential January 25th. 1837. aged 80 years. He is said to electors, Halsey in 184, and Rose in 1848, both have served in the army of the Revolution, as a voting for candidates who became Presidents of the surgeon. In the w a r for t h e Restoration of the United States. both graduated from Yale College in Union of the United States, Charles E. Halsey, son 1814. -is lawyers, each attained eminence. In elo- of Judge Hugh, and Nathan Wright, son of Doctor quence as an advocate. Rose for a long time, had Levi D. Wright. were surgeons or assistant sur- no equal at the Suffolk County bar. He was a man geons in the Union Army. Levi D. Wright was a gifted by natural mental endown~ents,of preeminent medical practitioner in Eridgehatnpton for nearly abilitj-. with winning ways, sympathetic sensibilities. fifty years. John L. Gardiner was a like practitioner generous impulses. magnetic personality. and [\-as in the same village. and for over ha1 f a century. admired and loved as a general favorite. His father, David Gardiner, in his later years, lived, "Hugh Halseq- was a scholar, thoughtful, studi- died and his body was buried in the same cemetery. ous, methodical. industrious. There was nothing where all these luembers of the medical profession superficial in his character. He !\-as all that he ap- rest. Over their remains, monuments tell dates of SKETCHES FROM LOC-'LL HISTORY their birth, death and the profession which they descendants have venerated his name. and largely followed. The limits allow no ~ilinutiaof their inherited his physical power and intellectual mas- lives. or eulogy of their successful careers. yet 'ih: tery. history of this cemetery demands mention. though "Aaron \Vool~vorth, D.D., born at Long Mea- brief, of names worthy of lasting remembrance. and dow. Mass.. October ~3rd.1763. died -April ~th, i~?number far exceeding that found usuaily in any 1821. Graduated from Yale in 1784. Ordained village cemetery. here -August 30th. 1787. -After a llastorate of 34 "Kear the wide gate on the east side of the ceme- !-ears, left a name revered in the church, honored in tery is a massive and graceful monu~nentof the E large circle. recorded so fully on his monunlent. Hedges family, marking the grave of Captain David and on the hearts of his people and in enduring and Hedges, a veteran of the war of 1812. In the same accessible publications, as to require nothing now enclosure was buried the body of his son David, or here of enlargement. Obscurity and oblivion and his grandson, David -Anson, M. D., practiti~ner will nct for ages cloud his name. His descendants of medicine in Kew York City, and with both skill inherited his genius, and will perpetuate his memory. and success. "The last lines above written with equal force all- "James H. Rogers. M. D., son of Sathan. and ply to his successor, Rev. --lmzi Francis, who was said to have served as surgeon in the Union army born at \Vest Hartford, Conn.. July ~1st.1793. in the Civil war, was a skillful physician. His body Commenced preaching here in September. 1822, rests in this cemetery. and was crdained pastor -April 17th, 1823, and died "Six ministers of the everlasting gospel. laid down Oct. 18th, 1845. In scholarship, in united labors in their lives in Bridgehampton. whose bodies are ir, the Master's ~vork,in the purest. loftiest ideals, in this cemetery, one excepted. -411 the oth~rslabored spiritual fire, this 1na11excelled. The testinlony of in the gospel here fro111 the first or nearlj- the first, the writer is that of a perscnal and living witness. to the last of their days. The body of llinister "The Rev. David >I. >,filler was born in Eliza- ]ames Browne, first buried in Scuttle Hole bury- bethto\vn. S. J., June 12th. 1827, and died June ing ground, near where he died. xvas by his descen- 29th, 18jj. He was crdained .April 27th. 1854. dants renioved fro111 there to this cemetery. 3Iinis- He gave bright l>romise of great usefulness in the ter Erowne died April ~2nd.I 788. aged 68 years. ministry of the Gospel. The silver trutnpet soon One writer reports him a native of Mendham. N. J. fell from his hands. ***"*". "Thompson in his History of Long Island, re- "Rev. Carlton P. 1\Iaples. niinister of the Protes- cords him as a descendant of the Rev. Chard tant Episcopal Church died here in the 37th year of Ercu-n, and connected with that family of Bran-11s his life, and 27th of his ministry in Ohio. and the made famous b_v Bran-n University. He graduated farther west. and at St. Janles in Smithtown, L. I. from in 1747, was ordained minister of the His wife was Frances, daughter of Dr. David Gard- church in Bridgehampton June I jth. 1748. 011- il~er.and sister of Dr. John L. Gardiner, and the pressed with great bodily infirmities he resigrxd iiis monument that narks his grave is adjoining theirs. pastoral charge March aph, 1775. Tradition tells "Samuel Denison Rogers. son of Sathan, also of his massive frame, ~nelancholictemperament. ro- became a minister of the Protestant Episcopal bust common sense. diffidence and distrust of him- Church. He died in early n~anhood,before long self. creditab!e schclarship, lnarital afflictioils. in the service had established a reputation. ~vhichhis abil- decease of wives. and shadon-s of despondenc~-. I ity and rernarkabl>- genial and sympathetic ways once sari-, (\\-hen and where I cannot recallj his promised. copy of 'Edwards on the IVill'. On the margin of "Sathan Rogers, son of John T., farmer of the pages were written, profusely and fine, in his Bridgehampton. apprenticed to a ship builder in cwn handwriting. his thoughts, indicating keen per- HLI~SCII,S. I-.. n-ounded in the knee and lame and ception, great power c f abstract, argument, II~LIC~ disabled for life from active locon~otion.and oft ability of generalizing, bedrock po~verof reasoning. defeated in attaining a life occupation that 11-ouid -411 authorities credit him with soundness in faith sustain him. finally chose that of a p3inter. His in the great foundation truths of revelation. His story is a marvel of surprise and success. and is told SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY interestingly in Thompson's History of Long Is- "Bridgehampton's sons from its earliest days lad, 1-01. I, page 358: 'He attained the first rank were adventurous. Many of them rose to be inaster for eminence in miniature and portrait painting mariners and ccnnnanders of \vhaling ships. In in the city of Sew York, and what was then an in- this cenetery were laid to final rest these I name: dependent fortune.' In later years he returned to Capt. Uriah Sayre. Capt. iVillian1 S. Topping, Capt. Fridgehampton; built and res~dedin the dwelling John Stein. Capt. IVillian~ Pierson, Capt. Benja- no\\- the Hampton House, which attests his genius min H. Halsey, Capt. Satnuel 73. Pierson, Capt. i11 conception of harnlony of proportions, comple- Jcsiah Foster. Capt. -4lanson Topping, Capt. Isaac tion of design and architectural beauty. The monu- Ludlo\\-, for whose humanity the British Govern- ment that marks his grave is near the north^\-est cor- ment awarded a medal of lasting merit, as a me- ner of the cemetery, where and near it, are the morial of their gratitude in rescuing the officers and rnarked graves of his son. the minister last nained, crew of a ship wrecked. and conveyed by him to a and the Doctor James H. Rogers. place whence the)- sailed to their homes. "The nalnes of great benefactors cf our race de- "The graceful monunleiit to the memory of the signedly onlitted here, would be base ingratitude to brothers Capt. Janles R. Huntting and Henry E. their memory. IVilliam Gardiner and Charles H. Huntting is not undeserved. Sons of Deacon Ed- Rogers endowed on a solid foundation the Hamp- ward Huntting of Southampton, 'an Israelite in ton Library in Bridgeha~npton. The 1%-idowof Mr. whonl there was no guile,' descendant of that min- Rogers made a genercus donation to that institu- ister Huntting who for half a century ~ninisteredin tion. East Hanlpton for the flock of God's elect. born "Ey their last will and testament, John Car\\-ith with great executive power, often called to ride on and his sister, Mrs. Phebe R. Riley, remembered and storm by sea and land, leading no life of tameness. gave legacies to the Presbyterian Church. ***. "They attracted many friends. and could not avert "In th~sburying ground were deposited the lifeless as a positive personality some dissent. Capt. James bodies of those dear to me, by the ties of friendship, R. Huntting was full six feet six inches in height, affection and blood. There are buried 111~- two and or' massive frame. He looilled up like Saul in brothers, Ed\\-in and Jeremiah. There 111y son Ed- stature, a King. Sometitne supervisor of the to\lrn, win, graduate of Yale in 1869, attorney and COLIII- always public-spirited, always promoting what he sellor-at-law, cut down in early life, with a career believed to be the public good in church and state. full of promise seelningly untimely blighted. There c c Henry E. Huntting was a long-time superinten- my wife Gloriana. whose departure left a shadow dent of li fe-saving stations, and 31ember of -4ssem- cn 111~-cwn life. I nla5- not, and cannot adecjuate1~- b1y for several sessions. The adverse criticisnl hurl- express.""". ed against both of these men was almost if not all "Before and in the Revolutionar_v 11-ar, Eeriah political and transitory, dying before they died. Dayton commanded a s111all vessel running out of "Tn-elve master mariners. after lives of hardship Sag Harbor. Deacon Stephen Rose told rile in ell- and stor111 in peaceful end rest in this one enclosure. tering the port of Keiv York. his vessel was taken In the new (Edgewood) cemetery, where recently by the British ship of war -4sia, and as thq- \-.\-ere burials IIIOS~ frecluently occur, are deposited the hoisting Captain Dayton and his vessel on board bodies of Capt. Jeremiah Ludlcw-, Capt. Charles .-I. that vast ship. Dayton, who see~nednot disturbed Pierson and Capt. James -4. Rogers, the last nanletl for himself, cried out, 'Be careful, she is an uncer- died Feb. 36th. 1910. aged ga years. tain jade.' The earliest burials in this ground were "The Gelston family, formerly residents in made near the southwest corner. and extended ap- Bridgehampton. and to co~nnlemorate who111 are parentl!- eastward fr~111thence. and in that corner man\- monuments in this cemetery. now reside else- was laid the body of Captain Da-ton, noted in his where. and the name has no representation here. day. His grave stcne records the date of his death Deacon 3Ialtby Gelston died September ~2nd.1783. as September 27th. I 791. aged S$ years. His I\-idon- aged 60 >-ears. The family had been pronlinent as is buried in East Hampton South End Graveyard. advocates of the independence of the colonies, and SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORI- after the battle of Long Island, he and his sons. ton" under the management and control of sis trus- David, William, John, Hugh and Thomas, fled to tees. The original trustees were as follo~vs: Connecticut. His son, John, died August ~1st. \Villiam D. Halser, President 1834, aged 84 years. Phebe, wife of John Gelston. John C. Sayre, Secretary and Treasurer died October 29th, 1786, aged 39 years. """. \Vallace H. Halsey "Richard Lester, born in East Hampton, long Samuel 0. Hedges resident in Sagaponack, where he died March 27th Henry N. Corwith 1879, aged 82 years, and buried in this cemetery. I\Tilliam I. Halsey His standard of fair and upright dealings was above In the above article written by Judge Henry P. all trickery and crookedness, and was an example Hedges, he states "there rest the remains oi two far higher than that of many officials of our day. County Judges and Surrogates, three persons over No blot of dishonor mars his fair name. go >-ears of age, three Members of Assembl?- of this "The publication of an article like this is open t~ State, and there I must soon be laid with them." adverse criticism, because other names worthy of It is now my sad duty to add to these numbers the mention are omitted. This is extended beyond ord- name of the writer whom I quote, who died Sep tember 26th. 191 I. within a few days of being 94 inary limits, and must end somewhere. Let the years of age. The above article having been wit- critic credit me with charity, while I admit the truth ten only about one year before his death. He \%-asa of his charge. by saying I know how imperfect it is, man in no way inferior to those of whom he wrote. and yet it is the best my age and infirmity and crip- Unquestionably our greatest local historian, and ap- pled activities permit me to do." parently almost to the last "His eye was not dint. "Bridgehampton, September zgth, 1910. nor his natural force abated." "H. P. Hedges." His burial in the 'Old Burying Ground' adds one The Old Cemetery was never a part or included more to the number of thcse he refers to as having it1 the church property adjoining, though some have reached the age of over 90. One more to the num- ber of County Judges and Surrogates. One no re been of that opinion. The shape and location of to the number of Members of -\ssembly. this old graveyard may be seen by referring to the Those now buried there, who were over 90 years maps for.1800 or 1850. This old portion was sim- of age are as follows: Mrs. Phebe Halsej-. 97 ply a graveyard set apart-and used by any one who years. Oliver Halsey, gj years. Henry P. Hedges, chose, but its title was vested in the Trustees of the 93 years, 11 months, 13 days. Mrs. Phebe Smith, Proprietors of the common land of the Town of 94 years. Miss Nancy Halsej-, 93 years, Mrs. Southampton, and they held that title until the time Jerusha Halsey, 92 years. Jesse IVoodruff. 92 of incorporation, as will be noted later. The new, years. Jeremiah Hedges, go years. Then he men- or easterly portion, was formerly owned by the -At- tions six ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. lantic Steam Mills Co. and was later bought by IVil- To this number I have to add the name of the Rev. liarn Hand. who laid it out into cemetery lots and -Arthur Ken-man. who died December 8th. 1924. sold it to individuals. having served the Presbyterian Church in this place When this cemetery was incorporated. both the for almost 42 years. A thorough scho!ar, an elo- old, as well as the new part, were legally united and quent preacher, a devoted pastor and an untiring included into the one. The Proprietors having quit- worker: only one other minister of this church claimed their right, title and interest, and released served a longer pastorate. He was really the prime all claims of the To~vn,and the majority of the lot mover toxard the incorporation of the 'Old Bury- owners in the new part, at a meeting held fcr that ing Ground,' and also toward the erection of the purpose, voted to incorporate the same under the monument in nlemory of the Folmders, Sailors and Laws of the State of New lrork. Th'IS was accom- Soldiers, that now stands in this village. plished February 4th, 191j, under the charter nanle There is one other tonlbstone to which I wish to "The Old Cemetery Association of Bridgehamp- call attention. It is the little monument (a iac- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

simile of the larger one by which it stands) located Hand, several generations of the hlitchel family. in the easterly part of the old portion of this ceme- once owners of the farm, were buried (for location tery, erected to the memory of "Mary Evelyn daugh- of this graveyard see map for 1830). Some 40 or ter of Capt. S. C. & M. A. iVoodruE, died in Saga- ;o years since they were removed, and buried in the saki, Japan, Aug. ~gth,1863, Ae. r yr. 6 mos." plot where stands the granite monument to the This little girl was brought home from that far memory of Edward Mitchel, near the center of the country, in a cask of alcohol, or liquor of some kind, Old Bridgehampton Cemetery. it being before the days of embalming, and also the "On the triangle where the roads part. west and necessity of secrecy owing to the superstition of the northeast from the road going to the farm of the sailors regarding a corpse on shipboard. late James Edwards. and later of Theodore White. To the number of ministers interred here is an- was an ancient burying ground wherein were de- other t3at was buried here at his own request, hav- posited with others, two or three generations of the ing expressed such a desire while yet living. It is Loper family, including those of Jared Loper, once the Rev. Henry T. Rose, who died in the year 1919. owner of the farm." There is still another to be included in the list of These bodies of the Loper family were removed. n~inistersburied here. it is the Rev. Iliilliam Hedges, and the monuments in one group are just east of son of Henry P. Hedges. There is also another the southwest corner of the Old Bridgehampton master mariner that Mr. Hedges has omitted. It is Capt. \TTilliam S. Denison. who died May ~2nd. Cemetery. This removal occurred within 40 or 50 1862. For rescuing the crew of a French ship. years. (for location of the Loper graveyard see that had been rendered helpless in a severe storm. maps for ITjO, 1800 and 1850~)There was also a and bringing them safely into port, the French Gov- private graveyard on the farm of the late John ernment presented him with a beautiful gold medal. IVilkes Hedges. but a few years ago this was abol- which is now in possession of his descendants. ished and the remains all removed to the New Ceme- There is another grave in this cemetery worthy tery in Bridgehampton. of mention. In the year 1840 the Rev. Henry F. In Water Mill on the northerly side of the old Roberts was assigned to the Bridgehampton Metho- road leading over the Mill Dam, and near the south- dist Episcopal Church as pastor. Ile had married erly shore of the Mill Pond, was an old graveyard. Mary Crain, daughter of Daniel C r a i n of Jersey now- abolished. I have been told that the monu- City. They had a little boy born to them in the ments were buried: this, however. I cannot vouch parsonage. This house is still standing on the for. but I here quote Mr. Adams as to the inscrip- 1;ortherly side of Main street. At the birth of this tions on three of those monuments: child, Mrs. Crain died, and xvas buried in the Olc1 "Here lyes buried the body of David Halsey dec'd Cemetery, where a white marble ton~bstonen~arks Feb. ye 18th, 1731-2, in ye 6gth year of his age." the grave. "Here Lyes the Body of Mrs. Temperence Cook. This boy was named Daniel Crain Roberts, and Wife of Ellis Cook, who Died December gth, 1723, became an Episcopal Minister. When the Centen- in ye 19th year of her age." nial celebration was to be held in Philadelphia in "Here Lyes ye Body of Mrs. Ten~perenceLudIuin. 1576, he was requested to write a National ailthem Wife of Mr. Jeremiah Ludlum, who Dec'd April for that occasion, which he did. The first stanza of ye ~1st.1726, in ye 29th year of her age." 1 think which is : these monuments can still be found, by digging in "God of our fathers, whose almighty hand tlie site of this old graveyard. Leads forth in beauty all the starry band On the easterly side of the Towd Road, perhaps Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies. one-half mile north of the present home of Mr. Our grateful songs before thy throne arise." James H. Corwith, was the home of Joseph Good- Private Graveyards Now Discontinued ale. ( See map for 1800). Here that f amilj- were bur- I again quote in part Mr. Hedges in regard to ied in their private graveyard, and I think their these : "Just south of the dwelling on the east side bodies are there yet. though the graves are obliter- of Mitchel's Lane on the farm of the late Orlando ated and nlonuments covered. SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

I will also mention the grave of John IYick. i:: Lemuel Ho\vell, the father of Capt. Caleb, the his lot in Bridgehampton. (See map for 1800 SI 18jo location of Caleb's house may be seen on the map S: 1730). for 1800. while on a visit to Sew York contracted Before the days of vaccination, smallpox often smallpox. -After reaching home and coming down became epideimic and its ravages were extremely with that disease, he was taken to the pock house, severe, not only among the Indians, but among the where he died. and for burial was taken a short dis- early settlers as well. Isolated houses were con- tance to the south. and near the northeast corner of structed remote from all other dwellings, most of- his own farm. The inscription on his tombstone is ten out in the \voods or forest, where people suffer- as follo~vs: "Lemuel Hoivell... Born Sept. 18th~I 7 r 8. ing from that malady could be taken and cared for Died Feb. ~2nd.I ~SI. So one thought that that lvithout endangering the rest of the conlmunity. On very ground \\-ould eventually become an incorpor- the maps for I jjo and 1800 may be seen the location ated cemetery, but such is the case. The Sew Ceme- . oi the "ycck house" in Eridgehampton. It is to the tery on Sorris Lane was laid out and opened s.3011 north of Cook's Lane, and nearly opposite the after the first meeting, held IIarch zoth, 1893, at northerly end of Norris Lane, though this lane which meeting it was voted to incorporate under does not appear on the 1750 "lap- I think it was the name of "The Bridgehampton Cemetery Asso- here that my grandfather, Gabriel Halsey, went ciation" and the Leinuel Howell grave was included when a young man, after due preparation, and at a within this cemetery. The first interment after convenient season, to take this disease, so that he incorporaticn was on Aug. 17th~1894. might be immune, and in case his family or friends should contract this dread disease, he might be able to act as nurse for them. OLD DWELLING HOUSES Smallpox was so dreaded at this time that even after incculation had been prcven to be a preven- In this chapter I am going to divide the Old tive, J-et there was so nluch skepticism and fear and Houses into three groups. The first to consist of doubt. illany believing that this would give one the those now standing that were built between the dread disease, that the Town Trustees enacfed laws years 1675 and 17-3j. The second those built be- forbidding it. tween I /" j and I 775. The third those built be- I here quote from the Records. dated April, I /'/'I: tween 1773 and 18-35. thus covering a period of I 50 - "Whereas the siting up Inoculation hath not oniy years. bin dangeras to the lives and helth cf the inhabi- Soine verj- excellent \I-orkmanship is sholvn in tants. but hath occasioned great unesiness among the construction of some of these old houses. me the people, to prevent the which for the futor It is timber \\-as of hewn oak, cut in Inany cases in the enactted by the Trustees that no person on any pre- forest near where the house was built. The fraine tence m-hatsoever shall set up inoculation, or inocu- morticed, tencned and pinned or dovetailed. In late any person within the bcunds and liminits of seme cases where the beains were exposed, they this Township on penalty of 2; for each and every were beaded. shingle lath of salved or rived osk. person he shall inoculate with the smallpox." The nails, spikes. door handles, hasps, hinges and "-lnd that no person shall be inoculated by any latches all hand-I\-rought by a blacksmith. Some of person \\-hatsoever within the bounds and litllnlits the door locks were made of ~vood,and may be seen afore said on penalty of f j Xnd that no perso:1 at this time. Fcundations were usually of native whatsoever shall receive into their house or enter- stcne. Chinme>-s of brick made of clay tempered tain any person so inoculated on penalty of f3 j for and ~noldedby hand. and in the earlier days laid up every person so receivzd or entertained. And that with clay mud. IValls of lime made from oyster no perscn u-hatsoever shall attend upon or nurse shells. Shingles of cedar, some of native wood, but any person that is inoculated on penalty of f 3 for more imported from the mainland. 11-indow lights every person they nurse or tend. Except it be by of impcrted glass, on which there was a heavy itn- the concent and aprobation of two of his Majestyes port tas. which accounts for the small windon-s and Justices of the Peace of said Tau-n." few in number. OLD DWELLING HOUSES

Old Haines House, Scuttle Hole, 1679 Job Pierson House, Sagaponack, 1695

Thomas Strong, later Abner, 1695 Ezekiel Sandf ord's House, Bridge Lane, 1680

.-- - -- . ------.7

John Wick's Tavern, 1686 Thomas Osborn, later Elisha, 1700 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

These houses were usually set facing south. houses first named above that I wish to relate. The sometimes with a compass, so that at high noon the first mention of Sag Harbor in the records mas in sun would be in a direct line with the house frame, ~707- At that time there were three houses there, then by marking the hours, they had a sun dial. The and they stood near the shore below the bluff at the style of these houses, if two stories, was a short northerly end of "Turkey Hill." At an extremely roof to the south, and to the north a long one high tide caused by a severe easterly storm, one of brought down so low as to .just leave room eaough these houses was floated from the piers on which it for a door under the plate. The cellars were as a stood, and drifted across to Hog Neck (now Korth rule very small. The chimneys of immense propor- Haven) where it landed high up on the beach. It tions, placed in the center of the ho~~se,with huge was then sold to Moses Rose of Water Mill, who fireplaces on either side, on one end of which was took it apart and carted it across Short Beach, Long the brick oven, where the family baking was done. Beach and then through the woods to Water 3Iill. X large crane in these fireplaces from which was _$bout the year 1870, this man's grandson, Hervey hung kettles, spiders, baking pans and other cooking Rose, sold it to Edward Mooney, who had it moved utensils. The fuel was wood, and the light \\-as with teams of oxen to Sagaponack, where it still from either pine knots, whale oil or tallow dips. stands. Edward Mooney paid Fifty Dollars for it. the latter home-made. The other is the VC7ido~-Topping House (see T. Of the houses in group one, I would place first R. Vol. 111, page 212). This house was built just on this list the Old Haines House in Scuttle Hole, south of tl-k Triangular Cornmoms about 1725. built in the year 1679, the year of the laying out of When Lewis Sandford was about to get married. the 40 acre Division, and rebuilt by James Haines his father, David Sandford, bought this house ancl in the year 1779. Then the Ezekiel Sandford House moved it to Windmill Hill. This place was later on Bridge Lane in Bridgehampton, built in the year bought by Jason Loper for his son, Ed~vinLoper. 1680. Then the John Wicks' (Bull's Head Tav- Charles H. Mildreth married Edwin Loper's daugh- ern) built in the year 1686. Then the Job Pierson ter Julia, and so came into possession of the place. House in Sagaponack, built in the year 1695. Then He rebuilt it. It is still standing (1935). the Thomas Strong House (later Abner) in \Vain- The second group or class are those built betweeii scott, built in the year 1695. Then the Thomas Os- 1725 and I 775. The first house i name in this class born House (later Elisha) in Wainscott, built in is the Stephen Hedges House, (later Jared, later the year 1700. Then the Moses Rose House (later Charles 0.) on Parsonage Lane, built in the year Edward Mooney) in Sagapnack, built in the year 1730. Then the Zacheus Rose House. (later Steph- 1705. Then the Widow Topping House, in Bridge- en. later Henry Martin) built about the year 1730. hampton, (later Lewis Sandford, later Charles H. Then the James Brown, parsonage. (later Rev. -!la- Hildreth) near Windmill Hill, built in the year ron 'CVoolworth) built about 1730. Then the Syl- 172j. These eight houses are still standing at this vester Strong House, (later Edwin) built about time (1935). The west half of the H. Morgan the year 1740- Then Capt. William Pierson House. Topping house in Wainscott was probably built (later Josiah Rogers) built abo~it1740. Then the about 1690, by either a Mulford, Hen-ell or Os- Timothy Pierson, Sr. House, (later L P. Topping. borne, all of whom lived there for a short time. In ill Poxabogue, built about 1745. The Ethan Halsey. I700 it was owned and occupied by George Squires. Sr. House (later Widow McGee) was built about hut I have not included this house from the fact the year 1775, in Hay Ground. that it has been rebuilt and I cannot separate the 'I'hen the Ebenezer Edwards House, (later new part. This is also true of the James White Thomas Gelston, later E. H. Dickinson) on Butter House (later charlei S. Rogers) in Sagaponack. Lane, built in the year 1747. Then the James Sand- It is the center of this house that is old. This is ford House, (later Lorenzo Sandford) in Bridge- also true of the Cooper house in Mecox, and the hampton, built about the year 1745. The John White Col. Henry Pierson House in Sagaponack. House in Sagaponack was b~ughtby him of Heze- There are a few facts relative to two of the eight kiah Bower in 1797. when he repaired it. I think it OLD DWELLING HOUSES

Zacheus Rose, later Stephen, Iater Henry Martin, 1730 Moses Rose, larer E. Mooney, Sagaponack, 1705

Widow Topping House, Iater Chas. H. Hildreth, 1725 James Brown Parsonage, later Woolworrh, 1730

Stephen Hedses, later Jared, Iater Chas. O.,1730 Sylvester Strong, later Edwin, Wainscott, 1740 SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-IL HISTORY was built as early as 1730. Hezekiah Topping owned (later Benjamin 1-ail) on Ilontauk High\\-a!. in it in 1767, and he left it to his two nephe\i-s. Heze- Bridgehampton. \\-ere both built about the year 1740. kiah Bower and Job Haines. I presume Haines s~ld but have been rebuilt and changed to such an estent his share to Bower. The Matthew Halse_v House that the old building does not appear. on Lumber Lane in Bridgehampton, (later Richard The Elias Sandford Hcuse (later Edward. later Halsey) built about the year I 740. This house was Henry H.) on Butter Lane in Bridgehampton. This built in the hclloiv to the south of where it now was the second Elias. he moved one half of ihis stands, and to prevent it from being flooded they house fro111 Posabcgue about 1730, and soon after built a dyke across the va!ley to the east. but this built the other half. proved inadequate, so they employed Sanluel Schel- The Gideon Halsey House, (later Halsey Foster linger of Anlagansett to move the house to its pres- in Head-of-the-Pond, was buiit about the year 177 j. ent site. Some cne asked Schellinger holy he could These houses in class t\vo nanled abme are still move it up hill, whereupon he replied, "I \\-ould standing. and for the lilost part are in fairlx gootl rather move it up hill than down, for if I \\-ere going crder. down the hill with it, I should have to put a breech- I wish to relate an incident relative to the ..-laro:~ ing on it". I\-oolivorth property in Bridgehampton. "\\-hen the I think the Ebenezer Edwards house \\-as buiit by parsonage \\-as being made ready for the new illinis- him shortly after he sold his farm in East Hanlpton ter, -Aaron 11-ool\\-orth. Capt. John Hulburt desired about the year 1747 for 350 Pounds. I also am of to add to the beauty of the grounds. \\-hich gave the opinion that he only held it for a short time, occasion for the follo\i-ing letter, written to a rela- then sold it to Deacon Maltby Gelston. It then passed tive in Connecticut, dated Bridgehai~lpton. -April to Maltby's son Thomas. and after he died it was ~1st.I 789." "I wish YOU to get six good Eutton- bought by David Ludloiv and his wife Phebe Tcp wocd trees and put them on bosrd Parker's l~oat, ping. then by will to Edward Howell and \\-if:. and \\-hen he ccllles down, for Mr. 11-oolworth to sei then to the Dickinson family. arcund his house. Send your bill also of them. ., ,About the year 1730 Jeremiah Halsey built a one- ".Tohn Hulburt". story house on the north side of Paul's Lane in Of the trees illentioned above. one still lives. It Bridgehampton, it then went to his nephew Sylvester lneasures about 7 feet in circumlerence, and ma!- be Halsej-, who raised it up and nlade it two stories. seen at the old ll'oolworth parsonage, (at this time. ;it his death he left it to his nephew. Lodo\vick Hal- 193j) which is now the property of the late Charles sey Cook, it then went to his son, -\ugustus L. Cuok. T. Ludlo\\-, in Bridgehampton. Then the Stephen Topping House, (later Paul Top- The honses in group three are those built bet\\-een ping. later Elisha 0. Hedges) in Posabogtle. buiit 1773 and 1823. and of course \\-ill be much larger about I 7 jo. Then the .indrew Barron House. (later than either group one or two. I will refer the 1-eacler Le~nuelHaines) in Sagaponack, built about the Fear to the map for 1830, n-here the location of lnost of ITjO. Then the Paul Halsey, Jr. House (later Wat- these houses may be found. son Halsey) on Paul's Lane. built about 1/65. Then I \\-ill begin with the James B. Halsey House in the Capt. Kathan Post House, (later uriah Sayre) Ha!- Ground. (later Capt. James H. Rogers) built in Bridgehampton. built about 1770. Then the Tim- 2bc~itthe !-ear 1776. Then the -Abraham Pierson cthy Pierson, Jr. House. (later Capt. -Austin) built House (later Sym;~hus liright) in Sagaponack. about I 770. huilt in 1776. Just east of the Pierson house is the The 11-ilkes Hedges homestead on Hetlges' Lane Tlilkes Hedges house, built in 1775. From the fact was built by Deacon David Hedges in the year r7,ij. that the Hedges house 11-as going to bz so much bet- and he left it to his son IVilkes; the Deacon's foaner ter than the one in which the Piersons lived. the homestead located on the u-esterly side of Sagg latter \\-ould not stand for it, so started at once to Street (1800 map) \vent to his son Zephaniah. get out timber for a house that should be as good. if The Miller Edwards House (later Robert Hed- not better than l17ilkes Hedges'. -1fter the new ges) on Sagg Road, and the -Aaron Fithian House. house was completed, it proved to be not as good as OLD DWELLING HOUSES

Capt. William Pierson, later Josiah Rogers, Ebenezer Edwards House, later Gelston, Butter Lane, Sagaponack, 1740 1747

Timothy Pierson, Sr., later L. P. Topping, 1745 Ethan Topping, Hay Ground, 1775

Ethan Hakey, Later Widow Magee, 1775 Mathew Halsey, later Richard, Lumber Lane, 1740 SKETCHES FROM LOC-114 HISTORY

they intended: Isaac. ;ibraharn's son remained at sawed, the timber to be taken from the stunip 8r home, but Samuel Huntting, another son, was so that which is too large, to be sawed &c &c. -And sd provoked over this fact that he moved to Chatham- Rose doth agree on his part to furnish materials four-corners, Xew York State, I think Colunlbia sufficient for the above work in such season the sd County, where his descendants still live. Cook shall not be obliged to wait for any one article The Timothy Halsey (Master Tim) later Jere- & if such materials are not provided according to miah Haines House, in Scuttle Hole, the Xathan the tenure of the preceding clause sd Rose is to make Pierson House (later Wallace \I?. Hildreth) in good the damages, he is likewise to Cart the tin16er Sagaponack, and the IVilliam Halsey House (later 13 raise it after it is framed & do the glazing, he is Roger Halsey, later Herman R. Halsey) were all likewise at the completion of the above work to pay three built about the year 1790. This last named sd Cook Seventy Five Pounds for his labo~~r.in n.as in Hay Ground. The Nathan Topping Cook witness whereof we have interchangeably set our House in Hay Ground (later Alanson, later --\ddi- hands the day & year above written." son >I. Cook) was built in the year 1793. Here are the names The Silas iVhite House (later Jesse Halsey, later of contracting parties David Halsey) in Head-of-the-Pond, \\-as built in The John Hulburt house referred to above is the the year 1793. James \iThite, a brother of Silas, one in Sag Harbor. on the east side of Main Street. built a similar house a few rods east of the one first now owned by Mrs. Clarence Shamel. named, and in the same year, viz: 1794. When The John Cook house in hlecox was built by James got married, he moved this house across the Nathan Topping Cook and Sullivan Cook in the street, and it became later the Darius \IThite home- year 1809. I herewith give a copy of the -Agree- stead. Since that it was bought by Mr. Bottomley. ment to build this house. who movedit to its present site. The John Norris "This Agreement Made this ~2ndDay of March, House, in Poxabope, (later Stephen Topping j , 1809. Between Nathan T. Cook, Sullivan Cook and the Cap. Jonathan Osborne House. in LVainscott, John Cook, Concerning the Euilding of a House, the Janles Edwards House. (later Thomas Osborn. IVhich is as follows, viz; that Said Kathan 'J?. Cook later Oliver) in I\-ainscctt, the Daniel IVoodrufi iQ Sullivan Cook Do Bind themselves to Erect -A House. (later Jetur Bishop) in Bridgehampton, the House for the Said John Cook, Which is to Be Silas Pierson House, (later Hiram S. Rogers) in 'l'hirtj- By Thirty Six Feet-The Building to Be tn-o Shgaponack, were all five built about the year 1795. Stories High. The Work to Be Done as LVell as The Esquire Maltby G. Rose House (later Elbert that Nou- Ocupyed By Ruffus Rose. Having -1 Rose) was built in the year 1791. The IVilliam Porch 9 By I j feet. The House to Be Covered By Howell House, (later John N. Hedges) in Blecox. Shingles-The Lath to Be Sawed-The Timber was built about the year 1800. The Theophilus Cook Taken after Carted Horn-The Said John Cook House. (later Capt. John Sn-eeney, later -4lbert Jen- Does Agree on His Part to furnish -411 Materials nings) was also built about 1800. The Dr. Rufus Sufficient for the Above Work In Such -\ Season Rose House, (later Capt. George Hand) in Hay that the Said Cooks as -\foresaid Shall Not Wait Ground, was built in the year 1804. I herewith for -Any one Article & if Such Materials are not shew copy of the contract to build this house. , Provided -According to the Tenor of the Preceding "This agreement made this 29th day of October, Clause, the Said John Cook Is to Make Good the 1804 between Nathan T. Cook & Rufus Rose con- Damage. He Is Likewise To Raise the House -%fter cerning the building of a House is as follo~vs,Viz. it is framed and to Do the Glazing-He Is Also to "That sd Cook agrees to erect a house twenty find Said Cooks One Meal Per Day While they are eight feet in front & thirty two feet from front to Doing the Said IVork. and after the Said IVork Is rear tn-o storj-s high in the same illode1 with the Compleeted He is to Pay the Said Cooks as -\fore- house no\$- occupied by John Hulhurt, Esq. -And said the Sum of TI\-o Hundred And twenty Five to be finished in the same way except his kitchen in Dollars For their Labour-.And We the Said Cooks the Lieu of Ivhich a porch is to be substituted the Do Agree on our Part to Sot Let other IVork In- house to be covered I\-it11 shingle, the lath to be terfear IVith Said Cook as Aforesaid To His Dam- OLD DWELLING HOUSES

Stephen Topping, later Paul, later E. 0.Hedges, 1750 Deacon David Hedges, later Wilkes Hedges, 1775

Old Hildreth House, Mecox, 1690-1873 Andrew Barron, later LemueI Haines, 1750

Stephen Topping, later Malines Osborn, Paul Halsey, Jr., later Watson, 1755 torn down 1914 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

age, Whereof We Have Interchangeably Set our year 181j. On the I 5th of September of the year Hands the Day and Date -As Above' Ritten" 181j, there occurred one of the most severe storins The Jesse Woodruff House, (later George H. that ever visited eastern Long Island, it blew down Miller) on Mitchel's Lane in Bridgehampton was vast numbers of great trees in the forests. The built by Sullivan Cook in the year 1807. The Jacob James Hand House, (later Albert, later John 1-1. Halsey House, (later Capt. Benj. H. Halsey) on Hand) in Wainscott, was built in the year 1816, Lumber Lane in Bridgehampton, was built about and the -Anthony Ludlow House, (later Charles the year 1805. The William Turbell House, (later Ludlow) in Mecox, was built in the year 1817; the Charles Turbell) in Hay Ground, was built about frame of both of these houses was hewn from trees the year 1810. The Sullivan Cook House. (later blown down in that severe storm. The Presbyterian Richard Cook) in Scuttle Hole, was buiit abnilt th: church on Shelter Island was also built of tiinber hewn frcnl trees blown down in that sanle Septem- ber gale. This church was destroyed by fire a few months ago. The Col. Hervep Hedges House on Hedges Lane in Sagaponack was built in the year 1825. The Matthew Topping House, in Sagg. (later Gardiner B., later -4ddison G. Topping j built in year 1797. There may he others that I have omitted, but I have tried to include all. These houses are now (1935) all standing, and for the most part are in fair order. In group one I think I should have included one half of the Thonlas Rose House. (later Israel Rose, later Pulaski Warren) in IVater Mill, built about Jonas Wood, Iater Ebenezer White, 1676-1856 T 700.

WHAT BECAME OF SOME OLD DWELLING HOUSES

In writing about Old Dwelling Houses in this was located south of the Hezekiah Bower house. locality, I wish to mention some of those known and (later Deacon David Hedges, later Josiah Foster. ) remembered by the older men, but which at this Robert Sorris Ivas a taxpayer in 1683, and lived time are gone. (See I7jO and 1800 rnaps). I will on the west side of Sagg street. begin with Wainscott. There was the John Tallnage The Mrs. Cleaves house in llTainscottwas bought and the Daniel Hopping houses on the road to East t)y Ernest Fields, who moved it to its present site. Hampton. Then in the lower end of Sagg Street, The Samuel Edwards house on Hedges Lane, owned there was the Jonas \l'ood house, later Rev. Ebene- by J. Dayton Miller in 1800, and Ebenezer Hedges zer White, built about 1676, torn down in 1856. in 1900, later the far111 was bought by Raymond Northwest of this was the Hezekiah Bower house in Magee, who sold the house to Charles Schn-enck, I 750, later Deacon David Hedges, later Capt. Josiah and he moved it north on the Wainscott Road. The Foster, this was burned in June of 1874, Isaac Hopping house in TVainscott, built about There has always been a question just where the I 790, mas burned in ~917. The Levi Hedges house Robert Norris House was located in Sagaponack. nn Parsonage Lane, was built about 1780, and torn Judging from a boundary line mentioned in an old down about 1900. The house marked Mr. Chase deed, and from the fact that there are pieces of old (1850 map) was a very old house and was torn brick found that would indicate the site of an old down about 185j. The liilliam D. Halsey house house, I am persuaded that the Robert Bower house, in Poxabogue was sold to Capt. Edward Halsey, and SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

torn down in 18go. The Seth Topping House JVilliam Fordham and Elisha Howell were both (1800) Halsey Hildreth in 1850, was torn down torn down. \fTilliam Jones' blacksmith shop on about 1870, this \\-as in Posabogue. The Stephen Main Street was bought by Hiram S. Rogers, who Topping House 1800, hfalines Osborn In 1850, in moved it to his farm in Sagaponack for a shop. The Posatague, was torn down about 1914. The Mil- IVatson Hand house (1850 map) was moved to ler Edwards House, Posabogue, ( 1830 map) \\.as Church Street, where it now stands, and is owned torn down in 186;. The Stephen Topping house on by Mrs. IVilliam Rogers. The David Pierson house Posabogue Road was formerly the store of Steplten c,n Butter Lane was tcrn down; it formerly was the Topping, Sr. ( 1800 map) afterward sold to Thomas property of Richard Gelston, his daughter, Laura, T!-ndall. and moved east of the graveyard. ?%e afterward Mrs. Jeremiah Ludlow, was born there. The -4lva Halsey house was torn down. The Dis- Town Poor farm was formerly owned by Sylvanus trict So. 9 schoolhouse (18jo) was sold to E. P. Topping. (1800). Sold after inany years to Rogers, who moved it to Narrow Lane for a dwell- Michael Hanej-, who tore down the older part of ing house. The Tiffany & Co. store was destroyed the house and retained the wing for a dwelling. The by fire. The John King Hotel, (1850) was orig- site of Capt. Caleb Howell's house could be located inally the Capt. John Hulburt house ( 1750)' finally until a short time ago. by the old well some rods east came down to -4ubmstus Gardiner. who moved it ci the Henry Howell house. to the Triangular Commons, raised it up, and built The Edward Howell House and Tavern (which another story under it. Later it was owned by John is shown on all maps except the one for 1670) in \V. Hull, who ran it as a hotel for many years. It Poxabogue, was built in the year 1690. was moved was then sold to the Episcopal Church Society, and across the street to the west about 1875. and torn torn down in 191j. The John L. Gardiner house down in December of 1931. I have preserved a ( 1830) later David Hallock. was moved to Osborn qection of the corner post, rafters and plate of this Park (so called) where it now stands. The Rogers house. The old Hildreth House in Mecox was prob- store was later moved across the street, and was ablj- built about the year 16go. and was torn down still later burned. The William Pierson house was about 1873. The Thomas Cook House in Mecos destroyed by fire. The John Cook house in Mecox was ~novedfrom Bridgehampton, and later owned was built in the year 1809. and was destroyed by 1)j-Jesse Ludlolv, and has now gone to decay. The fire in 1921. Jeremiah King House in Mecox was bought by The Mary Brown house on Lumber Lane in Roger Marran. and is now a wreck. The Benjamin Bridgehampton, was very old when I was a boy, F. Sandford House in Mecox was built in Sag Har- and was finally torn down. The Ledyard Halsey bor, afterward taken down and moved to its present house (later John Elliston) on Lumber Lane was site. The George Halsey House, on Ocean Road. burned about 1918. The Stephen Topping house (later Samuel Howell) was formerly the store of ( 1800) and the Alfred Talmadge house, both on Robert Halsey, and stood where the store of David Lumber Lane were torn down. The -4rnold Ed- Hallock did later, (now the Chester Store). The wards house on the Sag Harbor Turnpike. (later Hezekiah Sandford House stood in the valley south Hassler) was burned about the year 1872. The of the Matthew Hildreth house, west side of Ocean John Edwards house on the south side of Hunting- Road. The Jerusha Halsey House was torn down ton Path, was a one story building, and stood there bj- Henry P. Hedges after he had bought that farm until it was worn out and gone to decay. I remern- and moved fro111 Sag Harbor. This was on Ocean ber it in 18.72. It nlust have dated back to at least Road. The Levi H. Hildreth house stood a few 1740. The David Rogers house in Scuttle Hole was rods south of where the house of his son, Lawrence ]wilt in 1786 (1800 map) and was torn down about Hildreth. stood in 1850. The Mrs. D. Sandford 1870. RIy grandmother, Elizabeth Tuthill Rogers, ilouse. ( 18jo map) (later Richard Overton) was was born there. The Charles Seeley house, ( 1850) bought b- Hiram S. Rogers who ~novedit to his \\-as moved to Sag Harbor. erected on the north side Fordham lot on Butter Lane, and is now owned by of John Street. owned by John Thatford. and George 1lcCaslin's heirs. The blacksinith shops of burned about 1880. The Daniel S. Halseq- house on SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Butter Lane was formerly the kitchen on the Gabriel Strong. The Charles C. Topping house in Jlecox Halsey house on the Brick Kiln Road, and was moved was formerly the schoolhouse of -Andrew Fordhanl to its present site in 1840. The Isaac Sandford in Hay Ground, and is now torn down. The Ed- house on Butter Lane was torn down. The David ward Squires house at Head-of-the-Pond was torn Sayre house was torn down, and later the Stephen down. The Abigail Squires house was moved from Sayre house was bought by Phineas Terry and Hay Ground to its present site, later bought by moved to a site near the former site of the David Frank Benedict and moved to the Polish settlement. Sayre house. The Sylvanus Sandford house on The house in Deerfield marked Sullivan Cook Butter Lane, (1800) was bought by Elias Sandford (18jo) later Widow McGee. was formerly the who moved it across the street for a barn. The Ethan Halsey house in Hay Ground, and was moved Elias Woodruff house was burned December 1st. by Cook. The Enoch Halsey house in Water Mill 1899. The Silas Corwith house was burned about was burned November ~oth,1901. The John Luptotl 1910. The Job Woodruff house was moved to the house, formerly David Lupton. on Ocean Road was Rahle farm for a tenant house, where it now stands. destroyed by fire. The Hedges Sandford house in The Capt. Jones Rogers house on the Hay Ground Water Mill was sold and moved across the street Road was bought by Patrick Connor, and later by to the south. The old house on the east side of Addison M. Cook, who tore it down. The Orlando Mecox Road, in Mecox, that was formerly the Cor- Rogers house was burned in October of 1919.The with Store of early days, was destroyed by fire July Albert Cook house (later William Marran) was 3rd, 1843, at 10 o'clock -4. M. The James Edwards burned in 19I I. The Thomas Halsey house was house on Mill Stone Road was burned about 1860. bought by William Edwards, who moved it north The J. L. Overton house was torn down, this war; cf the railroad. and was later owned by Charles the old Loper homestead.

BRIDGEHAMKTON IN THE WAR OF THE REVOLUTION

During all of the early history of eastern Long Colony. It was during this episode that Lyon Gar- Island, there never was a massacre of the Colonists diner gave himself as hostage to the Montauk In- by the Indians. This appears remarkable when dians for the safe return of their Sachem, \&'yan- compared with contemporary history on the main- clanch. land, but this is largely explained when we consider The Long Island Coionies were subject from the that when the Colonists bought the land of the In- first to obligatory military training. "On October 1642. Yt is ordered that every man in this tolvne dians for a stipulated price, they also agreed to de- g, that bear th armes shall watch and ward and come fend them against invasion of this territory by hos- to trap ~ngs." "Each man must have a flintlock tile tribes. This referred directly to the Pequots 1 musket that would strike fire, with a bayonet to fit and Narragansetts, for these tribes had conquered it, and cartridge box." First the officers had their and were receiving an annual tribute from the Long training, a few days later those between 18 and 45 Island Indians. The only event that savored of even who were liable to military duty were called out and the spirit of massacre, was the murder of Phebe they had company training. Later they had general Halsey, wife of the first Thomas Halsey at South- training, when the companies from Southampton, ampton. Montauk Indians were suspected, but East Harnpton, Bridgehampton and Sag Harbor all upon investigation, it was proven to have been two met on the Triangular Commons in Bridgehampton. Pequots, who were arrested and taken to Hartford I think this law was in force until well toward the where they were tried, convicted and executed. At middle of the 19th century. I herewith give a list that time all criminal cases had to be tried in Hart- of the members of the Militia, whose names appear ford, from the fact that eastern Long Island at that on the Muster Roll of November 5th, 17x5. Most time was under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut of these names may be found on the map for I 700. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

The Captain of this Company was Josiah Top- of Southampton, east of Water Mill, or that area ping, of Hay Ground. covered by these maps, with a population of 1,434, Stephen Topping Elias Cook according to the census of that year. At this time Daniel Hedges Nathaniel Woodruff all of the men who were subject to military duty, Obadiah Cooke Alexander Wilmot were enrolled and organized into companies. -4t the William Tarbell Jeremiah Halsey period just prior to the Revolution there were two Samuel Haines Thomas Cooper companies in Bridgehampton. One being in Sagg, Elisha Howell Josiah Topping and one in Mecox. In Onderdonk's Rev. Incidents, Martin Rose Josiah Stanborough we read "Company 3, (this is Sagg) Capt. David Ezekiel Sandford James Haines Pierson, 1st Lieut. Daniel Hedges. 2nd Lieut. David Thomas Howell Edward Howell Sayre, Ensign, Theophilus Pierson." Company g, James Hildreth Henry Ludlatn (this was h4ecox) Capt. John Sandford, 1st Lieut. Theodore Pierson -4biel Cook Edward Topping, and Lieut. Phillip Howell, En- David Halsey Samuel Lum sign, John Hildreth." Most of these names appear Ammi Rusco Elias Petty either on the map for I jj0 or 1800. "In 1775 James White associations were formed, the members of which pledged then~selvesto the support of the measures The following list of names are those the loca- of the provincial congress, and the union of the tion of whose homes appear on the map for 1750. -American colonies, to resist the oppression of the Eliphalet Clark Theophilus Howell British government." Every male inhabitant in Joshua Hildreth Jacob Wood Southampton, with only two exceptions, signed this Jeremiah Halsey Zechariah Sandford instrument of association, and these two after some Henry Ludlam Abraham Halsey hesitation also signed it, which made it unanimous. Job Pierson Elnathan White It only took a short time after the declarations in Thomas Sand ford Ezekiel Sandford writing of these men, before the matter of organiz- Israel Rose ing regiments in Suffolk County was thought to be Very many of the sons of the above named men a necessity. "On April sth, 1776, the First Regi- enlisted and fought in the war for liberty and inde- ment. of 13 companies was reported, this was com- pendence only a few years later. -it this time, how- posed of 1.030 men and officers from the western ever, these Bridgehampton men were really part of portion of the County, but as early as February the English army, and during the French and In- roth, 1776, the Second Regiment reported nine com- dian War. (175 5-1764) some of them did service. panies, with 760 men and officers, of which it is Elias Halsey ( 17jo map) served as Lieutenant, Al- thought Bridgehampton furnished three companies, bert E. Squires, father of Ellis, (1800) did service and in addition to these, Bridgehatnpton, East both in this war and also the Revolution. David Hampton and Southampton furnished a company Hand started to go on the expedition with Mont- of minute men to act as a home guard, and this mas gomery, but was taken sick at -4lbany and returned prior to the date of the First Regiment." home. After the battle of Long Island, which took place Some years later throughout all of the Colonies. ,August 27th, 1776, which resulted in the defeat, or the men and officers who had kept up the interest in rather retreat of the Colonial army, Long Island the training of the militia, saw not SO very far ahead was left undefended. and an easy prey for the ene- the probability of abundant use for their ability as my's depredations. What with war vessels on either soldiers and military leaders. England, like the old coast, and the English army supplemented by hired Egyptian monarch, sought to strengthen their cause Hessian troops, marching unopposed the entire by increasing the burdens of their subjects, but in length of the Island. it would be impossible to por- both cases it worked inversely. Throughout the tray the ill treatment and insults to which the Colon- Colonies, men who were quietly following their vo- ists were subjected. Live stock was confiscated and cations, unnoticed, became eloquent orators in the never accounted for. cattle. sheep, hogs, poultry and cause of liberty and freedom. 1776 found the Town even horses were taken, and the farmer forced to SKETCHES FRO3,l l4OC-AL HISTORY cart hay and grain with which to feet1 thein, and lieved in the injustice to which the Coloiiists were none of these articles were ever paid for. subjected. for at an early date he resigned his ~0111- The companies of eastern Long Islantf inen ivho mission and returned to England. Major Cochran took part in the battle of Long Island. and there \vas of a very different type, a tnan arrogant. brutal, were a good many, retreated to the mainland with domineering, autocratic and vile. Bote his order the rest of the arnly. Ilihile those left at home either for the whipping of William Russel. He made his fled to Connecticut, where they joined the Continen- headquarters in Sagaponack, and left a record des- tal army. or were forced to take the Oath of --llle- pised and hated, and always will be. giance to the English King. Some of these a: the I will name the officers and privates who served point of a bayonet. as was Col. Jonathan Hedges, in the war of the Revolution, the location of whose and hundreds of others. This military occupation homes appear on these maps, and designate the dis- cf the Island by the English, broke up the regiments trict in which they lived. already organized, or thcse that were being organ- Those in IVater Mill were: ized by the Colonists, and so put a stop to all mili- IVilliam Ludlatn Capt. Henry Ludlam Private tar\- training. Some took their families with them Jeremiah Ludlam John Conklin yY to the continent, and never came back. others re- Private Thomas Stephens " turned after the war was over, to former homes. now devastated and left in ruin. Tliose in Jlccox were : I herewith give a copy of an Oath of Allegiance Ben janlin Sandford Matthew Cooper Private taken by Daniel Hildreth, the original of which is Private John Cook ?? still preserved, and sworn to before the Tory Gov- Daniel Sandford " Job Halsey 7 Y ernor, William Tryon. Edward Holvell " William Howell "

"I do hereby certify, that Daniel Hiidreth,. aged David Lupton ). Daniel Schellinger " 63 of Southampton To\vnship. has voluntarily Those in Wainscott were : sw-orn before me. to bear Faith and true Plllegiance T'iiilliam Miller Private Daniel Hopping Private to his Majesty. King George the Third, and that he will not directly or indirectly, openly or secretly, aid. Those in Sagg were: abet. counsel. shelter, or conceal any of his Majesty's Lemuel Pierson Hezekiah Bower Private Enemies, and those of his Government, or molest or Sergt. Major Jonathan Hedges. betray the Friends of Government, but that Ile will Jonathan Hedges J r - y7 behave hi~nselfpeaceably and quietly, as a faithful Colonel Henry Topping

Subject of his Majesty and his Govern~nent.Given Daniel Topping Lieut. Benjamin White " under my Hand on Long-Island, this aand Sept. Job Hedges Privatc David White 3.

T 7$3.:' -Abraham Pierson " Ephraim White " "Wm. Tryon. Govr." Isaac Pierson ., John Pierson .. This Daniel Hildreth was the grandfather of the Job Pierson ?. Josiah Stanborough " Lemuel Pierson " Zebedee Osborne " Inan from whose diary I will quote later. He lived in Seven Ponds, and was noted for the high grade Matthew Topping " Jeremiah Hedges pumps he made and sold throughout this entire sec- Daniel Hedges Capt. Surgeon tion. I wish to say also, that at the time this docu- David Pierson ?' Elias Pierson Corp. rnent was executed Major John Andre was secre- Those in Bridgehainpton were : tary to Governor IVilliam Tryon. and it is very John Hulburt Jeremiah Rogers Capt. probable that the document is in -4ndre's handwrit- Lieut. Col. William Gelston '' ing. Stephen Halsey, Surgeoil Phillip Halsey yf Lord Erskine. who commanded the forces on David Gelston Serg. Elias Halsey Lieut. eastern Long Island. made his headquarters in John Gelston Adjutant Henry Halsey Capt. Southampton, and was a gentleman in every respect, Nathan Cook Fifer Stephen Halsey Serg. a kind officer and just. He evidently saw and be- David Howell Capt. Titnothy Halsey " SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY

David Hand Capt. Beriah Dayton Private lvith I17ashington that n~en~orablewinter. Benjamin Sylvanus Halsey " Jeremiah Halsey " IVoodruff of Bridgehampton \\-as on the Privateers .. Phillip Howell Lieut. Matthew Halsey "Oliver Cram\\-ell" and "Putnam", and also served

Josiah Hand Private John Corwithe " .. \$ ith the land forces in Connecticut. Col. John Hui- Jeremiah Parker " Daniel Halsey burt not only served as an officer in the army, but >? Henry Moore Daniel IVoodruff " kept a store and tavern, and was a prominent man Edward Topping Capt. Luther Hildreth " in this community, but met reverses in later life. His David Sayre Lieut. .Abraham Halsey .." mother, Elizabeth, died August 16th, 1788, and is Silas Cook Private Samuel Brown .. buried in the Old Cemetery in Bridgehampton. He Henry Corwithe .," Ethan Halsey lived on the north side of the Main Street in Bridge- John Edwards Lewis Sandford " hampton, across from the Bull's Head Tavern (see " " IVilliam Halsey Thoillas Halsey map for 1750). JoshuaHildreth " Caleb Corwithe " .. For the location of the houses where some of the David Howell, Jr. David LVoodru ff ' interesting events of the war took place. I will name Moses Howell " James Sayre the map where they may be found. Where Capt. Stephen Sayre " Edward Topping shot the British soldier, see Bridge- Those in Scuttle Hole were: hampton Main Street 1750 inap. John IVhite, who -Abraham Rogers Silas Iioodruff Private took part in the successful expedition of Col. hleigs, Private Samuel Browne " when he captured the British outpost and fort at David Sand ford " Benjamin Woodruff " Sag Harbor, in May of 1777, see lower end of Sagg ( Those in Hay Ground were : 1800). Dr. Stephen Halsey, surgeon in the Revo- lution, see north side of Mecox Road ( 1750 map). Jonathan Cook Corp. David Cook Private ;ibraham and Thomas Halsey served all through Matthew Jagger " Nathaniel Rogers this war, were both at Ticonderoga in 1775. The IYillia~nRogers Capt. Ensigr, inusket carried by one of these men is still preserved. -Abraham Rose Lieut. -Albert Squires Private They were brothers of Ethan Halsey, see north side David Cooper Private Stephen Talmage " of Main Road, Bridgehampton ( 17jo n~ap).David I will relate a few incidents in the lives of some Hand. see north side of road in Poxabogue, ( 17jO of the men whose names appear in the above list. map). Timothy Halsey and Abraham Rose, see The stories of David and Daniel Hedges in con- r~jomap. Capt. Sylvanus Halsey, see Hay Ground nection with the Refugees has already been told by Road, map for 17jO. David Cook, same map. Dan- Judge Hedges. David Hand, the patriot, Josiah iel Halsey, (my great grandfather) see Butter Lane. Hand. already mentioned as living at the Brick 1800 map. Josiah Hand of Brick Kilns, worthy of ICilns. The Matthew Halsey named above. served as mention, and formerly of Poxabogue. and brother a private at the battle of Long Island, under Gen. of David, does not appear on ar.y nlap, but was in Israel Putnam. He headed a private expedition to Col. Josiah Smith's Regiment. -Abraham Rogers, New London and captured 13 Hessians, for which of Scuttle Hole. was killed at the battle of Bunker exploit he received from the Continental Congress a Hill. large cluantity of currency. The winter that Wash- ru'athaniel Rogers of Hay Ground, was in the ington was at Valley Forge. this illan went to Xew- hattle of Long Island and in the faillous retreat, he ark by skating across the frozen New York Bay. swain in a soldier's blanket across the river. carry- the Kill van Kull and L-ewark Bay, it being a veq- i!;g his gun and ammunition above his head. cold winter. William Miller of Wainscott was a I cmitted to mention that Capt. Sylvanus Haisey private in Col. Smith's regiment. and was on the was paid $600 in Continental money, when he was Privateer "Marcluis de Lafayette." discharged, some of which is still preserved. I Sathan Cook n-as a fifer in the xi-ar. but a tailor procured $52 of these bills of Orlando Rogers. his by trade. I will relate a story of him in a later grandson. chapter. Lieut. Daniel Topping was at Valley Forge Sathan Halse? of the Fifth generation from the SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

First Thomas had three sons, Timothy, Nathaniel gold coins that the Government had given him as and Theophilus. pension money. Sy-lvanuswas of the sixth generation and the old- I attended his funeral with my parents, as was est son of Timothy IHalsey and Phebe Topping. the old time custom, amid the most terrific thunder- Daniel Halsey was the oldest son of hTathaniei storm of my experience; the crashing thunder, the Halsey. vivid lightning, accompanied by floods of water In the library of the Suffolk County Historicai from the skies, with darkness almost like night, re- Society are the original muster rolls of Col. Josiah lieved by the flashes of the lightning that only served Smith's Regiment. These are also to be found in to display more distinctly to my frightened eyes the hlatherts "Refugees." black casket on the opposite side of the room, fixed Two of the con~panieswere from Southampton in my mind and memory a scene never to be forgot- Town. one of which was under the comtnand of ten. Capt. David Pierson, and was called "The Minute 'Clihen this man was discharged and came home 31 en of Bridgehampton. " he brought $600 in Continental currency; it was In this list appears the names of Sylvanus Hal- evidence of service, if not of pay, for the whole of sey and Daniel Halsey (my great grandfather). it would not purchase one square meal. Such men Sylvanus Halsey lived in the old homestead in should be honored. On Memorial Day we place up- Hay Ground, later owned and occupied by his on the grave of this soldier of the Revolution the grandson, Orlando Rogers. flag for which he so gallantly fought and in the -4ttached to this page is a short historical sketch quaint rural cemetery again we read the lettering of this old "Soldier," written by Mr. Addison M. upon the little gray moss grown slab of marble that Cook and published in the New York Herald, Janu- for so many years has marked the last earthly rest- ary 12,1923. ing place of a true patriot, a soldier of 1776- The flintlock musket that Sylvanus carried -4. M. COOK. through the Revolutionary War, came into posses- Water Mill, January 12. sion of Orlando Rogers. He sold it to John L. Cook. It is now owned and in the possession of In Mather's "Refugees" there appears the name of Lawrence C. Halsey, of Mecox. Long Island, h'ew Samuel Brown, of Southampton. He was from k'ork. Bridgehampton, (see Butter Lane I 7 jo map). Tradition says he was a fearless soldier, and became - - -- one of Washington's body guards, wintering with Two Lives Span 168 Years the army at Valley Forge, crossing the Delaware Christmas night of 1776, assisted in the capture of A Loitg Islander PV-lzo Played With a Rrvol,ution- the Hessians, wintered with the army at Newburgh. ary Soldier. N. Y., and received an honorable discharge when To Tlze ~VewYork Herald: I am the only man. the army disbanded in the fall of I 783. The ariny so far as I know, in my locality who can truthfully had been stationed at Wewburgh since March of clairn the distinction of having seen a soldier of the 1782. It was at this time that Washington received Revolution. the famous "Nicola" letter, proposing that he be- Captain Sylvanus Halsey was born December j, come king. 1755, served all through the war under General This section of the Hudson valley was settled by Washington as a private soldier in the ranks, and the Germans from the Rhine valley, and the Dutch. at the conclusion of hostilities was honorably dis- During the greater portion of this period the army charged. He afterward became Captain of a militia was not actively engaged in warfare, but were sim- company. He died May 2j, 1851. ply doing camp duty. The soldiers not doing sentry I was born June 28, 1847, and was therefore duty, were at liberty to stroll about the country. nearly four years old at the time of his death. He One day this man Brown in company with a num- often played with me in his lifetime, offering one of ber of comrades, wen.t to the home of a Dutch the ellow ow boys," as he called thetll--one of the farmer, a very old man, whose eyesight was very SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

poor; this old man took great pleasure in taking some reason an extremely light and superficial them about his farm, and showing them his live- search was made of Brown's tent, though to appear- stock, among which was a large flock of fine geese. ance the search was most thorough. The man do- The entire company highly appreciated the kind ing sentry duty on the outpost of the camp that zttention and cordial reception given then1 by the night may have been asleep, or he may have sought old settler, and endeavored to show in every possible the shelter of some primeval oak, with gnarled way their appreciation by strictest attention to his branches that defied the raging storm; at any rate, interesting remarks while taking them about the a little company of men trekking back to camp, pass- farm. Brown wandered away from the company ed unnoticed, and all was well. Somewhat later, the for a little; secreted in his pocket was a small line correct countersign was given, and the guard by the tc \vhich was attached a fish hook. He had gotten officer's tent was passed, a rap on his cot awoke the a sa~npleof corn from the goodly supply stored in officer, and he heard this question, "Officer, would- the corn crib which they had. just been shown. He n't !-ou like some bear meat?" It is needless to say very deftly placed a good fat kernel on the hook. what was cooked for breakfast that morning. More dropped the bait and walked away, letting a goodly bear meat was offered the next night. There is an- length of line pay out, at the same time scattering other Samuel Browne, in the list of 'Refugees' froin enough corn about the bait and line to conceal it: Southampton, who like the other Samuel Brown, this was of course soon seen by the geese, when \\-as from Bridgehampton. I do not agree with there was a grand rush and strife. It \\;as picked up Mather in this matter. The first Sanluel Brown 1 1.;~- a fine specimen of the flock, which after swaliou-- illention in this connection, lived on Butter Lane, ing it found it was in trouble, seeking relief by flap- just south of the Gelston homestead (see I 7 50 map). ping its wings and running. Brown, on the other The other was a descendant of Jan~esBrowne, the end of the line, began a retreat, crying, "call him second minister of the church in Bridgehanlpton, hack. call him back." The old inan hearing the com- and lived in Scuttle Hole (see 1800 map), and was motion, inquired as to the cause, when the company the great-grandfather of Sainuel E. Squires of told him, "One of the geese is chasing that man." Head-of-the-Pond (see 1850 map), froin whoin he The old man shouted, "Don't be afraid, come on was named. hack, he won't hurt you." The answer came back as Zebedee Osborne was one of the Wainscott 0s- the man and his goose disappeared over the hill. bornes, and lived near Poxabogue Pond. He was "The Devil trust him." During the same winter 47 years of age, and his wife, Mercy Osborne, was that the army was encamped at Newburgh, N. Y., 4.5 when the war of the Revolution broke out. They another story is told in which this same soldier were loyal and true to the cause of the Colonies, and figured. -At this early period, wild animals had not were willing that all should know it. Their rela- as yet been driven very far back from the frontier tives for the most part lived in Wainscott, this led of civilization. The settlers were obliged to wage a them to make frequent visits to that locality. One perpetual warfare against these pests, for the pro- day during the war, Mercy walked to Wainscott, to tection of their farm stock. The meat of bears was spend the day with her friends. On the way she edible. and closely resembled pork, especially if the met and was stopped by an English officer, who de- hog was skinned instead of being scalded. One manded who she was, where she was going and nlorning after a dark stormy night, a fanner came what her business was. She replied as follows: to the officer's headquarters, and entered a com- "First; I am the mother of Zebedee's children. plaint that during the night he had lost one of his "Secondly; I am going on an errand of Mercy. hogs, and it was his klief that some of his soldiers "Thirdly; I am attending to mj- o\vn business. ai:d \\-ere guilty of having stolen the hog, and that they you would do well to attend to yours." Her reply had it concealed somewhere about the camp at that so impressed the officer that he bade her God-speed. yery time. To satisfy the farmer, and also to clear and went on his way. his own men of all suspicion of guilt, he declared he When the John Wicks property in Bridgehamp- xvould at once order a search, and if proof were ton was sold at public auction, it was bought by Capt. found, the guilty party should be punished. For Edward Topping, who owned it during the period SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY of the Revolutionary war. He was living at the it is a pity that there is not more of them where he time of the following story, in what was afterwards is ; D-n him, take him dolvn to the ocean. and bury the Henry Corwithe house, on the north side of the him below highu-ater mark, for he is not fit to even street, (see maps 1750 and 1800). be buried with decent n~en." -And this \\-as done. He was awakened by a British soldier breaking The above account is as I have heard it told by the old men, and of course they heard it froill their an- into his house. This man with blackened face was cestors. coming through a window. His coat was turned Judge Henry P. Hedges once said, ''\i7hen peace inside out. Capt. Topping ordered him to retreat was proclain~ed,and the last British soldier stepped and go away, and finally threatened to shoot him if off this soil; when the defeated army embarked he did not obey. He disregarded the Captain's from Keiv York harbor; when the British fleet warning, whereupon the Captain shot and killed him passed through Long Island Sound and vanished instantly. This was reported at once to General Er- from our shores: when the last memento of hostile skine, who came to Bridgeharnpton to investigate. power fled and faded away before the light of free- The British claimed him to be one of their best men. dom ; no heavier burden was lifted fro111 any part oi but when the General found out the real facts of the these United Colonies than from this. From none case, he exclaimed : "If that is one of your best men. ascended more triumphant cheers."

ABIGAIL HOWELL IN THE REVOLUTION

There are a few cases. and comparatively few. Jleigs. was made in May of 1777. (See history oi where eye-witnesses of facts and incidents of the Sag Harbor). _Abigail Howell at that time xvas a early history of a town, told these facts accurately little girl, but remenlbered the incident very distinct- to the younger generation, and they either put the ly. She saw the soldiers and heard the guns, anti story in print or told it to the next generation, so was frightened, and ran down cellar and hid until that the story, though perhaps of only local interest. the affair was over and all was quiet. was passed down to the present time. Miss -Anna Babcock The James Howell house stood about where the died the 3rd of March. American Hotel now stands on the easterly side of 1934. in the 90th year Main Street in Sag Harbor. It was in this house of her age. It imay be that the British officers made their headquarters ten years ago she gave while in Sag Harbor during the Revolution, and the photograph of Mrs. while the British were in possession of eastern Long Abigail Howell Y r i ce Island. which she had among "Abigail Ho\vell's little brother who died in in- her papers since a young fancy was the first person whose remains were bur- woman. I think it verv ied in the old Cen~eteq-. This child died June 4. fortunate that this had r 767." -- been preserved. (This Miss ,Abigail Hou-ell. daughter of James, married cut is fro111 the origir~rrl Benjamin Price and lived in the house on the north ABIGAIL HOWELL PRICE photograph). who remembered the Meigs side of Union Street in Sag Harbor, two doors west Expedition >lay 16,1922,Xr. Jo'ri~l of Madison St. and the one recently bought and ren- H. Hunt told me that ovated by Mr. John Ripley. and she, when a very \\-hen he was a boy, the house on Union Street above old lady related these facts to Judge Hedges, he be- referred to, was known as the "-\bigail Price House" ing at that time. a young man, and he told me. and that one day when passing, (Mrs. Price was The expedition under the comnland of Lieut. then a very old lady) she saw hiin and said, "Bub. SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-IL HISTORY

attack of the British on Sag Harbor during the war cf 1812. Xt that time there stood a house on the corner of Main and \Vashington Streets, where Xr- thur Brown's drug store now stands, the lower story of which \\-as used as a store or market. and the second story as a dwelling. The land to the east of this house was not built up at this time, but was open, though there was on this lot an apple orchard, yet there was no buildings to obstruct the view to the water, or the wharf, and when the British were about to attack, a barricade was thrown up in this orchard, back of which were mounted several small cannon. The British made the attack by night, by water, intending to use one of their small vessels to shell the town before landing. I think they did succeed in burning one vessel, and in landing a portion of . . .------their troops. but the fire from this l~ttlebattery was British Outpost at the Brick Kilns, captured May 23, 1777 too hot for them, and they retreated without doing IIIUC~damage, but during this battle.or skirmish, the \\-ould you like to have a rose?" He said he told her fire to ignite the charge in these guns had to be he \vould like to very much, whereupon, she cut a brought from this house, in the shape of live coals bunch and gave him, and he took them home to his or fire brands. mother. The incidents above related are perhaps of Oliver Slate, father of Shamgar Slate, while run- no real historical value, yet they are in a way a tie ning from this house to the fort with a fire brand that binds that noted event of Revolutionary fame that night, in his excitement, failed to conceal the with the present time, in a way that to me is most burning brand. which at once drew- the fire of the interesting. enemy. The bullets flew about Slate. but fortu- -Another story told me by Mr. Hunt that same nately none hit him. The attack \\-as of short dura- day. is as follows: I think it must have been in the tion. and was a failure.

JOHN HULBURT AND THE FIRST STARS AND STRIPES

The "\Vool\vorth Agreement" \\-as entered into The first name on this committee is that of John July znd, 1787, and with but few exceptions was Hulburt (some spell this name with an 'r' making it signed by almost every resident of this community. Hurlburt; this is wrong, unless you prefer to adopt The committee chosen to take charge and consum- a modern method ; in the old documents it is spelled mate this "-Agreement," consisted of Ia men, un- as given above). This man is the subject of our questionably appointed because of their marked sketch. The fifth name is that of Daniel Halsey, ability and character. The list is as follo~vs: who was my great-grandfather. "John Hulburt Samuel Howell In the Old Cemetery in Bridgehampton is a monu- Ebenezer White David Hains n~entmarked "In memory of Mrs. Elizabeth, wife David Hedges Timothy Halsey of Lt. John Hulburt, who died Aug. 16th, 1788, i11 William Rogers Elias Halsey the 83rd Year of her -Age." Her maiden name was Daniel Halsey David Pierson Elizabeth Sage. She was a niece of Russell Sage's Tilllothy Pierson John Gelston" (Continued on Page So) SKETCHES FROM L0C.X HISTORY SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-AL HISTORY great-great-grand father. Her husband, John Hul- Later Hulburt sent his lieutenant, John Davis, \\-it11 burt, Sr.. died March ~4th~1775. -As he also was a company of men to guard llontauk. Captain some confusion has occurred. I\-here docu- Ticonderoga had fallen, or rather surrendered nients are dated before 1775, they refer to the fath- May roth, 1775. The prisoners taken at that time er. ?he son was not a captain until after the father had been guarded all the intervening months, and at died. She was the mother of Captain John. Her last became an embarrassment and burden to the ' husband, the Lieut., kept a store in Bridgehampton army stationed there, in whose charge they were. To on the corner now owned by Mr. Henry X. Cor- relieve this situation. on Sept. zoth, 1775, Colonel with, formerly the Judge A. T. Rose property. His -Alexander RIcDougall issued the follo\ving order to old Ledger is preserved and may be seen in the Capt. John Hulburt. Harnpton Library. It is not positively known \\-here he \\-as buried, but it is very probable it was Long Island Troops Sail for Albany In the same graveyard with Elizabeth, his wife. but there is no marker or monument to prove this. Here is the text of Col. McDougall's letter: It is thought that John Hulburt, Jr., assisted his New York, Sept. zoth, 177j father in the store and tavern, until he was of age. In June of 1775. Gen. Washington assigned Gen. Sir. Phillip Schuyler to the command of the Northern Your men are to embark at Greenwich, when Department. He at once arranged the expedition >.our bagage is on board, and you are to proceed with against Canada, by the way of Lake Champlain. He the first wind and tide that offers to Harverstraw also in the same month of 1775, sent orders to John landing, and there, enquire whether there be any Hulburt. then living in Bridgehampton, Long Is- diserters belonging to Captain Johnston's Company. land, N. Y., to raise a company of volunteer militia. of your regiment. If there are, you are to take them H~tlburtcarried out these orders and organized his with you to their Company; But if you have a fair company July znd, 1775, on the steps of the little wind; you are not to stay there longer than three or church in Bridgehampton. (This was the second four nor at any rate above six Hours. Upon your church in this place, built in 1737, and stood on the arrival at Albany, apply to the Commanding Of- northerly side of the road to Sagg, east of the Ester- ficer there, for orders what rout you are to take to brook property. now marked by a monument). Ticcnderoga; in order to join your regiment. Eut These inen were among the first to respond to the if there should not be any there, take the advice of Kation's call. This company was made up of inen the Committee on this matter, & observe it as the from Southainpton. Bridgehampton, East Hainpton rule of your conduct. If your Company is not com- and probably Sag Harbor, and as near as I can as- pleat: you should draught as many of Capt. Green- certain this is the first time that Hulburt was given wel's men as have arms to fill your's. I wish you a the Colninission as "Captain." pleasant voyage. and March and am Sir "On July 27th. 1775, Gen. Washington wrote to Your very Humble Servant the Continental Congress advising them that three "-Alex. McDougall men-of-war and nine transports had left Boston "Colonel with six hundred men, probably bound for Long Is- "Captain John Hulbert." lznd and also notified Gen. Wooster in order that precaution might be taken for removing the cattle. Tradition claims that at or prior to this time Hul- etc." "Mean~vhiIethe Provincial Congress notified burt's company had asked for a flag. When this Capt. Hulburt." When the fleet got near enough to request was granted we do not know, but we have llontauk to take observation with their glasses, they every reason to believe that it was granted. and fur- decided there XI-erelnore men than sheep. Hulburt ther, we believe that the papers and documents that had at this time marched a large body of Inen to the 11-ould have proven this to be true were lost by the place of landing. This led them to change their late Samuel L'Homedieu Gardiner of Sag Harbor, plans. and they then \vent to Fisher's and Gardiner's through carelessness or neglect, and me believe that Islands. This took place early in -\ugust of 1775. Hulburt's men carried that flag from Ticonderoga. SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY

Capt. Hulburt carried out 1IcDougall's order, and in the latter part of October, 1775, was detailed 11-ith his company to take these prisoners and lnarch then1 to Philadelphia, and present them to the Con- tinental Congress then in session there. Betsy Ross made her flag six or seven months later than this event. Hulburt's flag had six pointed while Betsy Ross's flag had five pointed stars. The Hulburt flag was found in the attic of the late Dr. John L. Gardiner house in Bridgehampton. \\-here a lot of Hulburt papers had been 'stored and probablJ- forgotten for years. -- This flag has 13 stripes and 13 stars. The ar- First Scars and Stripes known as the John Hulburt Flag rangement is as folio\\-s: The red and white stripes alternate as in our present flag. with this difference: hurt had been appointed colonel as second in com- In the Hulburt flag the field extends down to the mand of the Minute Men under Josiah Smith, and fourth red stripe, while in our present flag it extends the majority of his men re-enlisted in other compan- down to the fourth white stripe. The arrangement ies of Iiashington's army. of the stars in the field follows out the design of Hulburt became a Long Island Refugee in Con- the crosses in the British flag. There we have the necticut. He lived in Bridgehampton before as St. George's Cross, the St. -Andrew's, and the St. well as after the Revolution, and later was in bus- Patrick's. We have also these three crosses in the iness in Sag Harbor, where he owned at one time Hulburt flag, only instead of stripes we have six four different pieces of property, and was engaged pointed stars. in the leather and saddlery trade, carrying this Soon after the presentation of these prisoners to trade as far as South America. Later he met with the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, history reverses in business, for on April ~oth,1807, owing tells us that Francis Hopkinson, one of the Signers to ill health and failing eyesight, he offers his prop- of the Declaration from New Jersey, employed Bet- erty for sale. s~-Ross to "copy a flag." Now; what flag did he Dr. Silas Halsey of Southampton had formed a wish to have copied? He evidently had seen and very dear and as it proved lasting friendship for his attention had beerr drawn to some flag; that Captain Hulburt; the former with quite a company caused him to take this action. There is little doubt of men and women from this section migrated up but that it was the Hulburt flag. Later at her sug- State to Herkimer County (later Onondaga). Silas gestion or request the stars were changed from six in his new home practiced medicine, but owing to to five-pointed. his ability he was almost forced to enter public life. .Again did Betsy Ross ever claim to have designed He became County Judge, as well as assemblyman our flag? I think not, and there is nothing to prove and held other offices. When Hulburt was in real that she did so claim. That being the case. who is need, it is thought Dr. Halsey invited him to his to receive the credit? I believe it should be Cap own home, and that he died there. In an old grave- tain John Hulburt, of Bridgehampton. L. I., New yard overlooking Seneca Lake, presented to the York. ton-n by Dr. Halsey, there stands an unmarked na- Hulburt's company enlisted in June and July of tive stone monument, that is thought may mark the T---- //3, and were mustered out of service or honor- last resting place of Capt. John Hulburt, Hero and ably discharged Jan. 18th. 1776. (Herewith is a Patriot. cop)- which shows the actual signatures of Minute Men 11-ho formed Capt. Hulburt's company, with The First Flagstaff in Bridgehampton the anlount of money each received as pay). The follon-ing facts were found in documents dis- These men, however, were not long out of service, covered by Mr. Morton Pennypacker, to. whom I for on Feb. zoth, 1776. the records show that Hul- give credit. SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

Probably one of the most noted celebrations ever grace. Then followed the war of 181a. This \\-as held in Bridgehampton was in the latter part of the in main a naval warfare, and was not felt in this year 1799, in the campaign that elected Jefferson locality as was the Revolution, but Sag Harbor be- and Burr. In 1796 Adams defeated Jefferson for ing the only port, and at that time was of consider- President. In 1800, if possible, the political strife able importance as a seaport, was represented in its was even more strenuous. Jefferson and Burr were business life by many families froin this commun- candidates on the same ticket, the one receiving the ity, such as the Gardiners, Hands, Howells, Hedges, most votes became President, the other Vice Presi- Gelstons, Piersons, Halseys, Squires, HiIdreths, dent. David Frothingham had sold the "Long Is- Strongs, Toppings, Mitchels, which made it alinosr land Herald" in Sag Harbor and taken up his work a local affair, and then the garrison stationed there in New York City, and was influential in this cam- was made up largely of Bridgehampton men. David paign. Hedges and Levi Howell were both Colonels in this This celebration began on Dec. ~gth,and took war: David Haines of Hay Ground was also active place on the "Triangular Commons," where all such in this war and became a Colonel. +Abraham Rose parades were always held. The first feature of this in 1807 was a Colonel, in 1808, a Lieut. Colonel. affair was the planting or raising of a Liberty Tree. and in 1812a Brigadier General, and in command of This tree was 76 feet high. bearing on the top a vane all of the troops on Eastern Long Island. IYhen with Liberty inscribed upon one side, upon the other the news came that the British fleet was in Gardin- side a spread eagle with the flag of the United er's Bay, it was on Sunday, and the General request- States and a Liberty Cap. ed those assembled for worship to remain after ser- Many mottoes adorned the tree, such as, "Liberty vice, when from the church door he addressed them, of Press, Speech and Sentiment." "Col. Matthew urging them to volunteer in defense of their coun- Lyon, the martyr to the cause of Liberty." "Vox try, to which the patriotic response was unanimous. Populi, Vox Dei." Seventeen addresses were made, When the British troops landed at Sag Harbor one of which I think was by David Frothingham. for the purpose of capturing and destroying the There was a tremendous rally, and enthusiasm ran town, he was the officer that coinmanded the militia riot. that successfully resisted the attack. Dr. Rufus This was probably the first flag-pole ever erected Rose, a brother of Gen. -Abraham. was a surgeon in in this community. I have searched for that old this war. vane, but in vain. ''When the attack on Sag Harbor began he \\-as teaching in the old Hay Ground school house (see 1800 map). When the guns at Sag Harbor began WAR OF 1812 to boom, one a minute for 3 minutes. then silence There still existed between England and her for- for 3 minutes, then one a minute again and so on mer colonies a feeling of enmity and bitterness, even at these intervals, the doctor dismissed his school, after the former admitted defeat and the articles of and, as an eyewitness told me. took the longest steps agreement were signed at the Treaty of Paris on he ever saw taken up the Hay Ground hill, going September 3rd, 1783. England and France were at east toward Sag Harbor. Soon the minute guns at war and each blockaded the other's seaports, without Bridgehampton and Southampton and westward notifying neutral powers. Many American vessels also began to thunder their call for troops, and all approaching these ports were seized as prizes and the roads were soon filled with hurrying soldiers condemned. The English theory of citizenship was, all converging toward one point, Sag Harbor. Some one born in England, always an Englishman, and on foot, some on horse back, some in farm wagons, under this claim American vessels were searched, and some in ox carts, but all in great haste, and un- and all sailors taken and impressed into the English der intense excitement, some getting into their uni- navy who were suspected of being British subjects, forms as they went. The booming of minute guns, and this without inquiry or investigation. This the masses of soldiers rushing through the streets, went from bad to worse until the general sentiment the weeping women bidding adieu to their husbands. was that war was preferable to humiliation and dis- the squeaking of fifes and rattle of the drums com- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

bined to create a scene never to be forgotten by those who were witnesses." The former account is a quotation from Mr. A. 11. Cook, as printed in the Rridgehampton News of 1910. Mr. Cook further writes : "Elisha Halsey, (of Hay Ground, see 1800 map) was drummer of his company. When he reached Sag Harbor, he was ordered out into the street. near the head of the wharf. to call his company to form in line of battle. The enemy had already landed and held possession of the wharf, and were firing cannon up the street. Limbs were falling from the trees, solid shot were screaming overhead. houses were being shattered and pandemonium reigned generally. The old man who played for me on the very drum he then carried, told me that 'lvhen in obedience to the orders of his superior. he stepped out into the street every hair seemed to stand up straight on his head and his hat on top of them.' (This Elisha Halsey was brother Ellis Squires House, built 1730 cf Sylvanus, who fought in the Revolution). (Do rades were finally successful in the struggle, and not confound him with Elisha Halsey the Tory). took the enemy into Philadelphia as a prize. "Theophilus Cook, born Oct. 27th, I 7j I, died "John Edwards, who lived on the south side of June 16th, 1842, was a sailor. one of a con1pan:- Huntington Path and east of Lu~nberLane, served that manned the sloop-of-war 'Beaver,' a privateer in this war. (For location of his house see maps for that carried a force of 80 men. Ilihile in the service 1800 and 18jo). also Lliilliam L. Jones, musician ; I I prizes were taken. in all of which he shared." Jared Hedges, Ellis Squires and David Topping." (see 1800 map). Rodney Parker, son of Jeremiah. The British sloopof-war Sylph, which mas of Hay Ground, also was a soldier in the war of wrecked off Shinnecock Point, Jan. 16th-I 7th, 181j,

I 812. His nephew, Henry Squires, who remember- ' was the most noted warship ever wrecked on this ed him. wrote of him in the 'Xews' as follo~vs:"He coast. This was a vessel with 22 cannon, command- enlisted on one of the privateers, (I think it was the ed by Capt. Henry Dickens, a crew of 12 officers iVasp) and followed her fortunes on the high seas and 121 men. All were lost but one officer and five through many adventures and encounters with the men. -4t the time it was a severe snow storm and enemy. I can now recall the particulars of but one extremely cold. One cannon, one bar shot, portion of these exploits. This was in mid ocean, with a cf her shroud chain. one flint-lock gun, and a sword strongly-armed British ship, and was a stubborn are preserved as relics from this ship. and thrilling fight. They exchanged many broad- I here quote from a letter found by Mr. H. D. sides with the enemy, and after a long time got into Sleight. It was written by Dr. Ebenezer Sage, then position to rake her decks, but could not compel her representative in Congress for Suffolk County. The to surrender, until their commander laid his ship good doctor was at his Sag Harbor home. He ad- alongside, and gave an order for the boarders to dresses a friend living in Pennsylvania. It was rush the enemy's decks. In this encounter, as Mr. war time and he says: "I almost covet your retreat Parker went over the rail, he received a blow on the among the glens of -4dams County, secure in place head from a cutlass, which laid him prostrate and and plenty, while I am doomed to this sand bank senseless. He was fortunate to have parried this in continual alarm; not a week passes but the guard vicious blow, or it would have killed him on the boat or some of the sentinels see, or think they see, spot-as it was he carried the scar to the end of his an enemies' barge, and fire; this alarms the garrison days. He told with pride and glee how his com- and the drum beats to arms, and the whole town, SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

men, women and children are in motion. The peo- -Army of Flotilla senlice at Sew York, or emigrated ple are not very rich, except a few, mostly mechanics in search of business; nothing to be seen but houses and laborers with large families. The Orders in stripped of their furniture, and, as we expect to be Council put an end to all our prosperity and war is burnt, sent out of the reach of the conflagration. fast making them poor and wretched. "\Von~en who have seen better days are obliged "It is distressing to see the changes that a few to wash for and billet soldiers, to share with them years have produced among us, perhaps near ao of their rations; no happy countenances among us, but nip neighbors who were formerly captains, mates. children for want of reflection and soldiers made or sailors of vessels. carpenters. sail makers, boat happy by whiskey; but for our clam beds and fish builders, and in good circumstances, are now reduc- many would go supperless to bed." ed to the necessity of doing garrison duty to get ra- This letter was written July ~lth,1814. right in . tions to feed, and a little money with which to cloath the midst of that war. The Editor adds a note as their families. follows: "The women and children never undressed "We formerly had 20 or 2j coasting vessels em- at night but lay down with their clothes on, through ployed in southern trade, and in carrying wood, etc.. fear of the foe in the bay. The alarm would be to market. 3 or 4 of them only remain. Some of given 'The British are coming,' and the wagons them have been taken and sent to Halifax, others would be brought to take the women and children - burnt, and others so often taken and ransomed that off in the oak timber, to stay until the cannon balls the owners are unable to keep them in repair, and from the fort and wharf beat off the foe. This sail them, and they are either sunk at the wharf, or place, consisting of about 200 houses, has been laid up to rot in creeks and inlets. built up since the Revolution, by honest industry in 66 Our young men have generally gone into the catching whale and codfish."

THE CIVIL WAR

It is an admitted fact that Civil Iiar is of all, the The sentiment either for or against slavery worst that can befall any country. Slavery existed throughout the Union was becorning more and more throughout the entire country from the earliest date. aroused. The Federal Government sought to enact i~lcluding t h i s immediate locality. Sentiment laws governing this question, especially in regard to against the slave trade also developed at an equally the admission of new states. This brought up the early date. It seems strange to us, who think of question of "StatesJ Rights." It was Henry Clay. 1-irginia as a leading slave State, to read that this who sought to get legislation whereby the United State protested and attempted to stop the slave trade States Government would order the liberation of all as early as 1 j72. Connecticut did likewise by stat- slaves, by purchase, the owners to be paid out of the ute in 1774. Delaware followed by constitution in Government Treasury. for all slaves in their posses- I 776. Nine other States joined these between 1783 sion. and 1789. While Virginia in 1778 went still fur- About this time anti-slavery organizations sprang ther and prohibited this trade. Pennsylvania and up all over the Northern States. This resulted final- llassachusetts abolished slavery in 1780. ly in a situation decidedly political. Then followed Emancipation of slaves was accomplished or in the election of Lincoln. which made actual war in- progress in all of the Northern States early in the evitable. The foregoing is a short synopsis of the 19th century. In March of 1820, the 'hlissouri growth of that sentiment, that eventually led to tlie Compromise7 was enacted. and that State admitted greatest war ever waged on American soil. This into the Union as a Slave State, and at the same great problem had been looming up before the peo- time Maine was admitted as a free State. Later. ple throughout the entire country for many years Alabama was admitted as a Slave State, which prior to the actual outbreak. All dreaded to think made the number of free and slave States equal. of what might come to pass some time in the future, SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY but few thought "The -American Conflict" was so Michael If cDonald Thomas Pagne Private

Rear at hand, until Fort Sumter was fired upon on Private \lialter Tully y7 -4pril 12th, 1861. Even then it was generally con- Henry Loper 97 sidered, at the Korth, to be only the outbreak of a Edwin C. Hand, Capt. from Poxabogue, was the few radicals, who would be subdued with but little cnly native from school Dist. Yo. 10, Sagg. trouble. How lightly they considered this whole Henry J. Corey, Private. A boy who worked affair at first, is told in history, and the awful calam- for Mrs. Thos. Halsey. ity that befell the whole country, of which this was 81. Howell Topping, Capt., born in Sagg. but left the feeble beginning, made this war the most impor- home when young and never resided there after tant feature of this period. There were soille peo- boyhood. ple in this community who sympathized with the From school Dist. No. 8, Hay Ground : South, but the great majority were loyal to the Un- Edmin Rose Colonel Xathan H. Dimond, Jr. ion. though there were family divisions caused by Nathan H. Dimond, Sr. Privatt this war that separated relatives forever. When the Musician Lyman Hedges ,Y call came for volunteers, this community responded A. Asbury Halsey Sergt. Benj. F. Rogers '' loyally, with few exceptions, which may be noted Jeremiah Payne Corp. Thomas Marran " in the list of soldiers who went from the various lo- calities. These lists previously printed, I find to be Those from school Dist. No. 18, North District: incorrect. They include men, "buried, born in, or John Byron Private Orlando B. Edwards enlisted from Bridgehampton." This I do not con- John nix '7 Private sider fair to the other communities. I will seek to James L. Edwards " Charles Nichol correct this, and include only those who lived here Edmond B. Edwards " Edwards 7. at that time. William M. Halsey " Charles N. Edwards " The following is a list of the officers and privates Orlando Hand Capt. Andrew Humphrey " Flora Hunker Navy James Mullen ,9 who went from the different localities in this com- ., munity. John McGuirk " bvilliam Polley Those from school Dist. No. 9, Bridgehampton: Frank NcGuirk Edward Pounder " Duryea's Zouaves Henry H. Sandford " Charles Brown Corp. David Pierson Private Elbert Edwards Private Silas C. Edwards " Roger -4. Francis Capt. William Rylands y7 Williain H. Edwards " Edward C. Taylor " Charles Halsey 1 > E. William H. Stanley Edward O'Neil " Edward Roberts Surgeon Serg. Henry Brudgelvorth " Sar~~uelH. Howell Ed\~inIVorthington Ensign Na~y The above list went from 16 homes in this school \VIII. Owen Topping 'IVIII. H. H. Brown Dist. KO. 18. Those fro111 'IVater Mill. School Dist. : Lieut. Private Henry Scluires Capt. Denis Haley Private James E. Terry Corp. William Corey 7 J ,. Isaac N. Hildreth Corp. Frederick Rose 3, Nathan H. Wright Sydney E. Halsey , YY Robert Benedict Private Silas E. Halsey -Assist. Surgeon Oliver Halsey ,. Charles Halsey " Timothy Warren Sergt. John F. Youngs- Lieut. Orlando J. Howell " Albert Topping Navy Theodore F. Haines " The above list is as neariy correct as I can ascer- Fred Brudgeworth Navy George Brewin .. tain from the records, from talking with the old vet- George Benj. Rugg Navy James M. Strong " erans, and the old residents now living, but who

Denis Gregory Private E. Erastus Halsey " were here at the time of enlistment. I find there are

Henry Halsey Duryea's Richard Overton " many errors in the records, and these I have tried to Zouaves George A. Bell .' correct. Edward Roberts is assigned to Sag Har- William Jewett Private John Elliston ,, bor in the records, but he was living at the Toll Patrick Kennedy " Joseph Elliston House on the Bridgehalnpton and Sag Harbor Benjamin Loper " Joshua Elliston .. Turnpike at that time, and attended school in Dist. SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY o 18. The Toll House being in this District. I "Bridgehampton, Jan. 4th, 1863. would like to know if another school district in this "Henry -A. Reeves, Esq. County can show a record equal to that of District "Dear Sir: I am one of the original subscribers KO. 18, of this Town, 24 going from 16 homes. for the Republican Watchman, & have been a con- This is truly a wonderful record. This entire com- stant reader of that paper from its first establish- munity answered the call royally with the exception ment, (which is now numbering its thirty-seventh of one district, that one was Sagg. Only one native Vol.) up to the present time. A period embracing resident went from that district. The boy that went a chapter in our history up to the advent of 1861, of from Mrs. Thomas Cook's, (Henry J. Corey) was such prosperity, Happiness & growth in greatness not a native of Sagg, was just an employee. M. as a nation unparalled in the Annals of the World; Howell Topping was not a resident of Sagg at that 8: it is painful & bitter in the extreme in reviewing time, nor ever after, but was born there. It is truly the Watchman of today, & contrasting our present a remarkable fact that in a community like Sagg, no distracted & deplorable condition with that period one responded to the call of their country, and one when it started on its first career under the able man- is led to ask the reason why. In the first place, a agement & control of your worthy & lamented pre- goodly number of the leading citizens of that ham- decessor, Mr. Phillips, for the purpose of inculcat- let sympathized with the South. They were reall? ing & disseminating sound Democratic principles, dr Secessionists at heart, and openly admitted and pro- contributing to the elevation to that august & digni- claimed their belief in "States' Rights," which alone fied Station, The Chief Magistrate of this Great Re- was enough to create a spirit of enmity and bitter- public, that great & good patriot & hero, -Andrew ness between them and the adjoining localities. Jackson; A man who by his statesmanship, impar- These, had they lived in the days of the Revolution. tial firmness & strict unswerving adherence & regard \.auld have been called 'Tories.' This spirit was for the Constitution for Eight years, gave grace and carried so far that at one time during the Civil War dignity to that high position, now so belittled by the a Confederate flag was flown from a flag staff at the maladministration & radical partisan folly & mad- lower end of Sagg Street. This, to us of this day. Pess of a Chief Magistrate, immeasurably disquali- seems preposterous, but such was the case without fied for the station he occupies, both mentally & question for there are those living at this time who ~~iorally.-4s witness his numerous arbitrary edicts saw it. The feeling was so strong between the two & proclamations & other Acts of Violence; -4nd factions that even when attending church they waving for the present all criticism of his numerous n-ould not speak to one another, and the epithet that other violent, Unconstitutional & inexpedient mea- carried and expressed the most extreme contempt sures, his late utterance of his incendiary Emancipa- was often passed upon or applied when one called tion proclamation, in view of the recent declaration the other "Copperheads," and it was said with the by the people & to him, the well known fact, that intention of conveying extreme contempt, which it their voice was opposed to it fully bear out the as- did. Perhaps the most rabid and pernicious of all sertion & is made plain to the most common intelli- was David Pierson. a man well educated, and bless- gence & cannot fail to convince the most skeptical. ed with a good mind, but who should have moved that Abraham Lincoln is more of a partisan than a south of the Mason and Dixon Line to have been at patriot, or a Statesman; for under the specious pre- home politically, or dwelt among men who favored tense of a vindicator of the Constitution, the restora- the same cause that he sought to champion while tion & perpetuity of the Union; what single act has living among men both loyal and true to the Union. he done, looking like a desire for the accomplish- Ile and his followers went just about as far as it ment of either, or rather, what has he not done \\-as prudent to go, with their disloyal utterances and since the madness of South Carolina prompted the expressions, even as did some of the pro-Germans firing on Fort Sumter, but to fan the flame of dis- during the late World's War. It was only discre- cord. & to make that violation of the Constitution a tion that held them back from saying and doing pretext &r to persistently use the power of his high worse. I herewith give a copy of a letter written to position for the purpose of either abolishing Slavery Henry A. Reeves : or destroying our Government. I say the contrast SKETCHES FRO3,I LOC-\L HISTORY

is extremely painful. But it is gratifying to know other modern wretched Bastiles ; "(See note that the '\\iatchman' exists in full vigor, & is today below). Oh: Shame; ]\-here is thy blush? But in this era of our wretchedness & woe, the bold thanks to that redeeming spirit which burst forth so champion of Liberty & right, & that its Editor has peacefully & gloriously at the Ballot Box, we can been so truly enobled by the cowardly assaults upon now begin to breathe a purer atmosphere & again his person by imbecility & wickedness in high places, inhale the balmy, refreshing & invigorating breezes for the conservative, firm, independent, manly & of Liberty. And I rejoice that though you were honorable course persued by his journal. Xnd now thus shamefully outraged & maltreated by those to be more personal permit me to say, although per- wicked men in power, whose -4uthority (for the sonally an entire stranger to you, that my best good of this country) I pray to God may be brief. \\-ishes have ever been with you, since you were first That you have been bold to publish & declare the brought to my notice as editor of the Watchman. truth under that Law, the force of which your op For I thought I detected in your Editorials & man- pressors & all other like tyrants for their misdeeds agement of your paper the ring of the right metal. should yet be made to feel in all its power. The That you designed to be a vigilant Watchman on people of the North are laboring under an awful the walls oi our ~)oliticalZion, (as you have since delusion on the subject of such vital & paramount fully demonstrated) & that you would strive to pre- importance to the safety of their rights, & have been serve, defend, & maintain inviolate in all their pur- acting entirely regardless of the teachings & warn- ity, those great principles recognized, established, & ings of all history in the matter, & were fast forg- declared by the Fathers in our glorious Charter, the ing their own fetters & by blind, & overweening con- Federal Constitution, against all opposition, tyrang, fidence in their rulers, were being led (like lambs to 8: oppression, come (from) what quarter, they may. the slaughter) by successive steps from that lofty Eut for presuming to exercise this high & holy Vo- elevation of Freedom & Independence, under our cation, & for daring to expose wickedness in high glorious Constitution, to those Sombre Shades of places, & attempting the vindication of the dearest Despotism & Oppression where Liberty expires. The rights of Freemen, rights founded on the plainest Constitution Inviolate & the Union inseparable have provisions of the Constitution, & backed by the say- ever been the Democratic creed, in despite of all op ings & arguments of the Fathers; Expounders & position, & to this only let all our Moral, Social, & lnost able Defenders of that Sacred instrument. just political energies continue to be directed, for Rights wrung from the grasp of Tyrants by the this let us work. for this let us pray, & if need be, agonizing sacrifice of rivers of blood & millions of for this only let us fight (but not with brute force, treasure, rights which no exigency might impair, but nor the sword) & do battle valiantly, until every which Despots & corrupt minions of power, in all abolitionist of the North (those vile traitors to the ages, have ever been ready to invade, for daring to Government, & fathers of that other political her- do this, & nothing more nor less. It appears that esy, Secession) with their Co-workers of the South you were by Judases of evil omen the base minions shall fill one common political grave, & thus, & thus cf the great Author, Executor & Administrator of only, can we restore our once glorious Union. Go Higher Law doctrine, in violation of all forms of on in your good work standing firm in the faith, law, Human or Divine, while traveling on a peace- continuing to raise the standard of Constitutional ful mission & in the performance of high & honor- Liberty, & to battle for the right, remembering by able duties entrusted to you by a patriotic & loyal way of consolation & encouragement the Scriptural constituency, in an unguarded moment waylaid & observation, that when vile men are exalted to pow- bj- force of arms & without a judge or jury clandes- er, the people mourn, & that good Inen in all ages tinely conveyed a prisoner to a fortress once honor- of the world have. like yourself. for the cause of ed by the great &- hallowed name of Lafayette, but truth, of liberty &- right, suffered at the hands of which had been so shamefully desecrated by a des- *Henry A Reeves was arrested during the days of the potic political party for the vile purpose of perpetu- Civil War and incarcerated in Fort Lafayette for a time ating their power & silencing all opposition to their because of his unpatriotic speeches and publications in his paper, the "Republican Watchman." Reeves -gas a rabid sanguinary measures, by the Terrors of this & their Democrat and Copperhead. SKETCHES FROJI LOC-AL HISTORY

Tyrants in power, bonds, imprisonnlent & even ed as being untrue and disloyal to the highest yriii- death itself, \\?ell knowing that the memory of the ciples and doctrines as set forth in the (to quote wicked shall perish, while the name of the just shall him) Federal Constitution ? I know and realize be inscribed in letters of living light, high on the that all men cannot think alike on many questions. scroll of imperishable fame, & that their memory nor take the same stand relative to many vital mat- shall not only be embalmed in the hearts of the truly ters of import, both local and national, but when an\- worthy & good of the present generation, but shall man, in expressing his personal views. will use likewise remain a standing memorial for virtuous language so scathing and insulting as did this man emulation to future millions & generations, far in referring to the "Great Emancipator," I would down to the remotest period of time ; & in conclusion feel a sense of guilt and shame, if when writing on allow me to offer the following sentiment: 'The Re- this subject, I did not denounce him also, which I publican Watchman,' a living Democratic substance, hereby do, for I consider it not only a local. but a ITery annoying to Abolitionists & Tyrants because National insult as well. unanswerable in its arguments. May its shadow I have made reference already in this chapter "to never be less, & may its Editor never have occasion fanlily divisions caused by this war that separated to say: 'Lord, what evil have I done that these relatives forever," and in this connection I wish to Black Republicans should praise me?' You will relate an account that will illustrate this statement, please pardon my unwarrantable trespass upon your and that from a local standpoint. attention, & believe me, One of the descendants of the Cook family of "Yours very truly, llecox was Captain John Cook, who married Eliza "David Pierson." Mulford, of Amagansett. They had sons, John and Henry. John was born Jan. z~st,1784, died Jan. I might copy more, similar to the foregoing, but ~6th~1Sj6. John married Elizabeth Ludlam, and this is sufficient to show the feeling and sentinlent Henry married Zerviah, a sister of Elizabeth. John of one at least who resided in that little hamlet by had a large family of children, of whonl 1111- mother. the sea, arid who can compute the extent of the in- Caroline, was one. Henry had two children. IVil- fluence and effect of such principles as this man pro- lian~and Zerviah. When these children of Henry's claimed, on the minds and lives of the youth with were quite young, both parents died. and their uncle whom he came in contact. I do not say, nor would John took them to his home, treated them just as ii I infer that this man was the main reason that no they had been his own, gave them every advantage one enlisted from Sagg, yet on the other hand 1 his own children were given, and brought thein up firmly believe his influence was felt, and that it to mature years. did not savor of patriotism nor loyalty to the The children of these two brothers were really highest and noblest principles of citizenshil) in double cousins, and then having been brought up their native township or their native land. Con- together as they were, they were as brothers and trast if you will the conditions just mentioneci, sisters of one family, and were just as near and with the stand taken by the ancestors of the men clear to each other as if they really had been. \;hen of that same community in 1776, in whose quite a young man, IVilliain Cook went to Sew Or- hearts the spirit of patriotism burned as an un- leans. where he married and made his permanent quenchable fire. This same David Pierson's grand- hcme. He had quite a family, I think four boys. father was the Captain David of Revolutionary 1Villiam.s sister. Zerviah, married William Top- fame and no one can question his patriotism. Again. ping, and had quite a large family, one of which note the lcng list of men who went from that same was \V-illiam Owen. This brother and sister wrote hamlet with Capt. David, and carried their flint- to each other occasionally, and kept informed as to locks all through that long war for freedom, and each other's welfare, as well as their families. This while considering this, ans\Ler if you can, why the was the relation that existed for years between this man just quoted above should have taken the stand brother and sister, and continued until the South which he did take, and that in a comnlunity where seceded. Then came on the "Great Conflict" that those of his ilk xi-ould be fro\\-ned upon and scorll- separated and divided many families. especiall? SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY along the border line of the Free and Slave States. jor General Doubledap, General John A. Dix, -Ad- Sad indeed were these family divisions, but I sup- jutant General To\vnsend, Judge Adjutant General pose it \\-as only natural for each to support and up- Holt, Colonel Stewart L. Woodford, Rev. Dr. hold their own side. I imagine there were many Storrs, also Sergeant Hart, with the old Sumter that did not do it from choice, but were almost Flag, that he hauled down when the Fort was evac- obliged to cast their lot with the class representing uated, in 1861. The ceremonies were : Prayer by the majority where they lived. There was an illus- the Rev. Matthew Harris, who had made the prayer tration of this in connection with this Cook family, at the raising of the flag December 2 jth, 1860, when that I wish to mention. Two of IVilliam Cook's the garrison removed from Fort Moultrie to Fort sons enlisted in the Confederate Army, and were in Sumter. Reading of the Psalms 126th. 47th, 98th the senice until both were killed. Zerviah (Cook) and the zoth, by the Rev. Dr. Storrs. Major An- Topping's son, William Owen, enlisted in the Un- derson's despatch of April 18th, 1861, to the Gov- ion -Army, became a Lieutenant in the Seventh Ye\\- ernment announcing the fall of Fort Sumter, was york Regiment, and served until killed at the siege then read by Adjutant General Townsend. Major of Vicksburg, April zgth, 1863. Here was an ex- Anderson and Sergeant Hart then stepped forward ainple of the children of a brother and sister who and unfolded the old flag amid loud cheering. Hart served, perhaps without doubt, where they thought raised the Flag with a wreath of evergreens attach- duty called them, but on opposite sides in the great- ed. A salute of zoo guns from the Fort, Salutes est \\-ar this country had ever known up to that from Navy, Forts Moultrie, Battery B. Sullivan's time, and that unto death. Island, Fort Putnam on Morris Island, and Fort I wish I knew if they faced each other in battle Johnson on James Island, Address by General An- in that bloody siege on the banks of the Mississippi. derson, Singing of Star Spangled Banner, and the In 1868 IVilliam Cook came to New York City on address of the day by the Rev. Henry Ward Reech- business, and after getting back home, he wrote to er, Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Storrs, and singing of his relatives in Bridgehampton, and told of his trip the Doxology. Sorth, and said he so longed to come down to his "We witnessed the flag raising from the jai: old home. and see his dear friends and relatives, but tower, where we were on duty. We had none of he feared the feeling was so strong in the North the pleasure of hearing the good exercises and 1 against the South that they would not ~velcomehim, presume Sergeant A. Asbury Halsey is the only and he so much wanted to see them again. Had he person living who saw the event. (certainly the only known it, his friends felt if anything worse only one from this locality who was present and than he did at his not having visited them. So fam- took part in the exercises, his name may be found ilies and friends were divided. in the list of those who went from Hay Ground). The following is an article written for me by re- The 55th Mass. Colored Regiment fought in the quest by a veteran of the Civil War. X private of terrible siege against Fort Wagner, the Sebastopol Co. H. 127th. New York infantry, enlisted Sept. of America, where the four small regiments, two 8th. 1862. in which he gives an account of the rais- white and two colored, left nearly 1,400 of their ing of the flag on Fort Sumter April 14th, 1865 : comrades lying dead and wounded on the sand. "Being the anniversary of the fall of Fort Sum- -4sking to come within the Confederate lines the ter. it was arranged to have the old Sumter Flag next morning (Sunday) to bury their dead, the again raised on the Fort. There were detachments word came back, that we could have the body of cf marines and sailors under the command of Lieu- Colonel Strong, of the White N. Y. Regiment, but tenant Commander Willian~s. A detachment of the body of Colonel Shaw we could not have, as the 127th. N. Y. Volunteers, of ten Corporals or they should bury him with his Niggers. As the Sergeants, Corporal -4. Asbury Halsey (afterward Flag Raising was so near the surrender of Lee's a Sergeant) representing Co. K. 127th. Regiment. Army, there was but little thought of it, but today --\ detail of the 55th Mass. Colored Regiment, Rear it ought to be history, yet the student of today asks -Admiral Dahlgren, Henry Ward Beecher and fam- me, 'Iihere is Morris Island? We never heard of iiv. Theodore Tilton, IVilliam Lloyd Garrison, Ma- any battle there!' But to the living veterans of the SKETCHES FROM LOC-\L HISTORY

127th, who were there in the spring, summer and all was serene until he went away for his sumlner autumn, during the siege of Charleston, under the vacation, when, during his absence one of his ses- fire of an ever vigilant foe, it is memory and history sion wrote an anonymous letter and gave it to an- also. But we were glad the animosity has cooled other of the same session to copy, so that one could on both sides, for being on that Island within call say, "It is not my handwriting" and the other. "It of the Confederate sentry, we of course took more is not my composition," and this was given to Mr. interest in the flag raising than the country at large. Hopper on his return. This underhanded and con- "FREDERICK ROSE, temptible message broke his heart, for he thought "Water Mill." all was well, and it finally led to his resignation. -After he left Sag Harbor he wrote a book under The Rev. Edward Hop the title of "Old Horse Gray," in which he personi- per was minister in the fies this old horse which after years of faithful ser- Presbyterian Church in Sag Harbor from June vice is turned out to browse on the highways and eke out a living as best he can. is one of the fin- 8th' 1852, until hlay 3rdj It 1863. This includes that est pieces of sarcasm, with which I am familiar. period of unrest prior to These books for the most part have either been the Civil War and also hidden or destroyed for they are now very scarce. covers a considerable After leaving Sag Harbor he became pastor of period of actual fighting the "Church of the Sea and Land" in New York in that "Great Conflict." City. This was really a Mission Church somewhat He was a man of mark- cn the order of the Bowery Mission or the Water Street Mission; here he served for sixteen years. REV. HOPPER ed oratorical ability and eloquence, and perhaps While there a goodly portion of his congregation did more to influence the young men of eastern Long was made up of seamen and sailors from the large Island to volunteer in their country's sen-ice than fleet of sailing ships that sailed the "Seven Seas" and carried on a trade with all foreign ports. It any other one man. His patriotic speeches were com- mented on by all who heard him throughout this was while here that he conceived the idea of writing that beautiful hymn, "Jesus Saviour Pilot Me," and entire section. He was so enthusiastic on the sub- not from his memory of Sag Harbor as some have ject of abolition of slavery that soille even accused him of being a radical and a fanatic on the subject. suggested. He died in the year 1888. This, I imagine turned some against him. I *The facts above given were related to me by the think his was a remarkably successful pastorate late Judge Henry P. Hedges, who was familiar with especiarly with the young people and children, and them all.

STORMS, CYCLONES AND EARTHQUAKES

I have been much interested in looking over the "We had, when I was a boy. lnuch more sno\v diary of Daniel Hildreth, 3rd, an old resident of than in later years. soinetimes banking as high as Water Mill, who was born on May ~oth,1800. He the eaves of the houses, and where there were was a man far above the average in intellect. ,4 hedges, I have known it to be 12 feet high, and it close observer of nature, and one who differed from would stay- on the ground for weeks, and sleighs most men in that he was willing to give some tinle were in use for a goodly portion of the winter. The and thought to record very many of those items of roads were often blocked for w-eeks. local history that are so valued by all thoughtful "The 'Conklin' or as it is sometimes referred to. citizens today who are interested in the early history as the 'Christmas' storm, occurred the 24th of De- of this community. I quote from him as follows : cember, 181I, and was the worst storm in my re- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY membrance. The day before was cloudy and sprink- storm that happened on September 15th~1815 - led rain, in the night the wind shifted to the north- that was a complete hurricane. The sea rose so east, and such a snow storm I have never known high that it swept down almost every dune or bank since. The wind blew a gale and it was very cold. Ev- the length of Long Island. Because of the great erything seemed to be buried up with snow. My fath- \i7aves from the Ocean, Mecox Bay at Watermill er and brother had much difficulty in getting out oi rose so high that it ran over the dam into the Mill the house the next morning. The cattle and sheep Fond. Our saw mill was blown off the post, and were mostly covered with snow. It was impossible many houses about the town were unroofed, fences to take care of them. There were many sheep and and trees were leveled to the ground. We had two some cattle smothered to death under the snow. The orchards, good ones, that were ruined. Timber in day before being so mild and warm, these were left the woods was a heap of destruction. We had mucl~ out in the fields." valuable white oak timber, One Thousand Dollars I, myself, as a boy heard some of the old people (equal to $5,000 at this time) would scarcely have tell about this storm, and they said, "the sheep and paid the damage to it. The corn was ruined, and cattle were very restless the day before, and at night the sea and wind drove the sand into the ponds and gathered about the barnyard gate, as if they had a creeks and Bay, (this accounts for the great sand premonition of the approaching storm, (and with- flats on the southerly portions of these bodies of out a doubt they did have) and were asking as water) and covered up much valuable land and plainly as they could for shelter, and we, more ig- meadow. This was and is still known as the norant than they, failed to understand and heed 'GREAT SEPTEMBER GALE'." The effects of their request." this great storm are plainly visible in the forests all There were a number of vessels and some lives of the way from Shinnecock Hills to Montauk Point lost on Long Island Sound that fitful night. The even to this day. above account of this storm is from an eye witness. I have mentioned elsewhere that the timber used The reason for its being called 'The Conklin Storm' in the erection of the Charles A. Ludlow house in is from the fact that on that night Capt. Conklin Mecox, and the James Hand house in Wainscett, with all of the crew and also the vessel were lost. I was hewn from trees blown down in this great think he was a native of -4magansett. In Thomp- storm. I have since learned that the timber used son's History of Long Island, Vol. 11, page 52, it is in building the Presbyterian Church on Shelter Is- stated: "-4n immense amount of property was de- land was gotten from the same source. This stroyed, and many lives lost. It is supposed that church was dedicated July 17th, 1817. more than sixty vessels were cast ashore upon the In walking about these woods one will often north side of Long Island, most of which were des- come upon a mound of earth several feet high and troyed or so greatly injured as to be of little value. perhaps 8 or 10 feet across it, and at one side of Whole crews were lost. The mercury fell to 8 be- this will be a corresponding hole or depression. This fore the storm abated. The snow continued to fall, was made, when in that storm above mentioned. the wind increased to almost a tornado, and swept some primeval oak. of huge proportions, was up- over the plains with desperate intensity. It raged rooted and leveled, and in so doing, lifted tons of for twenty-four hours. The day previous had been so remarkably pleasant, and the transition fro111 warm to cold was so great that in I;ian\- instances human beings perished on land as well as on the water. Sheep expired in great numbers, domestic fowls were frozen to death. and cattle were over- come by the severity of the cold." These are the accounts from two different writ- ers, both authentic, of the same disastrous storm. I quote again from the Hildreth diary of another storm in which he says: "I well remember another Ocean in a storm at Mecox

f91 1 SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-IL HISTORY

many places, the land to the north of the dunes was nlarshes and salt meadows, which varied in width and extent. -At the time referred to, the stream connecting these ponds flowed through, and was bordered on either side by these marshes. In some places this stream was inuch deeper and wider than in other places. This will account for some of the ponds being entirely separated at the present time,

Ocean in a storm at Mecox and others still connected. In that great storm of Sept. I jth, 1815, large earth on its roots, and thus made the depression. areas of the marshes, meadows and even the upland The massive trunk may have been used for timber, were covered and filled with sand. Where the con- but the roots held the soil together for many years, necting channel was shallow it was entirely filled or until such a time as they decayed and left the and the ponds separated. I have seen the tracks of mound of earth as it is seen today. oxen and the ox cart in good solid loan1 south of Then again; there was a time when all of the the dunes, and when these tracks were made, the ponds from Shinnecock Bay to Mecox Bay, includ- dunes were far to the south of the location of these ing these two bays. were united. That is, Mecos tracks, which were made in cultivated fields on in]- Bay, Channel Pond, Sayre's Pond, Foster's Pond. proved farming land. This has wrought a great Halsey's Pond, Phillip's Pond, Old Town Pond, change in conditions along the south shore of Long Small Pond, Agaw-am Lake, Halsey's Neck Pond. Island. It is not at all improbable that one day, no Cooper's Neck Pond, Taylor's Creek, and Shinne- one knows how far back in our history, Mecox Bay, cock Bay were all connected by a water-way or Sagaponack Pond, Fairfield Pond, Peter's Pond. stream of water. At the present time some of these Georgica Pond and Hook Pond in East Hampton ponds no longer exist, and most of them are sepa- were all connected in the same manner as mere rated by land that makes them independent bodies those mentioned above. of water. The important question is : When were The following story which I will here relate, is an they separated, and just as important, how were incident directly connected with the great storm of they separated? Capt. Thomas Sayre, a life long September ~;th,181 j : "In the muster roll of Capt. resident of Flying Point. born 1809, said that these Ezekiel Mulford's Company of East Hampton. facts came directly from his grandfather, Matthew dated July 26th, 1776, may be found the name of Sayre. That he, when a boy, declared that the Daniel Hopping, Private, -Age 17, Residence, East above nan~edconditions existed. Matthew Sayre Hampton (WainScott belonged to East Hampton) was born 1731, died, 1819. Again, Mrs. Elbert Place of Kativity, The same; Occupation, Farmer. Rose said that her grandmother, who was Mary Height, j feet. 9 inches." It is said that this Daniel Jagger, and married Daniel Halsey (she was born Hopping was a very pious and God-fearing man. 1759, and died 1847)~told that these same condi- who sincerely believed and accepted all things to be tions existed when she was young, and that she re- the work of God, and was satisfied therewith. No membered it well. matter what misfortune, or trial, or adversity one We must bear in 111ind the fact that the ocean, as met with along the pathway of life, it was all the a general thing, is at the present time, and has been work of God. He had a neighbor, William Miller for centuries, encroaching on the land on the south by name, who differed entirely with him, from a shore of Long Island. Some will say that there are spiritual point of view. At the time of this storm, no evidences to bear out this idea, but just consider corn had not been cut up as yet, and this crop was for a moment the fact that perhaps one hundred broken down, and washed into the mud to such an :-ears ago the shore line was at a place that is no\\: estent that the crop was allnost ruined. Grain many, many rods from the present shore line, per- stacks \\-ere blown down and scattered about, and haps one half way out to the outer bar, and that in every way one looked \\-as apparent destruction. SKETCHES FROM LOC-IL HISTORY

The morning after this storm, Daniel Hopping took a walk about the neighborhood to inspect the havoc wrought by this storm, and noted in particular his own corn field. While viewing the ruins he met his neighbor, William Miller. and said, "ell, Mr. Bliller, the Lord was in my field of corn last night." '-That may be true." said Miller, "but the Devil was in mine."

Electrical Storms IVhile writing on the subject of Storms I will mention a few that were electrical, and some of the strange freaks of lightning. "In ye olden time" we know the nails and spikes used in the construction of ~voodenbuildings were all hand-\vrought, being Ice on the Ocean Shore at Water Mill, Winter 1918 made by blacksmiths out of imported iron. The At first this was about two inches in diameter, ex- timber used in construction was usually oak, into tending several feet beneath the surface, then it which these wrought nails could be driven, but once branched into several smaller roots about one inch driven, and the timber seasoned, could never be thick. The center of these resembled glass, then drawn. -At the Head-of-the-Pond, on the farm of melted stone, and the outside was coated with David Halsey stood a barn with an oaken frame. coarse sand. The verge boards were of pine nailed to an oak raf- The whale ship Concordia was lying at anchor at ter with wrought nails. -2 bolt of lightning str::ck Sag Harbor. There had been a severe thunder this barn, took one verge board off without split- storm, after which George Kiernan and Hervey T. ting, drawing the nails, whole and clean out of the oak rafter, and left them all in the pine board, Hedges when rowing about the bay, out of curios- which fell to the ground. ity went aboard this ship. They soon saw the ef- In the barn of John Squires, a tie bean1 about fects of lightning. The heavy chain cable with which the ship was anchored led from the windlass, four inches square, morticed and tenoned into the rafters about one third of the way from the peak along the deck to the hawse-hole. The links of this to the plate, was torn out by lightning, and thrown chain for about six or eight feet, where it laid on endwise through the gable end of the barn, and out the deck, had been soIidly welded to each other by into the field. In passing through the covering of the electric current, so that when the chain was lift- the barn, it cut a square hole just tlie size of the ed, it all came up together as if it had been a solid timber. doing no other damage. Some years ago bar. Joseph Longnecker 1%-asworking for IIJillian? Post. Some years ago there lived in a house owned by on the Haynes farm at Scuttle Hole, and was re- John L. King on the east side of the Sag Harbor turning from the farther end of the farm, driving Turnpike, Alvin Rramer, his wife and infant child. a team of mules before a farm wagon. The light- 'In a severe thunder storm one night, Mrs. Kranler ning struck and killed both mules, but did not injure arose from bed, took the infant who was sleeping the driver. Some time before Nathan P. Halsey in a crib. and went back to bed with her husband. l~uilthis house on the east side of Sagg Street, John The lightning struck a tree that stood near the Ere~vsterHedges saw the lightning strike, during house. -4 ball of fire came from this tree through a very severe thunder storm, the hill on which the an open ~vindow,rolled the length of the bed be- Halsey house now stands. When the cellar of this tween Mr. and Mrs. Kramer, burning through sev- house was dug, the result or effect of this electrical eral thicknesses of bed clothes as it went. Fron. the charge was made manifest. The soil was sand, and foot of the bed it jumped across, and tore a hole where the bolt entered, it melted and fused the sand, through the wall into the kitchen, then out and reselllbling in form and shape the roots of a tree. (Continued on Page 96) SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

Founders' Monument in Bridgehampton history of this town in stone. The front or 1660 side 1 think there should be some relative are two flintlocks crossed in the lower panel. In to the emblems on the different panels of the Found- the upper is an Indian Tepee, both ~anelsin keeping ers' Monument in Bridgehampton. It is really the with the date. On the 1776 side is the Declaration SKETCHES FROM LOC-\L HISTORY

oi Independence and the open Bible. On the 1812 and baj-onet, and the emblem of the Grand --\ri~~g-of side the smooth bore cannons and the Frigate under the Republic. The World's War is denoted only full sail. 011 the 1861 side the Civil IVar cap. belt by the dates 1917-1919.

{ 95 1 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY do~vnthe well, leaving a strong odor of sulphur. of a division fence, this it did not tear in pieces and Sone of the family were injured. scatter about but picked it up bodily, lifted it over The big ship Hamilton and (Jlulford & Sleight) the fence, and set it down on the other side in good was struck by lightning as she lay at anchor OH shape. The hay stacks in those days were usually Hedges' Banks ready to go to sea. The bolt splint- built circular in form, and contained from two to ered the top-gallant mast and landed upon the head four large loads of hay. These stacks were held to- of a Shinnecock Indian, stripping a ribbon of skill gether by poles hung or suspended fro111 the top. from his neck to his heels (the Indian recovered) It uprooted trees in great numbers all along its path. and then the lightning jumped to the cable and fol- breaking the limbs from others, and scattered every- lowed the links of forty fathoms out into the water, thing movable. It struck the honlestead of +Albert where it was supposed to have struck the anchor, as Cook, in Scuttle Hole. Here it coinpletely unroofed one of the flukes was gone when the ship got under his barn, scattering the shingles far and wide, it way. also picked up a two-horse farill wagon that stood in the yard. I do not know how high it lifted it, or how far it was carried, but when it came doivn, it CYCLONES struck with such force, that it broke one of the axles. (.Addison 31. Cook told me that he rememberetl \Irhen we of this section of our country speak of this, when a sillall boy). I do not recall any other wind storms, tornadoes and cyclones, we naturally damage done by this cyclone. until it struck a rou- associate them as being confined to the tropics, or of stalk stacks my father had built that fall along the far west, because that is where they usually oc- the fence between his barn and the home of Charles cur. When, however, we read or hear of such H. Hildreth. These stacks were torn all to pieces, things taking place in our own neighborhood it is an and the stalks scattered from where the stacks stood entirely different matter. This locality has not been all of the way to the woods on the hill top. entirely exempt from these phenomena for while very rare, yet in a few cases. when we were visited by them, they were apparently as severe as those Another Cyclone >ve read about. The first of these tornadoes or cy- On the 24th of Xugust of the year 1903,at about clones to which I refer, occurred in the autumn of three o'clock in the afternoon, a cyclone came out of 1852. I will describe it just as I heard my father the west. -4 heavy cloud appeared on the \\-ester11 tell it, when I was yet a boy. This gigantic whirl- horizcn, very black and ugly looking. It soon cov- wind, which is really what it was, came from the ered the western sky, and it became as dark as if south; when it was on the ocean it was no doubt night was fast approaching. -After a time the Ion-- what is known as a 'water spout.' It struck the land er strata of clouds seemed to be driven furiously by abreast of Mecox. Its strength and power m-as first a counter current of wind, so that they rolled and shown when it crossed the property of Albert Hal- tunlbled in huge masses. At this time, the black sey, in Mecox, (the property is now known as 'Sun- clouds lifted, and underneath it, the sky changed ny Bank'). Here it picked up a hog house, in to a copper colored hue, and the whole mass nloved which was a good sized hog, and carried it a num- tc the eastward; reminding one of that marvelous ber of rods, and dropped it into the drain that forms description given by John Milton, (which I quote the outlet of Kellis Pond into Mecox Bay. Some- from memory, it may not be exact) where he sap, where along its course it followed a line of post and "Ever and anon came on that terraced and bastion- rail fence. It pulled these posts out of the ground, ed wall of blackness." throwing perhaps half a dozen lengths of fence to I do not know that it did ally damage until it the ground one way, and then as many more the touched the farm of James H. Rogers in Hay other way, leaving the rails in the posts just as they Ground. Here it blew down about one dozen trees, \\-ere when standing, save where torn apart when tore off a portion of a shed, picked up a sinall build- thrown to either side. ing, and carried it over into the highway to the east In its course was a hay stack, standing on one side and dropped it, blew down a very large tree that SKETCHES FROM LOC-4L HISTORY stood near the house, which crashed down on the east, it partially unroofed a barn of Emil Twyeffort, kitchen. and smashed in the roof, doing consider- near Sagg Pond. Then it crossed that pond. ad able other damage to the house. The Hay Ground took off one end of a lot barn belonging to -Alfred school house was directly in its ccurse. This was a P. Rogers (this barn stood in the lower part of Sagg frame building 29 feet square, standing on a brick quite near the ocean). It next completely demolished ioundation. It lifted this building from its founda- 2 barn on the farm of John White. It then went to tion, turned it around, and set it down some twenty sea. It uprooted trees all along its path, blew down feet distant to the south and east, doing no serious fences, and wrought general havoc along its entire damage to the building. It then came to the prop- course, particularly with the growing corn crop. erty of Theodore Mount. Here it turned a load of During the whole storm the rain fell in torrents, refuse wood that stood on a one-horse farm wagon, and the thunder and lightning was estreillely severe. completely upside down, the lvagon lying on the KO people were injured, however, which was really wood, which remained in position betlveen the remarkable, when we take into consideration the stakes. It lifted the puinp and puinp stick out of force and power displayed, for it was truly "A the well. and carried it over into Charles 11. Rog- CYCLONE". ers' lot across the street. It picked up a small building and carried it over into the lot o~vnedby George Topping. It lifted a good sized corn house, EARTHQUAKES on the farm of Capt. Henry Huntting, off of its While it is generally conceded that Long Island foundation. turned it around and set it down with- lies outside of the earthquake beit, and not subject out damage. It crossed the farm of Charles kt. to them, because not included in the seismic center Rogers, cutting a clean swath through a field of or area, this idea is substantiated by the fact that standing corn, and came to the home of Thomas J. we have never had any serious or violent shocks. Hand. Here it broke off a new flag staff. picked up Yet, Long Island, with all the favorable condi- a heavy horse block, and carried it over the trees tions we enjoy is not entirely exempt from earth- and buildings out into the lot to the southeast. quake experiences. Kathan Topping Cook built his Some of the ~vindowsof this house were open house in Hay Ground in 1793, and sometin~ebe- n-hen the stcrm struck. It pulled the carpets from tween that date and 1800. there was a severe earth- the floors, slammed the doors shut in some cases, and quake in this locality. Doubtless there may have blew them open in others, twisted the house so that been others prior to this one, but I can find no record many of the doors would not open, others would of than. In the chapter on 'Old Graveyards' I not shut. Thcse of the family that were at home have already told of the effects of this particular n-ere shut in and helpless. It blew down about thirty quake or, the Scuttle Hole graveyard, and that trees on this place, and did considerable damage. according to the opinion of some noted geologists, Dr. llulford had a horse shed on his lot near Icellis it had been the cause of an earth slide that was dis- Pond. This it demolished completely. and scattered tinct and plainly marked. In some cases the graves the pieces so that they were never found. It then were from I 5 to 20 inches out of plumb. Probably came to -Allen A. Halsey's on Paul's Lane. unroofed the land on both sides of that chain of ponds settled his barn, lifted the tin roof from his house. and car- toward the center at that time, or I might say the ried it to the east, some of it was rolled up and left valley. I am confident there was an earthquake in ir? his garden, and some blo~l-nto the field across the 1830's. that some of the older men told about, the street. The next place it struck was Nathan hut I cannot recall the facts. so cannot be sure. Post's. where it took off a portion of the barn roof. The next earthquake I \\-ill mention is one that I Then it swept across the street to Henry Sandford's, me11 remember, it occurred on a Sunday afternoon where it picked up a row boat that was turned down in August, 1882. The 11-ayes were north to south. in his yard, carried it up over the corn house, and In some cases it upset vases standing on the mantel, landed it out in the lot, breaking it when it struck or dishes on the pantry shelves. Pictures swung the ground. It then took the corner off of a barn out from the walls, and the houses rocked up and belonging to Theron 0. Worth. Then a little to the down considerably, and in some cases the fumes of SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY sulphur were very perceptible. This was accompan- these wave movements. Pictures and hanging latnps ied by a heavy, low, rumbling noise. swung back and forth, windows rattled and shook. On February 28th, at 9 :22 o'clock, 192j, we had Many people were nauseated and made sick by this another earthquake. In this one the waves or vibra- shake, but no serious damage has ever been done by tions were also from the north to the south. The earthquakes in this locality. They were never se- houses rocked back and forth or rose and fell during vere enough for that.

WRECKS AND STRANDED VESSELS

In writing this chapter I shall try to include most up off Southampton. This ship took fire, and was of the wrecks and stranded vessels that came to grief abandoned by her crew. No one lost. She carried on our coast during the last century. Without doubt kegs of powder, and woolen goods for the Gov- some will be omitted. I know that there are some ernment. that have never been recorded by any of our local historians. -After haying cruised in the waters of Sew Eng- land and Long Island Sound as an .American corn- The "Money Ship", A Sequel To E. R. Shaw's nierce destroyer with but little success, the British "Pot of Goldy', A Story of Fire Island Beach Sloopof-war, Sylph. commanded by Captain Henry -1number of years ago when going to New York Dickens, with 12 officers and 121 men, went around in company with the late Mr. James Henry Pierson, Ilontauk Point, and headed west along the southern of Southampton, the conversation turned to inci- coast of Long Island. This was on January 16-17 dents of local history of this Township. of the year 1815- She carried a battery of 2-3 can- He told among others the story of the "hloney non beside small arms. That night there came on Ship". I had never heard- this story in detail, and a very severe snow-storm in which, losing her reck- became so much interested that I asked him to put cning. she went ashore at Shinnecock Point. Xathan this bit of history in writing for me, and the follow- IVhite of LVickapogue was the first man to see her, ing story is the result of that request: and gave alarm. A volunteer crew after a perilous "One day late in the autumn of the year 1816. a and dangerous effort, saved one officer and five of strange craft was observed off Southa~npton,L. I. the crew, all of the others perished. Many of the She was quite unlike in build and rig the many ves- bodies drifted into Shinnecock Bay, and were buried sels that passed allnost daily along this coast. near Tiana, on the north side of Shinnecock Bay. The vessel went to pieces, but one cannon, a bar shot and several other relics were saved and are still preserved. Tradition says, that some of the sur- vivors told that the officers had shamefully abused some of the men the day previous, and that the man at the wheel said "I will send some of them to H-1 tonight, if putting her ashore will do it." Sonle years ago, when a new inlet was dug fro111 the bay to the ocean, a big steam dredge was usccl, and in excavating, which was just where the Sylph came ashore, a musket was brought up by the scoop, and also a su-ord, marked "Sylph". These were both saved. Ship "Catherine" on the shore at Amagansett, Aug. The next year the "Gunpowder Ship" \\;as blon-n 5, 185 1, as it appears at this time SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

"There had been a hard storm in which it was "The wreck was purchased by a company formed very evident this vessel had fared badly. The next for that purpose, and was left to be broken up for day she was in a new position. It was plain to those the material it contained, at a more leisure season. watching from the shore that she was adrift and This is the way wrecks were disposed of, and many probably abandoned. a barn yard and pightle fence in Southampton. and "It was decided, if the surf went down by the ill fact all along the southern coast of Lung Island nest morning, and the vessel was still in sight, to was made wholly or in part of the ribs and planks go off to her; but when the morning came, the ves- cf ships that had sailed far and wide, and spread sel was ashore opposite Shinnecock Bay, about two their sails over many seas, and brought rich cargoes miles west of the village of Southampton. from strange and distant lands. "Those who first reached her found a deserted "Occasionally in the next few weeks, a lone fish- ship. without name or cargo, with sails furled, and erman or hunter would see the wreck in passing, or cabin furniture, articles of clothing and food scat- if the tide was down, go on board, but little heed or tered about as if she had been abandoned in great attention was given to it. haste. No records or papers could be found which 6 6 .i young Southampton whaleman (Henry might have given some clue as to the port from Green) returned from a voyage soon after this oc- which she sailed, or her destination. currence, and one day went up the beach, gunning, "The Wrecking Master for the district took with a companion or comrade (Franklin Jagger). charge of the vessel, stripped her of sails, rigging Finding himself near the wreck, his curiosity led and whatever could be removed. This was all him to go on board. carted to the village and deposited on the then Tav- "The ship lay head on the beach, with her hull ern Lot on Main Street (now the property of Mr. sharply inclined toward the sea. The waves had Samuel L. Parrish) and duly advertised and sold. broken in the stern so that in storms they would run "On the day of the sale a by-stander found high up the cabin floor, carrying with them sand \\-edged tightly in a dead-eye a Spanish dollar. I; and shells to be deposited in every nook and cranny \\-as passed around from hand to hand and other of the wreck. dead-eyes, and in fact the whole pile of wreckage "On the cabin floor, clean at that time, in plain was scrutinized with care, but no lllore dollars view, lay a silver dollar. This discovery did not ex- found. Many jests were made at the expense of the cite the interest of the finder so much at the time. li~ck~finder, and of the unknown sailor who was but when he had returned to his home, and heard of supposed to have chosen this strange hiding place the other dollars, he thought it over, and was much for his money. puzzled. "The following day the hull was sold on the beach "He could understand how the waves could pick were it lay. One of the men at the sale, had, on his up round or light objects, like pebbles or shells, and u-ay up the beach, picked up a slender piece oi toss them into the w-reck, but a silver dollar is flat \\-reckage, which he used as a staff or cane. and heavy, and not so easily moved. He made up "While on the ship he idly dropped this stick his mind that it did not come from the sea, and so down one of the pumps. It struck upon the sand, resolved to investigate further. which cluickly fills every part of a wreck. When "The next night, providing himself with one of he withdrew the stick, wedged in a split in its end the old perforated tin lanterns used in those days \\-as a Spanish dollar. (these were simply a cylinder of tin or sheet iron "This unexpected find, also in so strange a place, \\-ith perforations to allow the light to filter was followed with more jests and guesses. Many through), a candle and a tinder box, he and his com- tilore thrusts were made with the stick, but no more rade started for the wreck. -- - ciollars brought up. "The beach is a lonely place on a dark night, and "The mystery of the wreck, and the finding of a wreck is full of strange and ghostly sounds. His the dollars. made a fruitful topic for discussion on colnrade was half-hearted and inclined to turn back, the street, in the stores and tavern for many days. hut the young whaler was not easily frightened or SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

- ...... ,

Norwegian Bark "Clan Galbraith", July 22, 19 16, Flying Point

Brig 'Mars" wrecked at Apaquogue, 1828, photo taken 1931

Schooner ''Geo. P. Hudson", April 9, 1908, Shinnecock Hills

French ship "Alexander LeValIeyY',Feb. 18, 1874 at Wickapogue

"Louis LePIace", Lone Hill, Capt. Henry Squires with Schooner Northcliff, Wainscoa, May, 1923 crew all lost, Feb. 9, 1895 SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-IL HISTORY deterred from an undertaking. \Vhen they reached I I In answer to a prearranged signal from the the wreck, they lighted the lantern, and made direct- shore, she landed after night-fall, bags and barrels 1j- for the cabin. cf money and plunder. to be buried later in the sand "The tide was down. but occasionally a wave dunes. -'in approaching storm, as well as a fierce higher than the others would run up on the floor. quarrel among the sailors over the division of the For a time their search was unrewarded, and be- booty, frustrated their plans before they were com- coming somewhat discouraged they were about io pleted and led to their hurried abandonment of the leave the wreck and go home when one of them ship, which was left to drift about, the sport of the glancing up over his head saw projecting fro111 the wind and waves. lo\\- wooden ceiling, which had split and opened, the "-A few days later, the tale relates, she came edge of a silver dollar. ashore at Southampton, and was the 'Money Ship' "Giving the lantern to his comrade and using his of our story. jackknife to enlarge the opening, he succeeded in "The origin and history of the 'Money Shipy will getting a firm hold of the piece of ceiling, and pulled ai~vaysremain a mystery. Southainpton whalemen, it from its place. -4s he did so, down upon his head who were boys at this time, but who afterward be- came a shower of dollars. came familiar with ships of many countries, agreed "In his excitement, his conlrade dropped the lan- that she resembled in build and rig the vessels sailed tern, and dcllars and lantern rolled together into the along the Spanish Main, gcing occasionally to the sea. \irhile the shower of dollars was falling, he \\'est Indies. or perhaps to the co2st of Africa for dropped instantly upon the floor, and extending his slaves. arms. stopped many of them. "Revolutions were colnnlon then a; now in South "They were in total darkness at this time. and -American States, and it was not unusual for a rich there was nothing to do but gather up what they merchant to be coinpelled to flee from his country, had saved, as best they could. and give up the search taking his fortune with him, which was apt to be in for that night. More trips were made and dollars gold and silver. found in other places about the wreck. The secret "IVhether this ship had been on such an errand, was well kept, and no one ever knew just how 111uch and had been captured from her owner, either by money \)-as obtained. his on-n illutinous crew or by others, or whether she "I\-ith the beginning of winter, a hard storm was a pirate or a slaver, \\-ill never be known. broke up the wreck, and it soon becanle known that "It is often said, that 11-ith the advent of steain she IIILIS~have had money almard, many dollars be- and the disappearance of sailing vessels, the rolnance ir,g found in the sand and in the fra,ments of the has gone out of sea life. It may as truly be said, ship. Farmers canle with their teams ;.nd ploughed that the romance and the tragedy as ~vell,has gone the beach. One man found sixty dollars in one day. froill the life of the Long Island beaches. "For many years 'Beach Dollars' would occasion- "11-recks like the Money Ship, and the Sylph, and 211- be found. The writer has two, which he got the Helen, all happening within a decade at South- from a noted beach hunter, who had picked up a ampton. are no longer possible." dozen or more in his frequent gunning expeditions. J. H. P." TheJ- are prized as nlenlentos of an interesting inci- Then came the Irish emigrant ship Susan. From dent in local history. and of a day that is past." this. all on board were saved and taken to New "The late Edward Richard Shaw of Ceilport, L. S70rk by stage coach, the only means of conveyance I., and Sew 3-ork, a well known educator and schol- at that ~ime. ai-, was fond of gathering up the legends and tradi- On -1ugust 5th of the year 1851, the ship "Cath- tions of the beaches and weaving thein into little erine" of Liverpool fro111 Dublin with 300 passen- stories. He published a book which he called 'The gers \\-as 11-recked at -1magansett. So lives were Pot of Gold'--1 Story of Fire Island Beach. One lost, but the ship became a wreck, and the lower por- cf the tales told in this charnling little book. is of a tion of her hull is still there in the sand, and at low strange ship which appeared one day opposite Eell- tides ma!- be seen. port, L. I. There is an iten1 of local history so closely related SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY to one of the shipwrecks on this coast that I think who were all saved. Oil saved also, Ship and Chalk it should be mentioned. It was probably in the lost." 1830's an English ship came ashore at Mecox. (I Further evidence of this wreck is as follows: have never been able to ascertain the exact date, IVhen I was a boy James Cunninghanl owned the neither am I positive as to her name). On this ship lot on the comer of Lumber Lane and Huntington were the brass works for three hall or grandfather's Path. He worked out some by the day for my clocks, all alike. When the underwriter's agent sold Father, and told me this story. He said that he the cargo at public auction, these clocks were sold. \\-as one of the passengers on this Barque. He went Judge -Abraham T. Rose bought one, Judge Osborli at once to work for Capt. Thomas Sayre. at Flying of Noyack another, and John Cook, my grandfather Point. Again, Capt. Sayre told me the same story. on my mother's side bought the third. I think the This James Cunningham was father of William cases for all three clocks were made in Trenton, Cunningham, many years conductor on the L. I. New Jersey. Miss Mary Rose Rogers of Sag Harbor Railroad, and grandfather of Harold Cunningham, had the A. T. Rose clock, and at her death it went who was commander of the Steamship Leviathan. to New Jersey. Mrs. Gertrude Osborn Jewett has when that vessel was used as a transport during the the Osborn clock in her home in Chicago. Miss \Vorld's War, and later Captain of the United Belle C. Cook of Southampton, L. I. has the Cook States Steamship "George Washington." clock in her home in that town. The British ship "Circassian" was an iron ship of The next ship we will mention is the Louis Phil- 1.558 tons, built at Belfast, Ireland, in the year lippe, one writer says, 'from Bordeaux,' which may 1856. and in 1875 was owned by DeLVolf &I Com- he right, I cannot say, but in this account I will pany of Liverpool, England. Her dimensions were. quote from a diary written and kept by Samuel A. length 242.1 feet, breadth or beam 39 feet, depth Cook, of Mecox, who was an eye witness: "On 22.4 ft. On Monday, the I ~thof December, 1876, Thursday, April 14th~1842, came ashore at Mecox, the winter term of the Bridgehampton Literary and at 3 :30 -4. M., the Ship Louis Phillippe, Capt. Cat- Commercial Institute began school. Was there a off of New York, a Havre Packet of 800 tons bur- school session that morning? I should say not, for then, belonged to the Union Line, loaded with dry sometime during the previous night or else that goods, and trees, champagne, &c. Ship insured for morning, the English Ship Circassian struck on the $50,000. outer bar a little way west of the Mecox Life Sav- "Monday, May 2, got the Ship off at 7 P. M. hlay ing Station. There was no use to try to have school 3, Ship taken in tow by the stea~nboat'Mutual Saf- that morning, for every scholar was on the beach. as ety.' " was almost every resident of this communiiy. The What made this event notable mas the fact that new life-boat had not at this time been brought back such a variety of trees and shrubs were left here, from the Centennial Exposition at Philadelphia, so and set out about this community. The most beau- they had to use the old metallic boat. The crew of tiful of all these trees were the lindens, which may the L. S. Station, who manned the boat that morn- be seen to this day in many door yards, beautiful ing, were Baldmin Cook, Captain, and Gurdon Lud- in symmetry and appearance. The fruit trees doubt- low pulled tbe bow oar, Samuel Cook, John A. less were of varieties good for that day, but would Sandford, Forest Stevens, Samuel Howell, and not be considered good at this time. I know this Erastus E. Halsey. Hiram Sherrill of East Hamp- from personal experience. The chestnuts were not ton, was one of this crew. They made several at- good, like our American chestnuts, b~~tthe beeches. tempts to launch the boat earlier that morning, but laburnums and other shrubs appeared to do well. failed because the sea was too rough. -\bout 11 There is another wreck recorded in the same diary o'clock they succeeded. Capt. Henry E. Huntting, referred to above that is not mentioned by any other \\-ho was Superintendent of Life Saving Stations historian and this is rather a singular fact owing to for this District, was on the beach. When they its significance. It is as follo~vs: "June zph, 1851. launched the boat, Gurdon Ludlow lost his sou'- Came on shore, Barque Henry, of London, loaded wester so went bare headed. (I can see the whole with Chalk and Linseed Oil, and 104 passengers, affair at this time, as if it had been but yesterday). SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY

The crew all wore cork jackets or life preservers. pest, and above the raging billows, the songs and Around the outside of this boat and quite near the prayers of those in peril, and they absolutely unable gunwale was a tube or fender, about four inches in to render any assistance. It was an experience that diameter. When the order was given to 'send her,' went with those men to their last day. How often Capt. Cook, being at the stern, mas the last man to have I heard some of them tell it. One man said, jump aboard, and when he sprang, the upper part "1 have sailed the seas from the ;irctic to the Ant- of his cork jacket struck the underside of the tube arctic, yet have I never witnessed such a heart- or fender, so he could not get aboard, but hung by rending sight." Four men jumped from the ship his arms outside the boat. The crew rowed out be- with a buoy or fender. and clung to it. The stonn yond the breakers, when two of them took in their had broken and the moon shone out, so that those oars and pulled the captain intc the boat. I was on shore could see them. The waves and set car- there at the time. and as a boy took it all in. They ried them along to the east almost half a mile before brought one or more of the officers ashore, who went they came near enough the shore to be rescued, they at once to telegraph the ship's agents in Kew York. were then almost dead ; I think one did die soon af- -4 wrecking tug with lighters and crew soon came ter. Luther Burnett and Gurdon Ludlow were the and began work. The rescued crew of the 'Heath two who pulled the men out of the water. The Park' who were at this time still on board, together dead, frozen bodies were picked up all of the way with most of the crew of the Circassian were sent from the wreck to Montauk. The white victims are to New York. It was at the work of lightering or buried in the old graveyard at East Hampton. The unloading this ship, that ten Shinnecock Indians ten Shinnecock Indians (a list of their names is as were employed. One man who worked at this job follows) are buried in the graveyard at Shinne- told me that in removing the cargo much was taken cock : from under the center hatch, this made the ship Warren Cuffee Franklin Bunn heavy at either end, which was thought to he the David Bunn Oliver Kellis real reason why she broke in two. On the 29th and William Cuffee John Walker 30th of December. there came on a terrihle storm. Robert Lee Russell Bunn Capt. Luther Burnett. a surfman unexcelled by any, George Cuffee Lewis Walker went with his crew out to this ship. and ur~ed- those men to come ashore, for said he : "This is your last Benjamin F. Hope was a jeweler and watch and chance, for no vessel can withstand the coining clockmaker and did business in Sag Harbor for storm. and my boat will be the last to come out many years. -4fter the Circassian was wrecked he here." The sea at that time was very rough and obtained some of the brass work from this ship from angry. The Indians were good surfmen and knew which he made a clock. I think it is still keeping the facts just as well as did Capt. Burnett, and prob- good time in that town. ably would have gone ashcre, had it not been for In 1878 the schooner Loretta Fish came ashore the 'false courage' that was dealt out to them at just east of Sagg Lane, loaded with yellow pine this time. Then, the line or rope from the ship's lumber for the United States Government; crew masthead to the shore, on which the breeches buoy and lumber saved. vessel lost. was operated, by which, if left, all could have been Aupst 7th. 1879. the. steamship Lizzie, of the brought in safety to the shore, was ordered cut and Tranderbilt Line, 12 hours out from New York. cast off, by those in authority on the ship. Of course bound for Liverpool, loaded with wheat and IOO the reason for doing this was, that they expected to head of beef cattle. The cattle were driven or push- float the ship at the next high tide, and were so sure ed overboard, swam ashore. and were shipped from of doing this that they threw away all precaution. Bridgehampton to New York by railroad, aU save and so exposed themselves to dire disaster. That one, which became ugly and had to be killed, Steph- was a fearful night for those on board that ship. en Sayre doing the job. The ship was gotten off their fate was evident to all, but how about those XI-ithno loss of life. on shore, who could hear amid the howling tein- June st, 1882 the Brigantine Daylight, came SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY ashore at Georgica. -April 7th, 1894, the schooner with her, when the tow line broke, and this time she Benjamin B. Church, came ashore off Mecox, total came up high and dry. She was then sold to Mat- loss. The crew consisting of 8 Portuguese, were all thew Gregory. who wrecked her and carted the saved, also a fox terrier, and maltese cat. Sep iron plates to Sag Harbor, and reshipped. The tember I ~th,1891, the four-masted schooner, John wooden deck planks and timber were sold to the K. Souther, came ashore off Mecox, gotten off farmers for building purposes. There are some of without loss. In 1896 the full-rigged ship Otto them on my farm. that were bought by my Father. came ashore opposite the old Sagg beach road, was This is a different version than that given by some, gotten off. but I know I am correct. One of her hoisting en- Mr. Adams mentions the Lloyd liner that drifted gines was bought by Charles Henry Topping, who all the way from Cape Horn, and finally came installed it in a machine shop in Bridgehampton, ashore at Mecox. I cannot give any definite in- and the cther was bought by Sidney Havens of formation about this. In the year 1880 the schooner Towd and installed in his saw mill. Ralph Hcwes came ashore opposite Georgica Pond : There carne ashore on July aand, 1916, the Nor- total loss. wegian four-masted bark "Clan Galbraith," 2168 In June of 1891, the brig James Abbott came tons, 282 feet long, Capt. -A. E. Olsen. She came ashore at Mrainscott, opposite the Town Line. To- over the outer bar at a high tide and came so far up tal loss. In March of 1897 the schooner Julia A. cn the beach, that one could walk down to her. She Warr came ashore opposite Fairfield Pond, loaded was gotten off Aupst 4th. and I think was after- with lumber; total loss. ward sunk by a torpedo during the World's \Var. About the year 1852, the brig Martha C. Titus, In the year 1828, the new brig "Mars," Capt. came ashore near Fairfield Pond, loaded with porter Ring, came ashore at Apaquogue. It beca~ne a and cther merchandise. The porter was sampled wreck, the keel and lower frame became buried in by many, Silas Pierson among the rest, who said he the sand. Here it stayed until the severe storm oi "never saw the briers so thick on the beach before, March 1931, mhen it was uncovered and exposetl he kept catching his toes in them, so he could hardly to view. I have a photograph of it. n-alk." Part of her cargo was flour, the vessel was There was another noted wreck that was perhaps a total loss. the ~vcrstone of all. It was the clipper ship hat In the year 1555 the "Robert" came ashore at came ashore at Montauk. In writing this account 1 \Yickapogue. loaded with I .ooo casks of Madeira ask the cluestion : n-ine, from London. 600 of these were reshippeti from Sag Harbor, the 0thloo disappeared. Then Why Was The "John Milton" Wrecked? there was the "Currant ship," which became a There \\-as a time when American-built ships XI-reck: the "Sugar ship," which was saved: the were ~vithoutrivals on the high seas, it was know-n Hattie C. White loaded with flag stones was lost. as the "Clipper Ship Era" and extended fro111 about The Emily B. Souder, from the Mediterranean with 1840 to 1860. They were the fastest type of sailing fruit, was lost. Then the Mesopotami. otherwise vessels ever built. not designed or adapted to the known as the peanut ship, Dec. 6th, 1871 : the brig. coast~i-isetrade or service, but intended and partic- William Creevy, with a cargo of salt, was lost. clarly adapted for foreign commerce, such as the ** In February of 1874, the French ship "riles- East India trade, or .Australia, or China and also ander Le Valley," came ashore at bvickapogue Ioad- the Pacific coast of the United States, or in other ed with ale, porter, wine, potash and rags. The of- n-ords. for long sea voyages. ficers and crew were all saved, and the cargo as At that time there were no Panama or Suez ca- well. This is the first ship that I ever went on nals to cut thousands of miles off of these long voy- board. and I well remember the experience. This ages. but it lneant rounding Cape Horn or Cape of ship was ashore for some months, when at a very Good Hol~e,and from June to September it also high tide she \\-as gotten cff,and a tug started a\\-ay meant cold, boisterous winter weather and rough seas: but few of these vessels undertook to go ** The photographs of the officers were taken at the time and are still preserved by several families in Southampton. through the straits of Magellan axing to the danger SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY of that passage. One sea captain told me the high- company on shipboard were lost. including Captain est and largest waves he ever saw were about joo Ephraim Harding, 33 in all. Captain Harding, iniles south of the Cape of Good Hope. the first mate, and twenty-two of the crew were The ships of this type made some \vonderful re- washed ashore and were interred in the north end cords for speed. The Dreadnaught made the voyage of the old cemetery in East Hampton, the Rev. from Sew york to Liverpool in thirteeq days and Stephen Mershon preaching the funeral sermon, nine hours. better time than some steamers, and a which was afterward published. It was a sad ciis- good many of the others made equally good records aster, perhaps more so than any shipwreck that 6-er . to China, India and Xustralia. The following story occurred on this part of

They all argued there could be no possible way of mistaking that light, it must be Montauk, for there was none other like it on this part of the coast. and - what is the use of standing off and on, as they called it, and waste time, when everything is plain sailing, it is only keeping us away from home that nlucll longer for nothing. He must have been a man of great decision and strong will to have stood out against these arg-u- ments. But he did. He was not satisfied, and ~vouldnot be ~xrsuaded,as much as he would like to get home himself. He felt that something nras Montauk Lighthouse, built 1794 wrong, but he did not know what it was. He was Commander of that ship, and his word light, just as Montauk had heretofore been, and was law. He gave the order to "tack ship and Montauk was changed at that date to a flash stand off shore." It might be said. he stood alone light. Now, it is entirely probable that Captain that night in his opinion against the whole ship's Harding did not know of the new lighthouse at company. but when mcrning came, and they san7 Ponquogue, nor of the change from steady to flash where they \yere. there was some rejoicing on that light at Montauk. This being the case, and pre- ship, and they thanked him for his decision. But suming, which is entirely probable. that Captain remember, they did not know yet what was the Inat- Harding, in a lull in the storm, had sighted a steady ter and did not find out until they reached port. light, thinking of course it was Montauk, steered his ship accordingly, and if this were the fact. his course would have taken him directly into Block Island Sound, just where he wanted to go. Perhaps these men I referred to above had a rea- son for assigning these facts as the direct cause of the wreck of the John Milton. I will relate two cases. Captain Henry Babcock was conlmander of the whaling ship "Washington" sailing out of Sag Harbor. and was returning fro111 a long voyage to the South Atlantic or Pacific Oceans about the time the Milton was lost, that is, in the early part of the year 1858. When approaching the Long Island coast at night, he sighted a steady light. He had been able to take the sun the noon previous and so knew just where they were. He also believed, unless he had made a mistake in calculating, that this light, which ap- peared to be SIontauk. they had made altogether too soon. He \\-as very zn-ious and worried, so much so that he called his cfficers in consultation. This whole company, officers and crew, were equally anxious to get in port and reach their homes after being away so long and favored nothing short of the quickest passage possible to their home port. Ponquogue Lighthouse, built 1857 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

No\\-, had he yielded to the persuasive argu- all of the equipment for killing whales was kept, ments of his officers and crew that night, and kept such as boats, harpoons, lances, ropes, etc. -At these his vessel on what appeared to be the right course, stations was built a furnace for rendering the blub- they would have struck the Long Island shore at ber. These usually were built just back of the dunes, llontauk about where the John Ililton did. (see 1670 map). Whaling from the shore was car- The cluestion is: Is the above a fair and reason- ried on for more than a century, when it became able solution of the mystery, "Why was the John unprofitable. By an old patent dated September Milton wrecked?" 6th, 1696, in the reign of King iiTilliamI11 of Eng- Years afterward Captain Babcock was keeper of land; "old Trinity Church in New York, is granted 3lontauk Light for many years. and is entitled to all the whales cast ashore in the Some claim that the John Milton ljras sighted by Province of New York". This patent is still in the another ship the afternoon before she struck, and vaults uf that old church. The coast of Long Island that they remarked that if she kept on the course was the only section of the Province of New York she was then on, she \\-ould meet disaster. I have where whales could be found. I wonder if the along- never heard this but from one source. so cannot shore whalemen of those days had a permit from vouch for its authenticity. Even if this were so, old Trinity? it xvould not invalidate the theory. The next advance step in this industry was the The other case I relate was the whaleship "Excel" fitting out of small vessels. These ventured as far commanded by Capt. Jonas Winters of Sag Harbor, as Hatteras and the Gulf Stream, and apparently who had a very similar experience as that of Capt. did very well. Then came larger ships that carried Babcock, only he almost got his ship ashore before this business to the south Atlantic, Indian, Pacific he realized that there was something wrong and and eventually to the Arctic Ocean. Even then tacked ship just in time to avoid disaster. whaling outfits were still kept in order along the shore of eastern Long Island, for in the pear 1847 THE WHALING INDUSTRY I find an old reccrd in a local diary that gives the follon-ing catch of whales in the month of April of The history of the Whaling Industry has bee11 that year. written so many times that it is hardly worth while ''-April 13th one whale killed at Amagansett to cover the same ground again. In this chapter I 37 7) ?? 2, " " Bridgehainpton cnly intend to nanle the men from this locality who 77 ?I ?? ?. ' ." made that their life work, and relate some incidents Southampton 11 77 f? ?, East Hamptoll in their lives while following that business. ?1 I! 3 9, 9, " 14th " Many people have an idea that whaling and .. 9, ?, 21 t. I\-halers from eastern Long Island and New Eng- ?' 15th '> .. 11 ?. ,, ?? ,. ?' 19th land were among the first or pioneers in this indus- Seven whales lying on the shore at one tin~e." try, when in reality they were almost the last to get into the game. In the 16th and I 7th centuries the English, French, Dutch and Norwegians were ex- tensively engaged in whaling, not only going to the -Arctic and north .Atlantic, but crossing to the coast of eastern .America. This industry was first carried on in this locality from the shore. -4s early as March, 1644, this Tolvn was divided into four ivards, I\-ith eleven persons in each ward. to ~vatch for strantled whales, and these if found were to be divided bet\veen the inhabitants of the t0n.n. 11-hales must have ken very plentiful along the coast at that time. Later, whaling stations were established along the coast some miles apart, where Whale on shore at Amagansett

( 107 1 SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY

Very nlany young inen froill this locality became aznd, 1856. He becanle a noted \\-haling captain. whalemen after that business becanle established as a large land c\vner, and a man of ackno\\-ledged carried on from Sag Harbor and Sew Bedford. ability and good jud-pent. On one occlsion he Their one ambition was to make good, and after a was to sail out of Sag Harbor at a certain date on fe~vvoyages command a ship as captain, then, 11-ith a whaling voyage. Everything was in readiness. a few successful voyages they could retire, ar,d be ere\\- shipped, provisions aboard, clearance papers classed as lvealthy, which many of them were, as fro111 the Custonl Hcuse made out. filed. and in the tiines were then. Sonle bought farms. some becanle captain's possession. He gave orders to cast ofi merchants. bankers. politicians. and sonle specula- lines, and under short sail worked the ship down the tors and lost their hard-earned money, and n-ere Harbor off "Hetlges Banks", when he ordered the obliged to go to work again. Soine went to Caii- anchor dropped, sails furled, and a boat lo\vered fornia \\-hen the "Gold Fever" broke out, and as Then said he: "This is no\\- 111)- ship. I hold her ever, some made good and more lost what money papers. and no one can give orders but myself. I they took with them, ant1 finally returned broken have a field of corn home that needs cutting. and I do\\-n in health, or died in the land ivliere they am going home to have it done, and \\-ill be back sought a fortune. later." Socne that knew him presunled to question Fro111 my early boyhood days I have personally him. and he went. heard the old sailors and sea captains reiate stories \\-hen cluite an old man, the brig "JIars" canle of their adventures at sea, and also their experiences >shore at -\paquogue. Osborne \vent to the beach in foreign ports. and with such interest that 1 an: to see her. and questioned her captain as to how he perwaded hat1 I lived in their day I would also have came to get so far out of his course, in fact, put iollo\ved the water as many of n?!- Mother's rcia- such questions to him as a sea-faring man ~vould tives dicl. naturally ask. This \\-as resented by the captain. Let us turn to the map for 1700, and note the who took Osborne to he a lands-illan, and talking location of the homes of some of those whaling cap- on a subject of tvhich he was ignorant, and said. tains. Capt. Theophilus Ho~veli. Elishs Ho~vell, "Old man, what do you know about a ship. or of Lemuel Howell. Josiah Topping. Thecdore Pierson. sailing on the high seas?" "\\'ell", said Osbnrne. Stephen Topping. Hezekiah Topping. Men eligagetl "it may be that I know nothing, but I have circunl- in the whaling industrq- at that time. but not named navigated the globe many times. and commanded a a5 captains were John 3Iitchel. Thomss Sandfortl. much larger ship than yours, but I never ran her Edward Hou-ell. John Ccoper, Thomas Stephe~s, ashore. .. Henry Pierson, Samuel Johnes, and dou1)tless others Luther Hildreth cf Eridgehampton, never l~ecame r,ot nariled. cap tail^, 11ut follo~vedwhaling Illany >-ears. He n-as The period from 1830 to 1850 saw this industr!- a verJ- passionate man. and quick tempered. i7ery at its best. There were more than Go whale-ships heavily built and poi\-erful, so that \\-hen excited which sailed from Sag Harbor when \\-haling was most men let him alone. On one voyage Luther at its best. It was during this period that so many headed one of the boats, and Jonathan Osborne \\-as fine buildings n-ere erected in that village, many of his boat steerer, (not that Jonathan named above as then1 not escelletl in beauty of architecture any\\-here captain). The ship's cook was also from \i*ain- on this Island even at this late date. The captains scott. One day they lowered for a whale. and as a class u-ere men with nlarked individualitJ-, Luther put Osborne where he should have struck sturd>-. independent, self-reliant. fearless in danger. and fastened to the 11-hale, but he nlissed it. Luther yet generous and kincl-hearted. but men n-ho stood was provoked, but did no worse at that time. That 1113 for their rights. even if they had to fight for day they had dumplings for dinner. Osborrie \\-as them. which they many times did. very fond of these, and demonstratetl that fact bl- In TI-ainscott, on the map for 1800. nlay be seen the nun111er he consumed. -'it this time Luther spoke. the location of the honle of Capt. Jonathan Osllorne. 2nd said: "Osborne, if ~CLIhad aimed as straight He was born .iugust 14th. 1771. and died December at that \\-hale this morning, as you are at thosz SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTOR1-

\I-ainscott dumplings, J-ou ~vouldnot have missed ic those days were conlnlanders of ships in later it." years. \\-hose names are doubtless in the list that I On the map for 1750. there are but few captains, am about to give as sholvn on the map for 1850. and of these we know but little. There were Cap- On the map for 1850 may be found the nalnes of tains \\-illia~nRogers. Elnathan Payne. and Jonah \\-haling captains from this locality, as follows : Tarbell. -After the war of the Revolution \\-haling Criah Sayre. \\'illiam Topping, John Stein, Ezekiel made rapid strides, so you will note the increased Curry. who built the house later owned by Cap. number of sea captains on the n1ap for 1800. Sanluel Pierson: Samuel \Voodruff, Jason Tarbell, The men who becanle captains, whose homes were Isaac Ludloiv. who rescued IOj people from the in this locality, I ~villname as folio\\-s, viz : Captains barque "~lericlian" in the Indian Ocean. -1ugust Caleb Howell, Sathan Post. .Anthony Ludlow, Lo- of 183j : -Manson Topping, I'incent King, Charles doivick Post. Elisha Tcpping. Silas Hand. Jereiniah Halsey. Janles -Austin, Jereimiah Ludlo~\-,\i-ho had Sandford, David Sayre, Jonathan Osborne, Jona- his ship burned by the Rebel Privateer Shenandoah. than Halsey, IVillianl Pierson and Samuel Ludlo\\-. just as they were about to enter the -Arctic Ocean; [I have had to place some in this period because he afterward received a portion of the "-Alabama they lvere gone beiore 18j0, the date of the nest Claims." Benjamin H. Halsey went to sea when III~D. Others that are on the 1850 map. o\vnnd no but a boy: in 1849 his captain Silas IV. Edwards. ])laces in 1800, though between these dates they died when the ship was in Honolulu. Halsey took were active. j charge of the ship, and remained on her as captain Sanluel Ludloxv, perhaps the smartest member of for nine years. When the Shenandoah destroyed that family. was still young when he became captain. the \\-haling fleet, Capt. Halsey conlmanded the ship I herewith give an account of the loss of the ship "Rainbow" and she being a very fast vessel out- Governor Clinton, as given me by Mr. Earn sailed the privateer, and thus saved his ship. but Sleight : thereby lost his voyage. He never received any of "The ship Governor Clinton first sailed from Sag the ".Alabanla Claims" award. though I think he Harbor in 1832, under Capt. Rogers. and returned should 1-ave. Then there \\-ere Jones Rogers, Doyle r\pril 28th. 1533, with a large cargo of oil. She Stveeney, George Hand, John Sweeney. JVickhanl sailed again in the fall of that same year. and \\-as Jennings, Edward Halseq- of Posabogue. Edward lost in a hurricafle off the coast of Japan. in Septem- Halsey of llitchel's Lane, William Dennison, who - ber. 1834. The crew consisted of 29 persons, some rescued the crew of a French ship in distress, for of n-horn were known to be as follows: Captain, which the French Government presented him with a Samuel Ludlow; Alate. Daniel E. Erolvn: Second beautiiul gold nledal: Henry E. I-Iuntting, who be- Mate. Daniel Leek: Third Mate. lVillian1 D. Schel- callle captain on his third voyage, a remarkabie rec- linger: Boat Steerers, Erastus E. Halsej-, Charles ~rd.His last voyage \I-as made in the ship "Pa- Hoivell. Henry Miller, and Sylvester Stanborough: cific", in rounding Cape Horn they encountered a Ccoper. Benjan~inPa>-ne: Carpenter, Edwarcl P. terrific gale. which ciismasted the ship. and n~adea Jennings. return necessary-. John Sayre was his mate on this "The Governor Clinton was found floating bot- voyage. Capt. Salnuel Pierson died in Pernambuco, tom-side up hi\- one of the Sew Bedford fleet. .After 2nd was buried there. _4gustus Halsey of IVater a hole n-as cut in the ship's side. the Sen- Eedford Mill foilo\ved the business until 1854, when he \\-ent captain took fro111 the hold 900 barrels of oil. This to California. Then there \\-ere -Andrew Jenilings, ship made two voyages out of Sag Harbor, taking Josiah Foster, lJTilliam Haines. IVilliam Pierson. cil worth $26.000. She was a vessel of about zjo James R. Huntting, n-ho went to sea when 16 years toll$." of age. this was in 1841. and in 1848 was captain of I regret that I cannot give the nanles of the com- the barclue "Sii~~rod",and was very successful. In mon sailors. and the 1011-er rank officers of that date. I iSimrods cf the Sea" by Capt. Davis, are many in- but of one fact we may be reasonably sure, that cidents told relating to his sea life. man?- of the young men who were before-the-mast Richard S. Topping became captain of a ship at SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY a very early age, and promised to be very capable -Alfred C. Glover and competent. At the age of 29 he commanded Master of the Ship Acasta the ship "Thorn", and in the year 1838 went on a Died in the Xtlantic Ocean Jan. 14, 1836 whaling voyage where he and his boat's crew were In the 29th year of his age. all lost. There are two accounts of this disaster, which I will relate. The first as I heard it when a Richard S. Topping of Bridgehampton boy, as follows : Master of the Ship Thorn "The boats were all lowered for a whale. One Died in the Xtlantic Ocean Feb. I, 1838 or more fastened to it. in due time the whale was In the 29th year of his age. lanced, and as they believed, killed, for it lay mo- - tionless on the water. Captain Topping decided to IVilliam H. Pierson of Bridgehampton stay by the whale with his boat, while the other Master of the Ship American boats returned to the ship to bring her down to Died in the Pacific Ocean June ~th,1846 where the whale lay, which was some miles away. In the 30th year of his age. When these hats were several iniles away, they noticed white water about Topping's boat, as if the (East Side) whale mas having a flurry, and thought it was the To commemorate that noble death struggle. They worked the ship to where enterprise THE \VH-ALE FISHERY they thought the Captain's boat should be, but to and a tribute of lasiicg their dismay, they never were able to find the least respect to those bold and vestige of boat. crew or whale, none of which were enterprising ship masters ever seen or heard of at any time afterward. It was SOKS OF SOUTHAMPTOS a mystery then and has ever remained the same." Who periled their lives in a In Oakland cemetery in Sag Harbor is a beautiful daring profession and n~onuinent,a photograph of which is here given, perished in actual encounter with the inscriptions. With the Monsters of the Deep (South Side) Entombed in the Ocean they live in our memory. John E. Howell The other version was that Captain Topping Born March 2, 1813 fastened to the whale before the other boats got near Died July 23, 1840 enough. and that the whale started at once to run While engaged in the Whale fishery at full speed. Captain Topping, being very per- In the Pacific Ocean sistent, N-ould not cut clear. So011 after this a heavy In command of the Ship France fog concealed everything from sight. It was thought He lost his life that in trying to kill the whale, the boat was In an encounter with a Sperm Whale smashed, and everyone lost. In the 28th year of his age. It is claimed that Captain ,Andrew Jennings in- \-ented the new type of harpoon, that after much Erected by persuasion the entire whaling personnel adopted, Nathan P. Gilbert and Augustus and used ever after, but that he never had it patent- In remembrance of their brother ed. The following list includes men who never be- 1856. came captains, but who followed that business for a good part of their lives : (North Side) Gurdon P. Ludlow witnessed the destruction of Charles H. Payne the whaling fleet by the Shenandoah, and received Master of the Ship Daniel Webster a portion of the "Alabama Claims" award; Josiah Died in the Pacific Ocean Oct. 31, 1838 Rogers, Daniel Woodruff, Xelvin Halsey, William In the 27th year of his age. Foster, Charles C. Topping, Lemuel Halsey, Theo- dore Topping, William Kaufman, Wallace W. Hil- SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY

bright, came to John when only a few days out of port and asked how they got their clothes washed when at sea. John told him the captain always did the washing for the crew, and that at the week end when he changed his clothes, to do them up in a snug bundle and take them aft to the "Old Man" (referring to the captain). The sailor obeyed, and told the captain "that he had quite a large wash that week, but there would not be as many after that week." The captain replied by telling him he "did not believe there would be", and told hill1 where to go and take his clothes with him. The captain knew where the idea originated. One dark, stormy ~~ight,the order was given to shorten sail, and as the sailors began to go aloft. John told this same man that "it would be awful dark up there, and that he had better ask the 'Old Man' for a lantern," which he did. Alanson Cook never became captain, but on shil>- board filled a position just about as responsible. On one voyage they rescued a Hawaiian Prince, who,

with his crew had been driven far to sea in a stornl, . and would probably have perished had they not taken them back to the Islands. For this deed, the Sailors Monument in Oakland Cemetery, Sag Harbor King of the Islands, Kamehameha 11, sought to be- stow all manner of gifts upon them, in fruits, vege- clreth, J. Lawrence Cook, Jesse Ludlow, FV. J. tables, etc., and tried to persuade Cook to accept one Huntting, Charles Cook Halsey, E. Erastus Halsey, of the finest women on the Islands for a wife. Simon Rose, Edwin C. Halsey, Ernest Stein, James About a year ago I found an old letter written Feary, Oscar Brown, Henry J. Thomas, Nora-(a by Alfred W. Foster of East Hampton, to Eliza E. Portuguese), George Strong, Charles Fee. John Foster, and forwarded by the U. S. Consul at the Casey, Albert Jennings, Samuel Ludlow, Gabriel Sandwich Islands. This is dated April fth, 1846. Ludlow, William H. Cook, David Pierson, John and He states that he has been away 30 months, and has Joseph Edwards, Kingston Rugg. David Rose, just received his first letter from home. It was writ- Theodore Pierson, George Ludlow, and probably ten just after the great fire in Sag Harbor Novem- many others. ber 14th, 1845. He says, "We are about to start Captain Eugene Ludlow was about the last froin for the Northwest Coast. I went to the Missionary's here that stayed in the business. The last I ever and got some papers printed at Oahu, and read as heard of him, he was captain of a steamer on the follows : Drowned, Feb. 6th, 1845, Mr. Isaac Plato, Yukon River. Probably one of the best whalemen 3rd officer of the American Whale Ship 'Hudson' who ever went from this locality was John Sayre. of Sag Harbor. He is spoken of in the highest He never became captain, but because of his great terms, as having been an excellent officer". Again, ability, for years he received the same conlpensation "I think Sag Harbor ships have had hard luck, a as the captain with whom he sailed. An officer loved number of them have lost men. We have lost one and respected by all with whom he ever sailed, but fine shipmate who fell from the fore topsaiI yard, a great lover of jokes. and sank to rise no more till that day when the sea On one voyage, a big over-grown fello~v,not real shall give up the dead. It was a solemn time aboard SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY

I can tell you, his name was Stephen S. Cook of companies and fitted out to take these men to the Bridgehan~pton. He was about 19 years old, a very "land oi gold". -\lost of these vessels went to decay likely Toung man, and a fine shipmate." He was an in ,the harbor and rivers above San Francisco. Thus older brother of Baldwin Cook of this place. ended the \\-haling industry. as well as that fleet of Mr. -1ibei-t Halsey of this place once told me that ships. largely manned and owned by Inen of this the worst storin he ever knew was In the Indisli locality. Ocean, \\-hen to pre~entthe ship's fouldering. the In the year 1858 Luther D. Cook. a prominent captain ordered her planking smashed off so the citizen of Sag Harbor. wrote an article for the local T\-ater could run off the deck. J. Lalvrence Cook press in which he tells a number of interesting facts said the ~llostwicked man he ever met was an Eng- relating to the early history of that seaport town. lishman cn board of a whaler. Cook was a inate He says in part : on this ship, and because of his ofice. \\-as not sup- "Capt. Ephraim Fordham \\-as born in Sag liar- posed to go aloft, but it was a terrific storm, and bor March 12th. 1737. and when 17 years of age even the sailors \\-ere afraid, so Cook went aloit with was engaged in the whaling business in xantucket. tilenl: it so happened, as they went out on the yard Later. he went first mate of the first whaling sloop arm that the Englishman was next to him. It \\-as fro111 Sag Harbor cominanded by Daniel Fordham. an awful thunder storm. and Cook saw that the men Still later. he was captain of the schooner 'Eagle'. were not working as they should, so he "opened on the first whaling vessel out of Sag Harbor after the then^" (to use a sea-faring expression) for he saw Revolution. the ship was in danger. Of all those hardened sail- "Sew 1-ork and Sag Harbor were made ports of ors, the Englishman was the cnly one tnat quailed, entry. and United States collection districts. (or when he said, "Officer Cook, please don't speak so custorns houses) the same day in the year. 1788. and harshly". _itheart he was a coward in the presence at that time Sag Harbor had more tons of square- of danger. rigged vessels engaged in foreign conlnlerce than did The bark "Ocean" sailed from Sag Harbor =lu- Sew York. John Gelston. a man born in Bridge- gust gth, 1867, under the command of Captain Ham- hampton. \\-as the first Collector of Customs. a[>- ilton. bound for the South _Atlantic, on a \\-haling pointed by President l\.'ashington. voyage. This ship was noted as being very heabily "The pioneer deep sea whaler out of Sag Harbor sparred. which made her, especially when light. n-as the brig 'Lucy'. owned by Col. Eenjamin Hunt- rather top-heavy. Captain James H. Rogers had ting. On her first voyage she returned \\-it11 360 sailed about the same time, and sighted the "Oc.:an" barrels of oil. This was in the year 1788." l'!:is led the afternoon before they crossed the Gulf Streani. to the building of the big whaling fleet that made In crossing the Gulf Stream they had a terrific Sag Harbor famous as well as rich, and made it storm. Capt. Rogers made this remark to his of- possible to build those fine specimens of architecture ficers that night: "If the 'Ocean' is carrying the no where erlualled on Long Island. many of which same rig that she \\-as when we saw her this after- are preserved to this da~-. noon. and has not lowered her upper spars and -Among the noted ships in that fleet of whaiers yards, she \\-ill have trouble tonight". Captain Rog- \\-as the "I\.-iscassett". that brought the Canlegie ers' ship rode out the gale. The "Ocean", with Cap- family to this country. The one remarkable featxre tain Hamilton. and all the crew were never seen nor of this ship 11-as the fact that she \\-as alxvaq-s favored heard fro111 again. nor any vestige of 11-reckage that with good fortune. and made her different owners might have come from that ship. really rich. This \-essel was finally sold and entered --ifter the discover!- of petroleum, the demand for the merchant service between Sew york and Liver- I whale oil decreased to such an extent that the \\-ha]- pool. ing industry failed to be profitable. Then gold was The ship "Cadmus" which had formerly been z ciiscol-ered in California, and that .turned the tide Hal-re line packet. was bought in the year 1828 by of adventure and exploit in that direction. ;\ gooil!- 3Iulforcl S; Sleight, \\-'no fitted her for the \\-haling number of the old n-haleships were bought by stock industry. IT-hile in the merchant service, on one SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTOR\- voyage in 1S24 she brought Lafayette to -America. ingly. "That is your share of the voyage." Then -After many years in the whaling business, in Octo- their curiosity \\-as excited. and they saved what ber, 1S4g. she was bought by a company of Eastern they could, which \\-as but a srnall part of what \\-as Long Island men. and under command of Captain probably in the carcass, for they had finished cutting John I\-. Fordham. sailed around Cape Horn to San in the blubber and had cast off the lines which held Francisco. where she was conderi~nedand I\-rrcked. the \\-hale fast to the ship. Some days after this Her on-ners disbanded and becanle miners for gold. they fell in \\-ith the whale ship, "Vigilance." whose In 1856 portions of her timber \\-ere used for ldank- captain calne abcard and informed them that it \\-as ing the streets of San Francisco. -4 miniature re- really ambergris, and that they just missed making production of this old ship was matle. and was a fcrtune, for it had a value equal to gold. It was owned for many years by a resident of San Fran- estimated that had it all been saved its value lvould cisco. This model \\-as made of the tin~berof the have been greater than the proceeds of the entire old ship. the deck from the door frame of the cabin. voyage. 117henreturning home to Sag Harbor from and the forecastle fro111 the berth where Gen. Lafay- this VOJ-agein .August of the year 1867. after a se- ette slept. vere stor111 somewhere south of the Gulf Stream. This model \\-as owned and lxrhaps made 114- a the?- fell in with the ship "Tilly," completed dis- \I-illiam Simmons. a resident of San Francisco. abled, laden with lumber, from which they rescued This infornlation I cbtained from an old record I the entire crew of 14men and officers. and brought found in Sag Harbor a few years ago. In the year them to Sag Harbor. 1932 I \\-rote the postmaster of San Francisco ask- The John Penny referred to above folloived the ing if he \\-ould search the old census records of that sea for the greater portion of his active life, a ver?- tit\- for the name of 11-illiam Simmons which he interesting man and from whom I acquired much very kindly did, but he failed to find that name. information. He was the nephew of the Joshua I then put an -Ad. in two of the daily papers of Penny who figured in the war of 1812, and who that city, and received several replies, one of n-hich lived at Three Mile Harbor, in East Hampton was from a lady living in Eureka, Cal.. I\-ho said To\\-n. -it that time the Eritish fleet were anchored that her mother when young and living in San in Gardiner's Bay. and Joshua Penny built a sort of Francisco knew Ivilliam Simmons and family; she torpedo and intended to blow up the flag ship the also remembered that he had several ship models in first dark night, and the only reason he failed to his honie. Several months later this lady \\-hen vis- carry out his plan was that some traitor informed iting in that city ascertained that Sim~nonshad died the Eritish authorities of the scheme, which led to sel-era1 years ago, and it mas thought the ship mod- his arrest. conviction and sentence to serve in a pe- els \\-ere destrcyed in the earthquake fire. nal colony in Cape Town. Thdast voq-age that the old whale ship "Union" It is said that when he was led from the court el-er made as a \\-haler she \\-as in comn~zndof Capt. room after the trial, he met the man whom he sus- James H. Rogers of Bridgehamyton. 11-illiam Ford- pected of revealing his plan to the enenq-, and for ham of Southanlpton was first mate. John Perm!- which he was confident he had accepfed a bribe of of the Springs. East Hampton, was second mate. $I,OOO. Facing this Inan he said, "k'ou sold a Charles C. Tcpping of Eridgehampton steered the Penny fcr a thousant1 dollars, and if I live to come first mate's l~ost,Remington King. -Aaron Conklin. hack I \\-ill kill you the first time we meet." John Eaker and John llulligan \\-ere fore-mast The incident I am about to rela&. was told lne hands. and Henry J. Thomas \\-as cabin boy. b- the John Penny referred to above. The ship of This 1-oyage was rather remarkable from the fact which he was second mate \\-as in the harbor of that they killed a \\-hale in 11-hich I\-ss a quantity of Honolulu, at that time in the Sandwich Islands. ambergris. So one knew \;\\-hatit \\-as. but Henry where the!- had gone to refit for another voyage Thomas called the attention fif the first mate to a and also to ship their whale oil around Cape Horn lu~npof strange looking ' ~naterial which floated to Sew 1-ork by some ~nerchantship. from the carcass.-..'The Illate said to Thomas. jest- The new Clipper Ship "Sovereign of the Seas" SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY had just made a record run from New York to San Cuffee, -Aaron Kellis, Oliver Francisco wit11 a general cargo, the freight bill for Abraham Oliver 0. which amounted to $84,000. She then went in bal- Absolem hloses last to Honolulu to load with whale oil for New Andrew Joshua York. When she came into that harbor under full Elias Andrew sail, Mr. Penny said it was the grandest and most Erastus Lee, Ferdinand beautiful sight he ever beheld, and after she had James Garrison dropped her anchor, he, with a boat load of their James Milton own men went aboard the clipper and helped furl James Notlee the sails. Luther Robert After loading with whale oil the "Sovereign oi Nathan Win field the Seas" made the voyage from Honolulu to Sandy Paul Phillips, Peter Hook in 82 days. Paul Thompson. John H. The only Sag Harbor whale ship I ever saw was Russel Jeremiah the brig "Myra" when she was anchored out in the Sidney Walker. Abraham Harbor just before sailing on her last voyage in Wickhani Charles July of the year 1871. I was acquainted, however. Eleazer, Alphonso David with very many of the whalemen who made that David John industry a success in their day, many of whom af- Isaac Moses ter acquiring a competency, returned to eastern Long Orlando Stephen Island to spend the remainder of their days. I Richard might say that the "Myra" never returned to her James home port, but after a fairly successful voyage was condemned in the Barbadoes in December of the I have been asked as to the method or plan of year 1874. payment of the officers and crews of whale ships. From the early history of this Town the Indians I have sought information on this subject from var- took an active part in the \vhaling industry, and I ious books written concerning this industry, but liy am not aware that a list of these men was ever com- far the most satisfactory information was fro111 piled and published. The town records show that some of the whalemen themselves. when this industry was carried on fro111 the shore The ship as a rule was owned by a stock company, these men were employed, and later when our ships in many instances the captain being the owner of went to distant seas, these men were conceded to considerable stock. This made him especially in- have been both seamen and whalemen of the very terested in the success of the voyage. Then an highest order. especially skilled and expert whaleman whether cap- I herewith give a list of whalemen from the tain or mate was often given a socalled bonus, this Shinnecock tribe as nearly complete as I was able agreement being made by the ship owners to secure to make it. Some of these men I remember, but of their services. In general, the pay of both officers course most of them had passed on before tny day. and men was determined by share or "lay" accord- ing to the ability of each individual. The captain - SHINNECOCK WHALERS From 1817to 1932 would receive from 1/8 to 1/10 of the net proceeds Beeman, Le Roy Bunn, ~avibW. of the voyage, plus a possible bonus, this would us- Noah Franklin ually amount to from $4.50 to $j. per day for the Wesley James voyage. There are a few cases on record where the Milton Russel mate was given the same lay as the captain. This Boardman, Alphonso Nelson was true in the case of John Saq-re of Bridgehamp John Thomas ton. Brewer, Frank William A boat-steerer was the lowest grade officer on the Bunn, Charles Warren ship and received a lay of from 1/20 to I/IOOof David net proceeds. Being an officer he was entitled to SKETCHES FROM LOC-\L HISTORY

live with the other officers in their cabin. The fore- Map) and was probably the owner of more books mast hands were often the very lo\vest grade of hu- . than any one man in this community, and he was rnanity. It could be said of many of them "-Any- always willing to loan any of his books. These would where I hang my hat, is Home, Sweet Home to quite often when returned, be soiled or mutilated, me," so that they were indifferent as to the result and in some cases would be lost and never returned. of the voyage, and received from 1/160to I/Z~O This led him to compose a stanza which he wrote on of net proceeds for their lay. the front page of all of his books. It read as follows : -A cooper. carpenter or blacksmith if an energetic "If this book be lent to any, Inan and kept his trade work ahead of the demand -4s perhaps it may to many; \vould often receive a double lay. for instance, a I beg you carefully to use it, cooper. when no whales were being caught, could IVith attention to peruse it; set up oil barrels enough so that when whales \\-ere -And return it without damage. found, he could work with the crew in killing. c~zt- To its owner, Daniel Talmadge." ting in, and trying the blubber. The whole company were found or boarded at There -mc still a goodly number of these old books the ship's expense, the food as a rule was not too scattered about this community at this time, some good. and many times extremely poor. The so- dating back to the early seventeenth century, and in called "slop chest" was supplied with all manner of very good order and well preserved. w wearing apparel used and needed by the sailors. The first real public library established in Bridge- which was sold and charged to their account. and hampton was primarily the result of the efforts of deducted from his share at the end of the voyage. Stephen Burroughs, who came froin New England If the voyage was a failure, then both the ship to teach school on Shelter Island, and tutor in the owners and crew were out of luck and sustained a family of the Hon. Jonathan Nicholl Havens, who severe loss, while a good and successful voyage at that time was +Assemblyman from this District. would sometimes return the whole cost of the ship He then came to Bridgehampton. to its owners. and satisfactory returns to both of- \Vhile at Bridgehampton, during one vacation ficers and crew. period. Burroughs canvassed this entire community During the first half of the 19th. century this in- and collected money for a library to the amount of dustry was about the only thing that brought ready 40 Pounds, quite a large sum for those days. These money to eastern Long Island, but like some other subscriptions were given with the understanding industries it had its day and passed on. that the books bought should be other than tlqose of a religious character. Dr. .Aaron Woolworth was ~ninisterof the church in Bridgehampton at that LIBRARIES IN BRIDGEHAMPTON time. When he found that Burroughs had collect- In Colonial days, with but few exceptions, the ed the money for a library-, he at once began to se- books owned by the early settlers were of a reli,'a~~~~ lect a list of books according to his own liking, character. The Bible took pre-eminence over all without consulting Burroughs. This was the real others, and was studied and read persistently, (much cause of the clash between these men. to their credit) which accounted much for their fund Burroughs declared that unless the wishes of the of knowledge in religious history. These books had subscribers were granted in the ;election of books, to be imported at first, and cost money to buy, and he would refund the money. A book committee money was a rare commodity at that time. This ac- had been appointed, but these were so under the in- counted for the small number owned by most fam- fluence of Mr. \Voolworth that a fair decision was ilies. The binding was usually of heavy leather. almost impossible. However, after much discus- One book by a certain author would be loaned sion and some abuse, they at last compromised. but throughout the entire neighborhood. The next the final list included every book that Burroughs neighbor would do likewise, so the general exchange had named in his list first submitted. In this whole of books was a help to many. action IVoolworth showed himself an autocrat, and Daniel Talmadge lived in Hay Ground. (see 1850 a man unworthy of his calling, and displayed a spirit SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-'IL HISTORY that ivould not be tolerated at this time. I all1 yer- suaded that Burroughs in the stand he took in this matter, was far more hcnorable than the Rev. \Voolivorth and his colleagues. This was at least one time in his career that he proved hinlself a real man. Let us give him credit for the action he took and the spirit he showed. More is the pity that his life in general, was so unstable and crooked. The bcoks were bought and the library establisil- etl in the house of Levi Hildreth, his only remuner- ation being the free use of the books. This library was in use for a good many years, but was finally reduced in numbers to such an extent that it ceased to exist. Judge Henry P. Hedges many years ago had a list of the books in that library, which he had Present Harnpton Library in Bridgehampton printed, and which list is here copied. This was al- ways known as the "Burroughs Library," and was Linn's Characteristical Guthries Geography established in the year I 793. -A few of those books Sernlons Brisson's Sarrative are still in existence. llorse's Geography &losheinl*sEcclesiastical Thon~son'sSeasons History Raynal's Indies, 8 vols. ~eivtonon the Prophe- Clerk's 1-ade Jlecum Flavius Josephus. G vols. Rollins Ancient History, cies. 3 vols. Pope's Essay on Man Perry's Pronouncing Dic- 8 vols. Edwards on the TVill llilton's Paradise Lost tionary Hist. of Modern Eur- Death of -4beI Conquest of Canaan Clarke's Farrierq- Ernma Corbett Hervey's Meditations ope, j vols. Doddridge's Rise and Pro- Beauties of the Maga- Burke on the French Rev- 3lcoie's France, a \-01s. gress of Religion. zine olution Italy. 2 vols. TVatts' Fcundations of the Derham's -4stro Theol- IVatt's Logick Robertson's -America. Christian Church 0S"Y Gustavus \-asa 3 "01s. Manners in Portugal, a Paine's Rights of Man, IVatt's Supplement Scotland, 2 vols. vols. 1st. & and. parts, 2 vols. Edwards on Original Sin 3lirabeau's Court of Plutarch's Lives. 6 vols. IIontague's Letters, 3 Lathrop on Baptisnl vols. Life cf Charles ]Vent- Berlin. 2 vols. -Arabian Sights' Enter- Telemachus, a vols. worth, 3 vols. llemoirs of Earon de tai~lment,1 ~01s. Cornpleat Letter \lrriter Hervey's Letters. a vols. Tott, 2 vols. Keal's Hist. of the Puri- Jennen's ITie\\i Cook's Travels, a vols. Fordyce's -Acltlresses tans, 4 vols. Lectures Edn-ards' Hist. of Re- Sernlons to Young Ramsey's Revolution, a Beauties of History, 2 denlption JTionlen vols. vols. Goldsmith's Rome, 2 vols. Knox on Education. 2 Wait's Gospel History vols. Hist. of Charles XI1 of Miss Rowe's Letters Sweden Bennett's Letter to a Evans on the Christian Lady Temper 1\Iemoirs of Baron Dickinson's Letters Trenck ]\.'eft and Lq-ttleton 1-isions of Colunlbus TYilIiam's Sern~ons,1 1-oung's Sight Thoughts vols. Huil~phrey'sTiorks Peter Pindar, a vols. Kaim's Art of Think- -4da111's View of Religion ing Dodd on Death Sparman's T-oj-age to Franklin's Life > Cape of Good Hope, England, -\bridged First Hampton Library, Bridgehampton 1877 a vols. SKETCEIES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY

Co~vper'sTask Bruce's Travels up the In selecting the first list of books. lIr. Charles H. Carver's Travels Sile Rogers sought the advice of IVilliarn Cullen Bryant. Blair's Sermons, 2 1-01s. \\-arville's Travels -This list consisted of 3533 volumes. It has now Lavater's -Aphorisms on Cook's \-oyages -Abridged grolvn to between 13.000 and 14.000 volumes. llan Goldsmith's -Animated RIoore's llonitor Sature. 4 vols. It-hen organized, a charge oi two dollars .per, .. year Gay's Fables French Revolution \\.as made for the privilege of borrowing hooks Paley's Philosophy Mills on Cattle iater reduced to one dollar and a half. and still later Bvron's Shipwreck Jlason on Self Knowledge- Ciarissa ~a;lo\ve, 3 vols. \\-atts lliscellaneous British Jloralist, 2 vols. Thoughts Fool of Quality, j ~01s. In my judgment the abol-e is a very creditable list of books, and unquestionably Stephen Burroughs should have the major porticn of the credit for hay- ing established that library. -\bout the year 1830 a circulating library was established in Bridgehampton, its headquarters be- ing in the back roonl of the store of E. Jones Lud- low. -1 charge of one dollar per year was mxd- for the privilege of borrowing books. This library was in use until about 1870, when I think the books CHARLES ROGERS WILLIAM GARDINER then remaining \\-ere sold at public auction. While this library w-as not very large. even such a snlall collection of books \\-as very much missed through- out this community. \Vhen it ceased to exist, these ccnditions Ivere brought to the attention of ti\-o prominent men. and they, after consulting \\-ith some of our leading citizens, decided to establish a real library in Bridgehampton. This became the "Hampton Library in Eridgehampton." It was or- ganized ant1 incorporated under the above name. in the !-ear 1876. and opened in May of 1877. It was the gift cf Mr. IVilliam Gardiner and his brother- in-law-. Mr. Charles H. Rogers. Mr. Gardiner gave CAPT. JAMES R. CAPT. WICKHAM the lot and $~o,oooand Mr. Rogers gave a similar HUNTTIN G S. HAVENS legacy. This $~o,ooowas for the building an(l equip~mentof the library, and the balance was to be invested as an endo~vn~entfund. Later Mrs. Rog- ers gal-e an additional $5,000 to the endo~vn~~cnt fund. Since that several of our local residents have given very substantial sums of mcneJ- for the en- clo\vment fund. The first Board of Trustees lvere as folol\vs, viz: 11-illiam Gardiner. Charles Rogers, Henry P. Hed- ges. James R. Huntting, IVickham S. I-Iavens. and John F. 1-oungs. The last named was Secretary and Treasurer for many years. Henry P. Hedges \\-as the first President of the Board of Trustees. and filled that position for manq- years. JOHN F. YOUNGS HENRY P. HEDGES

s, 11s 3 SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY to one dollar. In the year 1905. through the efforts been active in rendering real assistance to this insti- of Mr. Egbert R. Bishop, this library became a free tution, and is still doing good work. Mr. John E. institution, registered under the State Board of Re- Berwind was one of this library's most helpful bene- gents, and receives a small appropriation from the factors. One who could always be counted on for State Department of Education. About the same real help and assistance, during the short period in time a free reading room was set apart for the use which he filled the office of library trustee. of the public, which has been highly appreciated and \Vhile there are larger libraries in this locality, as patronized. determined by number of books. there are none that This library through the kindness and liberality excel this one in quality and class of books. It is a of the heirs of Mrs. William Walker, received a great pity that such a collection of books and period- gift of $1,000 to fit up an Art Room in which to icals that could never be replaced, should be housed display a collection of paintings formerly owned by in a building that is not fire proof. It was not only Mrs. Walker, and presented to the libran by her my hope but ambition that a suitable building might heirs. be erected, but I an1 now persuaded that I shall nev- ' A Women's Committee was organized, which has er see it accomplished.

SOME LANDMARKS AMD COLLOQUIALISMS

When the Colonists first landed in this section. tom in those days to turn the cattle and sheep into the greater portion of the land was covered the high\vays and common land to roam at large, with forests. -4s the land was cleared by cut- this of course included the woodland. This gave ting and removing the trees, the timber was used foi feed for this stock all summer, and left the inlproved building their houses and barns, as well as for fuel. land to grow crops for winter feed. Coal was not The land cleared had to be fenced for the live stock, mined in this country to any great extent until the and the cheapest fence that could possibly be built at ?-ear 1820, and was not used in Bridgeha~nptonto that time, though it called for a vast amount of zny extent until 1870. Prior to this, wood was al- manual labor, was that of digging a ditch to mark most the only fuel used. This fact alone gave wood- the dividing line between adjoining owners. On land a considerable valuation, and also gave the am- this mound, live trees were lopped, when the sap was bitious men of those days remunerative occupation down. The limbs were also lopped and interwoven when not engaged with their farm work. There was to make a tight fence. The mound served as part 2 great demand for ~voodin the cities for fuel. and of the fence, but more particularly to hold the lopped on the whale ships for blocking and wedging the oil tree in a semi-upright position, so the sap could flow casks. The coarse and rough wood was converted up, according to nature, to insure the life of the into charcoal. for which there was a ready market, tree so lopped. This led to the expression "a live as it was the only coal used by blacksmiths in those fence". These fences took up and occupied a large days. area of land, which mattered little so long as the The site of these coal kilns may be located all land was cheap. but as prices of land advanced, the about the farming land even to this day. the soil ditches and live fences began to disappear, so much being black with the fine charcoal which is almost so. that at the present time, they are rarely seen. I indestructible. The many landings along the shore have been asked, YVhy did they fence and ditch the of Koyack and Peconic Bays. such as Budd's. ~voodland?" I suppxed that this was generally IVhalebone, Scott's and many others. mark the known, but I find that it is not, so I will endeavor places \\-here great quantities of cord\\-ood were to answer it. When the highways were laid out in shipped to market by sailing vessels. I ha-ie hcar~l the early days they were made very wide. some of my Father say that Silas \Voodruff and HaIsey them being from 10 to I j or more rods wide. These Dicki~sontogether put 1,100 cords of 11-ood on the afforded an abundance of pasture. It \\-as the cus- shore at Shelter Island in one year. and :here \\-ere SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY nlany others in that same business. The prevailing a small lot or enclosure adjoining a barn yard, and price for cutting wood in those days \\-as j shillings is confined in its use to eastern Long Island. Every (62% cents) per cord, and the wood sold for six community has its own peculiar slang phrases. One do!lars per cord. on the shore at these landings, this old man I knew would say 'I vow', another 'I vum', showed a goad margin of profit. Tne fact that these another 'Con-stab-it', another 'By singe it'. One conditioils did prevail, was alone sufficient to put a old man in this place was repairing an old fence. real value on \\-oodland. That is perhaps son~e\~hat i! had been a live or hedge fence, but was at that difficult to realize in these days. I am now \\-orking time intermingled with rails. wire, and poles, sup LIP to the answer to the foregoing question. The plemented with boards. A neighbor in passing asked owners of woodland took great pains to care for and ii he was building a fence. He replied, "I am trying protect their property, because it was really valuable. to repair what you see here, but this is no fence, it The land they cut over in the winter and from which may have been classed as such some time, but now it they carted the wood. they ditched and fenced the is what I call a 'Scrag-mat-i-cal Run' ". following spring. Why? So that when the herds More than one hundred years ago there lived in of cattle were turned out to roam at large over high- Sagaponack a class of men who, when excited or \\-ays and \\-oodlands. and not brought home again engaged in a warm argument, spoke a language or until the inclement weather of approaching winter dialect, that a stranger could not understand. One demanded it, they could not roam over the I\-ood has said, "It sounded like a confusion of tongues". lots and destroy the young scions just as they started As an illustration, about the time referred to above from the stumps, for if they mere allowed to do this. there was a phrase or expression in common and very many \vould be killed and those that were universal use in Wainscott, that would be absolutely nipped off and yet lived. would grow trees both im- meaningless to a stranger. I heard this from a man perfect and crooked. and seriously affect the next now over 80 years of age, who knew this to he a crop of cord \\-ood or timber. as the case might be. fact not only from memory, but from experience, I have heard the old Inen say that years ago. when in fact. his mother was a native of Wainscott. The almost everyone fro111 -Amagansett to Shinneccck expression is "For-ti-no", and without doubt was a ent to Sag Harbor Saturday afternoon to do their corruption of the phrase "for aught I know" or trading, which was largely in barter, there was such "for what I know". It is easy to realize what a a marked distinction in the appearance of the horses. confusion of language would result in the use of a wagons. harness. and even the men, in their dress, large number of such corruptions. incorporated in accent and general appearance, that one accustoi~~ed common conversati~n. could easily distinguish. though not personally ac- I never saw a left-handed plow used in this locai- quainted with them, the men, teams, and in fact, ity in all my life, while in some sections. none but the general outfit, whether it was from South- left-handed ones are used. Again, I never saw a ampton, East Hampton or Bridgehampton. This team on Long Island driven with a "Twitch Line", seems allnost incredible in cornrnunities so closely while in some sections nothing else is used. The located geographically, but it was true nevertheless. 11-ord "Team" as used on Long Island means two or Then again. there were certain words or phrases that nlore horses or oxen harnessed together, while in were peculiar and in fact. they still are. to certain Connecticut one will hear them say. "One horse localities. Take for instance the word "Gally" which team". In that State you will seldom, if ever, hear was and still is in general use on eastern Long Is- cf an "-Ase Handle", it is always "-\xe Helve". land, as applied to a person who becomes suddenly either is correct. embarrassed or confused, its use being alnlost en- In other sections of the country you will seldom tirely confined to this locality. -An up-State nlan see a scuttle in the roofs of the old houses, while upon hearing this word for the first time, said : here there was hardly a ho~lsewithout one. In the IVhat lvas the matter with the person affected, and early days on eastern Long Island most of the men how 11-as he handled? -Another word that may be had been whaling, so that in their work about the classed as 'Provincial English' is "Pightle" meaning farms. they lvould express themselves in language SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTOR\- they were accustomed to while on shipboard, such lived here when this \\.as written. (and I think un- as, "Cast off". "Belay", "Heave ahead". "Set up on til he bought on Hedges Lane). that tackle". One boy when told to do this, said, "Sest house on east side of street was Capt. Dav- "Yes. Sir, I'll set anywhere you say, if you I\-ill only id Pierson's. This is the lot where John iyhite's tell where to set". "Port'', "Starboard". "Bow", barn stood until recently. "Stem", "Adrift", "-i\wash", "-Anchor it". "Make "Sest house on \vest side of street \\-as -Mired fast", "-Aloft", "Below", "Pay out", "Haul in", Pierscn. Sorth of this place \\-as that of Dr. Sa- "Lay your course". These all had a real meaning thaniel Topping. and then Elihu Ho\\-ell's. Still that was understood and usually obeyed. farther north was the house of Hirarn Sandford. (He then says: "I well remember when the Iletho- ITEMS FROM AN OLD LETTER dist Church \\-as built). ?chis \\-as in 1833." The following items I have taken fronl an old "Nest north of Hiram Sandford's \\-as a little letter that was written by Ichabod Sheffield Seabury one-story house of John Pierson. It stood about I;O many years ago. His father was Samuel -4. Sea- feet north of the Sandford house. Pierson sold this bury who came to Sag Harbor and edited a paper, house to Hiram Sandford and bcught the Caleb "The -American Eagle7>. Later he moved to Hunt- Pierson place. ington. L. I., and then to Stonington, Corm. "The house opposite John Pierson's mas 011-ned Sheffield was born July a, 1821. His mother \\-as by Lemuel Haines (later Henrj- Topping). He v;as Tulia Topping. ?irhen four years old his father a carpenter, and his shop stood in the street a little died. and hk went with his mother to live with her south of his house. fathei-. Matthew Topping, in Sagaponack. Ti'hen "To the north of the Haines house was the old I j years and 10 months old he went to sea with school house. It stood in the corner of Calel~Pier- Capt. John LVood~v-ard,on the ship Co~lcorcliaof son's lot close up to the line of the Haines property. Sag Harbor. J. Lawrence Cook was and 7Ia:e. I remember this school house in 1826. and Uncle Renjanlin H. Halsey and James H. Rogers were on Jesse Pierson used to teach school in this house. the ssme ship. The new school hcuse tz-as built by Janles L. Hair~es He writes this letter as in 1832, and locates the and stood in the street across fro111 the old one. houses and residents in Sagaponack and vicinity at "Sest house was Caleb Pierson's, and stood that time. which was over roo years ago. "Segin- n-here George Rogers livecl later. The next was ning at the 1011-er end of Sagg street with -John Silas Pie:-son's. and was owned later b_v Hiram S. \iThite', whose house stood near the site of the pres- Rcgers. He was a cooper b~-trade and his shop ent house. stood ~ppositehis house near 11-allace Hildreth's "The nest house to the north was D3vicl Top- fence. ping's. He had two sons. Rensselaer and 11ulf~~rd. "-\cross the street lived Henry TVhite, on-ned and two daughters, Phebe and Rebecca. Phebe mar- later by Thomas Halsey. and still later 11-allace 11'. ried -Abraham Ludlox~-,they bought the Thomas Gei- Hildreth. Opposite this place on the east side of ston farm on Butter Lane and had David Topping the street \\-as an old house that belonged to Lodo- Ludlo~i-and daughter Eathsheba. The site of this wick Post or his heirs. (This was probabl?- the 016 house \\-as near where Sydney Topping's house stood house of .Abraha~~~Pierson). The next house \\-as later. tkat owned later by Robert Hedges. He says -1 "The next house \\-as Vatthew Topl~ing's.a broth- \\-ell remember the marriage cf Robert Hedges and er cf David. -Across the street \\-as the house of Phebe Parker. It \\;as in the days of blue coats and Jesse Pierson. whose wife was Elizabeth, daughter brass buttons. I thought he looked very fine in of IZatthew Topping. Sest north of ITatthe\\- Top- that.' ping was Ebenezer i'l'hite, (not far from n-here "The nest hcuse n-as that of Capt. Lodon-ick Frank -4. Topping's house stands now. 1933). Post and his son. Robert. (-Aftern-ard owned by Sest n-as Sanluel Pierson. -1cross the street was 11-111. Darius Halsey and then 1)~-Capt. Edu-ard Hal- the Dracon David Hedges house. Richard Lester se); ). Sest north of this n-as the hcuse of S!-lva- SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY nus Topping, (afterward sold to the Town for a back of us. I would look around at his wife, when poor house). Mother 11-ould give me a hunch to look around the "Sest north of this and near the East Hampton other way, and listen to Mr. Francis preaching about road was a little, low, one story house that belonged the Medes and Persians, firstly, secondly, and about to Halsey Hildreth. (This was the old Hildreth fourthly I would be looking at the bride again. homestead). Joshua Howell lived here when he "The next house was that of Capt. David Hedges, attended the old mill I am about to describe. after he died his son David built the house later of "Searly opposite Sylvanus Topping's stood a Cassander Hedges. Next east was the home of Spider-legged wind-mill. It stood on a center post Samuel Edwards. Then on the corner of Hedges about 8 feet high. It would be a great curiosity in Lane and the Town Line lived John Strong, whose these days. Joshua Howell, the miller, used to be son John was about my age. called 'The old man of the hlill.' This mill wa> "\Vest of Fitz Osborn's was a one-story house be- o~j-nedby Matthew Topping. Simon Howell and longing to one David IVhacket. Then came Aaron others. Fithian, then Gicleon Hand, then Lewis Edwards. ''-4 short distance north of this mill stood the then Oliver Sayre. then Gurdon Pierson, then house of Paul Topping. Here I first went to school Capt. Isaac Ludlo\v-. then Franklin Howell, then to his daughter, Miss Laura Topping, the belle of Calk Uriah Sayre, then Dr. Samuel H. Rose, then Bridgehampton. She afterward married Col. Her- Richard Gelston. vey Hedges. Ah, what a sad ending was her life! (The road leading from Sagg Street toward "Stephen Topping owned where Fitz Osborn liv- Bridgehampton he calls "Brook Lane." The first ed later, and where Leander Topping lives, was the house was that of Sclomon Gains. He had a broth- home of _Abraham Mott. Kext north of Nott lived er Rufus, a cripple, who used to hop on his hands Simon and Price Howell. North cf this lived Her- and knees. ) ye>- Ho~velland north of Howell was a low one- "On the dam between the Mill-pond and Sagg story house that Halsey Hildreth bought of the Pond was a 3/Iill: for what purpose it was built 1 heirs of Seth Topping. This was on the same site do not know, but when I was a boy it was used by of the late George Hildreth house. a Mr. Brown for a brewery for beer. This Inan "On the road toward East Hariipton lived Sylva- Ero~vnwas found frozen to death on the beach. nus Hand. He was very profane, and for that rea- "On the Mill-Pond side of the dam was another son Hen-ey Howell, Esq. used to call him 'Deacon lfill, used for carding wool by John White, grand- Hand.' Theron Hand lived to the north, where his father of the present John White. but now this Mill son. -4. J. Hand, lived later. Charles Topping has been taken dcwn, its rafters have all tumbled in, lived on the place later owned by Salnuel llulford. and quiet has taken the place of the old time din. "The last house on that road was that of Henrq- "The nest house was the Presbyterian parsonage. Topping. Stephen \lTood married his daughter, and occupied by the Rev. .imzi Francis. and before him lives on this place. hy the Rev. -Aaron 11-oolworth. This was sold to "Going back to Hedges Lane, the first house 11-as Jeremiah Ludlo\\-, and then he sold to his brother that of Richard Lester, though he did not own it Sylvanus. or live there until he left the Deacon Hedges farm. "The nest house ..\-as that of Moses Hon-ell, a The old house was a large two-story house much one-story house that I tore down when I built a like that of Matthew Topping. and stood near the house for Jeremiah Hedges in 1860. Near the pres- site of the present house. ent site of John Heartt's home was a one-story house "The nest house was that of Isaac Pierson, (later owned b?- Silas TVocd. father of Stephen JVood, Syi~~phusWright). Then came TVilkes Hedges. and at that ti~neit stood in the street. 3Irs. TVood His son lliilkes had the old place and his brother died in the Poor-house and I made her coffin. Mr. Huntting built his house in 1842. lliood was a x-er\- intemperate man. "The nest was David Hedges. I remember go- "Then came the Presbyterian Church, that I ing to church with illy hlother when a small kid. helped take do\\-n in the year 1842. The posts of the the first Sunday after he was married, they sat just old Church I\-ere used in th? new Church." SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

(I think the Job Pierson place was omitted in children were Jeremiah, Jason, Ezra, Timothy and these letters, and it is not at all strange that he Harvey (the whaleman), Betsy and Mary. should have over-looked some, but for the most par: "(a) Daniel Hopping lived in a hollow a few I think it is a very complete history of that day for rods north of Capt. Jonathan Osborne's house, and the territory covered. It is too bad that inore did had son, 'Tom Hopping,' and daughter, wife not follow his example.) of Charles Payne. Neither does he mention the house opposite the "(3) Capt. Jonathan Osborne lived in the house Reuben Edwards place where Miller Edwards lived now standing, and had wife, sister of Sam Schel- in 1850. linger, and daughter, wife of Gurdon Halsey, and As in the foregoing article Mr. Seabury gives a sons, Jonathan, Abram, Isaac, Conklin and David. graphic description of the location of the old houses "(4) Elisha Conklin lived in an old house on in Sagg and vicinity, so in his "Memories of a long the site where Lucia now resides, and had sons, life," Judge Henry P. Hedges gives a similar de- Abraham, Elisha H. and Nathaniel, and daughters. scription of the property about \VainScott, which I Amy, Jerusha, Mary and Nancy. quote. "(5) Elisha H. Conklin lived in the house "Before my time there had been a house on the where now resides D. Edgar Talmage, and left two south side of the road, west of Jeremys Creek, about daughters and sons, Geo. \;I-. and Cornelius. a half-mile or more northeast of Mrs. Lucia Conk- "(6) Jacob Hopping lived where now his lin's corner, where was an excavation, the remains grandson, Jacob O., resides, and had daughters. of a cellar. In passing that, my mother told me Mary, Nancy and Caroline, and had sons, Osborne. Taylor Osborne's house was there. Carl and Isaac. This house stood end to the street. "Just south of Capt. Jonathan Osborne's house. and Sam Schellinger, on a cannon ball in the centre, was a very old house where, I was told, Deacon Ja- turned it around front to the street, when I was a cob Osborne lived and that he tended the spider- boy. legged mill, which stood just southwest of it and, "(7) Elisha Osborne lived in a house on the as I remember, in the street. I remember that Jacob site where his son Chauncey afterward resided, and Hopping tended that. The house was burned some- left daughter, Charlotte, and sons, Malines and time before 183I. Chauncey. This Elisha, in the Revolutionary War, "Between the houses of Morgan Topping and was in Connecticut, and to distinguish him from the J6hn Hand once stood a house in which lived Elias Elisha next named, was called "Continental." Hand, a soldier in the French and Indian war. That "(8) Elisha Osborne lived in the old John Os- house was burned before my time. borne house now standing, and had wife, Mary, "In Wainscott Hollow, north of the burying and had sons, Thomas and David, and daughters, ground, were ditches, marks of enclosure, where, I Lucretia, Fanny and Betsey. was told, long ago lived a George Strong. In an "(9) James Edwards lived in the house where angle of the road some quarter of a mile northeast now resides Oliver S. Osborne, and had wife and of Lucia Conklin's corner, formerly lived a LiTil- daughters, Jane, Harriet and Phebe. liarn Miller on what Elisha Osborne (not Conti- " ( 10) My Father (Zephaniah Hedges) lived in nental) called his "Bill Lot." (See map for 1800). the house where now resides H. Morgan Topping. North of Lucia's corner, on another road lived a "(I I) James Hand lived in the house where Zebedee Osborne. The house Carl Hopping built now resides his grandson, John H., and wife, Chloe, on or near the site of Deacon Jacob Osborne's house, and sons. James, Sylvester, John, Reuel, and Albert. was moved to Madison St., Sag Harbor. and daughters, Polly, Matilda, Fanny. Julia, Mir- "The dwellings standing in Wainscott in my early anda and Elizabeth. days and before 1831, beginning east were as fol- " ( 12) John Strong, Revolutionary soldier, liv- lows : ed where now his great-grandson, Charles W., re- "( I ) Polly Talmage, widow of Jeremiah, lived sides, and had sons, John, Sylvanus, Saul and Ab- in a house in the northwest corner of Capt. John ner, and daughters, Hannah, Martha, Mary and Dayton's Neck and east of Jeremys Creek, and her Emeline. SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY

"(13) Jesse Strong lived where now resides the widow of Edmond T. Strong, his deceased nephew. "(14) Bethuel Edwards, elder in the East Hampton church, lived where afterwards his son. David -Ae, did, and had sons, Josiah and David -4., and daughters, Esther, Mary and Sophia. " ( I j) John Edwards lived where afterwards Jared D. Hedges did, to whom he sold. "One or two families in the town of Southamp ton near the town line once belonged to the Wain- scott District School. These fifteen houses all in the town of East Hampton, comprised hiainscott as I remember it previous to and about the year MARY (WHITE) 1831. DANIEL, HILDRETH HILDRETH "James Edwards was a carpenter, his brother baked over the fire in a large kettle covered with Bethuel was a shoemaker, James Hand was a weav- er, Jacob Hopping was a cooper, and when the wind cabbage leaves. -4nd it tasted very good. We had blew, a miller. James Hand's dwelling was a few butter and cheese, the latter was made mostly from rods north of and nearest to our house. His son. skimmed milk. Oysters, clams and eels were very Sylvester, married the sister of Alden Spooner, Edi- plentiful and cheap. I alone got 40 bushels of oy- tor of the Suffolk Gazette in Sag Harbor." sters in one day and sold them on the shore for $10.00. Clams were so large and plentiful in Shin- necock Bay that Silas Winters caught 25 bushels in ITEMS FROM TWO OLD DIARIES one day, and they appeared to be all over the bay, and sold for several years for from 20 cents to 2 j (By DANIELHILDRETH) cents per bushel. "There have been a great many vessels cast-a-way "Our dress was very domestic. My father and against Southampton during my memory." He here mother manufactured all the cloth we wore froin describes a good many of these vessels, among either wool or flax, both of which were raised on which is the British Sloop of War, "Sylph." the farm. Tow cloth was worth 25 cents per yard, He also mentions the American ship "Live Oak," and that from yarn, that is, all wool, 37% to 50 otherwise known as the "Powder Ship." I quote cents. In my younger days we did not have very again: "which took fire at sea and was run ashore many dishes. and they were either of pewter or against Shinnecock Point in July of 1814. She had coarse earthen ware. At the meals, the old folks 222 bags of powder on board. and older children were seated at the table in chairs "The Captain came ashore in the evening, and with wooden or flag bottoms, and the younger chil- about Eleven o'clock the powder exploded, breaking dren had to stand up at the table." hundreds of window lights in Southampton village. The writer then gives a few items of personal in- The vessel was blown to fragments, one piece of terest: "December the 19" 1822, I was married to iron having been found one half mile from the Mary White, daughter of Ephraim White. It was wreck." a dark, rainy night, and my prospects for getting a "From 1808 to 181 j wages were very low, farin- living were as dark as the night, for I had but about ers paid for cutting wood, hoeing corn, threshing, $30 that I could call my own, and my health was etc., from 14 cents to 50 cents per day. Carpenter's not very good. The winter of 1823 I made some wages were 75 cents. things to keep house with, for I had no money to "Until I was 12 or 13 years old I scarcely knew- buy them, and in -4ugust of that year we began to what wheat bread was. Our main living was corn, keep house. or rye pudding and milk. We had rye bread, bis- "Our furniture consisted of a bed, small table, cuit, cake, pies and shortcake, and some corn bread stand, four chairs, six knives and forks, six cups SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY and saucers, one blue tea pot and inilk CUP,shovel "1816 was the cold summer, with a frost every and tongs, an old tea kettle that I bought at a van- month in the year. Corn was almost entirely cut off. due, two pails and two wash tubs, no pots and ket- "January a. 18-33, I began to saw for the first tles, those we had to borrow, but we had plenty of time in the new mill, the wind was Sorth \irest and good food to eat, and I must say that I never enjoy- a good breese. She worked well and I was highly ed myself any year of my life since, any better than pleased with her. I\.-e hired Joseph Goodale to I did the first year we kept house." work for us for $10 per month." How many people at this day and time, especially "The 28" of February, 1828, I bought a Yankee the younger portion, would be ivilling to do as this clock for $20.. kept it for ten years and sold it to couple did? Or be content with such a meager out- Sylvanus White for cne dollar. Farming is very fit? And yet: who dare say that there is any more dull. plenty of land to buy for one and two dollars real happiness or satisfaction today than in the old per acre. days referred to above? Happiness and content- "1830 was kno~vnas the 'moderate winter'. Grass ment is what counts. was green and a good bite for the cattle all winter. "In the fall of 1812 the school house at Water It was thought by some that we should not have Mill was built, but the school did not begin until any more cold winters, and that in a few- years more, January m st, 1813. Mr. Hugh Halsey, afterward oranges and tropical fruit would grow on Long Judge Hugh, of Bridgehampton taught the first Island. quarter for $30 and I think boarded himself." "1832 will long be remembered as the 'Cholera' "Stoves, kerosene oil, and lamps were not known year in Southampton. July 30", Jack Cuffins and in those days, but we had large fire-places and plenty his son Maltby of IVater Mill. aged respectively 68 of wood. The bread was baked in brick ovens. and 22 years, died of cholera. They n-ere xvell the IVhen they had a spinning bee, as they called it, evening of Sunday, and Maltby went to meeting in they would make a large fire on the hearth, and in- the school house. They were both taken sick in the stead of a lamp they would place a pine knot on the night, and Jack died before sunrise, and Malt- fire, which would throw a splendid light all over by the sun some two hours high. They were both the room. buried before night llonday. They \\-ere very re- "In 181j, Howell Goodale of IVater Mill built a spectable colored people. and worth a considerable small sail boat with two masts. She was thought to property. be a ~vonderfulboat for he could beat her across the "One other colored man, a relative of these. \vent bay against the wind. on Tuesday morning to get up some ha!- that Jack "Our boats in those days were roughly made. had cut on Saturday. Soon after he got to the field some called canoes, were dug out of logs, and were he n-as taken sick. died, and was buried before sun- used in oystering. do\\-n. In a few days Jack's ~vifedied and was "In 1817, Mr. John Benedict and wife moved to buried by their side. Soon after this, David Jagger, Water Mill from Danbury, Conn:, and brought the John IVhite and several others died of the salne first cock stove into Southampton Town. It was disease." thought a great curiosity, and many went to see it. "June 27", 1834, I made one well and three He \\-as a clothier by trade. and worked in the mill, pumps for the three Jones's, Ezekiel, Talmage and he has since bought the whole concern. Edward of East Hampton. There is but one foot "In the fall of 1818, Abraham Halsey, John difference in the three pumps. IVhen I went over Hen-ell and myself set out to go to Kew York to in the morning there was white frost in the low see the city. It was thought at that time quite a places. journey. IVe went with Capt. Peter Fournier in "December I j", 1835 was the great fire in Sew the sloop 'Leopard'. We sailed from xorth Sea. York, and burned some 600 houses. The wind was and it took eight and one-half days to reach the city. very high and severe cold. The hose to the engines Stayed there eight days and returned home in froze so that many of them were entirely useless. eighteen hours. The city then contained 130,000 *(This was the same year that this disease raged inhabitants. We thought it was a great place. in Sew York City.) SKETCHES FRO31 LOCAL HISTORY

"-An account of this fire may be found in any and one half feet on the level, but it was all gone by history of Sew k'ork. It burned the entire east side the 21. of the city below \\'all street. Loss estimated to '6 April 23", 1843. I went to Sag Harbor. The be $18.ooo,ooo. comer stone of the Presbyterian Church in that "In the last part of 31ay and the first part of place was laid. This day the mail came through the June of 1836, we had what was called 'THE Island for the first time on the railroad. The daj- TR-4DE \VIP;D'. The wind blew from the east was pleasant. for I j days and was very cold. The whaling ships "March I", 184.4, \Vife and myself set out for ir, Sag Harbor were detained because of the head 1-ew York. \Ve visited at lfrs. -Ann Mott's in llott wind. Street. Went to the Poor house on the Long Island "January- I j", 1837, Charles Howell and I finish- farm, and took a boy by the name of Joseph Tom- ed our ice boat. The first that ever was built in kins. Bought a pump augur for $8.00. Southampton. Charles Hou-ell, David Foster, Syl- "On the 8" of May 1847, -4 caravan of wild ani- vanus IVhite and I had a sail to the beach and up mals was exhibited in Sag Harbor, drawn by 96 Hay Ground Bay. She worked like a charm. The horses, and accompanied by jo men. They had a wind blew a gale, and we went part of the time a chariot called 'King Pharaoh's Chariot' drawn by mile to the minute. six span of mouse colored horses. The Chariot was "June 4", 1831, Ive fenced in j acres of common 2 j feet high and carried a band of musicians. 16 in land that Father bought twelve years before for two number. There was a large number of wild animals. dollars. It was the greatest show that ever nas on Long "December I", 1836. bought a rotary stove for Island. $40. ***"The 7" of October, 1852, X balloon from "Sunday night. October .la", 1838, I went from Bridgeport. Conn., passed over Long Island abo~t Fire Place to Gardiner's Island with Mr. John Gar- the middle of blecos Bay, and fell in the ocean just diner to bore pumps for him. Friday, I had a ride beyond the bar. It was IOO feet high and j0 feet on the Island. I bought a six years old mare of in diameter. There \\-ere four men on board, who Mr. Gardiner for $60. -4 beautiful animal. came verj- near being drowned before they got help. "I ~neasureda tree 17 feet and one inch in circu111- My neighbor, Charles Howell, and Col. David R. ference. He has 240 cattie, over one year old. 60 Rose assisted in saving them. My own Mother was calves, jo horses. 1.400 sheep. lnilks 50 cows, and in Bridgeport at the time visiting, and san- the same killed 50 fat cattle and 29 old hogs that year. balloon ascend. "I saw the stump of a \IThite Oak tree that meas- "November 6", 1869, Lawrence Cook caught in ured 6 feet across it one way and j feet the other. cne day 73 Dozen eels, in Mill creek. They sold in Mr. Gardiner told me it was cut in 1836 and that he Kew k-ork for from 40 to jo cents per dozen." carted 14 loads of wood fro111 it, and there Ivas some *"*My Father in his diary says. that this balloon two loads lying by it then. \vent up at 3-30 P. M. from Birmingham, Conn., "Mr. William Richards, a man that came from and came down in the ocean at 5 P. M. It doubtless Connecticut and worked for me, \vent Yovember 8". passed over Bridgeport. Cauliflower w-ere first in- 1842 to Montauk, to teach school at Mr. Gould's. troduced in this locality in 1872 by Pulaski IVarren, who keeps the light house, he had $60 paid him for Daniel Phillips and D. F. Osborne. three months. September 4". 1871, he writes: "I am jI years "December 4th and 5". 1840, was a hard snow old and neighbor Charles Howell is 69. IVe went storm, and the fish in Shinnecock Eaj- were chilled. sailing on Shinnecock Bay. Sailed over to the light It was calculated that ~o,oooStriped Bass xere house. Went to the top of it. Had a beautiful view picked up. I bought some IOO lbs. of Harvey Top- of the bay, and beat ever?- sail boat \ve came ir, con- ping for one cent per pound. tact with. Had a delightful sail and a beautiful day. "January 9:'. 1841, I sold mj- flock of 28 sheep Xever enjoyed myself better. Got home at g for $42. o'clock." 'I -April 12", 1841 \\-as a hard snow storm. Tu-o The items given above I have selected from the SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

diary referred to in the beginning of this article, and "September I", sold four loads of wheat to Oliver cover a period of almost one-half of the last century. IVade for $2.70 per bushel." I presume to many they will be of little interest, but I am sure there are others who will appreciate the NOTED LAWSUITS taking of these facts relating to the local history of this community, and compiling them, with the sole In almost every community there have arisen im- idea that they may be preserved. portant questions and disputes, that at last had to be settled in the courts. In our own community sev- -4 few items from the diary of my Father, Koah eral such cases are on record. five of which I will H. Halsey : "In the year 1848, a neighbor died, and mention in this chapter. and include solme incidents a good black walnut coffin cost $10.00, bill for cof- in connection with the lives and careers of some of fin, plate, box, and shroud was $I 5.75- About this the men who took an active part in these trials. time is an account of 'beef sold at New London for In the chapter on "Mills and Millers" I stated 6 cents per pound, and sheep for 2 8r $ cents per that in the early part of the last century there stood pound'. May a3rd, 1848. the fishing company two wind mills on the Triangular Commons in caught at one draught at North Side ~,ooo.ooofish Bridgekainpton. by estimztion, it took one week to cart them, and In 1836 or 1837 Judge -\braham T. Rose bought they measured 8~O,OOO. May Sth, IS50. they caught one of these. and a company consisting of Messrs. 46j.000 at one draught. -April 17th. 185I, bought Hiram Sandford. Kathaniel Topping, David Pier- 8 sheep and 5 lambs of Thomas Cooper, 13 in all, son and Smith S. Topping bought the other, and for $10.00, or 77 cents per head. December 25th. moved it to Poxabogue, \vhere they placed it in the iS5 j. it began to snow, and sleighing lasted until highway in front of the property of Paul Tapping. the last of February. March aIst, 1Sj6. one fox a little way south of his house. (See 1850 mapi. 2nd two dogs crossed Noyack Bay fro111 Doctor's Topping forbade them to leave it there, but they Banks to Jessup's Neck, on the ice. No plowing paid no regard to his protests, and he, having no was done this year until the 14th of ,4pril, because money to defend his rights, had to submit. Here of the frost in the ground. it stood and was in actual use for about five years, "1869, February 16th, caught Two Raccoons: when in 1842, Colonel Hervey Hedges, (the son- Feb. zoth, one; March st, two; March 3rd, seven; in-law of Paul Topping) furnished the necessary March Sth, four ; March I ~th,one ; making 17 Rac- money, and Topping began suit against the above coons in less than one month. named company. This trial is known in our local "18j7, 27 snow storms this winter, had sleighing history as "The Sagg Mill Case or Cause". between two and three months. This case has been xritten up by several local "July 2" of this year thermometer stood at 55 historians. and referred to many times, so I do not degrees. propose to repeat \\-hat these men have already writ- "1863. March 20" Annie, Louise and D. ten. No one of these writers, hen-ever, has given were all baptized at home by the Rev. Mr. Bangs. the actual facts or account of this trial, and 1 have "I 865. On Wednesday, September 20", iVilliam often wondered as to why they had not. and because D. went to schoul for the first time." of this fact I wish to give in this article an abridged This was in the old school house in Dis. KO. 18. account of this trial, and name sonle of the men and I am sure that I remember that day. I sat in who took an active part in it. I am quite sure that, the front seat on the south side of the aisle, and I except the original copy of the proceedings, it has think C. \V. Dickinson taught school. He had a never been written or published. large slate on which he drew the picture of a pig, In an account of this trial written by Mr. IVil- with a piece of chalk. I imagine this kept me quiet liam S. Pelletreau. who though usually very correct, for a time. in this case \\-as in error. He says the case u-as "1866. The thermometer registered on January "tried before Judge Selah B. Strong". The fact is, 8" of this year, 10 degrees below zero, almost all Mr. Strong was an attorney in the case, but llct the day." Judge. as I I\-ill explain later. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTOLZY

Mr. Charies I-I. Hildreth also wrote an accollnt of "Judge Ruggles in charging the jury, said in part : this matter. which I think is reliable and authentic. There is a general principle, not controverted here, for he lived in that locality at that time and was that wherever there is a highway, the public have an eye-witness to the \+-holeaffair. an easement merely, and the fee belongs to the ad- Mr. Hildreth says : "The Poxabogue Cemetery at joining owner. This is on the principle, that this that time was common land. that is, it belonged to land was originally taken from his land, or his the Town, and that there was a road on three sides ancestor's. of it. and that those on the east and west sides came "It is a rule of convenience also, that the public, together at the northwest corner of Mr. Haney's when they have done with it, should not own it. The lot, leaving quite a vacant place at the sou~hend of Plaintiff has shown himself the owner of the land the Grave Yard (see 18jo map), where the Town adjoining this highway. The presumption of law Trustees granted a Mill Site. If they had placed is, that he runs to the middle. The Defendants, then, the Mill there, it might have stood there undisturbed. inust show that there is a title in some other. LVe but they placed it on the highway in front of Paul find the Defendants there, indeed, but as mere squat- Topping's property, and quite near the fence." ters. without lease, without permission, without The case was tried at Riverhead at the Suffolk right. The burden of this proof falls on the De- Circuit of the Supreme Court, before the Hon. fendant. They must show title in someone else. Charles H. Ruggles. Circuit Judge. G. Miller was First, they have set up a title in the Trustees. and attorney for the Plaintiff. Selah B. Strong and W. have shown an old Patent. There is no proof that P. Buffett attorneys for Defendants. this Patent granted this land, nor. that it has come "The follo\ving jurors were impannelled : John regularly to them from it. On the contrary, there Barto, Islip. John Youngs, Riverhead. Peter Dick- is proof, that Sagg was then settled and apportioned, erson, Shelter Island. Jeremiah Terry, Riverhead. and the Patent only confirms these appropriations. JIulford Osborn, Brookhaven. Nicoll Youngs. Riv- "The Patent then fails them. Next, they have erhead. -4bel Corwin, Jr., Riverhead. Henry Wil- shown certain acts of ownership by the old Trustees. liams, Huntington. Philetus C. Jarvis, Huntington. The Court does not think these acts sufficient to Joshua B. Smith, Huntington. Henry K. Townsend. show title. They are not acts coupled with posses- Brookhaven and John W. Woodhull, Riverhead. sion, and regard to the sale to Captain Halsey. (I "Nicoll Youngs was challenged by Plaintiff's omit the next two paragraphs, as they simply cite counsel. The first two jurors were sworn as triors. illustrations). (In law a trior was a person appointed by the Court "The Trustees certainly have done a good :nany to examine whether a challenge to a juror \\-as just). acts about these highways, but how and by what The Triors decided that he was competent. authority they did them, does not exactly appear. "Mr. Miller opened the case for the Plaintiff, and The Defendants set up these acts, as evidence of stated that this was an action of ejectment brought title. The Court does not think them sufficient. to recover a piece of land. being 40 feet in every They should show something more to make out a direction from the center of a certain LtTind Mill, fee. LC In 1726, the commissioners found this an old standing on the highway in the village of Sagg, in the Town of Southampton, the Plaintiff o~vning road, and ascertained its width. They called the land adjoining the high~vay.on which the said Mill spot from Abraham Pierson's north 8 poles wide all stood. the way, except the crook left out by Stanborough. "Then follo\vs the evidence proving the Plaintiff's There is nothing, therefore, to prevent the colnmon ownership of this adjoining land. Which he does law principle from applying to this highway. prove. "Has this been changed or altered by _Acts of "The Defendants claimed title in the Trustees of Legislation? The Court regrets that older ,Acts have the Proprietors of the common land of the Town. not been produced. The oldest shown here is that and that they had the power to grant or convey of 1813. The first section of this -4ct authorizes the common land, not subject to the adjoining owners, commissioners to lay out roads etc, and regulate the and that fro111 an old Patent. manner. But in the ~2ndsection, It is provided. SKETCHES FROAC LOC-IL HISTORY

that all roads that shall have been used as public regard to the ownership and control of high\\-ays by highways for twenty years or more, next preceding adjoining owners, in case of closed or discontinued the ~1stday of March, 1797, shall be taken and roads. that is cited to this day in the courts. deemed public highways. (The above is quoted from the published account "The Court is inclined to think that this road, of this trial compiled by Judge -Abraham T. Rose.) Sagg Street, comes under the provision of this Sec- tion, and that if discontinued, under this -Act of A Juror In The Foregoing Case 1813, it would revert to the owners of the adjoining One of the jurors in the foregoing case was Peter land. The Act of 1830 has altered the provisions Dickerson, of Shelter Island. This Inan \\-as the of the previous -Act, in regard to this matter, ant1 ancestor of the present family now living there, in conformity with the principles of the comlnon bearing that name. law. He \vas an industrious and thrifty fanner, a lllall "In the case of laying out a road no\$--,there is no with a distinct individuality. He never had to de- provision for a full value to be paid to the owner pend upcn some other man to assist him in forn~ing of the land, only the damages, and in discontinuing an opinion on any subject. I am confident from the road, the land would revert to the adjoining what I can learn concerning his character, he ~uust owner. It appears that where the Nil1 stands, the have made an ideal juror in that noted case. highway is now more than 8 rods wide. The clues- He was a man that never paid strict attention to tion arises, to whom does this surplus belong? Is his ~ersonalappearance, nor catered to the varying there a strip of land between the highway and Top- styles in the fashions of dress. It was said he us- ping's land, that does not belong to the highway? ually used a piece of rope for a belt to hold his coat There is none. Topping cannot advance his fence. about him, and he did not hesitate to go away from The public have acquired the right to all the land as home in this costume, so to a stranger he would give a highway. And from the acknowledgement of the impression of being destitute, and a subject of Henry Topping, the ancestor of the Plaintiff, as to poverty. the boundary, and from the old cart or carriage He went to Kew York at one time and visited the track under the Mill, it would evidently appear that stock yards, thinking he might find some bargains the Mill is on the highway. To Recapitulate: ai the sales. -At that time almost all of the stock "First, The Plaintiff has shown his title, and ac- had to be driven to the city on foot. and where they cording to that he is entitled to the fee to the middle were driven hundreds of miles would sonletinles get of the highway. tc market in poor condition, and unfit to kill. In "Seccnd: The Court is of the opinion that the such cases. these herds or flocks were often bought acts of ownership as exercised by the Trustees, do by farmers at reduced prices. to feed until fat enough not make out title, connected with all of the circ~m- for the shambles. stances of the case: and regards the question as a On this occasion a flock of sheep was offered. question of strict right. If the Plaintiff recovers with the privilege of taking one or as many as the the fee. and the Mill with it, he will have no right buyer wanted. The auctioneer called for bids. Peter t~ keep her there, for he xvould be subject to prose- stood looking on, and then bid fifty cents per head. cution for so doing. He ~villmerely be entitled to The auctioneer looked at him, noted his uncouth ap- be put in possession of the land, subject to the pub- pearance. and as a joke. said: "It is yours: ho\\- lic easement." many do you want ?" Peter replied : "I xi11 take the "The jury retired, and in about one half an hour, whole flock," and proceeded to pull out his roll of came into the cgurt with a verdict for the Plaintiff. bills to pay for them. Upon this verdict, a jud,ment has been entered up. "I guess not." said the auctioneer. "YOU cannot and a writ of possession issued, by which the Plain- have them at such a price, it \\-as simply a joke." tiff has been put into possession of the Mill." He was about to offer them again, when Dickerson This Mill was afterward torn down. This trial said. "I have bcught those sheep, and can pay for was heid September 7th and 8th, 184-3. them, and what is more I am going to have them. The result of this case established a precedent in and if you dare to sell even one of them, you 11-iil SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY find yourself in trouble, for I will take it into the from some port where a penalty for crime awaited courts." them. These nlen had no money saved up with Dickerson got his sheep without delay. His ap- which to buy an outfit for a long voyage, so the pearance had misled the auctioneer, who thought owners n-ould advance, and charge to their respec- him a poor man. tive accounts. as a lien on the prospective voyage, Another Juror In The Same Case such as, clothes, wearing apparel and shoes as they -4bel Corwin, Jr., was another juror in the same needed. case. He was rather a matter-of-fact kind of man, Then, after getting this outfit, if they could run and not sentimental in the least. Some may have away it would be clear gain for them. The ship called him cold blooded, and lacking in natural af- owners were obliged to keep a sharp watch on them, fection; but I have never heard but that he was a and many times they were taken on shipboard in- kind neighbor and a good citizen. toxicated and in a quarrelsonle mood, and often He had a neighbor. who had the misfortune of were so bad that they were handcuffed and confined having sickness enter his family. resulting in the below decks. until partially sober. Then they ~vould death of his wife. Mr. Corwin sympathized with \\ant to fight the other sailors and make trouble his neighbor, and attended the funeral. This Inan generally. cried and moaned, and groaned over the loss of his This made it very unpleasant not only for the rest helpmate, and to such an extent, that it disgusted of the crew. who \\-ere decent, but often times illore Cor~vin.and at last after having lost all patience so for the officers. with him he turned to him and said : "IVhat are you On one voyage out of Sag Harbor, Captain -In- making such a devilish fuss about? You are cer- drew Jennings had just such a crew as I ha~ede- tainly making a d-n fool of yourself. \\-hy. man, scribed, and \\-as obliged tc work the ship down bay you have only lost one wife. I have had four al- a.nd out past Montauk, with his officers and a lot of ready. KO one wants to hear your noise. Go out boys, who were going to sea for the first tiine. and get another, and keep still, there are plenty of He had these bad fellows shut below, and as they them. and stop all of this nonsense." sobered up, he allowed one to come on deck at a time. and after he had been given a sufficient amount of discipline, and he realized that Jennings was cap- A MUTINY tain, there would be no more trouble fro111 that man. During that period which covers the no st pros- This was continued until the 11-hole cotnpanq- were perous days of the whaling industry on eastern Long in subjection. Island, almost every boy with any ambition left Captain Jennings was not a man to be run over, home at an early age and shipped as cabin ho\- or as and all knen- that he was Commander. In the ac- cornnion sailor, and these were wanted, for. as an count of this particular voyage Captain Jennings old captain once said: "The best crew that ever 11-rote home to the ow-ners, and told them what a sailed on a whale ship out of Sag Harbor. \\-as made hard time he had had 11-ith that crew, and said: "If up of young men from the Haniptons." and the you had raked Tophet and sifted the ashes, you reason of this was, that they went with a purpose. could not have found another such gang." (Cap- The officers of necessity had to be men brought tain Jennings lived in Ha!- Ground, on place mark- up in the business, with many years of experience, ed Luther Halsej- on ISSO map). not only as sailors. but especially as whalemen. In the stoq- I an1 about to relate, I do not propose Solnetirnes the owners of these ships. would for the to give my own personal views or opinion. but rather sake of economy ship as part of the crew stex-edores to present the t\\-o sides as tcld to me by the men of and sailors from Sen- 1Yrk City. who took no in- that day, some favoring one side and some the other. terest whatever in making a prosperous voyage. for The whaling barclue Oscar, 11-as bought in Sew they 11-ere at home and contented anywhere. 1-ork, by Huntting Cooper in 1844. and \\-as of 339 Some of these men were desperate characters. tons burden. This vessel sailed on October 3Ist. often shipping for a whaling voyage. because it 1844. for the Crozettes or South ;itlantic, in com- \vould isolate them, and take and keep then1 away mand of Captain Isaac Ludlou-, of Bridgehamptton. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Jeremiah Eldridge of Sag Harbor was first mate. did not figure in this affair, and assist him in quell: (I have not been able to ascertain the names of the ing this disturbance without carrying it to such a crewr, owing to the fact that the records were burn- tragic ending. ed) except Andrew Gilbride, of Sag Harbor, Oscar Captain Charles A. Pierson claimed that there Brown, of Bridgehampton, and the unfortunate was at this time a United States Man-of-war lying member, Leonard -4. Curtis, of New York. in the harbor of Ilha Grande, and that Captain Lud- While in the port of Ilha Grande, (just south of low should have called for help from this ship, if Rio Janeiro) the crew was allowed shore liberty. he could not handle these men himself, and let them On August 18th. 1845, they returned to the barque. settle the difficulty, and not have taken it into his drunk. and in a fighting mood, resenting grievances own hands as he did, or perhaps, shot to cripple the claimed to have been suffered on the outward man and not to kill him. bound voyage. Headed by Leonard A. Curtis, who This was one man's opinion. On the other hand, shipped from New York, they mutinied and came Captain Benjamin H. Halsey, (who had been com- aft in a body. Captain Ludlow stood in the com- mander of a whale ship for years, and a man of ex- panion way. Curtis, armed with an axe, ascended cellent judgment), said, in commenting on this case the ladder to the poop deck. He was ordered to go at the time of the trial: "If Captain Ludlow is con- back, by Captain Ludlow, but, drunk and desperate, victed in this case, I will never again set my foot on disobeyed the command. The Captain procured a a whale ship." William Foster, who went with rifle from the cabin, and shot Curtis, killing him in- Captain Ludlow on his next voyage, heard him tell stantly. The American Consul took charge of the the story to another captain, and said that Curtis whale ship and sent her home. was drunk and desperate, and that he had to shoot The ship arrived in Sag Harbor November ~~th,to save his own life, and that Curtis said as he ad- 1845. Captain Ludlow and his crew, were taken to vanced, "I have driven one man over the taffrail, New York by a United States Marshal, and held and I will drive you over the same way." It was a for trial, where he was acquitted of the charge of sad and extremely unfortunate incident for all par- murder. All the possessions of the crew, and prob- ties concerned, captain, crew and ship owners, for ably the ship's papers were taken from the Oscar, it cut the voyage short, and made what promised to and stored in Huntting Cooper's shipping office, and be a prosperous and money-making adventure, a fi- were destroyed by the big fire in Sag Harbor No- nancial failure, for the ship was out of con~mission vember 13th~1845. for a long time, in fact many months, and the crew On this voyage 700 barrels of whale oil, and 5600 were all held for the trial. Ibs. of bone were taken, valued at $9,000. Captain The Hon. Abraham T. Rose defended Ludlow at Barney Green took the Oscar out on her next voy- the trial in New k-ork. Some say it was Judge age. Captain Ludlow went one more voyage, in the Rose's greatest case, and he proved himself a most Arabella, to the Pacific, and made a fairly success- competent and able attorney, and if ever a man used ful voyage. The only man he-had with him on this his entire strength of mind, soul and body in de- last voyage from this locality was William Foster, fending the life of another, it was he. Even then he of Water Mill, who went as boat-steerer in the Cap- won his case by a very close margin. tain's boat. It established a bad precedent for Ludlo~v,for af- I have been told that Captain Ludlow was a high ter this affair he had great difficulty in getting me11 tempered, passionate man, and one that acted almost to ship with him. But few men are living today that as if insane when angry, and an arrogant, proud remember the incident, and they were quite young and dictatorial officer, yet very ignorant and a cow- at that time. I will say it is from these men that I ard at heart. His crew were doubtless a rough and learned many of the facts in this case, and confirmed brutal class of men. He unquestionably had a very the story as I heard it related by the older men when serious problem to contend with, but I have wonder- I was a boy. (For location of homes of both Cap- ed where his officers were at this time, that they tain Ludlow and Judge Rose, see map for 1850). SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

"The Fox Case" or "Pierson vs. Post." Another Noted Lawsuit -At the southerly end of Sagg, on the map for On the map for 18jo may be seen on the north 1800, may be seen the location of the home of Jesse side of Hedges Lane in Swponack the location of Pierson. It was he that became the noted school the home of Colonel Hervey Hedges. He was a teacher for so many years in Sagg. His father was man of sterling integrity, upright and just in all of David, and I think, lived in the same homestead. his business dealings, a man whose word was just On the map of the same date, on the southerly side of the Main Road in Bridgehampton, just east as good as his bond. His was an enviable record of the "Beach Road," may be seen the location of throughout the entire community. A man formerly the home of Nathan Post and his son, Lodowick. from Amagansett, about the beginning of the Civil In the year 1803 Nathan Post died, and the place War, sold a horse to Col. Hedges. This horse fell to Lodowick, who in 1817 exchanged this farm proved to be very unlike, in many ways, to the one with John Pierson for the latter's farm in Poxa- he reasonably expected, judging from the recom- bogue (see 1800 map). mendation as given by this man. The incident in question, which resulted in the The animal mas so unsatisfactory, that after al! lawsuit, must have taken place before 1803, and efforts for a peaceful settlement had proven futile, while the Posts were living in Bridgehampton. I Colonel Hedges resorted to the law for justice. Both think the date should be about I 796. In relating Hedges and the other party were members of the this story I am quoting from the account as given Presbyterian Church in Bridgehampton. Hedges by the late Judge Henry P. Hedges. never presumed to shine as a bright light religiously, "Jesse Pierson, son of David, coming from -4ma- while the other man made himself very prominent gansett saw a fox run and hide down an unused in all branches of church work. well near Peter's Pond, (see same map for Pond) Henry P. Hedges was a young attorney at that and killed and took the fox. Lodowick Post and a time, and defended the Amagansett man, and won company with him were in pursuit and chasing the the case against Hedges. This lawsuit created no fox, and saw Jesse with it, and claimed it as theirs. little interest and excitement, but what hurt Hedges while Jesse persisted in his claim. was the fact that he knew he was right, the decision "Captain Pierson said his son, Jesse, should have of the court nothwithstanding, and that he had been the fox and Captain Post said the same of his son, swindled by this man. Worse than that, the good Lodowick, and hence the lawsuit contested and ap- brethren of the church did not come to his support, pealed to the highest court in the State, which de- and by their silence indirectly condemned him, while cided that Post had not got possession of the fox, the other, by his brazen activity in all things relig- when Pierson killed it and that he had no property ious, won the comment that threw the doubt, if any, in it as against Pierson, until he had reduced it into in his favor. his own possession. This was too much for a man of Hedges' char- "This became the leading case often cited, because acter to stand; if the public, especially his brethren it established, and I think for the first time, by the in the church, would not uphold him, not even tak- court of last resort in the State, that to give an indi- ing the whole past record of his life as the basis of vidual right in wild animals, the claimant must cap- their opinion, but rather listen and give heed to the ture them. word and oath of a character guilty of abusing and "To the public the decision was worth its cost, even assaulting his own father, then he was done To the parties, who each expended over one thous- with them. and pounds, the fox cost very dear." He never went into the church again. until he Here is an illustration where almost $~o,ooowas was taken there for his funeral. The good deacons paid as the result of stubbornness and self-will to and elders often labored with him, trying to per- gain the possession of an article worth perhaps suade him that he should forgive and forget, but to $2.00. This is a case strictly local in its beginning, no avail. He had fought his fight. At last the min- but which became Sate-wide in influence and ef- ister used all of his persuasive powers to influence fect. him, and finally asked him: "Why won't you come SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY back to the church and worship with the brethren under the Laws of the State of Sew with a as formerly?" In reply he quoted a couplet from a capital of $~OO,OOOdivided into ~o,oooshares of hymn of Isaac IVatts : $jo each. It was thought that about three fourths of the "Blest be the man that shuns the place. bay bottom was suitable for the planting of oysters. Where sinners love to meet." There are almost 1,200 acres covered by the bay, The last of his days he spent quietly on his farin, and the company thought that after the first year and died respected and honored by all. The other they could pay 7% dividends on the capital stock. character lived long, left a record, and died "un~vept. This sounded very- good, but the public soon real- unhonored and unsung." ized that unless they took some action in this matter Judge Henry P. Hedges told me in after years, they might lose the rights they had heretofore held in commenting on this case, that "he thought at the and enjoyed. time, the man he defended was right, and that Hed- In 1882 at a sale of undivided lands advertised ges was simply a poor judge cf a horse, but he by the Trustees of the Proprietors, Mecox Bay was learned afterward that this man lied 'notoriously'." sold to R. Esterbrook, Jr., \IT.H. H. Kogeis and I write this not to slander or blaspheme the name Theron 0. Iiorth for $2,000 and it coll~prisedall or memory of this man, but rather, to exonerate, land under ~vaterof llecos Ray and of tile creeks of uphold and defend the good character of Hedges, said bay as the same are covered at ordinary lo\\- who was "every inch a man." water. The Directors of the Oyster Co. when incorporat- ed were as follows: Stephen E. French. Pres.; MECOX BAY OYSTER CASE James hfattheu-s, \:ice Pres. ; Frank T. Robiils011, The fact that oysters abounded in hIecox Bay at Chandas Fulton, Richard Esterbrook, Jr., Treasui- a very early date is undisputed, in fact, I think they er: Frank ;Zllin, Everett -A. Carpenter, Sec. & -Attor. were found there in abundance at the time of the -At a Town Meeting held in 1883, the Trustees first settlement. As early as the year 1801 the rec- were authorized to employ counsel to obtain an opin- ords show that the Town Trustees rented land under ion in this matter. and the men so emi~loyed\\-ere water in this bay for planting oysters. but at this Judge Carter, President of the Sew 1-ork City Bar very time the privilege of taking these shellfish from .\ssociation, and Judge Young, County Judge of any portion of this bay was believed and held to be Suffolk County. The next year or in 1854, at a the right of any citizen of this township. Daniel To~vnMeeting Five Thousand dollars was appro- Hildreth, in his diary writes of taking 40 bushels of priated to litigate the right of the Town to the bay oysters in one day, and selling them for 25 cents per botton?~. bushel. This case was tried in the Supreme Court at Riv- Right here was the beginning of trouble between erhead before Judge Edgar 11. Cullen. Oct. a6t11, those who rented land under water and planted 1885, n-ho decided in favor of the To~vn. It was oysters and those who claimed the bay to be free then appealed and tried before the Court of Appeals for all citizens. The renters, however, soon gave in, Oct. 18th. 1559, which court affirmed the fornler and for many years the bay was considered free decision. the defendants having to pay the costs fishing ground. which amounted to $719.64. This settled the right -About the year 1882 "The hlecox Eay Oyster for all time of the residents and citizens of South- Company. Limited" was organized and incorporated ampton Town to fish in these waters. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

SCHEDULE OF VOTES IN SUFFOLK COUNTY

Number of Votes for Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Senators canvassed at the Secretary's Of- f ce May zgth, I 79-3.

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

East Hampton 67 I 67 66 67 67 69 1

Shelter Island 8 2 7 10 5 8 10

Southampton 146 8 111 8 141 13 84 116 I Ijj I

Southold 116 j 107 118 I j 4 I23

Riverhead 21 16 20 13 g 28 2 2 38 1

Brookhaven 50 93 47 91 38 145 71 25 30 13 I3 1 I47

Smithtown 16 2j 30 11 9 29 2j 9 10 I 42

Islip 10 14 8 12 4 23 I4 I2 24

Huntington 47 64 81 13 3 77 23 4 2 45 I I 12

SCATTERING VOTES

Shelter Island-John Jay 2 votes for L. Govn. Brookhaven-Matthew CIarkson 77 for Senator. Southampton-Matthew Clarkson I for Senator. Smithtown-Clarkson 10 for Senator, Tredwell Southold-John Jay 5 for I,. Govn. r for Govn. Riverhead-Matthew Clarkson 2 for Senator, I. Islip-Roosevelt I for Senator. N. Havens I for Senator. Huntington-Roosevelt 29. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

ITEMS OF LOCAL HISTORICAL INTEREST

In this chapter I propose to name or mention a father of Gabriel, and son of Nathaniel, and grand- few items that may not be of any real value, but son of Nathan. may to a certain extent be of interest sufficient to David Sayre of the 1800 map, on Butter Lane put on record. married a Gelston, had son Stephen of hlitchel's The Seapoose or outlet of Mecox Bay was form- Lane, and grandson David of Butter Lane, and was erly at "Old Route", nearly, but not quite opposite the great-grandfather of the Stephen on the 1850 the southerly end of Sam's Creek. It was near map. Jehu's Pond in Scuttle Hole was named from enough, for seas coming in at high tide would flow an Indian of that name who had a boy child drowned up this creek. The John Osborne farm on Parson- there. age Lane was formerly church, or parsonage prop- With the railroad came another and much greater erty. Hence the name "Parsonage Lane". market for potatoes, until this crop became the most Capt. Ezekiel Curry built the house on Butter important one grown in this section. Menhaden Lane, later owned by Capt. Samuel Pierson, and still fisheries, which were the mainstay for farmers as later by his brother, Charles A. Pierson. Capt. far as fertilizers were concerned, and carried on in Curry was a sea captain and followed the tvhaling both ocean and bays, by means of shore seines, grad- industry at first, but later was engaged in the mer- ually became unprofitable because the purse seines chant service, and sailed ships in the foreign trade. never allowed the fish to get very near the shore. He married Elvira, sister of Daniel and Hernlan The great herds of cattle and sheep thzt formerly Woodruff. were driven to Montauk for summer pasturage, bc- The John Leek farm on Snake FIollou~ Road came a thing of the past, and the farms beca~ne (1850) was later owned by Albert Ha!sey, now by market gardens, where they were in earlier days the McNamara family. cattle and sheep ranches. Solomon Gray followed David Topping as keeper With the passing of these herds, fences became a of the Bull's Head Tavern. Gray died quite young, useless asset to the farm. These and the ditches theri Richard Gelston married his w-idow and be- began to disappear not only dong the highways, but came the next landlord of the Tavern. ( I 8jo map). the line fences between farms were removed, and William Fordham, blacksmith, on this same map, used for the most part for fire-wood. was brother of -Andrew, school teacher, and son of People in general became careless and indifferent John Fordham, blacksmith of Hay Ground, (1800 in the care and protection of the forests against the map). The Kat. Topping house in Poxabogue ravages of forest fires, and flattered themselves with (1850) was formerly owned by John N. Hedges, the idea that coal would always be cheap. who inherited it from his uncle, John Norris. Hed- The Bridgehampton Creamery started busiiless ges afterward bought the Howell property on Ocean under quite favorable circumstances, but potatoes Road, now known as the Beach House. appeared more profitable, so the creamery went The cattle pound on 1850 map, was located of business. there for many years, and then moved to the north- During the entire history, and as late as 1875, east comer of Jetur Bishop's farm, on Butter Lane. oxen were in general use on the farms, that is, with Sylvanus Ludlow bought his place of his brother but few exceptions. every farmer had one or more Jeremiah, who later located on Ocean Road. yokes of oxen. These for the most part did the The Jesse Woodruff farm on Mitchel's Lane heavy draft work. A few horses were always kept (1850) was later owned by Capt. Edward Halsey, for lighter farm work and for use on the road. and still later by George H. Miller. Colts were raised on the farms in sufficient num- The Sheep Pen at Kellis Pond was where the bers to supply the local demand. The finest dairy sheep were driven to wash before shearing, as was cows in the land were to be found in this section, the custom at that time (1850 map). and great numbers were sold to the dairymen on the Daniel Halsey on Butter Lane (1800) ~7asthe western part of this Island. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Beef, pork, mutton and wheat were shipped to Mrs. Abigail Squires, who was Miss Abigail Brown, Kew London and New York by boat from Sag Har- 2nd lived where Mr. Samuel Strong does at this bor, while butter and eggs were exchanged or bar- time, told me that her mother said, that when a girl, tered for groceries and dry goods with the local there was a pond in this valley, similar to the others merchants. near by. One noted change was the abandonment of the Little Sagg Swamp (1700 map) was quite a large annual Town Meeting, where all matters relating to marsh, but this has gradually filled up and grows the Town's interest could be and were discussed smaller until at the present time it is but a small freely by all, and then voted on. I very much doubt patch of rushes, located to the east of the home of as to whether this was really an improvement. But Alfred R. Topping. I have an idea it would be at this time too unwieldy Lot No. 14 of the 40 acre Division (1679) was to work with satis.faction. drawn by a Mr. Fordham, and was afterward owned On the map for 1700, Nathan Fordham sold his by Isaac Loper, then by his descendants. Jason farm in Mecox, and bought land on the west side Loper left it to his three daughters, Nancy who mar- of what was later the Sag Harbor Turnpike. the ried J. L. Overton and had the homestead, Maria present site of the Brick Yard, and also considerable who married John Stuart and had the lot where the property in Sag Harbor. school house (Dis. No. 18) formerly stood, adjoin- Ellis Cook 'located in ing the E. E. Foster farm ; and Susan who married Mecox in 1668 and had Capt. John Budd and had the lot lying west of the two sons, Ellis and John. Stuart lot, now owned by the heirs of Samuel E. Ellis and located on what Edwards. The site of the house of Jacob Wood on was later the Cook home- the south side of Paul's Lane (Ijoo) was deter- stead on Bay Lane. John mined by an old well that was there until recently, located on the south side when it was filled in by men now living. This Jacob of Kellis Pond, near the Wood house stood some distance west of the present west end of what was Harry King House on the south side of Paul's Lane. later Paul's Lane. Ellis Eut near the west of the Colonel Levi Howell prop- died young. and later erty (later Nathan Post) there was another house, John left his home and that was the homestead of Thomas Sandford. This DEACON JOHN COOK went to live on the Ellis site is quite plainly marked even to this day. 1722-1804 Cook place, and made it Capt. Josiah Topping (1700 map) whose home his permanent hotne, and this remained in the Cook is located in Hay Ground, was the man who estab- family until recently. lished this homestead and was the father of Deacon David Corwithe of Mecox lived there about I 700, Josiah and John. I think he owned all of the land on what was called at a later date Rufus Rose's west of Hay Ground Road from the farm of the late Lane. he had a farin and kept a store, he was the Herman R. Halsey extending almost to what was ancestor of the family of that name in this com- later Baker's Lane. John Topping, Capt. Josiah's munity; his old ledger is in existence still, rum ap- son, had three daughters, Hannah, Phebe and Mary ; pears to be the comlllodity dealt in more than any Hannah married David Cook (blacksmith) and they other article. It is not known just where Benoni had the northerly portion of the old homestead (in Kewton lived, but he did own the land where his 1850 owned by Edwin M. Rogers) they had sons name is written on the map for 1700, and it is very Nathan Topping Cook, father of Alanson, and Sam- probable that his hoime was there. uel, father of Albert and Sullivan. and others, but Where Elias Cook is located on what is now I only mention these. Phebe married Timothy Ocean Road, was the homestead of the ancestors of Halsey, and lived in Bridgehampton; they had sotls Baldwin Cook. Sylvanus, William, Timothy, (Master Tim) Elisha It will be noted that there is a pond in Scuttle and others. Phebe inherited that portion of her Hole that only shows on the 1700 map; it is to the father's estate owned in 1850 by Orlando Rogers. north of Jehu's Pond. My authority for this is that This property went to her son Sylvanus, who prob- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY ably built the house, and Sylvanus left this place to Thomas Baster, ~vhomI think lived in a house nea: his grandson Richard Rogers, father of Orlando. this place. This Sylvanus was the Revolutionary soldier. Wil- -4braham Baker was the man from whom Baker's liam stayed on the Bridgehampton homestead and Lane took its name and also Baker's orchard. was father of Oliver Halsey. Mary married John Daniel IVoodruff on Mitchel's Lane \\-as a store Rogers, and had that portion of the estate now the keeper as well as a drover, or dealer in live stock. farm of James H. Rogers. They probably built a His place was the first stop made by the New York house that stood near the site of the present dwelling. stage coach, in Bridgehampton, on its trip east. On They had a son, John Topping Rogers, who lived this place was a tall flag staff from the top of which there in 1800. He married Sarah, daughter of the a flag or waft was displayed, upon the arrival of the Rev. James Brown, and had son Nathan Rogers. the stage coach. and also to notify his custon~ersthat artist, who also built the Hampton House. There they could call for their money, as he had returned was another son, Josiah, (1800 map) who was the from a trading trip, and \\-as ready to make settle- father of Euclid, of Sag Harbor, and Charles who ment. stayed on his father's farm in Hay Ground (see 1800 Lot Called Potash map). David Cook and Hannah later sold their farm to their nephew, Elisha Halsey, brother of What was formerly a s\vamp, and at this time a Sylvanus, and grandfather of -4ddison 31. Cook. marsh where the water stands at allnost every season This Elisha was the soldier of 1812. David Cook of the year, on the southeast corner of Sagaponack then bought the farm on the Snake Hollow Road Road and Ocean Road in Bridgehampton, has always (see 1800 map) later owned by John Leek, now been known and called "Potash." I find there are McNamara ( 1850 map). many residents who do not know the reason for this Timothy Halsel- (Master Tim) owned the place name. though it really seems as if they ought. This land is at this time the Bridgehampton Golf Grounds. in Scuttle Hole marked to him in 1800. and to Jeremiah Haines in 1850. At a meeting of the Southampton Ton-n Trustees held October 8th. 177 I. "it was voted that -\braha111 The silversmith shop on Sagg Street ( I 750 map! was owned by a man named Sayre; I think it mas Rose, John Halbart (Hulburt), and David Gilston either Job or James, the silver-ware is marked "J. (Gelston) may and shall have liberty to set up a Sayre." house at or near the northwest corner of James The sheep fold in Hay Ground was a large pen in Hildreth hcm (home) lot of land to make pot ash which the general flock was yarded at the time when in to be to them so long as they shall carry on that the roads and highways were pastured; this general business." See map of Bridgehampton for the year flock was made up of the many individual flocks 1700. owned about the town and attended by a hired Picking Bayberries shepherd, who watched and cared for the flock for In the early days of this Township, everything six days in the week, during the pasture season. that could be utilized and so help to meet the needs This flock was farmed or hired out to the highest of the family was saved and used. Then as now. bidder over Sunday. Each owner had their indi- bayberries grew wild everywhere but especially on vidual ear marks for identification, these marks the common land, and people gathered these for the were all recorded in the Town Clerk's Office. wax or tallow from which they made a very fine Zachariah Sandford I think built his house on the grade of candles. which were kept for use when Brick Kiln Road: this. and the Lewis Sandford company came and they wanted something extra house were built and placed where they were instead nice. For common use they used candles made from of on Huntington Path. frcm the fact that water beef tallow. could be found at a depth of ao feet, whereas on the The demand for bayberries at this time must have road ~nentionecithey would have to have gone down been very great. for at a meeting of the Town Trus- 120 feet. tees held -August I rth, 1772. it was voted and or- Baster's Water, on the westerly side of the Mill dered that "Jvhereas the gathering of bayberries be- Pond at JVater Sfili, prcbably took its name from fore the!- come to maturity is thought to be a hurt SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

and damage to this community to prevent the which farm. Harriet, who never married, and Charlotte, for the future it is enacted by said Trustees that there who married Daniel Burr of Connecticut. TEle elder shall not be any Bayberries gathered by any person Lemuel Pierson married Elizabeth Pierson, the whatsoever before and until the Twentyeth day of daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth Pierson. They September on penalty of eight shillings for every had another daughter who married William Halsey person that is found gathering said bayberries on (smoking Bill) father of Oliver Halsey. Still an- any part of the common land." other daughter who married Jesse Halsey of Sag Harbor. Tradition states that to each of these Stocks Built in Bridgehampton daughters, he gave as a wedding present, a grand- I suppose even at that time there had to some way father's clock, and a silver cup or mug. One of to punish violators of the law. At a meeting of the these clocks and mugs is now in the possession of Town Trustees held December 14th. 1784, it \\;as Mrs. Caroline Cook Stoots. "Voted that there shall be a pare (pair) of Stocks Peter's Pond in Sagg was named either from provided at Bridgehampton at the Towns Cost by Peter Hildreth, who owned land near it, or else from Colo. Hobart." I am very confident that this name Peter Norris, who lived on the west side of Sagg should be Colonel Hulburt. Street in I 700, on the same place on which Peter These stocks were built by Jeremiah Parker, and Hildreth lived in I 750. the bill allowed him for doing this work was Scuttle Hole is that section of land lying betweell £ a :4s :od. Mitchel's Lane and Wooley's Lane, this section I have never been able to find out just where these included the farm and old bine of Chancellor stocks were placed, but I imagine quite near the Nathan Sandford, the most noted man this Town center or Triangular Commons. ever produced. Xddison M. Cook of Hay Ground, had two ances- It was told by an old resident that it received its tors on his mother's side who bore the same name. name from a peddler, who in telling of a mishap that "Lemuel Pierson" and they both resided in Saga- befell him while on his way to the old Rogers home ponack. The elder of these men lived where Alfred it1 the valley, near the pond. when he either broke P. Rogers does at the present time, or the place down or upset his cart by getting into a slough or marked to Capt. William Pierson (son of Lemuel) hole, on being asked how he got out, replied. 'Oh, I on 1800 map. The other Lemuel lived on the place had to scuttle to do it'. Hence the name, 'Scuttle marked to him on the 1800 map, or to Richard Hole'. Lester on the 1850 map. To distinguish these two Mr. J. T. Adams has quoted this account as I gave men. the one from the other, the last named was it to him, and is correct, but the origin of the poem locally known as "Lemmie on the Hill." His first was from another source than the peddler referred wife was Sarah Hedges, and lived but a short time, to above, and its author has never before been made leaving no children; his second wife was Elizabeth known, and as I believe is only known to a very few Pierson. daughter of the first named Lemuel, and people at this time. I had it directly from a near they had two daughters, Sarah and Hannah, Sarah relative many years ago, who knew all parties con- married a Mr. Howell, and had one son, William. cerned, being contemporary with and personally ac- Hannah married Elisha Halsey of Hay Ground (see quaintecl with the woman who was the real author 1800 map) and had three daughters. Caroline. of the poem I herewith give, but first I wish to give Betsey and Frances. Caroline married Alanson a short explanation as to the cause of its having Cook. and was the mother of ,4ddison M. Cook. and been written, and also some facts of the family his- grandmother of Caroline Cook Stoots. Both de- tory of Miss Caroline Rogers, the woman who wrote scendants of both Lemuels. Lemuel on the Hill it. David Rogers, the grandfather of Caroline, built had a third wife, Mary Rose Clay, of Connecticut, the house in the hollo\v, on the northwest side of and they had four children. First, Maria. who mar- Scuttle Hole Pond, in the year 1786. He had a large ried John Gelston, and after his death married family, among whom was a son, E. Hedges Rogers, Stephen Rose. Second, Mary Clay, who never mar- who inherited the old homestead; he follon-ed in ried; it was from her that Richard Lester bought his the footsteps of his father and also had a large fam- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY ily. There was a marked characteristic in this May Scuttle Hole not a blessing know; family, each one looking out for their own individual While water runs or grass shall grow; interests, and this was carried to such an extent that But evils fall fast as they can, On land accursed by God and man. one of the sisters seei~ledto get in every case a deal that she considered grossly unfair, and I think that The Jud,pent Day is rolling round, this was really true. She was made the 'scape goat' -And Scuttle Hole shall hear the sound Of demons, who shall ring the knell, for the whole family, and while mentally superior And Scuttle Hole go down to H-1." to all of her brothers and sisters, yet everything of an unpleasant nature in every day life was laid to Caroline Rogers was the real author of this poem. her, so that instead of having to stand for her share Captain Edward Topping, whose house was lo- only, she had to take it all. It appeared as if there cated on the north side of Bridgehampton Main was a conspiracy on their part to make her life Street (see 1750 map) was the man who bid "a penny n~ore"when riding past the auction block at miserable. It may have been jealously or envy on the sale of the John Wick's property. This property their part, for we do read that: included all of the land from and including the "Base envy withers at another's joy, Tavern on the corner, to and including what was And hates that excellence it cannot reach." later the Corwith homestead. He put his son -\bra- ham in the Tavern, and he sold his Sagg farm, after This made her young life very unhappy, and this which he made his home on what was later the Cor- treatment from those she knew to be inferior to her with homestead. It was on this place that he shot in mental ability, caused her to lose that spirit of the British soldier, as related in local history. love and affection that should prevail in family life. Mr. James Truslow .\dams states that this same My informer told me; "She was the best of the story was told him in relation to a farm in Sagg. whole family," yet her name I have never heard This came from a party whose kno~vledgeof local mentioned by other members of that family, and for history was not of a high order. I do believe, how- that reason, if no other, I feel it would be unjust for ever, that this story as given in this article is the cor- me at this time not to defend the character of this rect version, for it came from an old man w3o woman, who, so far as I know, never had a mortal to heard it from his ancestors and was very correct in take her part, and to vindicate her character before his statements. a cruel and criticizing world. She may have been high tempered, and no doubt not altogether blame- An Old Assessment Roll for the Year 1805 less in her life, but on the other hand, who is per- The following Assessment Roll was handecl down fect? She had so much to make her life bitter, that from Captain Caleb Howell, of Bridgehampton, at last she rebelled and left home, and as far as I can whose place of residence may be seen on the Map for ascertain, never returned, nor do I believe she ever the year 1800. I have'copied those names with the had a deisire to. Her hatred, not to her relatives amount of their Real and Personal assessment as of alone, but to the very place and locality of her child- the year 180j, that appear on the Map for 1800. I hood home as well, was so bitter and deep seated, am persuaded that this is not a complete list of the that after leaving the place that should have been taxpayers, but it is sufficient to give us a correct idea "The dearest spot on earth" to her, she wrote the as to the valuation placed on both the Real as well following verses, which she called; as the Personal property of the leading men in this locality at that date. "The Curse of Scuttle Hole" Nar~lesof Oztwev Real Personal id Beware all strangers where you roam, Samuel Brown $20.00 Or leave the tranquil bliss of home; Abraham Baker ...... I,j50.00 $I jo.00 Ne'er at the peril of your soul, John Cooper ...... z,zzo.oo gs0.00 Plant foot in cursed Scuttle Hole. John Cook &- Mother 4,000.00 1,300.00 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Na~nesof Owner Red ib'anles of O7prner Red Stephen Cook ...... - z,ooo.oo Price Howell .. 150.00 David Cook & son Samuel- 2,400.00 Caleb Howell 2,000.00 Theophilus Cook 3,000.00 Elisha Halsey - 200.00 Kathan Topping Cook ~,ooo.oo Isaac Hildreth - 1,340.00 Obadiah Cook - 280.00 Daniel Howell & Son -- ...... 1,030.00 Caleb Corwithe ... .. 2, 3jo.00 David Lupton -...-- 1,500.00 Caleb Corwithe, Jr. - 2,950.00 Anthony Ludlarn 3,600.00 Henry Corwithe 3,000.00 Isaac Loper & Sons . 2,360.00 Matthew Cooper 2,j00.00 Jason Loper ---- John Dayton 600.00 James Mitchell 2,000.00 John Edwards & Son I,.>j0.00 -Abraham Mott 300.00 Frederick Edwards 1ao.00 John Norris jW.00 Ililler Edwards . c300.00 John Osborn -- . 4,000.00 Nathan Fordham & Son -- .... 2,jo0.0O Lemuel Pierson, Jr . 2,000.oo John Fordhanl 3 j0.00 David Pierson 2,100.00 Thomas Gelston -...... I, I 50.00 Lemuel Pierson & Son Wil-

Stephen Hedges goo.00 lialn ...... - . 3,000.00 Joshua Howell IOO.QO Abraham Pierson .- 2,200.00 Stephen Howell & Son ....-...... ~,SOQ.O~ Job Pierson ...... 350.00 Elihu Howell 840.00 Theophilus Pierson ...... ~,goo.oo hfoses Howell - .-...... 2,280.00 Matthew Pierson ...... 300.00 Lemuel Haines 350-00 Nathan Pierson I,jo0.00 Timothy Halsey & Son Wm. 2,100.00 John Pierson 2,000.00 Timothy Halsey, Jr . I, 100.00 Lodowick Post 1,900.00 Ethan Halsey 650.00 Elnathan Payne ...... 450.00 Paul Halsey, Jr . I ,230.00 Lemuel Payne ...... Israel Halsey -- 600.00 Jeremiah Parker ...... 500.00 Samuel Halsey - I, 140.00 John Pierson, Jr ..... 120.00 Simeon Halsey ...... 2,900.00 Jesse Pierson ...... Job Haines ...... -...... 900.00 Abraham Rose ...... - 2,500.00 David Haines - I ,000.00 Tohn Topping Rogers ...... ~,ooo.oo Tacob Halsey 970.00 Josiah Rogers -...... 900.00 Jonathan Halsey I ,200.00 William Rogers ...... 3,600.0o Stephen Halsey .. I ,400.00 Jonathan Rogers .... 3,600.00 Gideon Halsey - 2,350.00 David. Rogers ...... 1,600.00 Gideon Hand .. I,WO.OO Benjamln Rogers ...... Daniel Halsey .- 1,400.00 Stephen Ross ...... 1,900.00 Jason Halsey, brother of Moses Rose ..-. 250.00 Daniel .....- Samuel H . Rose ...... I ,680.00 David. Halsey ...... 1,100.00 Rufus Rose .-...... -- ..... 300.00 Barzlllai Halsey .- I ,630.00 Talrnaclge Strong ...... 500.00 Elias Halsey 2,430.00 John Strong -...... 500.00 Jesse Halsey, (Justice) ...... -.... 1,000.oo Elias Sandford, Jr ...... 750.00 Charles White Halsey ....-....- 350.00 James Sayre -...... -..... 1,050.00 -Abigail Halsey & son Jesse I,IOO.OO Stephen. . Sayre ...... I ,800.00 David Hedges ...... -...... 4, IOO.OO Benjamln Sayre ...... 320.00 David Hedges, Jr . - 2,300.00 Lewis Sandford . 800.00 'fiilkes Hedges - .-- 2,200.00 Elias Sandford ...... 1,640.00 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Na~~zesof Omer Real Personal frorn that long neck or point of land called in the Jason Sand ford ... 300.m earlier records "Farringon's Point" and later "Jes- Ezekiel Sandford, farm, sup's Keck." Sylvanus on 1800 Map 2,400.00 (See Map of North Side Division). Esther Wid. James Sandford 400.00 There was doubtless a reason for it being called Hezekiah Sand ford -... I,540.00 "Farrington's Point" but like many other facts in Kathan Sand ford ..---. 2,800.00 local history, those that knew are gone, and the facts Stephen Stanborough -...... -... 7j0.00 were not passed on to later generations, and so have John Squires 200.90 gone in oblivion. I advance the idea that it may Ellis Squires - 600.00 have been named from that Farrin,gton who \\;as Jonathan Squires.- ~00.00 one of the original undertakers or founders of the Sylvanus Squires -...---.- 1jO.00 Southampton Colony, his name being Edmund. or David Topping ---. I ,~~.oo it may have been from John Farrington who joined Matthew Topping z,joo.oo the Colony later. Stephen Topping, Jr. j00.W In 1668 (S. H. R. Vol. 11. p. 241) "John Jen- Stephen Topping, Sr. 650.00 nings was given liberty to fence in a piece of the Stephen Topping 650.00 Sorth Side of Noyack River." And in 1686 Sylvanus Topping ...... 600.00 "Obadiah Rogers was granted the stream at Soyack Ethan Topping & Son 530-00 to set a fulling mill upon." He gave it up and it Seth Topping -- 260.00 was granted in 1690 to John Parker. Jonah Tarbell 1,300.oo (In T. R. Vol. 11, p. 328 : John Parker sells Stephen Taln~adge- ...... -... 280.00 to Theophilus l'liillman, sarge weaver, a stream of John White, Jr. ... 3,600.00 water and 6 acres at Koyack with housing and mill, Jesse Woodruff -...... 500.90 price 70 Pounds. May 5th, 1696.) Silas iVooclruff - .. 2,150.00 Then in 1718 it was again granted to Jonah Rog- Daniel Woodruff I ,200.oo ers. In 1738 it was owned by Charles Rugg, and James White & Sons 3,700.00 as "Rugg's 1Iill". It then was owned for awhile by Silas White . 2.500.00 IVm. -4lbertson. Water Mill (Hedges & Still later it was owned by Gilbert Budcl, and the l'lihite) - 500.00 creek opposite the mill was called Budd's Creek, Peter Hildreth & Son ...... 380.00 and is still known by that name, and the landing on Jonathan Hildreth ... 40.00 the bay to the north, from which cordwoocl was shipped in large quantities in those days, was called The names that do not appear on this map for Budd's Landing. He must have owned quite an 1800 I have not copied. The largest assessment is acreage in this section for the land west of this that of Stephen Howell & Son. which is $5.400. creek mas and is known as "Budd's Lots." The next amount is that of John Cook & Mother .According to the S. H. T. Records John Budd - $5,300. Then David Hedges $4.500. James IVhite came here from Southold, and I think he owned the & Sons $4,500. Then John Osborn $4,200. Largest lots referred to above, and also think he was the on Real Estate was David Hedges $4,100, next I father of Gilbert Budd who afterward o\vned the John Osborn $4,000. Largest on Personal was mill. I will refer to his burial plot later. Stephen Howell & Mother $2.900, next Rufus Rose When this grist mill \\;as first built it was a sniall $2,300. building; this 111ust have stood for a good lllaliy years, and was finally replaced by a nluch larger SKETCHES FROM NOYACK HISTORY building, in fact quite a pretentious structure. I Koyack is a small hamlet about four miles west think this lvas built-by Denison Rogers and extended from Sag Harbor on the south shore of the bay of fro111 near the dam out to the road to the north. It the same name. The word is of Indian origin, and n-as driven by an Overshot water wheel. One of signifies; "-4 point or corner of land," no doubt the sets of stones in this n~illwas made out of native SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

stone, and since my melllory was used as a door creek is a good spring of water, doubtless one reason stone or step at the last mill that stood on this site. for their locating there. This is the creek lying south 1 think the other set of stones was Buhr, probably of the "Foot of the Beach" and extending to the imported. turn in the Noyack road by Silas Bennett's. The Mill house, as it was called, stood on the The location of this village is plainly visible at north side of the road, up the hill and west of the the present time, being marked by extensive shell mill, where there is now a grove of ailanthus trees. beds and mounds, I am of the opinion that both of There was another house built just west and quite these tribes were tributary to the Shinnecocks, and near the Mill house. When this mill was being run, used these camps for summer, and moved back to the om-ner built a windmill below the dam to pump Shinnecock for the winter; one elderly man told me the water, after being used, back over the dam into years ago that he had traced the Indian trail across the pond to be used again. I forgot to mention that the woods where these tribes had beaten the road the house west of the Mill house spoken of above, for many years. and he was firmly convinced that was built and owned by Joseph Rogers, Jonah's son. this was the case. This particular mill and these two houses mere I know that very many of the finest type of stone all destroyed by fire, though not at the same time. ilnplements have been found in this locality. The The mill property then changed hands, and was late iiilliam Wallace Tooker found some of his bought by George E. Barker, who built the last mill. finest specimens about here, and I have many in my He brought the frame froill Connecticut all cut and own collection that were found here. framed from chestnut lumber, and installed a tur- I wish to mention in particular a few of the fam- bine water wheel. After running this mill for a ilies who were prominent in the early history of this number of years, he either sold or leased it to Isaac little hamlet, lest the knowledge I now possess rela- Osborn, and he to Henry Smith, who was miller for tive to them and the part they took in the develop some years, then it went back again to George ment of this section, be lost and forgotten forever, Earker, its former owner, and at last it was bought as has been the case in so many instances, to our h!- h!- T'homas S. Eldredge. regret and sorrow. Let us take the Jessup family IVhere the Mill pond is now located, was lor- first. merly, and until the dam was built, a valley through In the S. H. T. Records Vol. 11, page 289. we flowed the brook from the springs ab~ve,in the read that in 1679 "The point called Noyack was woods to the south, and this was called in the early granted to John Jessup as his share of the Forty records c'Koyack River." acre Division." This was given by him to his son, These springs were in later years cleaned out and Isaac Jessup, who settled here as early as 1712,or artificial ponds constructed for trout breeding, and the same date that the land lying directly north of the grounds improved and laid out for a pleasure the village of Bridgehampton was laid out and sur- resort by Mr. George \V. Thompson, who for many veyed. IVhen the controversy was going on in this years conducted a successful business there. Then Colony as to which government, the Dutch or the the larger pigeon ranch established by Mr. 34ellioger English, should be looked to for protection, the five u-as located just to the south of the Trout Ponds; eastern towns made ten demands of the Dutch, one but all these are now past history, as they related to of which was, the right to purchase whaling irons Noyack. in the Kew England Colony, and John Jessup was It was on the west side of this brook, or Xoyack the delegate from Southampton. River, as the old records call it, that the small tribe The old Jessup homestead was located where the of Noyack Indians had their settlement, the relics Iiiggins house stood later, the same being the Os- and marks of which could have been seen until born homestead, for several generations, and a few within a few years past, and for aught that I know, >-ears ago was moved some distance to the north- may be seen to-day. west and made over into a club house, and has since There was another small tribe (the IVeecatucks) been destroyed by fire. I will refer later in this located near the head of the creek. which is named article to the Jessup family burial plot. This prop from this Indian tribe, and on the west side of this erty remained in the Jessup family or name until SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY about the year 1800, when Silas Jessup sold it to land in unlimited quantities, supplemented with Jeremiah Osborn. wood ashes, made a complete fertilizer, and the It was about this time that Silas Jessup decided crops grown under those conditions were simply to sell his property at Noyack, and placed it on the immense. market. Deacon David Hedges of S-ponack had These crops were for the most part, hay, corn, been considering the purchase of it, but I think had and the other grain crops indigenous to this local- not let it be known, but on a certain day he made up ity. Potatoes were raised in only limited quantities, his mind to go over to Noyack and buy it if he there being no general market for them. could make a satisfactory bargain. That morning These abundant crops fed and fattened large he had probably gotten within a mile of the Jessup numbers of cattle, sheep and hogs. Horses were home, when he met Jeremiah Osborn of East Hainp- also bred in sufficient numbers to supply the home ton returning from there on his way home. They demand. I have heard my Father say that in walk- stopped to talk, and in the course of the conversa- ing across those fields after harvest, the after-growth tion mentioned the Jessup property. Hedges told was so rank that it was like walking on a mat or Osborn that he was going over to buy it, when cushion, and the stock, though in large numbers, Osborn replied: "I have just bought it myself." were unable to keep the grass eaten down. Those that knew Hedges said; "That was one case Then again, this man was progressive in many where Hedges failed to have his own \Yay, and the ways. in fact, it appears now as if he had unusual other man came out ahead." visions of the future, and really lived a full genera- The creek next west of Budd's creek, and north tion ahead of his day. of the Pierson homestead, is known as Mill Creek, It was he that first introduced thoroughbred live froin the fact that here was located at an early date stock into these parts, such as Durham and Short- a fulling mill, operated by tide water. horn cattle for beef. He also was the first man to At the northeasterly part of the large creek, the import Merino sheep into this Township to cross channel becomes very narrow between the main on the native stock to improve the quality of the land and Clam Island, and then widens out into n-ool. His importations also included those other quite a large body of water. breeds of cattle adapted for much needed dairy pur- In the narrowest part of this channel or strait poses. The result of his efforts along these lines mas built this mill. The channel was probably bulk- was manifest on eastern Long Island for a good headed to make the water-way very narrow and many generations. thereby give a strong current to propel the water The beef cattle that made the Hamptons famous wheel. Timbers were bedded solidly in the earth years ago when Montauk was the summer pasture. beneath to carry the frame for the water wheel and and heavy. prime beef was shipped to Ke\v London to hold the smooth floor of the flume. and elsewhere. was the direct result of imported The tide water confined in its flow in this narrow thoroughbred blood crossed on the native stock. fiume, operated an under-shot water wheel at both The older men of to-day may remember the fine in-coming and out-going tides. I am told that these cattle on the farms in Sagaponack and Hedges Lane foundation timbers are still there and apparently in those days. It was largely owing to the progres- sound. sive ideas of Isaac 11'. Osborn. -4nd he carried out We will now take up the historq- of the Osborn the same idea in regard to other stock such as sheep family in Noyack. Jeremiah Osborn left this prop- and hogs. He bought the very best blood to be erty to his son, John P. Osborn. who in turn left it had. and the farmers in general got a goodly share to his son, Isaac \;V. Osborn. of the benefit. So one judging from the present condition of Then he established a nursery for fruit trees, and this property can fo~man adequate conception or had the first itnprox-ed fruit in this section, such as correct idea of what it was in the days of Isaac W. Bartlett pears. and apples of the very best varieties. Osborn. In the first place. fish were abundant in The first improved strawberries were brought here the adjoining waters, and could be had in any by this man, and his neighbors and friends reaped quantity for the catching. These applied to the the benefit. and he was willing that they should. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

This man also went to a certain extent into ex- passed. Oysters are in abundance as well as escal- perimental work. This pzrticular case may appear lops, also hard and soft-shelled clams. Crabs abound to us of this day foolish and a display of poor judg- in the creeks, and eels are to be had at all seasons. ment, but who can judge of what might have been I am sure I ought to mention safe and delightful a success one hundred years ago until it was tried bathing. All of these privileges are part and parcel out. of the property that was the Jessup and Osborn He conceived the idea that while mulberry trees Manor. could be grown successfully in this locality, why Then there was the Rogers family. I have men- could not silk worms be kept and fed on the leaves tioned Obadiah Rogers as having a grant to the of these trees, and so start a new industry. Noyack stream in 1686. I do not positively know With this idea in view he set out long rows of that he was the ancestor of Jonah, who figured so mulberry trees on his farm, and I should judge most prominently in Noyack history later, but I think he of them are living at this time. I think, however, was, for he had a son Jonah, and that name was the climate was too severe for the life and welfare kept in the family for a number of generations, in of these little spinners, but the trees are at least a fact, my Grandmother was of one branch of that monument to the effort. family. Many of the men of this family were sea- In those days coal was almost unknown, and wood men. Captain Jonah, who I think was the most for fuel had a ready sale at paying prices. This prominent, was born in 1781,and lived just east of farm could, without depleting the supply, stand the the Mill property, on the south side of the Main cutting of hundreds of cords each year, to say road. He was a ship owner and was interested nothing of the Cedar, Locust and Chestnut used for largely in the West Indies trade. He had a number fencing. of sons, all of whom I think followed the sea. They Isaac 117. Osborn, to carry on all parts of farm were buried in a plot on their farm in Noyack, of work as well the cordwood business, had to employ xvhich plot I will write later. a large number of men; among these was William The last family of whon~I will write in this Peters and a Mr. King. father of John L. King. article is that named Budd. From the S. H. T. who spent most of his life in Bridgehampton, and Records it appears that the first man of that name lived to a good old age. When John was a boy per- in the Colony was John Budd, who came from haps 10 years of age he went with Peters, who was Southold. He had a son Gilbert, who probably in- carting cordwood to the shore with two yokes of herited property from his father. Gilbert had sons oxen. The load consisted of six feet of green cord- Oscar and John. Oscar was lost at sea, and John \\-ood. John, who was riding on the load of wood. became a sea captain and lived in Sag Harbor. He fell off and one ~vheelof this loaded wagon went becaine quite a prominent man in his day, owned over his body between his ribs and hips. They had a ship yard on Korth Haven, and was owner in and to send to Bridgehampton for Dr. John L. Gardi- of several whale ships. After whaling failed. he ner, ~i-hoattended him. sailed a ship in the merchant service for many years. I ought not to forget to mention that this farm mostly in the foreign trade. was fenced as perhaps no other farm in this town- He was managing owner or agent of the ship ship ever was. a fence that would turn all stock in- Manhattan that under the command of Capt. ller- cluding sheep, and built of Chestnut rails, Cedar and cator Cooper, was the first -American ship to enter Locust posts, and all kept in the best of order. The 2 port of Japan: after having rescued a number of rendering of the surplus fish into oil was another Japanese sailors. sailed into the harbor of Yeddo. industry that was a source of revenue on this farm. (See history). One fact in connection with his Perhaps there was no beach on this part of our career I think should be mentioned, for I am sure Island that afforded as fine duck shooting as Jes- it is not generally known. I question if there is a sup's. I suppose this was owing to the fact, that it man living beside myself that knows of these facts: divided the two bays and the ducks in flying from On one of his voyages to Holland, the port was one to the other passed over this beach. The fishing Rotterdam, he bought three young Holstein cattle, and boating in the adjoining waters cannot be sur- one bull and two heifers; they were all thorough- SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY breds of that breed. These he took aboard his ship tion : "Reverend Kathan Dickinson, died March for the voyage home. One heifer died on the 29, 1826, age 56." voyage, but the others reached here in good condi- "Friends nor physician, could not save, tion. The offspring of these were all raised, and This mortal body from the grave; as they increased were sold to the farmers all about And now the grave cant hold it long, eastern Long Island, and this blood could be traced For Christ in jud,ment soon will come." distinctly for more than half a century in the quality Nathan Dickerson I found out later was the of the dairy cows in this section, and with such ancestor of the present family of Dickersons on marked effect that when the drovers and milkmen Shelter Island. I have this from one of his de- from the western end of this Island sought the best scendants now living (1923) on Shelter Island. milk cows for their stables, they all agreed that the Then there are two graves marked with native Hamptons was where they found them. Richard stone slabs, with letters and dates cut with rude Lester, John and Edward Dayton, the Posts from tools. >-etquite legible. One is, J. E. 1790, this i am Westbury. were they living, could all testify to this sure stands for the original John Budd. The other is fact. probably L. B. 1788 and I think the wife of John. He, like Isaac \V. Osborn, little knew or realized Two other graves are marked by rough stones. I what the result of their fore-thought and labor would regret that we do not know to x~hosemel11oiy they amount to, both front a business and financial stand- were erected. Several bodies have been moved in point, -to the farmers of this community, in improv- recent years to other cemeteries. ing their live stock, the effects of which were mani- The Rogers burial plot is south of the Main road, fest for several generations. at the edge of the woods, at the south end of the Rogers home lot. Some of the bodies have been Cemeteries in Noyack moved. hut there are at this time four graves marked It was the custom in olden times to bury the dead with marble tombstones. The oldest, Capt. Jonah in a plot set apart somewhere on the home estate. 1781-1846. Xugustus, Joshua, and Sally. Capt. This appears to have been the case in Noyack. I Jonah and these two sons died within one year. will describe a few of these plots, and name some They were all sea-faring men. of those buried there. In closing this article I wish to emphatically ex- Isaac Jessup was living in Noyack in 1712. I press myself in regard to a mania that appears to be have already given the location of the place that infecting many of the new residents of this Island, was the Manor House of the /Jesshp and Osborn who, for no logical reason as I can see, are seeking families for many generations. Just north of the to change the names of the old hamlets. Sanles site of this house, perhaps 15 rods, is the old Jessup that have a real significance and were given because burial plot. There may be a number of graves of some real and genuine fact in local history, that there but only one is marked. It is a slate tomb- holds just as true today as when the land was first stone, with this inscription : settled by white men, and some that antedate that "Here lies the body of Abigail Jessup, Daughter period, as is the case with Soyack. of Isaac and Mrs. Sarah Jessup, who deceased in That name is clearly Indian, and means "-1corner November 17aq. aged 11 years." or point of land," xvhich is still the most prominent Anotllcr burial plot is that of the Budd famil?. feature of this locality and ever will be. So why located in Budd Lots, about 15 rods north froin change it ? the main road, perhaps one fourth of ar, acre in In my opinion it is about time we awoke to the area. Here are a ni.~rnberof unmarked graves, and fact that we owe the -Aborigines some honor, even five with stone markers. One is that of the Rev- more than they have ever received. They were erend Sathan Dickinson. This is the longest mound the rightful owners. IVe the usurpers. This was that marks a grave that I ever saw, measuring be- their home by inheritance, ours by conquest. They tween the head and foot stones 10 feet j inches: called it Koyack for a reason. Let us retain the these stones are of ~vhitemarble with this inscrip- name for the same reason. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

It is about the only way we can honor the name sketch of Korth West ties in with the early history of a noble race now gone forever. Let us hold of Bridgehampton and Sagaponack. This is the sacred the Place-Names of these men, who did us reason I insert it here. no harm. lest a similar fate befall our descendants, It was only natural that some leading business and the homes and hamlets we cherish and love, nlen would establish their homes near this embryo are usurped and laid waste by a race as yet unknown seaport. There appears to have been about eight to us. Inen with their families settled here. Among the

- -- first was Isaac VanScoy, born April 1732, in Feb- ruary 1757 married Nary, daughter of David Ed- SKETCHES OF "NORTH WEST' wards of East Hampton, soon after this he acquired HISTORY about 300 acres of land, built a dwelling house, In the early settlement of allnost every cornmu- barn and other farm buildings, and here spent a busy nity. some sections will improve, prosper and ad- life, he died in 1817When his oldest child was born vance in value and importance, and some others he set out in his dcoryard an oak tree (yellow bark:) with apparently the same advantages, will improve which was j feet high at that time. At this time and grow for a time, and then go back to almost primitive conditions, and it is often difficult to esplain just why this is so, yet it is. "Korth West" in East Hainpton township is a marked illustration of the latter class or type of colonization referred to above. Years before Sag Harbor is mentioned in history, North West was the seaport for East Hampton, where all the mer- chandise for that colony was landed, and produce from that colony shipped. This wouid logically leaci to its becoming the nucleus of a seaport town. Here a wharf was built at an early date, and the patriotic Samuel Mulford who established an enviable rec- ord for himself as well as for the town of which he Old Van Scoy House and Oak Tree at North West was a member, here built and owned a warehouse about 1700. In Col. Dmts. Vol. SIV, p. 566, (Oct. 1934) I have measured this tree and the fol- we read : "In 1668 Thomas Chatfield was appointed lcwing are the dimensions : Height 98 feet, circum- Collector of Customs at the 'Towne or Port of East ference one foot froin ground 17 feet, diameter j Hampton." This would be North west, and this feet j inches, spread of branches go feet. is the date when the first Custom House was es- I think this is the largest oak tree on Long Island, tablished in the Town of East Hampton. and is in a reasonably healthy condition, it is so Merchandise brought by water for Southampton beautifully proportioned and symmetrical that no was landed at Korth Sea, while that for Bridge- one \\-ould realize its immense size. hampton and Sagaponack was landed at Sorth In hlarch of I 792 the trustees of East Hampton \Vest. John Wick's tavern in Bridgehampton and Town ordered a school house built at North West. Edward Howell's in Poxabogue were the only two This was built very near the VanScoy homestead, houses in this locality north of East Hanlpton Path and only a little way fro111 the tree mentioned above. (now Lfontauk Highway) in the year 1700. The The land adjoining the VanScoy property to the owners of these two taverns or ordinaries cleared west was acquired by Jcnathan B. Mulford, and was and opened a road across the woods from Pox- known as the Mulford Farm, and extended to the abogue to A-orth West, that \\-as known then and bay shore. This later became the Kirk Far~n.The even to this day as "Merchant's Path,'' and most of large quantities of seaweed which drifted ashore the goods and merchandise was carted with oxen here led to a serious controversy and lawsuit be- and os carts. Right here is where an historical tween Mr. Kirk and the town of East Hampton,

$ I SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

which resulted in the financial ruin of iMr. Kirk, right here is a fine e-ample of Nature's reforestra- and no benefit to the town. Southwest of the Mul- tion scheme, for it' man will not grow crops on tlle ford farm was the Arnold VanScoy property, later land, Nature will. the Monks' farm. The Ebenezer Hedges property In this section is the finest White Pine forest en was to the north of the Mulford farm, and it was Long Island and surpassed by few in this entire from this man that "Hedges Banks" took its name. State. Many of the outgoing whaleships anchored off here to wait for favorable winds. Another early settier INCIDENTS IN THE LnrES OF SOME was Miller Bennett, whose property was held in that OLD RESIDENTS family for many generations. The Ranger family were not East Hampton men, but came from Shelter In kvriting these stories, I at first thought I would Island, and were related to the Derings and Syl- refrain from using the real names of parties con- vesters, and later Hosfords, and all acquired farms cerned, lest some of their family or descenclznts at North West, but at a later date than the Mulford might feel hurt to have the names of their ancestors or VanScoy families. There was Sylvester, Alfred exploited in what might be construed as ridicule; and Stephen Ranger. but when I gave it more careful thought I changed As a boy I remember Stephen as he wore a high my mind, for had I done this, it \+-auld have render- plug hat, driving two yokes of oxen carting wood ed it simply fiction, and taken it out of the precincts to Sag Harbor. On one occasion Stephen Ranger of history. where it belongs. Yet I wish it distinctly went to Sag Harbor with a load of cordwood or understood, and I wish to emphasize this statenlent, farm produce drawn by one or more yokes of oxen. that in relating these stories, if it were simply ro After having disposed of his load, started home. amuse and hold these old people up to ridicule, I When well out of the village he spread a blanket and \vould burn this manuscript before any man had an laid down on the bottom of the cart for a good nap. opportunity to read it, for I honor and respect these knowing the oxen would go straight home. A com- men (with a few exceptions) too highly to be guilty pany of boys met the outfit and thought they would of such an offense to their memory. have some innocent fun, so unhooked the ox-chain I trust that we of this generation may leave such from the cart, led the oxen into the woods a short a record that those coming after us may have as way, and began pelting stones at the cart. Stephen pleasant thoughts and kind remeinberances of us as soon awoke, gazed about and said "Who am I? I have of these of whom I have written on these and where am I? If I'm Stephen Ranger, I've lost pages. 2 yoke of oxen, and if I'm not, I've found a cart." The house that has always been my home was He used the longest and straightest ox goad I ever l~uiltby my grandfather in the year 1830.Benja~uin saw. I have seen Alfred with two yokes of cattle, Glover \\-as the builder, and John Thatford was his at least two of which were milch cows, with a !oacl foreman and had charge of the work. It was built on of cordwood and when he got to Snookville (later Eastville) he would inilk the cows and sell the milk. I do not remember Sylvester, but Stephen's son -41- fred Dering became a noted expert in the training of oxen. The older men mentioned here lived to be very old and are all buried in the family plot at North West. Cordwood was a leading article of commerce be- fore the discovery of coal, and with livestock such as sheep, cattle and hogs, these farms were pro- ductive and were fenced for the most part with lopped trees which still mark the boundary lines. At this time, however! almost this entire territory has reverted back to its original condition, and The Author's Home

i146 1 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY the site of the Zachariah Sand ford house, which was the Hon. Stephen Haynes, one of the Board of probably built about 1700. This Sandford property Aldermen of the City of Brooklyn, who owned this was later bought by James Illitchel, who in turn sold farm in 1850 (see map). The old house probably it in the year 1818to Daniel Halsey, my great-grand- stood about where the present house now stands, father. Gabriel Halsey bought it from Daniel, and but I do not know by whom or when it was built; later left it to his son, Soah H. Halsey. Some of the we do know, however, t'nat it was standing in 1786, timber was hewn from native trees, but more was for when David Rogers built his house in the Hol- bought from a cargo brought from Maine to Sag low (see 1800 map) on the northwesterly side of Harbor. all in the rough, and sold at $8 per thousand the pond. he rented and lived in this old house. while feet. This included all sizes of lumber. Some plank his house was building, and his daughter, Azubah, were 2 inches thick, 30 inches wide, and clear stuff. who married Jesse Halsey, was born there May 3, -411 doors, sash, window frames and moldings were 1786. This was before the discovery of vaccination hand wrought. The brick used in construction were ior sn~allpoxand this as well as cholera and dysen- all made of native clay from this farm, molded by tery often became a scourge in this community as hand, ant1 burned on this place. The originai shin- well as in others. It may have been during one of gles are still on the uprights, and apparently !lave these epidemics, that all of the children of Silss not begun to wear out at this time; these were Cook, five in number, died. I am of the opinion that matched and after having been nailed on, were each his wife did not die until a little later; but the chil- course planed before the next course was put on. dren and wife all died within a period of three years, There are boards used for shingle lath in the attic and were all buried in the old Scuttie Hole Grave- that are 18 and one 21 inches wide. yard. _After the death of his children he decided to self The Story of Silas Cook (Drum Major) his farm and home, which he did for the sum of I wish to relate an incident in local history that three thousand dollars ($3,000) a goodly sum for 1 am certain is known to but few, and for that rea- those days, and received payment in cash. This son, if no other, should be put on record. This, to money he placed in a secret drawer in his desk. my mind is one of the most sad and pitiful ex- I imagine the sale of this property was generally periences, and it befell one of Eridgehampton's known throughout the entire community. That night early residents. In this comlnunity in the Colonial the house was entered, the desk broken open, and days, the men of suitable age, as I have already the money stolen. Mr. and Mrs. Cook awoke and noted, were obliged to assemble at stated times, and saw the burglar escaping through the window. Mr. this by law, for military drill. This man of whom Cook was about to shoot at him, but was restrained I write officiated for years at these military drills, by Mrs. Cook, for she said, "it ~vouldbe dreadfur and at general trainings was a very important to kill a man." so the burglar escapecl with all the character. money. Then he had neither children, farm, nor His office was that of Drum Major, acd the ~noneq-. Soon after this his wife died, and he was baton he used is in my possession. This officer's left alone and destitute. In deep grief and sorrow name was Major Silas Cook, not the Silas Cook, he considered what course to take, and finally dis- however, that was later one of the Long Island posed of his household goods, bid farewell to his Refugees in Connecticut, for he died long before old ho111e and friends, and shipped for a voyage on that date. He was probably the son of Obadiah and a whaleship. He never returned, dying either at sea Sarah Cook, of Scuttle Hole, both of whom are or at a foreign port. The theft remained a mystery, buried in the Hay Ground Graveyard. He o~vned but strong suspicion rested upon one neighbor, who and lived on the farm in Scuttle Hole that wa.; after this appeared to be in much better financial drawn at the original allotment, by Martha Cook, circumstances. The desk was sold to Gideon Hal- widow of Ellis Cook, the first, she having drawn sey (see 1800 map), and at the settling of his es- it in the right of her husband. Later, he, Silas Cook, tate was bought by Jesse Halsey (see same map) ; sold his farm to Simeon Halsey. The latter or his it then went to Lemuel or David Halsey, his sons, heirs sold it to Col. David Haynes. it then went to then to C. Everett Halsey, who has given it to his SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY daughter, Mrs. Lawrence C. Halsey. for her son, of himself, and thought it would be sport for him- Everett, in whose possession it now is. The marks self and associates to have a little innocent fun made by the bar or chisel, used in forcing open the with the old peddler ; so he approached him and said : desk, are plainly visible at the present time. "I shonld say from appearances you have almost every thing in your outfit." "I have a variety," said David P. Platt, An Old Time Peddler Platt. "Is there anything you wish? I will gladly This man was a native of Connecticut, and might show you my goods." "Well," said the young man, have been called a real "Yankee Peddler." He had (his friends and associates had gathered about to a good mind and memory, was always a great see and hear the fun) "have you any goose yokes?" reader, had been a member of the Connecticut State (laughter). Legislature, and was reliable and honest. He dealt in "I an1 sorry to say I have not, but I \rill take z higher grade of goods than most peddlers, for in- your order." stance, solid silverware, solid gold watches, and The young man gave the order for a given num- goods of that order. He never hurried nor urged ber to be delivered, and Platt named the price and a customer to buy, but always was glad to simply had him sip the order or contract. The young man show his goods, and while doing this was so en- passed it as a great joke; but Platt had the yokes tertaining and interesting in his conversation that made and delivered them, whereupon the young his stay resolved itself into a visit; which would man laughed and tried to get out of it by saying it ltiean a gcod sale in most cases. xvas only a joke. "\Veil," said Platt, "you gave the I often recall with what intense interest I have order, and I have filled it, and you will pay for as a boy listened to the stories and anecdotes as them and pay now, or I will sue you and collect it." told by this man. I will try to relate some of them The joke was turned and the bill paid. as they come back to me from my boyhood days ; As a young man Doctor Dayton was somewhat of many of them I presume I have forgotten. In those a sport and inclined perhaps to be a little gay. It so days the use of strong drink was not frowned upon happened that he had been away from home \\-hen as it is to-day. and was quite general. Mr. Platt had previously been in East Hampton on his peddling trips, (I think he was at school) and In the old town of Naugatuck, Conn., there lived they had never met, though Mr. Platt was well an Indian who frequented the village store, and the acquainted with the young man's father. usual company of idle men had gathered and were expressing their wishes for their individual needs Young Dayton came home for his sumlner va- cation, and this day when Mr. Platt came he was or desires, which were varied and distinct and in many cases unique. stretched out on the lawn. His father called him and introduced him to Mr. Platt, who expressed his The old Indian had remained silent through all great pleasure, for he had long known his father. of this, but had listened. -4t last the whole colnpany and asked him where he had been that he had not turned to him and said: "If you could make three had the pleasure of meeting him before. "Oh," said wishes and only three, and have them come true, young Dayton. "I have been out to grass." The what would you wish for? Now," said they. "be very answer did not please Platt, so he replied: "I am careful and think well." After deep thought he re- exceedingly glad to have the privilege of meeting plied : you, for I never before have had the opportunity of "My first wish would be, that the hills back of nieeting one with such an experience, and, in fact, Old Naugatuck were Mince Pies. My next is: That . have never read of but one such case, and this Inan the Xaugatuck River was rum. And my third and because of his sin and disobedience was driven from last wish is : That my neck was a mile long and that men. and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was I could taste it all of the way down." wet with the dews of Heaven till his hairs were Mr. Platt was peddling in East Hampton at a grown like eagle's feathers, and his nails like bird's time when the town was filled with city people, or claws. I trust you did not go out under similar summer boarders, and among them was a young circumstances." By- this time the pride and haugh- man who had a very important and exalted opinion tiness of the young man had disappeared. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Samuel Brown, of Butter Lane one of these men carried through that war. This man lived on Butter Lane in Bridgehampton, There came an extreme drought one summer, and a short distance south of the Gelston house. He the crops were suffering severely for want of rain. was a loyal citizen and patriot. Joined the Continen- Some of the good men of this community agreed tal army and served all through the seven years that it had gone far enough. and that something war of the Revolution, and became one of General should be done about it, so they decided to hold a \Vashington's body guards: he was noted for his meeting and pray for rain. On the appointed day bravery in battle and fearlessness when exposed Deacon Stephen Rose on his way to this meeting to the dangers of warfare; it was said of him "he met Ethan, who asked him where he was going. knew no fear." I think he wintered with the army The Deacon replied that he was going to attend at \'alley Forge in 1777-1778 and was one of the the meeting appointed for the purpose of praying brave company that crossed the Delaware through for rain. "Well." said Ethan, "I suppose it is all the ice that Christmas night of 1776 and captured right, but if you are going to pray for rain. don't the Hessians at Trenton. He also wintered with the pray for one of those little genial showers that we army at Kebvburgh, ?;em7 York, 1782-1783, when read about, but pray for a real old soaker; that is the army mas disbanded. what we need." In his everyday life he may have believed in the Ethan usually kept a large flock of geese, and old adage: "The Lord helps those who help them- these xere very apt to trespass on the neighbors' selves," for he would make a practice of helping crops. He also greatly enjoyed singing in the church hitnself to anything he wished or thought he wanted services. I do not know what his qualifications were or thought he needed, regardless of 0x1-nership. as a musician, either vocal or otherwise, but his One winter's night. very late in the evening, he near neighbor, Esquire Maltby G. Roce was not left home fcr a stroll about the neighborhood; while favorably impressed, and said, "I hope if Ethan he was away Mrs. Brown was taken ill and sent one Halsey ever gets to heaven, that he will be barred ol the children over to the Gelstons for help. from two things, first, that he will not be allowed Mrs. Gelston went, and after doing all she could tc keep a flock of geese, and second, that he will not for the relief of the sick, and with the patient com- be allowed to sing in the meeting." fortably in bed, sat down before the fire on the The fact that the earth was round, and that it hearth; this was before the days of stoves or lamps, re\-olved on its axis, was taught in the schmls at and the only light in the room was from the smolder- this time. Ethan said that he did not believe iil any ing embers in the open fireplace. such stuff. "Now," said he, "just reason this out Late ~n the night the subject of this sketch re- and use your common sense. If the earth does re- turned home, and seeing by the dim light from the volve on its axis as you say, some morning Kellis hearth. a woman sitting before the fire, thought of Pond would be ilp here in the air, and the water course it was his faithful helpmate patiently waiting running down my chimney." his return, and saluted her as folloz\-s : Faith in Prayer "Well wife, pork is mighty scarce in Bridge- hampton, I have been in nine cellars to-night and I General James B. Gordon in his "Last Days 01 never found a pound until I got over here to neigh- the Confederacy" says : "There was a deep religious bor Gelston's." feeling in Lee's army, and in a prayer meeting one night- a tall Southerner knelt down by m>7 side and Stories of Ethan Halsey prayed: '0 Lord, we are having a mighty big fight Ethan Halsey lived in Hay Ground on the north- down here, and a sight of trouble, and we do hope, erly side of what is now Montauk Highway, and Lord, that you will take the proper view of this on the farm later owned by the late Capt. ,-Indrew subject. and give us the victory."' I imagine there Jennings, but his house stood somewhat east of were just as fervent prayers in the Union army. where the present house now stands. Two of his In the year 1762 there \\-as no rain in this section brothers, -Abraham and Thomas, served through the from Ma>- until November. There was another year War of the Revolution, and I own the musket that when similar conditions prevailed. but some years SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

after the above date. The grass could not grow, and All of her married life she had to contend with stock raising was the main business on the farnls at the curse of strong drink. She hated it by nature, and that time. Very little hay was cut that year, in fact, more than that by constant experience with the so little that it was generally thought that the cattle effects of it. would starve during the winter. This looked like Sam Scott \\-as a resident of the same place, and trouble. lived perhaps one mile from her home; a very kind Deacon Jeremiah Haines said: "I think it wili be hearted man indeed and while somewhat eccentric all right, that the Lord will temper the wind to the yet a good neighbor, and one who had many ex- sliorn lainb." When the drought did break, the grass cellent qualities, but he would drink. grew all winter, and some of the farmers did not As I remember him, he would sometimes drive one fodder their cattle but once that winter, and that horse before his \vagon, sometimes two horses, was the day before they were driven to Montank. these sometimes abreast, and then again tandem, -4bout the middle of the last century there was then it might be one horse and one ox, or a bull, or a very dry sunimer; some of the older men remem- two oxen, or an ox and a bull, or one bull, which he ber it. There was so much anxiety that a special had broken to single harness, and would drive all meeting was called one Sunday afternoon to pray about with it before his top carriage. I have also for rain. Philip Reeve, whom everyone called Uncle seen him have an ox and bull yoked together with a Phil, an old resident of Water Mill, attended this n~eeting.It was a beautiful day and clear. Uricie horse hitched ahead. Phil appeared there with his umbrella. All along Scott had been over to the Tavern at Canoe Place the road and at the church he was asked : "Why did and dn leaving for home was not able to navigate you bring an umbrella?" He said in reply: "I under- l~island craft so as to avoid the dangerous reefs and stand this meeting is called to pray for rain, and I've headlands, and by some unknown mishap was got faith enough to believe we are going to get it, thrown from his wagon, run over and his ankle so brought my umbrella. Why did you not bring broken. yours ?" I dc not remember how he got home, but Doctoy James H. Rogers of Sag Harbor was sent for, and A Temperance Story in due time came and set the broken bones, placing My mother had two older sisters, the name cjf his ankle in a plaster cast, and left Sam in bed. one was Eugenia, the other Eliza. When these two He had a boy in his employ at the time, whom he were young they made a vow, that neither would directed to bring in some joists, sawed them to pr* ever marry a mail who used tobacco in any way, or per lengths, bracing them on the floor on each intoxicating drink. I am sure they were both in side of his bed, tied them together at the upper ends, earnest, but how little they knew what was belore from which he hung a tackle; by placing a sling them, for they both married men who did all of under his back he could raise himself, and swing these things, and that to excess. However, they both over to a chair by the bedside. did all in their power to make their homes happy, The Doctor ordered that the leg and foot should though it mas often a trial both severe and hard. be rubbed or massaged with New England rum, but They were both true, loyal women. Sam ordered otherwise, he allowed cold water was Eliza married -4ustin Rose and lived on a farm good enough for the leg, and that he should put in North Sea, a small hamlet several miles the rum inside. 13cirth of Southampton. There was neither store nor He was confined in this way for some weeks, and post office at this place, and Aunt Eliza (as we all got very tired and restless, so one day he sent tile called her) kept a good supply of groceries, and in boy over to Aunt Eliza's with this message: He fact all household necessities, to sell to the neighbors. wished her to come over at once and do some writ- She also acted as sort of a scribe for the entire com- ing for him, and he wanted it attended to that very munity; wrote letters for those who had neither day. The boy went as directed and brought back the pen, ink or paper, or perhaps lacked the powers of answer, that she would come as soon as she could composition. finish her housework. Aunt Eliza was very much SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY worried and could think of nothing save Sam's re- glad to help any one in need, and do all I can for quest all the morning. their comfort, and I an1 here to help you the same Said she : "I guess Sail1 is worse, and my opinion way, if you will tell me what you want me to do." is that he has made up his mind that he will never "iiell," said Sam, "if you will take that stand be any better, and with that idea in view. has decided and sit right here by the side of the bed I will tell to inake his will, and wants me to write it for him." you what I want.'? She tried to hurry through her work, but it was "Xow, Miss Eliza (as he always called her) I hard, for the thought of parting with a good friend knew you would help me, you know I have had a and neighbor was almost more than she could stand. lot of trouble, and I feel mighty bad, and I do not It was indeed a sad morning for her; she could know what to do, but I have got a cousin down in hardly think of anything else, yet she felt she ought New York that is in the liquor business, and I want to go at his request. you to write to him for me and ask him if he will As soon as she could, supplied with pen, ink and send me a barrel of rum." paper, she went to her task with a heavy heart. On It is needless to say that he did not get the rum arriving, she was ushered into Sam's room, where froin this source, but he recovered and lived many he patiently waited. years after this. "Well Sam," said she, "the boy said you wanted Solne one asked Sam why he did not drive a to see me. How do you feel?" "Oh," said Sam. "I better rig. and not such a shabby outfit. and suggest- feel awfully bad. I am so glad you came, for I want ed getting a new one. "I would," said Sam, "but if you to do some writing for me. for I cannot do it. I did get a new one, it would soon be old and look I an1 good for nothing." just as bad or shabby as this, so that I would be no

c'\T~~~know," said she, " I am always willing and better off than now."

SOME STORIES OF NORTH SEA

Some of the land about North Sea was farmed solve in their condition; however, they knew they and cropped at an early date, and while the main must get to work, so finally agreed, and wect at it, colony was located at "Old Town," yet about North and finished the job that day. Sea and Cow Neck was considerable land under Some days later they went to care for the crops cultivation. they had previously harvested, when to their ainaze- In those days one of the illost important farin ment, they made the discovery that they had cut crops \\;as flax. On this crop depended their supply the flax and pulled the oats. of linen for cloth, thread, bedding, sails, seine, and The section of land about North Sea was even wearing apparel. Wool was used in many cases owned for many generations by the Rose family, with linen. There was no cotton in those days. This and among the earliest of these was David. Ee was crop was always pulled instead of being cut, as are quite a large land owner, and had three sons, David other grains; this was to save and retain the whole Rogers, John and -Austin. length of the fiber, the longer the fiber the better. David Rogers Rose was born April 7, 1798. He Two men went from the Colony at Southampton became a Colonel of the State Militia, and was one day cver to North Sea, to harvest the flax and sheriff of Suffolk County for seven years, and super- oat crops. They visited the tavern on the way and visor of Southainpton Town. probabip drank whiie there all they should have: When these three sons were young Inen there was but they to& a goodly supply of liquor with the111to a rough burly fellow working for their father; his the field. name was Sam Haines, (he afterward served a When they got there an arguillent arose as to term in the penitentiary and with two other convicts which was the crop they were to cut and which to was harnessed to a cart and made to draw loads like pull. This was a proble~nvery difficult for them to mules) ; they were getting in hay at this time. and SKETCHES FROM LOC-4L HISTORY

Haines resented some order from Mr. Rose and season drew nigh, buy a keg of powder and divide threatened to assault him, and in fact started toward it among them. him, when Austin pulling a cart stake from the hay On one occasion when the powder arrived, they rack, prepared to meet him, and Rogers (as he was all agreed to test its quality at target practice ; so on usually called) called to him: "Hit him careless, a given day all assembled with their guns. Austin." Which I believe he did and laid him out Some of the old guns used in those days if loaded stiff. too heavily would kick, as they termed the recoil. Rose was a very strong, pow-erful and muscular When all was ready the company began to load man, one that would and could settle a difficulty, but and shoot, and finally it came the Sheriff's turn; never aggressive or one to make trouble. he had put in a rather heavy charge. He knelt on It was about nine miles from the Rose home to one knee so as to take a good steady aim. and fired. Sag Harbor, and one day Mrs. Rose went lvith the His gun kicked pretty hard, in fact so hard that it Sheriff. He did a great deal of public business and knocked hini clean over on his back. He juillped up was very busy all the time he was there, so when and said "By goodness that is what I call good pow- he finished his work he thought of nothing but to der. you had better send and get another keg of it." get hoime, for it was a long drive over poor roads. It was evening when he reached his home. and A Bridgehampton Episode was asked : "Where did you leave mother?" "Is she A good many years ago there came to Eridge- not home?" said he. "\Vhy no, she went to Sag Har- hamyton, and in fact located here a man whose bor with you." "Well, m-ell, that is so," said he. "I name was Peter Schofield. He was a peddler in entirely forgot it, she must be in Sag Harbor now." general, but applied himseif to almost any work so He unharnessed his team, took a fresh horse and as to make a living. drove back after her. He lived for a time on a lot across from what was He lived to be almost ninety-two years old and riiterward John F. Young's property on the old was afflicted with rheumatism for many years, and Sagaponack Road. While located here he kept a walked bent over, supporting himself with canes house where strong drink could be bought, or at or crutches. least procured, and it became what was considered One day he went over to visit his brother, ;lustin, a nuisance, and the best people in the community it-ho met him and extended the usual salutation: wished that it might be closed, or done away with. "How do you do?7'"Why ,4ut," said Rogers, "I do Public opinicn became so strongly opposed to it, not know what is the matter with me, for I can that some one proposed or suggested that it be raided hardly get out of this wagon." "Well, Rog." said some night by a volunteer company. Amtin, "I can tell you what the matter is with you. This was absolutely illegal. for if a nuisance the 1-ou was born too long ago." law could be resorted to, and a legal method used to This same Sam Haines referred to in this article bring about the desired riddance, but the previous \\-as an ugly brute of a man, and when under the in- suggestion rather appealed to the boys of the com- fluence of liquor, and for aught that I knon- at any munity, \vho stood ready to carry out this piece of time when he was so disposed, he used to abuse and work but hesitated for fear of arrest and trial if maltreat his wife. On one such occasion, some of they should be identified. his good neighbors or the Justice told hi111 he ought The older men refrained from such an illegal to be ashamed of himself, and that he should have method, for they knew the consequences if recog- inore respect for his wife than to treat her in rhat nized. I claim they were much more worthy of way for he should remember that she was the blame than the boys, and furthermore, I think it weaker vessel. "Nell," said Sam, "if she is a was a cowardly, underhanded piece of work on their weaker vessel, as you say, then she ought to carry part all the way through. They would not do it less sail." themselves, or take any part in it, but they told the The Sheriff, as Mr. Rose was usually called, mas boys : "if you will go and clean up the place, we will quite fond of gunning. and he, together with a stand back of you, and if you should get into trouble nuinber of his neighbors, would, when the gunning in doing this we will see you through and out of it SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-IL HISTORY all right, and pay the bill if any charge should be he was from I'irginia, and had either escaped from made against you." This gave the boys a whole lot slavery, or had ken granted his freedom, unques- of courage. tionably the latter, for he had no dread for the 31y opinion is, they never would have dared to Fugitive Slave law. He was a large. well-built man, have done this dastardly piece of work of their o~vn of god appearance, and much superior to the accord and had not been urged on by the older inen, average of his race in intelligence, though it was but of course that does not excuse them. very evident he had had no advantages The boys on an appointed night assembled, and He worked for the farmers in that locality, 2nd brought several long sticks of timber, so long and ~IJa short time learned to read and write. tt-as a heavy that it took a goodly number to carry them. regular attendant at church, and it soon became They had previously located the room where the evident that this man was a natural born orator. licluor was kept, (I think they called it "the maga- His coinn~andof lapage was marvelous; it is said zine") it was on an outside room or wing of the he could hold his audience spellbound, and inally house. times lnoved them to tears by his great elocluence. They took the stick of timber, carrying it on hand and the wonder of all was, where did this man get bars or some other way, the boys lined up on either his ability ? side, backing up and making a battering ram of it. He was a thorough gentleman, and instinctively ]\-hen it struck the house it went clean through the commanded the respect of all classes, and even siding. lath, wall, and in among the bottles and de- among his associates no one presumed to call or ad- canters and other receptacles, working havoc and dress hiin as any other than Mr. Lee, and it seemed n-recking things generally. perfectly natural to do so, yet he was one that never Schofield came out and ordered the111 away, and put himself forward, but on the contrary was diffi- identified many of them, but his piping little voice dent and retiring. could hardly be heard for the noise the battering The Hon. James Henry Pierson told me this rail1 xvas making under the propelling power of these story. He said : %hen I was a boy old enough to young men. assist in the farm work, this nlan worked for my This work went on until the establishment \-

A Boy of the Last Century and I want it thin. I would like to have it so you In a home on the north country road, the one can see a cambric needle in forty fathom of it." leading from Scuttle Hole westerly to the "Head of the Pond," there lived almost one hundred years Capt. Jetur Rose sailed from North Sea to Sew ago, a man whose name was Sylvanus Squires; he Suffolk with Lewis Scott to get a cargo of building was called by every one Uncle Sylvy ; he had a son stone for the latter. Scott was anxious to carry as John and grandsons Robert and George. He had large a load as possible, so loaded the boat down to always led an active life, as any man who is a suc- the water's edge. -4s they were returning a squall cessful farmer is obliged to do, and when advanced came up and Scott kept saying: "Let us throw over in years to where his neighbors might have been some of the cargo." The Capt. answered: "So, no, justified in speaking of him as old, yet his appear- you cannot afiord to lose your stone. You better ance and activity would not warrant the use of that sink yourself, you always say you are prepared to word. go." He replied: "Yes, Capt. but I don't want to I am sure that we who are natives of eastern Long go by water." Island know or have a right to know that a drizzling northeaster is a wet storm, and that it has the power Opinion Changed By Locality or faculty of loading every tree, shrub, bush, vine X nlan from Middle Island made up his mind or blade of grass with all the moisture it is capable that it was decidedly wrong and unjust for hi111 of holding. to waste his talents in his home town, but that a It was in some such spell of weather as this that man of his ability should go out into a largcr Mr. Albert Cook took his horse and carriage and sphere of action and activity, where he \\-ould be started perhaps for the store or blacksmith shop, more highly appreciated, so he moved down to the and somewhere along the road came upon Uncle Hamptons, where he made his permanent home. Sylvy busily engaged in picking high-brier black- He found everything very different from his berries. former surroundings, and the longer he stayed the Mr. Cook was much surprised and really worried more he realized it. and alarmed at seeing the old man out in such He must have been quite a man, for he weighed weather, so stopped his horse and said: "Why, the situation thoroughly and at last came to the Uncle Sylvy, you ought not to be out in such a following conclusion. Said he : "When I lived in my storm, it is no place for a man as old as you are." old home, I considered myself to be a King among The old ~nanresented it. and replied: "Olci, I am Kogs; but since I came down here, I have concIudecl not old. I am only ninety-four, and if it was not for I am no more than a Hog among Kings." my confounded old back and legs I would be just as good as I ever was." I think it was ahout the same time as the above Several Stories of Local Interest incident, there was another family, I think their A man in this town was returning home in the name was King: it consisted of the father, mother dead of night and was caught in a drenching rain and one boy whose name was Joe. The father iol- storm. He stopped and called a neighbor from his lowed the water, I think went whaling, and this bed to an upstairs window, and asked: "Are you left the mother for the most part alone to bring up, willing that I should stay here to-night?" The man manage and discipline this boy. He got where he was replied: "Why yes. Stay there if you want to," and quite troublesolne and hard to manage. went back to bed. The mother had often used the rod to bring her obstreperous child to a state of humility and obe- An old resident in this community, I regret I have dience, but he had gotten where he could out-run forgotten his name, had spent most of his active life her, and would at times defy her in trying to carry at sea. and who must have been rather particular as out her intended methods of discipline. to his diet, said : "If I am going to have stew, I want One day, because of some prank played or rnis- stew, and if I am going to have soup, I want soup, chief done, she commanded him to come to her; this SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY he objected to; then she resorted to her persuasive -port, and most of them would have a horseshoe powers, but to no avail. nailed to the mast and one over the cabin door, for "Oh." said he, "you want to whip me and I will a witch would never go or stay where there was a not come." horseshoe. "No," said she, "I will not whip you, so come you see by this it was in the blood stil!, and even along to me." in the Hamptons many a farmer kept a horseshoe "Well," said Joe, "will you swear you \+-illnot nailed to the hog trough, to keep the witches away whip me?' from his hogs. When a pen of hogs failed to thrive, "Yes," said she, "I will swear I will not whip and would squeal and run about the pen as if they you, SO now come." were being chased, it was laid to witches, and a "No," said Joe. "Those who will swear, will lie, horseshoe was the remedy. The year that Bridge- and I do not think much of the legs that will get thc hampton was settled. witchcraft was at its height body into trouble. I'll not come." Xnd he did not. i~ England, and 120 victims were executed. In the New England colonies a vast amount of literature for that day was circulated, defending the SUPERSTITION AND WITCHCRAFT cause, and only three books denouncing it. ON LONG ISLAND If an ox or a horse was taken suddenly lanie, Eastern Long Island was settled by men who there \\-as but one cause. If grain blighted or failed were formerly part of and belonged to the h4assa- to ripen normally. If any one had a sudden or pecu- chusetts Colony, and when they came over to their liar pain or illness or suffered misfortune. If any- Island home they unquestionably brought with them thing happened out of the ordinary, it was all laid many of these ideas of superstition and witchcraft, to witches. though I think it was of a milder form. I might Then if anyone was suspected they were exanlined say that the one fact that was the cause of the over- for the mark, and perhaps tortured until in seeking throw of this business in Salem, was some of the relief they confessed and then followed punishment. leading citizens having been accused. and they hav- It does not seem as if men could go to such cx- ing influence enough and a standing that could tremes in fanaticism and cruelty, and they did it as oppose and stamp out the evil. "Defenders of Faith." Let us thank the Lord we No one was ever executed on Long Island, but live in a different age of the world. one woman was arrested for practicing witchcraft Witchcraft on Long Island was of a very mild in East Hampton and would have been tried there, form. but it was unmistakably here just the same. I but the law was such that she had to be taken to have heard of the old people saying that when they Hartford for trial. Her name \\-as Goodwife Gar- were young there were those here who believed that licke and she had a good many influential friends, a witch could cross the ocean in an egg shell at night. among whom was Col. Lion Gardiner, who pre- have a grand frolic in England, and be back in the sented such a strong defense at the trial that she morning, or could ride a broom stick across the con- was acquitted ; had it not been for them she probabiy tinent to attend some conference, and ride back un- \vould have fared worse. -At the trial it was proved noticed, and not be missed while away. The suspect- tliat she had used herbs to bewitch with, afid that ed one was usually an old man or woman, thin. she had no objection to being thought a witch, and wizened and dried up, and the belief was that they had as good please the devil as anger him. could take on the form of an animal, such as a cat, I question if very marly would have admitted it. and go about unsuspected, and if they were suspect- but there is little doubt but that there were many ed and shot at, no harm could come to them if lead all through this part of the Island whose minds \+-asused for shot, for it was only silver that would were tainted with these foolish notions and super- be effective. stitions: and I am not sure but that there is some One of these myths couid walk through a pasture of that taint left over to this very day. where a herd of cows were grazing, and as many When Sag Harbor was a flourishing seaport. as they bewitched would dry up in their milk, or Inany of the Down East boats would come to this have some disease and die, or would fail to bring SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

forth young, or \vould persistently break the fence or even thought it \vise to oppose him, we won't say and let the herd out of the pasture. The follo\ving offend. so that he got allnost anything he asked for. story was told : It was thought he had the power to look into a hog In Bridgehampton in those days there was a hay pen, and if he chose from that time those hogs would field that no one had ever known the crop to be be under the influence of witches, and he alone could gathered or harvested in a dry condition ; no matter remedy the evil, unless horseshoes \\-ere used in and how pleasant the day, before that hay could be about the .pen. carted, it would rain and wet the crop. The day in One day in a pelting rain stor111 Cyrus was called question, the hay had been cut and was fit to be to see an old \vonlan in this neighborhood, and carted into the barn. The weather was fine. and the stopped on his way at Gabriel Halsey's to rest for nlen went at it in earnest. a time. 11y grandfather asked him where he was As a precaution they had taken a gun loaded going in such a storm? Cyrus told him, and said with silver buttons for shot, the only silver they the old lady thought she was bewitched. but that he had, and this they kept nearby so as to get it quickly \i-ould stop on his way back and report as to her if needed. They had only just gotten nicely at work, condition. which he did. He diagnosed the case as when a black cat appeared and started to run across follo~vs:"\trhy. Mr. Halsey, there is really nothing the field. One of the men grabbed the gun and shot the matter with her, it is only her weak mind. I at the cat, (she was too far away to kill) but he hit gave her some herb tea, and she \\-ill soon be ali her and she went away limping, and they for the right." first time in all history as it related to that field, got Hou- foolish this all appears to us, but they were the hay in the barn, dry and in good condition. sincere. It might have been in some cases, like the -In old woman who lived in that neighborhood one just cited, the result of a weak mind, but this and who was suspected of being a witch was not did not hold true as a rule. Su1)erstition afTected all seen for several days after the black cat was classes, and does today to a greater or lesser degree. wounded as related above. JVhen she did ap- If you planted beans when the wind was east, pear she was very lame and was obliged to use a they xvould never come up. If you saw the new cane for some time. This was ample proof that she moon over your left shoulder, it was bad luck for was a witch and was the cause of the trouble. you for that month. Cj-rus Huntting was an Indian u-ho lived on the If you walked under a ladder you inet ill luck. triangular lot, now an orchard, at the junction of Kever sit at a dinner when the company nuinhers Huntington Path and the Millstone road. His wife thirteen. A new born baby must be carried upstairs was Ollie, and as a small boy I remember her. They before it is ever taken downstairs or out of the afterward lived, and I think moved the house to a house. If you touched a corpse, you would never lot east of the road leading to the IVading Place die of the disease of which it died. If rain falls into from the Koyac Road, on the westerly line of the a newly dug grave, another one of that family will land formerly owned by the old Doctor Sweet, and die before the year ends. n'ever begin a piece of the house stood quite near the creek. This road is work on Saturday unless you can finish it that day. closed now, but I think should be re-opened. Should it be a garment, that person would never This Indian, Cyrus, was known as and believed live to wear it out. Never put a door in a house tc be a \\-itch doctor, and I think had quite a prac- where a windoll- had been. Never salt meat at a tice. The medicine he gave was made from herbs, certain time of the moon or it will not keep, or set roots or bark which he brewed and concocted him- lye tubs at that time or the soap will not come. Put ' self, and I guess was harmless, and may have been a hot horseshoe in the cream when the butter will good for some complaints. not co~ne,it xvill drive the witches out. There were people right here in Rridgehampton If the palln of your left hand itches, 4-ou are to ii: those days lvho would not openly admit it. but receive money. If the right, you are to pay it out. that really thought he possessed some power, either Kever set eggs except at a certain time of the moon supernatural or demoniacal, they knew not which, or they \\-ill not hatch. If you kill the first snake but it was a fact no one in this conlmunity cared to you see in the spring, and break the first brake, you SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY

\\-ill conquer all your enemies. If a rooster crou-ed this startling statement: "If ever. after I am gone, standing on your doorstep, company \\-as coming. this place is used for the sale or dealing out of strong If you dropped a fork it was company. but a man. drink. I \vill come back." If a knife, a xx-oman. If. a spoon, a child. -4 door Little was thought of this at the time, but after hinge creaking was a sign of death. -4 candle burn- her death, this property was sold. and a bar set up ing in a draft would make the tallow run, and this where liquor \\-as sold. would sometimes make what was called a "winding Sometime after this Mrs. Captain Bridger died sheet," and \\-as a sign of death. If the botto~nof there very suddenly, having broke her neck. Then ?-our feet itched, you were going to walk on strange a bar tender died without warning. Then two con- ground. If your left ear burned, you 11-ould hear stant customers died as suddenly. Then Captain bad news. If your right, good news. If you spill Bridger himself died. without warning. dropped salt, put solme in the fire. so as to avoid a quarrel. dead. I do not know whether there was more of this -\l\vaj-s take salt and a new broonl into a house list or not. before moving in. Xever cut a baby's nails until a Perhaps these deaths had nothing whatever to year old. or you will make a thief of it. -4lways do with Mrs. Smith's threat, but some might think stir cake or dough with the sun or it will be heavy. they had. Sow. these are a few of the foolish, nonsensical notions and whims that were believed in and that According to Scripture unquestionably had an influence on the lives of those -4dtlison Cartn-right was a menlber of a former people. They seen1 absolutely ridiculous to us. and generation of that family, and lived on Shelter how can it be accounted for other than that it is Island. the out-cropping of those old superstitions that to It was before the days when window shades were such an alarming estent prevailed generations ago in general use, and only the well-to-do fanlilies had in iheir forebears. them: and even among that class, some were slow If this be true in their case. and u-e are their de- to adopt any new idea. sincerely believing that it scendants, the inlportant questioil as it relates to us was folly, and not only an unnecessary expense, but is: _\re we of this day entirely- exempt and unin- contrary to the natural law as laid down in the Bible fluenced b- those same ideas, or is there still left as a guide for mankind. in our blood a taint. even though slight, of that One day Cartlvright was busily engaged with his same virus that n-e ridicule and condemn in our farm work, when a peddler came to the house offer- forefathers. ing his wares. ;Imong them were paper window I really wonder how many there are. if any, of shades, very attractive and pretty in color. this generation who. if they were to give their 11on- Mrs. Cartwright was very much pleased \\-it11 est. unbiased opinion, are absolutely exempt from theill. and bought what she needed. She lost no all taint regarding these things? Or, if it \\-ere pos- time, but made haste in putting then1 up. thinking sible to get such an opinion. ~vouldme be surprised she would give her husband a happy surprise. at the result? I would say, personally, I have 1113 IVhen he canle home, she ushered hiin to the best sympathj- with any of these notions, no more than rooln, to show him the new furnishings. The light I have with Spiritualism. My opinion is it is best was subdued. and the glaring rays of the sun shut to have nothing to do xith any of them. If there out, giving the room, to her mind, a nlost restful, re- be an?- truth in them. well! If not, just the same. freshing and quieting influence and appearance. There is one incident that I think I ~villnlention He stood in silence for several moments, and to though I cannot vouch for it. but I gil-e it just as her dismay, said: "^'\.lother:the 'Good Book' tells I heard it or as it was told to me. us that God said. 'Let there be light. and there was Mrs. Huldah Smith lived in a house on the light. and God saw that it \\-as good.' So it must Bridgehampton and Sag Harbor T~~rnpike.She \\-as ever be." 2 Spiritualist. and was a very bright. and intelligent IVhereupon, he proceeded at once to tear down the wornan, and was a sworn enemy of strong drink. beautiful, new shades, and threw theill in the fire, Toward the last of her life she is said to have made where they were consumed. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Diond Cut Diamond Floyd attended this sale because he wanted to "-\repartee is a witty and good-humored answer buy, but Sherry was there sinlply out of curiosity, to a remark of a similar character, and is meant to or perhaps to see many of his old friends, whom he surpass the latter in wittiness. Or a witty retort in had known in business relations for many years. conversation." Floyd was closely following the sales, and at last Many of the noted men in public life excelled in noticed that Sherry was not bidding on any of the repartee. John Randolph of Roanoke was a good stuff, and said to him: "Sherry, why are you not example in the earlier history of this country. Some- bidding on these things? They are just what we what later, and within the period of our n~e~norq-, want, and what we will need, and everything is going Chauncey M. Depew and Joseph H. Choate were cheap. Why don't you buy?" noted in this art, and long would be the list of grest "Oh," said Sherry. "I do not want the stuff, in men that might be added to those already men- fact, I have got no use for it." This statement sur- tioned. prised Floyd, and led him to inquire as to the reason. In almost every community there have'been, or and ask for an explanation. still are, bright, witty men who delight in making "Why." said Sherry, "I'll tell you, I am going some retort in conversation with a friend. that he is out of this business, and try something else." "I atn confident will call for a reply no less sharp or witty. surprised," said Floyd, "what are you going to do?" When the whaling industry on eastern Long Sherry replied; "I have not let it be known as yet, Island was at its height, perhaps from 1830 to 1860, but I am going into the brass foundry business." there were two men who were large owners, or were "Well, well," said Floyd, "I congratulate you, for I deeply interested in this industry, who were the think you will szcceed." "What makes you think characters in the story I am about to relate. The so?" said Sherry. "Why," said Floyd, "you will one was John Sherry, Sr. of Sag Harbor, the other, have an advantage over most men in that business, David G. Floyd of Greenport. from the fact that you will not have to import any They were both bright, witty men, and bcth en- material." gaged in fitting out ships for the same line of trade. Ephraim Byrarn, famous clock manufacturer, of One day Sherry went to Greenport to confer with Long Island, made the clock placed in City Hall, Floyd, and having plenty of time thought he would New York, before 1850. During a celebration held walk out to the Floyd home, it being some distance to observe the establishment of cable communica- out of the village. tion between England and the United States, the While on the road he was overtaken by Floyd, hall tower caught fire from a blazing tar barrel atop reiurning home with his horse and carriage. Upon a bonfire. The clock was so damaged it had to be recognizing Sherry, he stopped, and expressed his removed. Byram also made the dials of the clock at surprise at seeing his friend on the road, and invite6 Independence Hall, Philadelphia, which are said to him to ride. "Why," said Sherry, "I rather think I be still in position. He had a clock works in Sag will, for prcompany is better than none." "That Harbor and associated with him was John Sherry, was just the thought I had in mind when I asked Sr., the father of the late county treasurer of Suffolk you." said Floyd. 2nd leading Republican politician. John Sherry, Jr. Son~etin~eafter this, Sherry decided to dispose of Byrarn was known as a remarkable mechanical his interests in the whale ships, and was about to genius and at one time constructed a planetarium run form a partnership with Ephraim Byram, which he by clock work which reproduced the entire workings did, and established the "Oakland Brass 14Torks." of the solar system. It was exhibited in museums in There was advertised about this time. a large sale New York. of ship-chandlery go~ds,and those interested in fit- ting out ships took advantage of these sales, for the Expression of Loyalty reason that they could buy at greatly reduced values There lived in this same locality, somewhat later, those things that they knew they would need to several men that were of such a character that I repair their own ships when they returned from a think they ought not to be passed by unnoticed. whaling voyage. The name of one of these was Champlin; he lived SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY on the Noyac road just prior to and during the Civil mallet for me I will give- -you one dollar." The man \liar. His land went from the road to the creek and at once agreed to try again, went to the bottom and joined it. came right up with the lost mallet. James Payne, who lived on North Haven, kept It was thought he saw it the first trip under water, quite a number of cattle, and they would wander but the price did not satisfy. across Short Beach and west on Long Seach to the The Stories of Aaron Drake IVading Place, cross the creek and get into Cham- Aaron Drake claimed to be a descendant of Sir plin's crops ; one day a neighbor saw Chan~plir.driv- Francis Drake and lived on the Brick Kiln Road, and ing the cattle from his land and down to the creek; owned .considerable land; he reared a large family. \vhen they got into the water he grabbed one by the Mrs. Drake when asked by a guest, how many chil- tail with one hand, bracing his feet on the hicder dren she had, replied: "I really do not know, but ]:arts oi the cow, plyirlg a good whip with other there is Moses, *Cresh and John, Aaron, **Het and hand and shouting lustily; "I'll chastise you." Tom, Stephen Beckwith and ***Baby 0." This man, when the South seceded, was wearing He lived at the time when the whaling industry a full heard, this had been his custom, and this was in Sag Harbor was in the ascendency, and -4aron' the appearance he made and by which he was known like almost every one of his day used more or less in the entire community, but when he heard of that liquor. and more often more than less. dire calamity which meant national disruption, dis- One day when walking up Main street on his way solution, separation and division, he was greatly home, a company of boys were trying to climb the grieved and to show and illustrate his grief, he trees in the street along the Huntting and Howell shaved one side of his face from his nose to his properties, when he stopped for a time and watched Adam's apple, and when asked why he did it, re- them, and made this comment; "You are making plied: "The Nation is divided.'' The other side of mighty poor work of it, I could do better than that his face he left unshaven. and go up feet first," whereupon the challenge was -4nother man born and brought up in this same accepted ; Aaron started up and made good progress, locality at about the same time, subjected himself hut lost his grip and came down in a heap. to a rigid fast. I cannot say whether he did it for Another time after a heavy fall of snow he was patriotic reasons, as did Champlin, or not, but I returning home, quite unsteady on his feet; and sat think it fair to suppose he may have, for the spirit down in a snow bank by the side of the road; about of loyalty ran pretty high during the national crisis this time Gabriel Halsey (my grandfather) came from 1861 to 1865. He fasted for three days, along and said; "Aaron, what are you doing?" and when asked why he did it, replied: "I fasted "Why Gabriel," said he, "the snow is such a pure one day for myself, one for my wife and one for white I thought I would sit down and meditate.'' the Nation." In the yards near his house was a large flat rock ; A Diplomat one day a neighbor in passing saw Aaron digging under this rock, and to satisfy his curiosity went to During the whaling days Szg Harbor was send- see what he was doing, and thereupon asked him. ing ships to the seven seas following that industry. Said Aaron; "I want a cellar I can get into and get Many foreigners came to this port on returning out of." "Well, you may get into it, but if you keep whale ships, and often among these were Kanakas on digging I question if you ever get out," he or natives of the Pacific Islands; these men took replied. naturally to the water and were great divers and swimmers. Wedding and Home Coming of a Sea Captain One day a workman dropped a calking mallet Thomas F. Sayre was a descendant of the Colonist' overboard and offered a Kanaka a quarter to go of that name who was one of those who first settled down and get it; he at once went to the bottom but at "Old Town." He was always an independent could not find it, then he was offered a half dollar, thinker and worker. A man intelligent, industrious, he went again. but in vain. The workman prized trustworthy and reliable. tlie mallet very highly and said : "If you will get that SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-IL HISTORY

The farnl where this man lived \\-as located at at that early hour. Some said: "It looks like Ton1 Flying Point, and when a young man for some Sayre, but he is at sea." "It looks like his team any years his mother kept house for him, and \\-as filling way,'' saidanother. 12'hen one of his old neighbors this position when young Thomas decided to get came near enough to recognize him, and was the first married. to know of his return home. The wedding day \\-as set, it being March 22, He reached home about the time his own people 1842. and it proved to be an unusually hard storm. arose, \\-hen to their surprise they learned oi his re- Thomas went to work that morning in the barn. turn. as well as of the trip he had nlade since his and became very much interested in his \\-ork. He arrival. little thought hoiv the time was passing. and ap- He said he thought he "would not disturb their parently forgot that it was the day chosen for his slumbers so early in the morning, but had tin~e wedding. enough to get a load of seaweed before breakfast." His mother became ansious. and wondered why he was not getting ready for the nuptial feast, so The Wrong Date hastened to look him up and ascertain the reason. The llillerites had for a time quite a follo\ving in IVhereqon she found him in the barn hard at work this township, anlong whom were a goodly number at some job that had been postponed fo: just such a of the Shinnecock Indians. stornly day. She said. "Thomas, what are you The time had often been set for the end of all doing? Don't you know that this is your wedding things n-orldly, but the prophecy failed. ant1 another day, and it is already getting late:'" "I know it is," date was determined upon, and the faithful held said he, "but Mother. it storms so hard I don't think themselves in readiness. One of these dates \\-as at it will be, do you?" a time \\-hen the grass on Shinnecock Hills and dunes "1Vel1," said she, "I don't much believe it wili, was dry. unless you attend, but I think you had better hurry The faithful gathered this night on one of the and get there, and if you do. I think it \\-ill be." elevations and waited, robed and ready. The boys He, like most of the ambitious young men of his of that locality knew of this gathering, and late in day, n-ent to sea in the \\-haling industry, and becanle the night, when all slept. they mischeviousl~-set fire commander of a ship. These men \\-ere often anray to the grass and waited results. .At last, the com- from hcme several years on one voyage. pany awoke surrounded by fire. when one of then] -At that time the Long Island railroad only canle cried out; "In H-1 just as I expected." as far east as Riverhead. so that one returning home -\bout the time that this doctrine was being n,ould have to come from that place. either on foet preached, one of the most enthusiastic ad\-ocates of or by stage, cr from Sag Harbor, if they made that this doctrine was a Dr. Cummings. It was then that port. Dr. Oliver '\\-endell Holmes wrote a verse in which On one occasion he reached honle about two he expressed his ideas. o'clock in the morning. late in the autumn. about the "1Iyhen he that hath a horse for sale. time of the full of the moon, so it was light all Brings all its merits to the proof: night. 1Vithout a lie for every nail On arriving home. all was quiet, so he thought he That holds the iron to its hoof. ~~oulcllook around a bit and see if ever)-thing was Till then, let Curnmings blaze away. in good order. He found the hog pen to be very -And lliller's saints blon- up the globe, net and muddy, so he went to the barn, harnessed But when you see that blessed day. his team. and went to Towd or Sorth Sea after'a Then order your ascension robe." load of seaweed. It was ahout sunrise when he got back to South- A Plover Story ampton with it. -4s he passed the farm houses. the There are men who appear to have a natural ten- Inen were just doing the milking, or getting break- dency to tell wonderful stories. They cannot be fast. justly called liars. nor the account of their mar- -411 wondered who could have been after seaweed velous experiences lies. fcr they are not told with the SKETCHES FRO11 LOCAL HISTORY intention to deceive, but simply to create interest or A Shoemaker's Joke excite notoriety. -\bout the middle of the 19th century there lived Years ago there was just such a character lived in Sagaponack a bachelor whose name was Smith in the neighborhood of Southampton. L. I. His Topping. -1 very gentlemanly man. and one who name \\-as Jagger. I am not sure of his Christian gave much attention to his personal appearance. He name: but he n-ould always have some marvelous took great pleasure in escorting his lady friends to story or experience to relate, and he was also noted local entertainments, and could truly have been for being able, after having told some wonderful classed as a genuine gallant. Phebe Topping at this story. and later. when questioned as to its veracity. time \\-as a maiden lady who lived in Posabogue: to make a plausible excuse or explanation that would she afterward married Daniel H. Haines, and she clear him, verify his story and apparently satisiy was the star actor in this drama. and the one who his victim. told the story. During the memory of some of the older Inen of Phebe was very 111uch in need of a new pair of this generation, there were great flights of plover shoes, so went to Oliver Sayre for the .purpose of over eastern Long Island. These usually took place ordering a pair made. -At that time there were no or occurred in the late summer or early autumn. ready-made boots or shoes to be had, hut every one during. and just after a severe easterly storm. had to go to the local cobbler or shoemaker, who It \\-as generally thought that these birds were made all kinds of shoes according to the measure migrating south at this time from their northern taken. and of such leather as was suitable for the summer home, where they had reared their young. purpose for which they were needed. and \\-ere driven inland by the storm. It was a fact Oliver Sayre mas a local shoemaker whose home that some years they appeared here in great num- was on the northerly side of the Main Road between bers, and lived in this locality for weeks. feeding on Bridgehampton and Poxabogue, the site of which crickets. grass hoppers. and the grain that shelled is marked by his name on the 1850 Map. "Now, out on the wheat fields. Phebe," said Mr. Sayre, "I will tell you what I \\-ill The long-tail wild, or passenger pigeons (now do. If you will go out riding with Smith Topping supposed to be aln~ost extinct) were also verF I will make you a pair of shoes from the best leather numerous at this time. in my shop and \\-ill not charge you one penny for One day this Mr. Jagger met an acquaintance them.'' fro111 out of town. I think he was from North Sea. Money at that time was not very plentiful, and and after the usual salutation. asked him if he had after due reflection she decided she could stand the heard the news? "LVhq- no." said the man, "I have joke. so accepted the offer and gave the order. not. what is it?" "\Veil." said Jagger. "they do say. iVhereupon Mr. Sayre said; "1-ou IIIUS~ first per- the plover are driving up on the south beach in form your part of the contract." I\-ind rows. It is a n-onderful sight, and every one Shortly after this Topping appeared u-ith his best has been, or is going down to the ocean to see it. horse and invited Phebe to go out riding. She It is too bad and a shame that there should be such gladly accepted the invitation (Sayre had probably a loss." made the bargain with Topping) and upon return- "iVell. well." said the man. "I am glad you told ing home called on Sayre to assure him that she es- me, and before I go home I \\-ill drive down to the pected the shoes in accordance \\-it% his agreement. ocean and see them." This he did, but saw no Sayre measured her foot and told her to come for plover, neither had there been an)- there. the shoes in about three weeks, \\-hen they \vould be IVhen he came back he saw Jagger and asked him ready for her. why he had told him such a yarn, for there were -At the appointed time Phebe \vent for her shoes. no plover washing ashore. neither had there been Sayre had made them beautifully. and of the best any. leather. but they were only from three to four inches "iVhy." said Jagger, "you \\-ere too late, for they long, and made to fit a little baby. Phebe said, "I do say. the tide has arisen and washed them an-a-." was mad, just as mad as I could be." SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

I wish I knew what became of those shoes. She of men, and included such names as French, Payne, told this story when she was an old lady. She lived Nickerson, Lucas, Sherry, Hedges, Homan, Vail to be very old, go yrs. 7 mon. and 22 days. and others. John Homan became much interested in a de- Stories of Luther Hildreth scription of a barometer any one could make by Isaac Hildreth lived in Mecox about 1756 to 1822. taking some chemical or mineral salts, putting the had a large family; of the boys there were Luther, same in a bottle of rain water. In fair weather Shadrach, Isaac, Lester, John and Matthew. these salts would all settle to the bottom of the Luther went a number of voyages whaling, but bottle, but in stormy weather they would rise and when home would work on the farm and assist his become cloudy and roiled. Homan made one of brothers. One source of income was fishing. This these barometers, and after testing thoroughly, told was followed both in the ocean and Mecox Bay. his neighbors how wonderfully it worked, being Luther was a very passionate man, and q~~ick amazed at its accuracy. tempered. Very heavily built and strong, so that Charles S. Hedges, the village painter, heard this when he became excited or out of patience, most men account, listened attentively, but said nothing. Some let him alone. days after this, Hedges arose early one morning, One day they were drawing the seine in Mecox hastened down to Mr. Homan's house before he was Bay, and among the crew was his brother, Shadrach. up, went to the front porch, took down the im- It appears that the latter was placed in a very im- provised barometer, gave it an infernal shaking, portant place about the seine, and because of some- hung it up carefully, then went around to the back thing he either did, or else failed to do, they lost a door and called Homan. He came to the bedroom good share of the draught of fish. window and asked what was wanted. "Why," said Luther laid the blame to Shadrach, and in his Hedges, "the other day I heard you telling about wrath grasped him by the collar and seat of his that barometer you have made, and I am interested, pants, lifted him clear above his head, waded out in I'll tell you John, I have a wagon that I want to the bay as far as he could and threw him still paint, but I want to besure of the weather. I would farther and exclaimed : "Shadrach, Meshach, and hate to start on it and then have bad weather, so I Abed-nego, and to H-1 you go." Then left him thought I would come down early and see if you and went back to work. could advise me about it." When home from sea on one occasion he was "Well, Charles," said Homan, "I certainly can working with a team of horses near the bay. Tiley tell you just what it is going to do; you just wait for ran away from him and went across the bay to the me to dress, and I will be down." Hedges waited beach. Luther got a boat and went after theni. patiently, and when Homan came down, he said. After catching them, he drove them back to the "Come with me and I will show you how it works." hay. and swam them across, only he got into the Homan was instantly excited, for the whole mass boat and drove them into deep water. He then fin- was forming. "Why, Charlie," said he; "yvu ished his day's work. cannot psint any wagon the day. \4Thy, man, it In co~nmentingupon his experience he said: "He is going to storm. You wait till I call my wife." had a fine time and that it was the nearest like be- Whereupon he ran to the stairway atid called. ing towed by a whale than anything he had eves CITe~npy, Teinpy, get up quick and shut the garret rxperienced on the land." windows, for it is going to rain inside of fifteen minutes. No. Hedges, this is no day to paint." Hedges expressed his gratitude, and told Homan SOME STORIES OF SAG HARBOR the information was worth a great deal to him. A generation ago Sag Harbor could boast of When I was a boy there was an old man who having as residents a class of men who had experi- lived in Sag Harbor whose name was Jennings. I enced the prosperous days of the whaling industry, do not know why, but he was always called Mis- and also the dark, anxious days of the Civil War. sionary Jennings. He had been a truckman in his Taken as a class they were a reinarkab!e company younger days, but at that time. because of his age SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY he was unable to do as hard work as that business when the parents of the young men who were going demanded, so occupied his time in doing lighter to the war were weeping, and expressing their sor- work, such as raking lawns and planting gardens for row when bidding farewell to their sons, perhaps the villagers. for the last time. There was one man, no less He still kept a horse and cart, and would plow patriotic than the others, who took a different view gardens and cart away the accumulated rubbish, and of the matter, and a no less serious one at that. He in fact make himself generally useful. Among the shed no tears, but felt the blow. jobs he was called upon to do were those about He said; "Boys, I have always been a loyal and these homes that the laws of sanitation absolutely patriotic citizen of my country. I am glad you are demanded before the days of sewers. offering your services, and thereby showing the same He was a very diffident man and one easily em- spirit. Your father has this charge to make to you: barrassed, and on the day in question when he had 'Always stand up for and honor your country and finished his work at a certain place the owner de- your country's flag; and in doing this, you are manded an itemized bill for services rendered. honoring me. I have only one request to make, it This bothered the old man considerably; he is this: When you get to the front, and meet those thought about it but could not find the words that he rebels, I want you to fight like the Devil.' " thought proper to use, and yet he was anxious to Samuel Trib Hildreth was a resident of Sag Har- submit his bill, so he finally made it out something bor, and followed the butcher business for many like the following: I6 To one load of loam, and one load more, $ years. When gold was discovered in California, he To one load of gravel dumped at the door, $ left his native town and became a "Forty Niner," and later came back to his native town. To sundry jobs in divers places. $---- ,? This answered the demand, and he collected his He was a gentleman, though when about his work bill. his clothes were in accordance with his task. Few Many of the men who became whaling captains of his associates ever saw him when dressed in his retired well-to-do, and enjoyed themselves in spend- best. One day he decided to take the afternoon ing it because of the comforts it afforded them. One boat for New York, so dressed up for the occasion. of them who lived in the Hamptons, after many This was much a contrast to his general appearance years of plenty had the misfortune to lose his money. that his associates sought to make fun of him, com- It was hard to change his mode of living, but he menting on his fine appearance. He replied ; "Can't had to submit to the inevitable. His horses that a man array himself in the garb of respectability, here-to-fore had been fat and sleek, and in high and the habiliments of a gentleman without being condition were now void of ambition and in poor subject to the rude comments of the vulgar public?" condition, and to get the speed a whip was a neces- sary part of the outfit. And this was evident to A Sag Harbor Cooper such an extent, that their ribs were a very promi- During the height of the whaling industry in Sag nent part of their anatomy. Harbor, the oil barrels all were made by hand. This The day in question, this ex-Captain stopped his made the trade of a cooper very important. Many team in front of Nickerson's office: the latter noticed times a smart man would draw two shares on a the condition of the horses and said : "Captain, have whaleship, one as a cooper, the other as a sailor. you engaged your mason yet?" "Why, I fail to Poles for barrel hoops were in great demand. A understand you: did you think I was doing some man was found by the owner, cutting hoop poles building?" said the Captain. "Oh, I did not know in his woodland and asked by what right he was so as to that," said Nickerson. "But I noticed you had doing. He replied that "he was a cooper, and that your lathing done," pointing to the horses' ribs. custom had established a law by which a cooper had -At the beginning of the Civil War. young men the right to go into any man's woodland to cut hoop were enlisting in every community. Meetings were holes for as far as he could'throw his axe." "But," held to create and incite the spirit of loyalty and said the man; "you are such farther than that." patriotism. Such a meeting was held in Sag Harbor, "I know 1 am," said the cooper, "but custom has SKETCHES FROM LOC-\L HISTORY

recently changed that laby. so that now he can go as bridge, and \Yest \Vater Street ran froin the bridge far as he can throw it twice." to lower Main Street, on what is now L. I. Kailroati One cooper happened to be very cross-eyed, and property. The old bridge went straight across the was asked if that affliction did not bother hiin in his channel and was very short compared with the trade. His reply was, "No. it does not, it is really a present one. great help, for I can watch the pole I ail1 cutting \Vilson Yayne was the father of James, \iTillianl with one eye, and at the same time look up another and Huntting. and grandfather of Madison, Davit1 pole with the other one." and Henry, the last of whom gave me the informa- tion regarding his grandfather Wilson. Two Menhaden Fishermen He always lived on North Haven and o\vned a Eldoras and Edward King were two brothers ~vho farm there. In those early days almost every one followed the fishing business. Eldoras worked for used strong drink. and it was considered no disgrace wages and was sure of an income, Edward operated whatever, and was not frowned upon as it is to-day. another fishing outfit on shares. Fish were not very and the men who did not use it were the exceptions. plentiful that year, and it appeared as if those work- This man sometimes used it to such an extent that ing for wages would fare the better. One day when it affected his judgment seriously, and led him to on a fishing cruise, these brothers met. Eldoras do those things that otherwise he n-ould not have asked Edward which he would rather have: "The done. half of a little or the whole of nothing." Edward There n7as an abundance of fish in the bay in soon gave up his job and secured work about the those days, and a large application of them on the wharf, but again failed to make good. Some of his land as fertilizer enabled the iarmers even on the friends joked him as to his past success and future light soil of Korth Haven to grow good large crops. prospects. He retorted as follows; "I suppose there The grass that grew after harvest would lie on the are some people that are very wise, but I know there ground and as it dried up and ripened would become are a good many others that are d-n otherwise." 1-erj- smooth and slippery. One day this man con- ceived the idea of sleigh riding on this dry grass, so An Old Resident of North Haven he harnessed a horse before a sleigh, put on the bells The peninsula lying to the north of Sag Harbor just as in winter, and rode about the fields. This and between Shelter Island Sound and Noyac Bay. was a new stunt and attracted considerable atten- was in the early records called Hoggenoch, a sup- tion and notoriety, among his neighbors, who ap- posed Indian name, but which Mr. W. IV. Tooker peared to enjoy it fully as much as he. claimed was a corruption of Hog Neck. This land I can readily see where it might have some ad- was known and called by the latter name until recent vantages over snow. On another occasion, he and years when it was changed to North Haven. At James Eldredge. Uncle Jim as he was usually called, extremely high tides it is an island, that is when went over to Sag Harbor after supper to spend the the tides rise high enough to flow across the central evening, but instead of walking they went in a row portion of Long Beach. boat. They stayed quite late, and when they \vent Before the bridge was built that connects it \vitEi back home they got off the right course some how. Sag Harbor the only way to get there was by the and brought up against a water fence. Xeither one way of Long and Short beaches, and there is even to knew- what the matter was. but they could not get this day a recorded highway the length of these t\vo away from that fence, so kept pulling at the oars beaches. and kept the boat right there. This they did until The bridge was not built until a goodly portion daylight, when they saw the trouble, and probably of the land was cleared and settled. I think a ferry they were in better condition to navigate their craft boat or float was used many years before a bridge by that time, and at last reached home safely. was constructed, but finally as business demanded Mr. Payne raised turnips as one of the farm it, a toll bridge was built. The charge for a team crops. these he sold for the most part to the residents and wagon was sixteen cents each way. The toll of Sag Harbor, and peddled them about the village. house was located at the Sag Harbor end of the The day in cluestion, he took a load of turilips SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY over to the village with his team of oxen on a two called main land. This knou-ledge led the hunters wheeled cart, such as was in general use on the farnls to form a line across the narrow portion of the Neck at that time. He wore a new suit of clothes :hat he near Short beach, so that they could either get a shot had just gotten the day before; and to assist him in at the fox or drive it back, and often the fox wouid peddling he took with hi111 his grandson liadison, folloiv the west shore close to the water, or in the a snlall boy of perhaps ten or twelve years. edge of the water so as to leave no scent, and thereby ]\-hen taking his load to the village he crossed confuse the hounds. the bridge and paid the toll, but on retnrning. he had The west side of the Neck along Noyac bay is plenty of time, and to save the toll, he went as was made up of high bluffs, and there are many gullies his custom by the Noyac Road, west to the road on made by erosion in these banks that extend almost to the old Dr. Sweet farm that led to the IVading Place. the water, and at high tide the water is quite deep thence across the creek to Long Beach. and then by near the shore. Short Beach home. Uiilson Payne secreted himself in one of these This day when arriving at the TVading Place, lit- pllies close to the store. and waited and watched tle Madison went to take down the bars in the fence; for the fox, with his flintlock primed, cocked and he noticed the water was very high, and said to his ready. At last he saw the fox coming, and when he grandfather; "IVe cannot go across for the meadow passed the old hunter he was very near to him. is all under water, the tide is awful high." Payne aimed and fired, but the gun missed fire and "Oh. come on boy," said the old man. "we can go only snapped. The fox was so frightened at seeing all right, you get in the back of the cart and hang the man and hearing the gun, that he sprang out into on, a little water wont hurt you." The old gentle- the water to escape. but the water was so deep he man had been imbibing quite freely and had con- had to su-im. Whereupon Payne rushed into the siderable of what was sorneti~nes called "false water, using his gun as a club, and killed and cap- courage." tured his game. He sat down in the front end of the ox cart and the boy was in the rear hanging on for what he A Story of Nathan Cook (Tailor) thought was his life. They had one bushel of tur- Nathan Cook lived on Mitchel's Lane in Bridge- nips left unsold. The oxen were used to crossing hampton (18o0 map). He was a tailor by trade, the creek at this place, and knew the way. and really and brother of David Cook (blacksmith) of Hay needed no driver or guide, but the I\-ater was deep. Ground. -At that time ready-made clothing was un- They had only gone a little when the oxen were known. The cloth was woven on the home loom, swimming. The cart being built of ~vood,save the from u-ool or flax grown on the farm. The tailor tires and braces, sank solnewhat with the weight of went from house to house, measured and made suits the passengers or crew, but yet floated. The turnips for the men and boys, and usually boarded with the drifted away. The boy Madison was frightened but family while working for them. 11-as charged to hold on. It was said that if forty men came to Kathan The old man, as he sat in the cart. knew enough Cook the same day to engage him to come and do not to try to stand up, but simply hung on, and was their tailoring, he would give them all the same cbliged to raise his chin and throw his head back to answer, which was; "I cannot come this week, I keep his mouth above water, but they got across at 11-ill come next week if I can, but week after sartin." last all right. with the new suit sorne~vhatthe worse This promise satisfied his customers for a time, but in appearance because of the sea voyage. often brought him trouble later. 11-hen IVilson was quite an old man, a company Thotnas Gelston was one of those who engaged of hunters went to Sorth Haven fos hunting, and him to do some work. and received the above answer. he joined them with his old flintlock gun. There "Sow tailor," said Gelston. "that don't go. you is no I\-a_v for a fos to get off of Hog Seck but bj- have been telling Ine that right along. and you do the \Val- of Short Beach, and when a fos is being not keep your word. I cannot depend on you, I really croivded and I\-orried by the hounds. he would always want to know when you will come?'' "Mr. Gelston." run for this beach, seeking to get across to the so- said the tailor: "if the Lord spares my life I will SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY be at your house at sun-up," such a day, naming it. before it, not being able to beat against it. This con- "Very well," said Gelston, "I shall expect you if you tinued for many days, and drove them many miles are alive." out to sea, so that instead of reaching port in one The day came, but no tailor. Along in forenoon week as they expected, they were about three weeks Gelston went down to the Tavern; on the way every in getting there. one he met he told the startling news that Tailor They ran out of provisions and water, so had to Cook was dead. ,4t the Tavern he told the same. resort to the cargo for food, that is; they ate salt and before night the news had spread to the utmost codfish, this created thirst, then they drank rum. limits of the community, and among those who the salt counteracting the liquor to a certain extent, heard it was the tailor himself. who in his wrath and this was their diet until they reached port. The hastened to Gelston's, and called him to task for boys appeared t:, mind it much more than the old circulating such a story. Gelston said ; "Tailor, you man, but they were all glad of a change of food. told me if you were alive you would come, and as you did not come I naturally supposed you were Fashions Change dead, and so reported it." Thomas Gelston was a great practical joker, and Nathan Cook claimed to possess power to foretell always had time enough for that sport. One day events. In carrying out this idea, I should have when returning from Sag Harbor a man hailed him supposed he would have been rather unpopular; he and asked for a ride, but Gelston called back; "I never indulged in this pastime, however, when about cannot do it, I have not the time, for I have just his regular work or trade, it was only when visiting bought a new bonnet for my wife, and if I don't or calling about the town; for instance, he might go hurry home, the thing will be out of fashion before into the house of a neighbor to spend the evening; I get there." when upon entering the room he would stare about. - and sniff, and sniff, and would finally announce ; "I smell Death, there will be a corpse in this house be- Edward Chapman Rogers manufactured hats in fore morning." Sag Harbor. Some of wool, and I think some of straw. These were for the most part sold on east- An Old Resident of Noyadc ern Long Island. Harry Edwards, of Rridgehamp- ton, usually known as "Uncle Harry," one day in Jonah Rogers lived at the North Side or Noyack, speaking of wearing clothes that tvcre in fashioil, and owned and sailed a schooner for many years, said; "I have one of Ed. Rogers' wool hats that I usually in the coastwise trade, but sometimes to the have tvorn for 21 years, and in that time it has been West Indies, but generally from Boston, Salem or fashion seven times.'" soille of the New England ports, to Sew York or some of the ports along Long Island Sound. His crew consisted as a general thing. of one old Robert Hedges of Sagaponack was born in the sailor, no longer fit for regular service, because of year 1809. In his youth he served as carpenter's ap his age or disability, but who could steer a boat and prentice in Franklin, Xew Jersey, for a term of five knew how and what to do as a sailor. years, after which he was classed as a carpenter. He The other help would be one or ttv-o boys, who then came home to his father. -%bout this time he were new at the job, but could assist, the idea being shouldered his axe one morning, walked into the that of economy, they receiving little more than their woods, cut three and one half cords of wood and board. corded it up, in Gne day, and walked home at night. On one voyage they left Salem for Sew York or This is certainly a case where fashion has changed some nearby port, and it being a short voyage, they in this locality. provisioned the vessel accordingly, with enough food and supplies for not to exceed one week. The cargo Captain Jetur Rose of Korth Sea was a success- was dried salt codfish and rum. ful whaling captain. On one vcyage out of New When well out to sea, there came on a heavy Bedford his wife, Caroline, went with him. They northwest blow or gale, and they were obliged to go were away from home between three and four years. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Their wearing apparel when they left home was in Maltby G. Rose, of the previous story, inherited fashion and upto-date, but many changes had taken much of his father's drollery and humor. When a place while away on that long voyage. When they boy he made a wager with another youngster as to arrived in port, the ship owners sent thein to the who should get and wear the largest pair of boats. best hotel in town. Mrs. Rose applied for accommo- He finally won by changing several times for a dations, but was told it would be impossible as the larger pair, the last being 12's or 13's of men's size. hotel was full. She then told them that they were At school, Maltby was up to the average, but al- just home from a long sea voyage, and as yet had no ways disliked to write compositions, so on Friday opportunity to get new clothes; also that the firm of afternoons, when the literary exercises were held, ship owners had sent them there, and that the only Maltby would quite often be absent. One Monday thing she could do was to report the case to that morning after such an absence, the teacher told company, naming them. This fact changed the situ- Maltby to write a LONG composition for the fol- ation at once. The best rooms in the hotel were lowing Friday. Maltby replied by saying; "he had given them, also the best service that the hotel af- no subject on which to write." The teacher said; forded. "Write about anything, the weather, or farming, or cattle raising, and if you can find nothing else. write Elbert Rose and Son Maltby about your father's woodland, but be sure and have It was customary years ago to teach children the a LONG composition for Friday." "Very well, Sir," Catechism, Apostles Creed, Lord's Prayer, Tci: said Maltby. No one gave it more thought. The Cornmandents, etc. George Rugg, a son of King- letter paper in fashion at that time was long and ston Rugg, was a small colored boy who worked for narrow, and unfolded lengthwise. Maltby pasted Esquire Maltby G. Rose, in Hay Ground. His son, a lot of those sheets together until he haci a roll Elbert Rose, was at that time a big boy in his of 25 to 30 feet long. On this he wrote the de- father's home. Mr. Edgar was minister in the Pres- scription of each wood lot in detail. Friday after- byterian Church, and told George that he should noon, when called upon, Maltby arose with great learn the Catechism. Elbert kindly told George that deliberation, walked to the platform, made a very he would teach him, and that he could begin to study low bow. In his hands he held the roll, with at once. The questions, only a few of which I will the ends held firmly between thumb and finger, give, were taken from the regular Catechism, but with the roll toward the audience. Standing di- for the Bible characters given in the answers. Mr. rectly in front of the center aisle. so that when he let Elbert substituted the names of local men, as fol- the roll drop, in unrolling, it struck the floor ar.d lows : rolled down the aisle almost one half the length of LiTVV - ho \\;as the first man ?" dam Rugg the school room. L < Who was the first woman ?" Rose This in itself created ccnsiderable mirth, then he (Elbert's mother) began to read. The roll being so narrow, he was L 6 Who was the wisest man?" .. --Solomon Gray- obliged to pull in and pay out quite fast to keep "Who was the 111ost patient man ?"-----Job Haines reading. As he pulled the long roll up the aisle, "Who mas the first martyr?"-....-..-Stephen Talmqe the other end began to pile up in front of him. "Who was cast into the den of lions ?" Maltby read, and read until the teacher realized it Daniel Talmage would take up most of the afternoon, tvhen 11c was "Who was the meekest man?"- Moses Phillips obliged to tell Maltby that he had read sufficient for After a time Mr. Edgar made a call on the Rose that day. "But," said Maltby, "there is a whole lot family, and met the colored boy George, when he more." Then of course, he had to gather up that asked him "if he had studied his Catechism?" and pile of paper, which took some time, and aff~r~led "if so, could he question him?" George consented, more fun. and answered just as taught. -After hearing the In the physiology class he was asked to describe prompt answers. Mr. Edgar said; "George, who the skin. His answer: "It is an elastic peeling that taught you the Catechism?" "Mr. Elbert," said ccvers the body." He ;\;rote a co~npositionabout George. -Aaron Burr, and ir, su~nnlingup the story of his SKETCHES FROPI1 LOC-AL HISTORY life. he concluded with these words : "He came up ivill all partake of the fatted calf." The plan worked. like peppergrass, lived like a hoppergrass. and laid and the brush lot was cleared. This man \\-as down and died like a donkey." quite a large land owner. He said; "I do not want For Tears Jfaltby Rose ran the Hay Ground to own the whole earth, but I \vould like to own IVindmill. and finally owned it. David Haines took every piece of land that joins any cf mine." a grist there to be ground. \vent after it several This man raised Inany young horses. One day times. but owing to the lack of wind it was not he had several colts tied up in .the barn yard to ready, so Maltby told him he ~vould send hini a halter break. -A hen hawk caught a hen and car- card notifying him when it \\;as ground and ready. ried it to a lone cedar tree in Richard Halsey's lot. The following is a copy of the message sent: His son. Herman, got a gun and jumped on at1 un- "Mr. David Haines, of noble fame, broken colt. three years old with bridle but no sad- I write you that I've ground your grain: dle. and started after the hawk. The wind was The wind blew up as I wished it to. blowing hard. The boy rode to the leeward of the -And I went do\vn and put it through." tree. and ran the colt straight for that tree. The IVhen Mary Pickford was making and preparing hawk flew to the windward with the hen. Herman the reel for the movie "Huldah of Holland." they rode up under the hawk, dropped the reins, shot came to Hay Ground, from the fact that the \\-in& and killed the hawk. He said afterward: "I never mill was in working order. and could be used. They came so near being tl~rol\-nfrom a horse in my built what represented a Dutch village nearby. sup- life." plied Maltby with a new white duck suit, so he When John Edwards \\;as quite an elderly man. would look like a typical miller. They offered him a neighbor had a fine steer that had become verj $25. to run the lllill while taking the reel. RIaltby wild, and ugly as well, so much so that no one said he would not do it. "Well," said they. ''~vhat xvould buy it. This steer had been running with will you do it for?" (supposing he wanted more the common herd all the season. Because of these money). "Why," said Maltby, "that is too much facts Edwards bought it very cheap. His neighbors money. To run that mill for you I should want said: "He mill never be able to catch the brute." and about $4.50." which they paid him, to the satisfac- they watched, but one day they were rewarded. tion of both parties. This steer at that time had joined a herd of cattle, and \\-as in a barnyard with them. Edwards owned STORY OF JOHN EDWARDS a fine yoke of old osen, well broken and trusty. John Edwards, who lived on the south side of These he took with an extra ox yoke into that Huntington Path in Bridgehainpton. served in the barnyard, also a good long rope with a pole to war of 1812. He reared a large fanlily in this carry the noose. He got between the oxen nud house. His children were Joseph -I., Lodo\\-ick H.. behind the yoke. He drove the osen aljo~itamong John P., Deborah C.. Mary J.. Frances. EIantiah. the herd until near enough to drop the noose over Charlotte. Henrietta, Hernlan. Albert. On one oc- the steer's head. They then drew the steer up to casion he bought some land and \\-as greatly puzzled a strong fence post and tied him, then unyoked one as to how to clear it and make it tillable. He owned ox and yoked the steer in his place, then with the a large stock of cattle, and these ran in the n-oods. extra yoke, did the same thing with the steer and as \\-as the CUS~OII~. One day he found a nice fat the other ox. The osen took the steer home. -\ calf hung in the crotch of a tree. He dressed it at bargain. cnce, and coilceived the idea of a neighborhood . feast. He canvassed the entire neighborhood. inviting SOME RESIDENTS OF WAINSCOTT every one to attend the banquet, the form of in- John Strong of 11-ainscott. born in 1756. (lied in vitation being about as folio\\-s: "Come, let us all 1828. ~vasthe father of three boys. S>-l\-anus,Ab- get together. Go out on the new ground. Carr- ner and Saul. His holllestead was the one marked some brush tcgether, pile it up. set fire to it, sit tc, -Ibner (~Sjomap). In those days all of the down and see it burn. 11-hen we get through. \\-e threshing \\-as done with flails, the grain being SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY

spread on the barn floor, when froill one to four his intercession with the -\lmighty, \\-as not i~idi- men would beat it lvith flails until the grain ivas rectly responsible for this trouble. and it caused him all threshed. In doi~igthis the men all had to keep considerable anxiety. _After a time this neighbor stroke, so as not to interfere with one another. was again taken sick, and this renewed in Osborn's John Strong trained his three boys to thresh in a mind his former experience, so he said; "I got right team of four, including himself. To help them down on my knees again, and prayed to the Lord: keep stroke he \vould call the time. He might have and explained to him how his fornler prayer had counted 1-2-3-4, until they acquired the stroke, but been answered, and because of it, the trouble the he called the time another way. by saying, "I. Sylv. coinmunity had experienced, and that now, if he -1b. Saul. I. Sylv. -Ab. Saul." -\brier stayed on the wanted this man to get well again, he would have homestead, Sylvanus located on the corner of tc take the responsibility for it, for he was not Hedges Lane and the Town Line. Saul went to willing to do as he had done before, so that it was I'ennsylvania, where he became a Second -Adventist. entirely up to the Lord as to whether he got well He would occasiona:ly coii~eto IVainscott to visit or not." his brothers. On one of these visits. he preached to his brothers the doctrine he had adopted. and was Elisha Osborne of Wainscott. (1800 map) was very enthusiastic in his belief that the world would born 1769, died 1856. He was a very devout man. come to an end that year. _After making quite a and used to lead the prayer meetings held in the visit. he set the day when he \\-ould return to his schoolhouse in that village. He had a son, Thomas, home. His brothers urged him to prolong his visit. who did not follow in the footsteps of his father but he said he must get back and sow his wheat; in all ways. though not in the least a bad fellow, b~it whereupon his brother Sylvanus replied: "You just full of fun. The old schoolhouse was heated d-md fool, if the world is coming to an end this by a large box stove that would take in one half of year as you claim it is what is the use of your sow- a cordwood stick. In cold weather the fire was ing wheat: and if you really believe what you usually started some time before the meeting began. preach, you might j~~stas \\-ell stay right here and It \\-as invariably the habit of "Uncle Lish," as he go up with the rest of us." was called, when entering the schoolhouse, to go to Samuel Edwards of Hedges Lane. (1850 map) the stove. take the long iron poker which laid under was a great lover cf cats. One illan who worked it. and stir up the fire. One evening Thomas went for him in 1869 told me that at that ti11ie he had to meeting early, put the handle of the poker in the 46 cats on the farm, and these were fed regularly fire, let it get hot, and then put it in its place under both night and morning with fresh milk. the stove. In due time his father came to lead the Henry L. Osborn of iliainscott. ( 1900 map) was meeting. went to the stove as usual, grabbed the a man upright in character and a firm believer in poker, dropped it just as suddenly. and esclaiilled: prayer. It caine to pass that one of his neighbors "Some of that devilish TOIII'Swork." \\-as taken very sick. and his family had almost It was custoinary to read at these meetings a giren up hope of his recovery. On hearing of this religious tract. In his declining years his eyesight Mr. Osborn said: "I got right do\\-n on illy knees. partially failed, so he would ask some brother to and prayed earnestlx to the Lord for this man's re- read the tract for him. One evening, \\-hen Uncle ccvery, and that he be restored to his fa~i~ilyai;d Elisha \\-as preparing for meeting. To111 took the neighbors." He did get well. and 3Ir. Osborn al- tract from the old man's pocket, and substituted an I\-ays I)elie\-ed it was a direct answer to his prayer. almanac. IIihen the time arrived for the trxt to and that he was responsible for his restoration to be read. Uncle Elisha passed it to a brother. and the communit~-. said: "This is a ver- good tract." "IVhy. Mr. \-ears came and went. and this neighbor becan-ie Osborne," said the brother. "this is no tract, it is scme~vhatof a "thorn in the flesh" to Osborn and an almanac." "Ah, ha," said Uncle Lish. "this is his neighbors. Osborn I\-ondered if he, through some nlore of our TOIII'Scussed work." SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

An Old Time Mechanic buying them. It so happened that he got there just as Hedges was going to dinner, and on invitation For a number of years, at the beginning of win- ter, Robert Hedges of Sagaponack, would go to ate with him. "Then," said Hedges, "we will go Jersey City and work in the ship yards, hewing tim- and look at the hogs:' ber. At that time all of the ships were built of While they were at dinner the hogs broke out of wood, and for the most part hewn from logs. On the pen, and ran all about the farm. Hedges got all one occasion he applied for a job, and was asked if the help he could, but in trying to corral them, he he could hew timber; he said that he could, and was became utterly exhausted and exclaimed: "The given a job. The next morning he reported for 'Good Book' says, 'The devils entered into the herd work. of swine, and they ran down a steep place into the In hewing timber two men usually worked on the sea and perished,' and I wish to goodness these hogs same log, one man on each side. The morning in were with them." - question the Boss took Hedges with him to test his Daniel Talmage of Hay Ground ability. -After the log was lined up, each took his place on opposite sides of the same log. The Boss Daniel Talmage of Hay Ground was a man very began work. Hedges struck his broadaxe in the moderate in disposition, and believed in taking life log, and walked about the yard watching the other easy. One stormy day in the winter, Daniel saw workmen hew. When he returned, the Boss was 'Squire Maltby Rose going down to Mecox to fod- quite angry, and rebuked Hedges severely, and told der his cattle. Daniel watched him for awhile and him if he was going to work, he had better get at it. then said: "Blessed be nothing, for I can sit by my "Well," said Hedges, "if I can't hew more timber fireside in comfort, while 'Squire Maltby, with all than any man I have seen working here this morn- of his property, is obliged to go out in this storm ing, then I don't want the job." He then began to and feed his cattle." hew, and never stopped until he had finished his One day he went to Deacon White's, (now side of the log. He then walked over to see how Thomas Marran farm) in Hay Ground, and com- the Boss was progressing, (he had not finished yet). plained that his neighbors were giving him no w-ork, The Boss thought Hedges could not have done the and that he was destitute. He said he would work work properly, but when he looked at it, he said: cheap if any one would give him a job. The Deacon 6 ( Hedges, you are all right." agreed to give him work the next day if he would Robert Hedges was considered the cleverest man promise to ask no cluestions, and work all day. with a broadaxe in this locality. While building the Daniel agreed to this bargain. When he came the second Methodist Church in Bridgehampton, the next morning, they carried the grindstone out in the builder wished some timber hewn, and was told that street and set it by the side of the road. The Deacon Robert Hedges could do it. After the task was com- told him his job was to turn that grindstone all day, pleted, the Boss said to Robert: "I did not intend but at noon to come in and get his dinner. It so hap- that you should plane it." "1 did not," said Hedges. pened that this was the day that the annual Town "I used nothing but my broadaxe." Meeting was held in Southampton. Every one from the eastern part of the Town had to go with horses, David Hedges and His Pigs and most of them by the main road, and in so doing David Hedges of Sagaponack was the 7th gener- passed Daniel turning the grindstone. This proces- ation of that family in this country, and lived on sion began about eight o'clock in the morning, and in the south side of Hedges Lane. He was born in the returning did not cease until almost night. It was year 1804 and died in 1870. He was a prosperous only natural that they should ask Daniel what he was fanner, and one source of income each year was a turning that stone for? Some even stopped their fine lot of pigs. teams to question him. This at last got on Daniei's David Hallock was a local merchant, and often nerves, so that his answer to these oft repeated traded in dressed pork. The day in question Hal- questions was. "To make d-n fools ask questions." lock had made an appointment with Hedges to come Daniel in order to collect his pay, had to work all to the farm and look over the pigs with the idea of dal-, which he did. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Zne day in harvest time Deacon White hired listeners replied: "Then it must have went a com- Daniel to cradle oats. After some time in the field, ing." the Deacon went to see how he was progressing with the work. Daniel had accomplished but little, so the Aaron Fithian lived in Bridgehampton, (1850 Deacon rather rebuked him for having done so little. map) on the south side of the Main street. I-Ie was This grieved Daniel, and he replied by saying that a man of independent ideas, and rather original in "he had sought to keep the scriptural injunction as his methods. On one occasion he was drawn as a best he could." The Deacon asked "what scriptural witness in a lawsuit, and had to serve nmch against injunction there was that related to the cutting of his wishes. He declared he would be of no help and his oats?" "Why," said Daniel, "we are distinctly asked to be excused, but his request was not granted. told in the Good Book, 'Let your moderation be The trial opened, and in due time Aaron was called known uilto all n~en'." to the stand, and took the usual oath. Upon being IVheil it came dinner tiine, and Daniel got to the questioned. he related facts very damaging to the table, the Deacon observed that he was unusually party by whom he was subpoenaed. The attorney active in the disposition of food, and this to such an told him to answer those questions he \\:as asked and extent that it was with difficulty the Deacon could no others. Aaron claimed he could not consent to keep from commenting on it. Finally he asked that, for he in so doing would be breaking the oath Daniel: "What was that scripture you quoted to me he had just taken ; said he : "I have sworn to tell the in the oat lot?" Daniel could not recall the passage, truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, but said there was another that he thought very ap- So help me God, and I swear that is just what I am propriate and fitting for the occasion. "Well," said going to do." And he did. the Deacon, "let us have it." Daniel said, "The There lived in the neighborhood of Aaron's home, Bible tells us, 'whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, a inan harmless, but mentally unbalanced. One day do it with all thy night'." -Aaron was hewing timber with a big broadaxe, Daniel Talmage decided to learn a cooper's trade, when this man appeared. Aaron asked him if he so went to Sag Harbor and indentured himself for could do anything for him? "Yes," said the man, a term of years to a boss cooper to learn that trade. "I am tired of life. I want you to cut nly head off." This man boarded his apprentices and fed them "A11 right," said Aaron, "I can fix you up in short largely on fish and potatoes, because of the small order, and I have got just the tool to do it with. cost of those articles of food. These young men got Lie right down and put your neck on this block.'' very tired of this fare, but hesitated in finding fault. The man got down as ordered. Aaron adjusted his One day the boss was away from home, and his neck on the block, and told him to keep quiet, and wife asked if one of the young men would say grace his troubles would be over very soon. After a few at the dinner. ,411 objected until it came to Daniel, high flourishes with the axe, Aaron struck a heavy who consented as follows : blow near enough to the fellow's neck to frighten "Good Lord of love, liim. The man did not wait for a second blow, but Look from above; jumped up and said: "I guess we will not go any Upon us sinful cre'tures; further this time.t He went home and never re- And give us meat turned. That's fit to eat, -4nd less of fish and 'tatoes." James Brown \\:as the son of Samuel, acd grand-

son of the Rev. dTames Brown. He did not follow in the footsteps of his ancestors in all ways. On the SOME STORIES OF BRWGEHAMPTON line between the land of James H. Rogers and John -Albert Topping sent his watch to his son, (who O'Rourke, there stood in the early days a house lived in a New England town) to be repaired, and where lived an Indian named John Solomon. Brown ii: due time it came back in order. He mas telling appeared to enjoy playing jokes on Solomon. On about it one evening in the village store, and said: returning to his home one bitter cold night. lorig "What do you think, it came a going." One of the after bed time, he stopped at the cabin of Solomon's, SKETCHES FRO11 LOC-AL HISTORY and going to the north door of the house. called the where Paul Roesel no\\- lives. \fThen occasion re- old man from his warn1 bed. and asked this clues- quired. ;Ibraham usually used his brother I\llliail-i's tion: "John. I am sorry to call you up at this time loon1 for his carpets. IVhenever he \vent of night, but I wanted to ask you if you were willing to his brother's for this purpose he ~vouidcarrj the that I should go and sleep tonight on the north balls of rags in a tow bag hung over his shoulder. side of Holmes's Hill?" (This is a high bluff at \Villiain noticed on several occasions the bag :hat North Sea) "Yes." said Solomon, "You may go and .Abraham carried \\-hen he went home appeared to be D-md." have something in it. He also noticed that the - shelled beans which were kept in the \veaving room. -,\-ere disappearing. He thought it might be the Kear the Pine Hills. and west of the Mill Stone work of rats. but his suspicion being aroused he de- Road, stood the house of Charles Fee. One evening cided to watch. One day when Abraham was there in the late autumn this house was seen to be on fire. weaving carpets, \Yiiliarn secreted himself near the It was a inotley company that gathered there that head of the stairs and waited. In due time -\braham night. One was an elderly man whose wardrobe finished his work, and started down the stairs for showed neglect. Instead of buttons he used rope home: lvhen William crept up stealthily behind him, yarns. When one pair of pants wore through, he and with a sharp knife cut open the bag. The beans ~vo~ildreverse them, and when necessity demanded, went rolling down the stairs all about -1braharn. Sot he ~vouldput on the second pair. There was no a word was spoken by either party. ribrahanl ditl supply of water, so the only thing the company not look around to see what had happened. but kept co~ilddo was to wait until the fire burned out, and right on. The rats. hou-ever, ceased to carry away Many were keep it from getting into the woods. the beans. the stories told and jokes cracked that night by these inen as they sat about the burning embers. At last A Story on Piety silence reigned and all were still. \\-hen Theodore White, otherwise known as "Teddy," broke the Sinlon and Price Ho~vellof Poxabogue, ( 1750 map) were the sons of Daniel How-ell, and li~ed011 silence. It was as if some sheik of the desert had the same homestead. Simon was to be married. so arisen to address his little band of Bedouin follow- sent Price to get the minister, and explained thst ers, gathered about the camp fire. in the still hours he was wanted to preform the ceremony, and ended of the night, sitting under the canopy of heaven. by announcing that "Simon has got the dollar." charging them to keep the faith of their fathers. ;ill Simon married for his second wife. Hannah was attention. and thus he spoke: Halsey of Cobb. Hannah had a sister, Jerusha who "Fires are attributed to various causes. Some- after a time made her home I\-ith them. She \\-as times they are the result of the careless use of noted for her piety, and her regular attendance upon matches. Sometimes by what is termed spontane- all religious services, and in church 11-ork was very ous coillbustion and. scmetimes by the friction pro- faithful. duced by a thousand dollar fire insurance policy rub- Deacon Stephen Rose was a proininent Inan in bing up against a five hundred dollar house.'' Xone the church at that time, and enjoyed a joke im- of the company knew it at the time, but it became mensely. One day in commenting on the character known later, that the fire insurance policy 011 that of Jerusha, he said : "She is a woman in whose heart house \vould have expired the next day at noon. there is no guile. hut she will steal Dan Hen-ell's The Spilled Beans . hensf eggs." Captain i%'illiam Pizrson of Sagaponack was An Old Man's Charge to His Son captain of the militia. His commissions as Ensign, Daniel Schellinger of -4inagansett moved to Lieutenant. and Captain are still preserved and in lfecos. when he bought the farm near what \\-as possession of his descendants. His home was that later the home of Baldwin Cook. He had a daugh- now owned by -Alfred P. Rogers. This IVilliain ter. Mary. who married Deacon John Cook. Their had a brother, -\brahain, who lived on Hedges Lane son was Captain John Cook, my great grandfather. SKETCHES HISTORY

The story is told that her relations came to visit them know ?ou could, Colonel, but it would not pay you in such numbers, and so frequently, that they to do it. Sow just reason it out a little. If you thought it \vould keep them poor, and that for this arrest me and send me to jail, you have got to board reason he charged his son John as follows: me while I am there, and the Town will have to take First, never become captain of the militia. care of my family; while if I can cut a little wood Second, never take joint stock in a windmill. and sell it, I can supply myself and also my family, Third. never go to ;in~agansettfor a wife. with no expense to the town." The joke was as follows : I ell," said the Colonel, "I never looked at it First, he did become captain of the militia, and quite that way, but I do not know but that you are was known as "Captain John." right. I\'ell. go ahead and cut, but do not cut too Second. he did take stock in a \vindmill, and lost much." nioney by so doing. This same David was rather a shiftless fellow, in- Third. he did go to Amagansett for a wife. and clined to be lazy, and would not work unless he married Eliza Blulford, my great-grandmother. had to. He married Lucretia Drake, who was just the opposite in disposition, a real driver in work and John Leek and His Dog very smart, and under her management David was John Leek was a good man and a staunch Chris- forced to move much faster than his natural gait tian. He lived in Bridgehatnpton, on the Snake otherwise x~ouldhave been. In David's opinion she Hollow Road. ( 1850 map) One day at a large din- was a real tennagant. This often led to-quite seri- ner party, while seated at the table, the company got ous domestic trouble. into a discussion on religious topics. and finally it One day if you had read the family barometer, it came Mr. Leek's turn to speak. He had cut a piece ~c-ouldhave said, sclually, with threatening storm. cf meat, and held it on his fork while speaking. He These came at last, and David got the benefit; he said: "I know that if I were to die this minute, I could stand it no longer. On the step by the kitchen ~ouldbe just as sure of going to Heaven, as I am door stood a pail of swill; he grabbed it and soaked that I am going to put this Ineat into my mouth." his Lucretia from head to foot. She was too Inad Just as he spoke these words, the meat fell off the for utterance. Without delay, she went just as she fork. dropped to the floor. and the dog ate it. was, post haste to 'Squire L'Hoininedieu5s office in Sag Harbor, where she swore out a warrant for An Old Resident of the Brick Kilns David's arrest. The charge being that "He had David Stanborough lived at the Erick Kilns. He scalded her." On the day for the trial all of the wags supporter1 his familj- for the no st part by ciltting in town gathered, for they knew it would be most wood and selling it in Sag Harbor. Colonel Lev; interesting and a real treat. -it the trial the plain- Howell \\-as a resident of Bridgehampton. A very tiff's attorney made a long and eloquent plea and prominent man. Colonel of the militia, and took rested. The attorney for the defense then took his part in the war of 1812. He was a man large in side of the case. and to prove the stateinents of the stature. and just as large in character and real LIP- plaintiff that the jury might be aided in rendering a right manhood. He owned considerable \\-oodland just verdict. he demanded that Lucretia disrobe and near the Erick Kilns. show the scars made by scalding, as evidence in the One day some good neighbor reported to Col. case. This she objected to do. Hen-ell that Stanborough was cutting his 1%-ooclanci 1ihen David was put on the stand, he testified that selling it. The Colonel thought it wise to I~okinto the liquid he threw on Lucretia was cold sv-ill. the matter, so went to see David, and said: "Mr. "Then," said the Judge, "it must have been a cold Stanborough. 1 am told that you are cutting my scald." To this day that expression. "Stanborough's 11-oodand selling it. Is that so ?" "Yes, Mr. Hotvell, cold scald." is used and heard in this locality. It you are right. that is so." "lliell. David," said the might be termed "provincial English," or a collo- Colonel, "don't you know I could have you arrested cluialism, that in my opinion is confined to eastern and put in jail for doing this?" David replied: "I Long Island. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

Embroidered Bed Curtains Island. He then waited still longer until he \vas The Rev. James Brown was the second ordain& Sure she had gone for good- He then returned to ininister in the early church in Bridgehampton. L. 1. his home. It proved just as he expected. Officers His daughter, Susanna, married David Rogers, of had been Sent for him, but after a diligent search, the same place, and died when their first child was gave up the job- Peter never was caught in that born, which they named Susanna after her mother, trap again. and of whom I will write later. Jehial GdeGoes Courting when Susanna Brown was a little girl about twelve years of age she embroidered a set of bed Jehial Goodale was the son of Joseph, and lived curtains or valances, representing the soldiers in of the east side of the road to Towd (1800 map) Bridgehampton, as they appeared during the war north of Water Mill. When a young man he be- of the Revolution. The British are in red coats and came very much interested in a young lady who the Americans in blue. Some are mounted on lived at North Sea. This was a long way over a horses and some on foot. These curtains are of lonely road, mostly through the woods. Supersti- homespun linen, and the embroidery is the work of tion was very prevalent at that time, and was at a child, rather crude I think, and at this time quite times the chief topic of conversation. Jehial mas faded. fearful lest these things might be true. These curtains in due time came to the daughter, One night late in the summer, Jehial left Sorth Susanna Rogers, and during the Civil War (1864) Sea, and began his lonely walk through the woods were given by her relatives to the Sanitary Fair and to his home. The moon cast weird shadows acrcss sold. They were bought by the Long Island His- his path, and these often appeared to take on hide- torical Society, which was established in 1863, and ous and fearful forms. The decaying logs in the at the present time are in the museum of that society denser portions of the forest, threw out a phosphor- in Brooklyn, and are listed in Catalogue A. Number escent light like the smouldering embers of some 240. I have seen and examined them. spirit kindled fire. -A11 the stories of ghosts and goblins that he had ever heard crowded upon his A Story of the Brick Kilns mind. To add to the weirdness, all of the Peter Johnson was a colored man (I think also crickets, katydids and thousands of other insects some Indian) who lived in Hay Ground. He had were chanting their night song. There was a followed whaling when a young man, but had given marsh that he had to pass on his way home. -As it up as a business. One time he went to Sag Harbor he approached this he heard the most fearful sounds where he met a number of his old shipmates and and cries: he listened, and thought he heard his friends, who, much against his inclination, induced name called. He waited to hear what they said, and him to ship for another whaling voyage. That was terrified, for he thought they said, "Jehial. night he went home very much worried over what Jehial," then the answer, "Get a club, Get a club" he had done. The ship was to sail in a few days, and and then. "Let's kill him, Let's kill him." He did he knew if he failed to report for duty, officers not know just what to do, but decided to run f~rhis would be sent after him, arrest and hand him over life. Jlihen passing the marsh. all became still. This to the ship owners, and he be made to keep his con- gave him courage. Some distance further on, was tract. Before such action would be taken, he de- a huge oak tree, whose branches overhung the road. cided on a plan which he proceeded at once to carry He felt if he could only get to that tree, he would be out. safe, but to his horror, just as he got under this He took provisions enough to last him, also blan- tree, there came from directly overhead, the most kets and sufficient clothes, and camped in the woods terrifying screech; it was fearful. Afterward, when on a high hill at the Brick Kilns, overlooking the telling of his experience, he said: "When I heard harbor. From there he could see the ship on which that last cry, I planted my foot in the earth and he was supposed to sail, and there he waited until sprang like a roebuck." The next morning after he saw her sail down the harbor and out past Cedar having related his experience, he was told : "Jihat SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY you heard was only those old bull frogs, and that in cash to marry you." "I will give it," said he, screech came from an owl, which was probabiy "and with your consent we will call it a bargain." more frightened that you." This solution of the Both consented, and were married, and lived evcey problem was a great comfort to Jehial. tionally happy lives together. This was the com- ment of all who knew them. I am sure they were Zachary Sandford and His Wife right from what I have always heard. Susanna was Zachary Sandford lived on the Brick Kiln Road my Grandmother's half sister. (see I jjo map) and I think built the house where Stories of Howell Cook he lived until he sold it to James Mitchel. He and his wife appear to have lived happily and were very In olden times it was customary for several devoted to each other. One day some boys over- neighbors to sit up in a house where there was a heard Mrs. Sandford tell her husband: "If the corpse. In Hay Ground there had been a death and death angel were to come and demand that one of Howell Cook, brother of -4lanson. Miss Abigail them should be taken, she should say, 'Take me, and Brown, (later Abigail Squires) and another young leave Zachary'." lady, were to sit up with the corpse. Friends from That evening while seated before the open fire, some distance were expected, and food prepared ac- there issued from the chimney flue the most hideous cordingly, extra pies baked, and among other sup- sounds, accompanied by scratching and scraping, plies was a fine lot of eels all cleaned and hung up and flapping of wings, and showers of soot. The on a rod in the huge fireplace. One of the watchers old couple really thought their hour had come. that night was the old family dog, an ani~rlalof Zachary appears to have been resigned; but his wife, huge proportions. Howell was a live wire, and forgetting her resolve, in fear and desperation, cried after their supply of stories became exhausted, and the hour late, he resorted to the following as a source out: "Take Zachary, Take Zachary." The boys who of amusement. The girls protested, but to no avail. heard Mrs. Sandford's remarks thought they would He sought the pantry, brought out the supply of have some fun, so caught a rooster, climbed care- pies, fed the girls, and ate all he could himself. He fully up to the chimney top, and dropped the bird then began to take the eels from the rod, lay them down the chimney flue. on the hot coals until cooked, and then fed them to the dog. This he kept up until the supply was ex- A Marriage Contract hausted. Susanna Rogers mentioned above became an ex- I have never heard just what the family said but ceptionally fine appearing woman, very bright and Mrs. Squires told me that she never was so ashamed intelligent, but never married until after middle life. of anything in her life. Daniel Harris of Korth Sea had the misfortune This same Howell Cook went with a company of to lose his wife, and decided it would be better to young people from Bridgehampton, during the late inarry again, rather than to be troubled with house- winter or early spring, at a time when the roads were keepers. After considering all of the eligible women extremely muddy, to Southampton to attend a big of his acquaintance, he finally decided on Susanna dinner. The hour was set when the dinner was to Rogers as his first choice. She was by nature of be served, but the company got stuck in the mud, and a business turn of mind. When Daniel's courage were unavoidably late in getting there. When all was equal to the occasion, he took his best horse and were seated at the table, Howell, either by request or chaise, and went to call on Susanna. whom he found otherwise, said grace, as follows : home. He was given a very cordial reception, "Good Lord of love, n-hereupon Daniel at once proceeded to state his Look from above, business. He told her of his loneliness, and asked Upon us here below; her what consideration she would want to marry And bless this meat, him? She thought for a time, and then answered : We should have eat, "Mr. Harris, I should want Five Hundred Dollars An hour and a half ago." SKETCHES FROM LOC-\L HISTOR\-

The Moon and Dry Weather old man, and living in "Live Oak," Florida). It \\-as he that told me the following story: Many were the si,ons that were noticed and be- These young men boarded at that time with lieved by the people of "Ye olden time." If the new Aunt Phebe Smith. She and her family were usu- moon laid on its back so it would hold water it ally up in the morning early enough to have break- indicated dry weather. If it stood up, so the water fast before daylight, so as to get to their work. would run off, it would be wet. Another interpreta- That meant "early to bed" as well as "early to tion was, if it laid flat so that a powder horn could be hung on it, stay at home for it would be wet and rise," and sitting up late was not in order. The stormy. If you could not hang a horn on it then great fireplace was used in those days, not only for go hunting, for the weather would be good. heating the house. but for cooking the family meals If the moon ran high, as they called it, the as well. In cold weather there would be a large bed weather would be very dry. The real fact is the of live coals on the hearth. moon reaches its greatest declination, either north Tallow candles were used for lighting. The short or south, at the winter and summer solstices, so that ends left after the candles were almost burned out in June and July the moon is at its greatest north were given the boys when going to bed, so that they declination; the very time that severe droughts are would not sit up late. One night these boys were most likely to occur. sitting by the big fire telling stories, and having a Many years ago there was a very dry season good time, when the clock struck eight, the family throughout this entire community. The moon at bedtime. Xunt Phebe came in and told the boys it that time they thought was running very high. was time to go to bed. The boys paid no attention. -4bout this time two good churchmen met. The so after a time she said again in a more emphatic main topic of their conversation was the extreme manner: "I say it is bedtime." Still they paid no dryness of the weather, and the effect it was having heed, but kept on with their talk. Soon after the on the crops. One said : "We must call a meeting second call, Aunt Phebe came into the room with a and pray for rain." The other remarked with stern pail of water, and going t3 the fireplace, threw the emphasis and sincerity: "There is no use in praying whole pail of water on to that bed of coals. There for rain, with that there moon devilin' around up was allnost an explosion, the ashes and coals flew here to the north'ard." out into the room. and Aunt Phebe remarked: "I A Bedtime Story said it was bedtime." Ever after this the boys One of the 1110st intelligent women that ever lived heeded and obeyed the first call. in this locality, one who was strenuous in effort to Story of Arthur Loper succeed, capable in ability to accu~nulate,\vise in expenditure after accumulated, good judgment in The Loper homestead was located about one half directing others in labor, and who looked well after mile north of the northerly end of Butter Lane. her household, was Phebe Topping Ludlow, later The old door step and cellar are still there. i2rth~~r. Smith. She, and her son, David Topping Ludlo~v, I think, was the first one of that family to locate and her son-in-law. Edward Howell, bought the here. He had his peculiarities as lnost people have, Gelston Farm on Butter Lane in the year 1835. some commendable. some otherwise. They went heavily in debt in buying it, but by hard School was held at that time in the house of work and economy- paid the debt and accumulated Maltby Sandford on Butter Lane, and the Loper a goodly amount for advancing years. She lived to . children attended, as did those of the Halsey, Cor- be 91 years of age, and her life may justly be withe, S\;oodruff and other families. One day the classed among the most successful. teacher required one of the scholars to recite a verse When Orlando Hand built his house on Mitchel's as punishment for some misdemeanor. This boy Lane, (1850 map) Contractor Charles Douglas. of knew no piece that he could recite from memory, Sag Harbor. did the work. Charles Hildreth and save one that it is fair to suppose he had heard in Hickford Connor were apprentices. (This Charles his own home. that was of peculiar local interest. Hildreth was fro111 IVater Mill, and is now a very Regardless of the fzct that the Loper boys were SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY there. and of course heard it, \\-hen called upon to when crossing the ditch into his home lot, was really recite he spoke as follows : stricken with death. The jug rolled into the stand- ing grass. Israel, after a time recovered suffici- ''..Arthur Loper in the barn, ently to get home, but soon died. Men mowing the He was caught, stealing corn; grass a few weeks later found the jug. Indeed a Oh, Good Lord, he said from fear, sad ending of one's life, but in my opinion our Oh, Good Lord, how came I here." criticism, if any, should be in the spirit of synlpathy rather than censure. Israel Halsey of Hay Ground Israel Halsey was the son of Josiah, and lived in Raisii Beans Hay Ground, (see 1800 Map). His farm ran from Xn old resident of Hay Ground had wonderful the highway to Long Pond. Like many others he success raising pole beans. His neighbors com- used liquor to excess. One day he had been plowing niented on this fact, and decided to ask him to re- and came home tired, and said to his daughter: veal the secret of his success, for they had trouble in "Charity, I am tired, I want some more rum. for I getting the vines to climb the poles, and told him have plowed an acre today between the pond and so. He replied : "I have no such trouble, and neither the shore." \\-ill you if you only follow out my instructions. He would quite frequently go on a regular spree which are very simple. I always save the ashes and escapade, which would last for several days, froin my crookedest fire wood, and sow around my during which time he would become very noisy, and bear1 poles, so when the beans come up, it is only at night he was worse than in day time. During a natural for them to twist about the poles. Just try January thaw the ground became very muddy. and it, and you will find it will do the trick." it happened that Israel went on one his sprees at this time. and it was about the time of a full moon, sl) the night was almost as light as day. In the year 1853 the Rev. George Taylor was _Itthis time the boys of the neighborhood thought assigned to the Bridgehampton Methodist Episcopal they \\-ould have some sport with Israel, so agreed Church. He was a bright, talented lnan and a gen- on the night and went robed in white sheets to eral favorite. He was one who commanded the re- frighten him. He was out in the field east of his spect of every one. There lived in this community house, and carried a staff for support. The boys at that time, a man who became noted because of the forined a circle around him, but a good safe distance wonderful tales he would relate, and experiences alvay. and gradually closed in about him, waving through which he had passed. His stories were the sheets like ghosts stalking forth on some nightlj- fabulous in the extreme, so much so that they \\-ere tnission from the spirit world. Israel at last sighted many times classed as lies. Some of the good peo- them. \\'as he terrified at this ghost like company? ple went to Mr. Taylor and asked him if he did not b'nd did he run? I should say he did not. JVhen think it his Christian duty to go and labor with this one of the company ventured nearer than the others, inan. and persuade him to refrain from telling such waving his outstretched arms like wings. Israei stories, for they were real lies. "Well, now," said faced about. and shouted, "Come on Gabriel. I fear hfr. Taylor, "what is a lie? A lie is a story or inci- ye not" and then started for the ghostly specter: dent told or related with the intention to deceive. driving his staff into the ground, he made short Now let us consider this matter; the stories told by work of scattering that company, and their retreat this man are so far beyond the bounds of the prob- \\-as hasty. Israel's staff stood there in the ground able, that they never deceive any one. They are not until the nest spring. The angle in the highway lies, but simply fables. I see no cause to complq- near his ho~mehas ever since been kno~vnand called m-i th your request." "Israel's Corner." Mr. Taylor said that one time a couple came to One day in early summer Israel \vent to Deacon him to get married. He performed the ceremony. Josiah IJhite's Tavern and got a jug of rum, as was after which the man said. "Mr. Taylor: I am a his custom. He started honle across the fields. and poor fisherman and have no money. but I want to SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

pay you for your services. IIow \vould you like a "I love to steal awhile away mess of eels sometime?" "That would be very accept- From every cumbering care, able and nice," said Mr. Taylor. "Well," said the And spend the hours of setting day man, "would you like large, split ones, or would In humble, grateful prayer." you take them just as they run?" "W!ly," said Mr. He began love to steal" but the key was so Taylor, "I will leave that entirely to you. I am not "I so very particular, if it would be better for you, I high that no one could carry the tune. He then will take them just as they run." Mr. Taylor said, began on a lower key, "I love to steal." and this "I guess those eels are running yet, for he never time the key was again too high, so he made the brought them." third attempt, and sang, "I love to steal," but this I have heard my Father tell the follo\ving story. time he was as much too low as he had been too One evening in the old church in Bridgehan~pton, high on the prior attempts. My uncle J. Lawrence -one of the good brothers undertook to start that old Cook who was in attendance that evening, es- hymn, claimed, "That's bad. Let us pray."

WOMEN OF EASTERN LONG ISLAND IN EARLY DAYS There is no reason to think or believe that the descendants of today are. They were real home men of those days were any better or brighter than makers, and that is more than we can clainl for the women, human nature has not changed, it has niany of the women of today. ever been the same. About all we know of the There were many less divorces then than now. women of Colonial days, is what has been handed though perhaps no less just cause for such action down by tradition and individual family historians, than at this time. Instead of bridge parties, they and many times. as far as it goes, it is the most had their spinning, weaving, carding, knitting, sew- accurate, authentic and reliable of all history. ing, dress making, all hand-labor and a whole lot We must, however, confine ourselves to eastern of it, including soap and candle making. They had Long Island, and make up our minds that there were a few standard books, which they read, the Bible as really great women in this territory as ever were standing at the head of the list, and but very little found on the continent, though their names have trash. The book (other than sacred) that exerted never been written in history. We know that Long the greatest influence throughout the Coloilies, and Island had its Paul Revere in Austin Roe, and that probably did more to unite them in a concerted ac- the Townsend and Woodhull families produced men tion for freedom. a book that was read and owned \\.orthy to stand with Nathan Hale, when judged by all whose means permitted, not in any one colony from a patriotic standpoint. If this be true of the alone, but throughout all of the Colonies. was men, who dare say- that there were not women right Thomas Paine's "COMMON SENSE.'His "-Age here on eastern Long Island as patriotic, loyal, of Reason" may have separated men in their belief. brave, true and as worthy of honor and praise as but his "Common Sense" certainly united them in Molly Pitcher, Nancy Hart or others who might be their efforts for freedom. named, yet we never hear of them. Yes, "The Women of Eastern Long Island in Hamlin Garland says-in his book, "A Daughter Colonial Days" truly kept their houses, which were of the Middle Border" "The wives of the farm are real homes, and not mere lodging places. There the unnamed, unrewarded heroines of the border", were among those women really lovable characters, and what is true of the ~ioneerwomen of the bor- as well as some who were otherwise. der, is equally true of the pioneer women of eastern I am sure you will all agree that the name of Long Island. Phebe Halsey," wife of the first Thomas, should -4s a rule those women were truly patriotic and stand at the head of the list of the "Colonial Women loyal to their home, their family, and their govern- ment. They were not all saints ally more than their *Story told on Page 10. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

of Eastern Long Island," from the fact of her being I., are the graves of Elizabeth Huntting and her the first and only Colonial martyr in this area. liusband. She was familiarly known as Betsey Huntting. During the war of the Revolution they Hannah (Pierson) Halsey were living in what was known as the 3rd. house at During the war of the Revolution, Lemuel Pier- Montauk. One day she saw a numher of British son lived on the southerly side of Hedges Lane in soldiers coming. She was entirely alone in the Sagg on what was at a later date the Richard Les- house, the men being too far away to call for help. ter farm. Locally he was known as "Lemmie On Knowing if they ever gained entrance to her kitchen, The Hill" to distinguish hi111 from another Lemue1 which she saw they intended to do, they would ap Pierson who lived in that same neighborhood, and propriate everything she had in the way of food. an ancestor of Captain William Pierson. -4 large kettle filled with very hot water was over He had quite a large family. One of his sisters, the fire. Seizing a dipper as they opened the door, of \1:ho111 we write, was Hannah, at that time a girl she said ':Qrne in if you dare" when she let then1 in her 'teens. Among the choice heirlooms in this have the first dipper of water. Before they got family was a favorite luster bowl. -it this time away they all knew what the effect of hot water was, Major Corcoran had command of the British forces and beat a hasty retreat. in this locality with his headquarters in Sagg, and This same woman rode horseback off of hIon- many of his troops were Hessians. tauk, and carried her baby one month old in her The Pierson homestead, like many others. was arms. obliged to afford shelter for these men. One day Clinton Academy was founded in the year 1784. after imbibing freely, and having become boisterous the oldest institution of its kind in Kew York State. and insulting in their behavior, they began to r2n- After its completion a contrcversy arose among the sack the house for any treasure they might find. townspeople as to whether exhibitions should be held Hannah, realizing that that bowl was in danger, here or not. The opposition was strong, but those rushed into their midst, snatched the bowl, crying who favored holding them finally won out. out with all of her patriotic defiance, "I declare you Tradition claims that the next day after one of sha'n't have that" and ran out of the house with it. these entertainments, there was a terrible hurricane, This luster bowl has been kept in the family, and that blew off the roofs of houses, overthrew great handed down from one generation to the nest to trees, broke off limbs, drove the waves of old ocean this very day, and is now owned and in the posses- into Hook Pond, and joined it with Town Pond. sion of Mrs. Caroline C. Stoots. The next morning an elderly maiden lady, looking Lemuel's daughter Hannah Pierson afterward on the wide desolation. said: "This is some of that married Elisha Halsey, of Hay Ground, brother of plaguey 'Cademy work' ". Sylvanus Halsey, the Revolutionary hero. Elisha It is a source of deep regret that an incident that was too young to take part in the Revolution, and stands out in our Colonial history so prominently, Sylvanus was too old to take part in the war of is shaded in mystery to such an extent that the 1812. Elisha was drummer, and his duty was to heroine's name is unknown, so that the best and per- call together the militia when needed. When the haps the only way to relate the story, is to quote British fleet threatened Sag h'arbor, Elisha was working on his farm at Hay Ground, (later the "The Ballad of Pudding Hill" hcme of Edn-in M. Rogers) when he received this Here lived in days of '76 word, in all haste he left his work, and made reldy certain stirring dame, to report for duty at the head of the wharf at Sag Whose name and lineage have beet1 lost Harbor. His children, realizing the danger to which From off the roll of fame, he would be exposed, went about the house crying. It happened that. one summer day, But Hannah, calm and composed, although pale with Like England's "Goodly King" fear, helped her hilsband adjust his uniform with She made a pudding, but for plums hands that never trembled. She put fresh berries in. In the south end graveyard in East Hampton. I,. SKETCHES FROIT LOC-'IL HISTORY

That day along the quiet road for a number of years on the honlestead farin in Fro111 old Bridgehampton To\vn, Quope. There was a pear tree on this farm the Some British soldiers, foraging. fruit of ~vhichwas very fine. One evening they To this same house came down, heard a cornmotion in the orchard. so took a lantern The door was closed that faced the South. and \vent to see what the matter was, when a ~vhole Because the day was hot, company of boys ran away, save the smallest one, And o'er her blazing fire intent, whom they had boosted into the pear tree to shake The good dame heard them not. do\vn the fruit, and he in getting down lost one of "Hurrah, boys" said the leader bold, his shoes. The girls kept this shoe as well as the "We're just in time : come on :" secret of its ownership. This story was never told The tableau was a charming one, until this boy had long passed middle life, when at For any looker on. a neighborhood party one evening he told the com- "Oh no, you're not :" she made reply pany that he was the boy who lost his shoe that Then seized the boiling pot, night. Ran with it through the open door, Hannah died quite young and never married. -And threw it, blazing hot. -4zubah married Nathaniel Griffin, and has many Pudding and all. adown the hill, descendants living in this township and on eastern .And left it in the sand, Long Island at this time. -Amid the curses, loud and deep, Of all the hungry band. How Phebe Saved Her Bread The place and tale are widely kno\i~n, Of course you all know that for seven long years Fresh is the legend still, Long Island after the battle that bears that same And all East Hampton I'illagers name. was over run by the British, who committed -Are proud of Pudding Hill. all kinds of depredations, and forced nearly all of the inhabitants to take the oath of allegiance to King George 111 or flee the country. During the war of the Revolution there lived in ;inlong those who tried hiding their herds of Quogue a family by the name of Herrick. They livestock and other property was Phebe Squires and were of Danish descent. I think the Southampton her husband Ellis, of Squiretown, L. I. For a long Herricks were related to this family. In this family were two girls perhaps from 6 to 8 years of age, time they had been ~unmolested. One lovely morn- whose names were Hannah and Azubah. ing Phebe decided to do her baking in the old Dutch Some British officers, with their orderlies, occu- oven that stood out in the yard. She had made pies. pied part of the Herrick house at this time, and cake and bread, and had just started clearing up. these little girls appear to have had a roving coin- when she caught sight of scarlet and steel, and knew mission of the entire place. the enemy was corning. Just as soon as Phebe saw The sweetening used bj- the conlillon people in them she knew they would take all of the pies, cake those days was either lnolasses or bron-n sugar, and bread. white sugar was only used by the well-to-do people. iVhat should she do? Quick as a wink she put and these officers were in that class, this sugar came some flour in a large bowl, and just as the officers only in loaves or lumps. and was very hard. The came in full sight, dipped a cup in the dye pot, and officers frequently treated these girls to lumps of began mixing her dough. "Heavens," said an of- that hard white sugar, but one day as a joke, they 'ficer, "is that the way you nix your bread?" Phebe, gave them salt instead of sugar, \\-hen in retaliation. with a curtesy, answered "Please your honor. what's they ran to the kitchen where a large bowl of punch the difference?" "Difference, why danln it, it makes had been prepared ready to serve, and spit their 2 pile of difference to me," and away they went, one ~llouthsfulof salt into the punch. of them m~~ttering."The dirty da~nnablerebels". Both of these girls later attended school at Clinton Phebe waited until they had surely gone, then -Academy in East Hampton. and aftenyard lived threw the discolored dough out, and gathering up SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY tier lovely loaves of bread. her cakes and her pies, Mr. L. on his head. Mrs. L. saw it and rushed be- said under her breath. "There's more than one way tween the officer and her husband, and received the to nix your dough". l>lo\von her arm. Her arnl was broken, but her ilus- band saved. The wretch, apparently ashamed, left Story of Hannah H. Brown in haste with his company, wondering who could (0f Oysterponds, Orient ) subdue a nation of such \\-omen. Her maiden name was Hannah Hawk, her hus- Constant Lhommedieu was a descendant of Ben- band, Richard had been an Ensign in the Colonial jamin, who founded the Huguenot family on Long Militia. and had died at the commenceinent of the Island, and came to Southold in 16go. Revolutionary War. Hannah at this time was about Abiiail (Hempstead) Moore, and Her sixty years of age. Soon after the death of her husband she opened and inanaged a Tavern or Inn. Daughter Fanny Eastern Long Island at this time was s\\-arlning with Xbigail, daughter of Robert Hempstead. of British. Hessians and Tories. Southold, was married at the age of eighteen to John It was in the -iutumn of 1777, on a pleasant eve- Ledyard. They had four children. This John Led- ning, that a file of arnled soldiers, without ceremony yard was a Captain (in the Colonial Militia) and entered the house of Airs. Brown, and ordered her to was a brother of Colonel Ledyard of Fort Griswold open the door of the roo111 containing the liquor. fame. He was a seafaring man, and died at sea cr they \~-ouldstave it down. -4t this threat. she while yet a young man. Their oldest child, John, rushed between them and the door. against which became quite a noted writer, or author, as well as she placed her back. The enraged officer swore her a celebrated traveler, and died in Cairo. Egypt in instant destruction, and with great violence thrust 1778. Their youngest child, Fanny. was one of the the muzzle of his gun against the door on one side subjects of this story. and then on the other of her person, just as near Abigail Ledyard, about the year 1765, having as he could without hitting her. The nlarks of those been a widow for nine years, married Dr. Micah thrusts remained visible for more than sixty years Moore. of Southold, by this marriage the-e was born after. She stood facing and thus addressed him. three daughters. Doctor Moore died in the year "you unfeeling wretch, you hired tool of a tyrant, 1775, leaving Xbigail n-ith another your,,a family. your conduct is worse than a savage. I an1 1%-ithout This was on the eve of the War of the Revolution. a human protector. but knon- ~OLI.Mr. Officer. sir- She was then about fifty years of age with seven rounded as you are with men and arms. that I de- children. spise your threats, and if you pass the threshold of In that neighborhood were quartered nuillhers of this door, you will first pass over nly lifeless body". English and Hessian soldiers. These carried terror Such emphatic language froin a lone wornart, at in their movements. It was one evening during the such a time and place was too inuch for his cowarc?- TVar, that she was placed in a situation to test her 1j- soul to withstand. He grumbled but made a fortitude. -An officer, with drawn sword, entered hasty retreat. This u-oman died in the -\utun~nof her house with several soldiers, and in a rough 1789, aged no re than eighty years. voice, said, "Madam. I an1 informed you harbor deserters here. If this be true. by the Eternal God. Mrs. Constant Lhommedieu I will lay your house in ashes before morning". In the Suinrner of 1781, two whale-boats. mannetl Mrs. 1Ioore heard this threat with perfect calmness, with t\\-enti\- nmen, landed at Southold harbor, and looked hiin full in the face. and said. "Sir, I all1 a marched up about a mile to Joseph Peck's Inn, made lvidou--, bbut feel mi\-self perfectly secure under the free with his liquors and provisions, abused his fain- protection of that Providence which has thus far ily and wounded him seriously with their weapons. sustained me. 11y trust is in God, I have no fears they left their boa.ts near the home of Mr. Cotistallt from man. 11-ho was your informer?" He replied, Lhommedieu, where they stopped on their return "That man" pointing to a Tory, who was present. from the Inn. Mr. Lhommedieu spoke nlildly to She said, "IYell, he is a liar. and I will prove it". their leader. at which he raised his cutiass to strike They then left. SKETCHES FROM LOChL HISTORY

Fanny Ledyard was visiting at her uncle's, Col- disorderly, and carried terror to the inhabitants. onel Ledyard's, when he was massacred at Fort Elizabeth (called Betsey) Glover, the subject of Griswold, in September, 1781. She was the first this story, had married Jeremiah Vail, who kept a to enter the Fort to administer to the wounded and Tavern in this village. He had just heard of the dying, after the enemy had left the scene of cruelty cruelties at New London and Groton, when he saw and slaughter. She washed their wounds, and did them coming up the road. Elizabeth, under these all in her power to alleviate their distress. On en- trying circumstances displayed great self-possession tering the Fort, the first object that met her eyes and fortitude. -At this time there happened to be \\-as the body of her dead uncle, lying in a pool of no liquors in the Tavern, save two hogs-heads of blood. good cider. The thought of this cider flashed .She afterward married Richard Peters, and made through her mind, and the consequences that would her home in Southold, where she died in the year follow should they find it. r815, in her sixty second year. She went forthwith, alone, to the cellar, knocked From 1776 to 1783, Long Island was solely under out the bungs of these hogs-heads containing the British rule. In 1778 many of their soldiers were liquor, turned them so the cider would all run out, quartered in and around Southold. It was on a and then ascended the stairs just in time to meet this summer's day of that year, that a small party of ruthless gang. Their looks she described as awful, light horse hastily rode up to the house of Major having not slept probably within the last forty-eight John Corwin, of Mattituck, (he at that time being hours, both they and their clothes besmeared with absent) and the officer, in a rough voice, demanded the blood of her mtlrdered country-men at Groton. of Mrs. Corwin, some grain for their horses, and They flourished their swords, and swore vengeance with a commanding air, said :-"Madam, your situ- on American rebels. ation warns you to an immediate attention to my Mr. Vail they seized and bound, and confined him request. To abuse my authority, is to rush to de- in the attic. They searched every room, closet and struction." Mrs. Corwin was unmoved, no-wise pantry, in search of, as they said, "something :o daunted, and coolly replied that she had no food for drink." Finding nothing, the cellar was next re- him nor his horses. "FVell." said he, with a harsh sorted to. They there discovered they had been oath, "here is a fine piece of wheat across the road. successfully foiled in their purpose. It is recorded it will answer for horses, and we'll have it." With in the story, that "the ground had drank the liquor. that, he made for the bars which opened into this and \\-as still sober." Like mad men they ascended field of grain. At this move, she instantly demanded to the room of Mrs. Vail. and demanded why she him to desist, at his peril, "for," said she, "although had deprived them of refreshments. She deliberately I am alone and unprotected, and in your power, I replied, "You are the enemies of my country, I have an1 a stranger to fear, and defy your threats. The nothing for you, you have no business here, threats first horse that enters that wheat field I will shoot nor oaths don't alarm me. If I have done wrong, instantly dead." With that resolution, she seized I an1 responsible to my husband, not to you. You her husband's old - King's arm, that stood behind will not eat or drink in this house, if I can prevent the door, all loaded, and took her position to con- it." summate her purpose. The wheat field was not She expected violence; but they left the house touched. very soon after. muttering curses for her devotio:~ Mrs. Corwin died on Christmas day, 1850, in her and fortitude. She died about the year 1818, more ninety-first year. Previous to her marriage, she than eighty years of age. was a Miss Mapes. From the day that the Pioneers rowed their boats The day follo~x-ing that on which the British up North Sea and the woman at the first landing, burnt Kew London, in September, 1781, and mas- exclaimed, "For Conscience Sake, I'm on dry land sacred the garrison at Fort Griswold, at Groton, once more," and that particular place has been they passed over the sound to Long Island, and known ever since as "Conscience Point," all landed at Oysterpond (Orient) Point, traveled up through the Colonial period it appears as if "Con- the road about two miles to the village. They were scienc:" and "Conscience Sake" had been the watch- SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY words of their daily lives and deeds. -4 \\-orthy through the village of Southampton on her way to emblem or motto for their descendants to foiiow. Shinnecock; she had given birth to her baby alone The \Vomen of Eastern Long Island in Colonial that night in the woods, and carrying her baby in a Days had real problems to contend with that we of market basket, walked to Shinnecock that morning. this day can hardly realize. The Spanish Dollar About the same period, but during the winter, an which became our unit of value, was 8 shillings of Indian woman took her twin babies in a basket and 1-3 & $ cents each. One Pound was 20 shillings or walked from Shinnecock to Red Creek to visit. The $3.50. weather was fine as she thought and good enough During a long period of Colonial days, women's for her to make the trip in safety, but the afternoon wages were one shilling a day, and young girls \%-llo of the day she started home, there came on an excep- could not do a fuil day's work got less. One shilling tionally hard snow storm. She walked across the a yard was the price paid for weaving flannel. As Hills toward home carrying her babies, facing the late as 1817 the wages paid a hired girl was ;shil- storm and struggling against the tempest until very lings or 62 & % cents a week. The wages of a tired and exhausted, when she decided she could tailoress was 25 cents per day, but that of a dress- never reach home in such a blinding snow storm, maker gradually rose to jO cents per day. and it was getting dark. She wrapped her babies in Every one worked, men, women, and children blankets in the basket, placed them in the lee and that were old enough. I own a photostat copy of under the thick boughs of a cedar tree, broke off Elias Pelletreau's account book, from which I quote. branches and covered them as best she could, and In 1768, a daughter of one of Southampton's started for the nearest help, this proved to be a farm 1%-ealthiestmen purchased a pair of silver shoe house west of the village of Southampton (owned buckles for 19 shillings and paid for them by spin- I think by a Capt. White) it was then late in the ning 33 days at 7 pence per day. In 1767, silk for night. She told this man her trouble, and where she a cloak cost 13 shillings, a silk handkerchief cost 7 had placed her babies. Without hesitation he yoked shillings. The calico for a dress cost _; shillings per his oxen on the cart, and with her started to the J-ard. and a \\-oman ~vouldhave to work 50 days to rescue. It seems as if her Indian instinct must have pay for it. Shoes for the most part had to be made guided her, for she directed him straight to the by a cobbler. from leather tanned at the local tan- right cedar tree, no guess work about it, there they nery, from skins of calves raised on the farms. found the babies sleeping soundly, and all right. Such was the lot of "The Women of Eastern Long This good man took them all to his own home Island in Colonial Days.'' We say it was hard, that night and cared for them until the storm had without doubt it was, but all fared alike, and no one passed. knew any other way. it is only when we make com- parisons that we are led to find fault and make our- I am placing a map of Sag Harbor in the early selves believe that our lot is the harder one. days that I compiled from an address by the late Perhaps they enjoyed life as much as we, and \\-ere I\-ithout doubt just as happy. Story of Two Shinnecock Indian Women Capt. Philetus Pierson, father of the Hon. James Henry Pierson, was returning from Sag Earhor where he had delivered a load of farm produce for shipment. LVhen about to start home a Shinnecock Scluaw asked if she might ride in the back of the far111 wagon. Her request was granted. When about one mile from Bridgehampton, on that road which years afterward was known as the "Turn- pike," she got out of the wagon and went east through the lvoods toward Poxabogue. North Haven Bridge Toll House and Jared The following morning this same woman went Wade's Boat House i 183 1 SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

and the boat shop of Jared \\'ade at the right. The old arsenal built in 1810 by Henry B. Havens, mason. and Eliab by ran^. carpenter, also the British outpost at the Brick Kilns which \\;as captured by the lleigs expedition in May of 1777. I \yell re- member both of these buildings. The fact that the first newspaper ever printed on Long Island \\-as the "Long Island Herald" printed in Sag Harbor 3lav 10th 1791 by David Frothing- ham. is enough to keep this town on the map for all time. It is to be regretted. however. that no one knows at this time just where that printing office Old Arsenal at Sag Harbor was located, but we do know that it was in a build- ing located "near the old landing," which \vonld Henry P- Hedges February, 1896- The photo of probably he quite near the site of the old wharf. Korth Haven Bridge, with the toll house at the left, This is quite definite as to location.

SOME OF THE NOTED MEN OF THIS COMMUNITY Some of the noted inen who took an important States District Court for the Souti~crn District part in the history of this community should be oi Sew York. which position he held for twelve mentioned, but I find it very difficult to name soixe years. In 181 I he was elected Member of -Assembly, and 0111it others, many of whom are worthy of and was afterward chosen Speaker, and \\-as the last mention. I never intended that this wark should who presided in a cocked hat, as was the ancient cus- be a biography of these men. and am not going to tom. The following year he was elected to the make it such, but I will name a few of an earlier State Senate. In 1815he was chosen United States generation who took such an active part in the his- Senatcr. -At the expiration of his term in 1821 he tory of this to\\-nship that such history would not \\-as chosen member of the convention for framing be complete if they are left out. z new Constitut-ion ior the State of Sew I-ork. In Our most noted historian, William S. Pelletreau. 1823 he was appointed Chancellor of the State. to names Chancellcr Kathan Sandford as being the succeed the Hon. James Kent, the distinguished most distinguished illan the Town of Southainpton ever produced, and I am inclined to agree with him in this. Clzancellor A-atharz Sandford Born at Hay Ground (a suburb of Bridgehamp- ton, L. I.) Kov. jth., 1777 and died at Flushing, L. I., October 17th.. 1838. -is a boy he probably at- tended school in the old Hay Ground schoolhouse described in chapter on "Schoo! I-Iouses and Schooi Teachers.'' He later zttended Clinton Academy in East Hampton, I,. I. In 1n3he entered Yale Col- lege, but did not graduate. He studied law under the elder Samuel Jones, in Sew York, and was ad- mitted tc the bar in 1799. In 1800 he was one of The Thomas Sandford Home, Scuttle Hole, where the Commissioners of Eankruptcy in the United Chancell~rNathan Sandford was born SKETCHES FROM LOC--\I. HISTORY

Jurist. and held that position n-ith honor till 1825, York City, then returned to his native town and \\-hen he was again chosen United States Senator by commenced the practice of the legal profession In the unanillious vote of both branches of the legis- 1849 he was elected County Judge and Surrogate, lature. He \\-as chair~nanof the committee on Fi)r- which office he held for several terms. He was eign Relations. the most important of all Senate Presidential Elector in 1848. He xvas a man of peat Committees. He was 2 finished scholar, fanliliar with the an- cient languages. and with French, Spanish and Italian. Lncluestionably, Chancellor Kathan Sand- ford \\-as the nlost distinguished and eminent nlan ever born in the litnits of the town of Southampton, Long Island.

David Gelston \\-as the son of Deacon Maltby Gelston who bought the Ebenezer Edwards' prop- erty on Butter Lane. He was born July jth., 1714, and died -August aIst., 18~8.He \\-as one of the petitioners for a wharf at Sag Harbor in 1770, NATHAN SANDFORD COLONEL EDWIN ROSE signed the Articles of -Association in 177j. was a 1777-1838 1807-1864 n~emberof the ~nd.,3rd. and 4th. Provincial Con- gresses 1773-7, was appointed to be one of a Coin- mittee to procure accounts of the vessels carrying refugees from Long Island. In 1780 he was one of the Commissioners to raise specie to redeem the bills emitted and \\-as also a nleinber of Constitu- tional Convention of 1777. member of the -Assembly from 1777 to 1785, Speaker of that body 1784-5. member of the Council of -Appointment 1792-3, Senator from the southern district of X. 1'. 1791-4, 1798 and 1802. delegate to the U. S. Congress 1788. Surrogate of Sew York. and Collector of the Port cf Sen- \-ark 1801-20. There were several other UDGE ABRAHAM T. ROSE members of the Gelston family that became noted JUDGE HUGH HALSEY 1794-1858 1792-1857 men, one of \vhom was Maltbq-. I think a son of David, I$-ho after the passing of -Aaron Burr, filled the position vacated by the latter, and that accept- ably for a period of about 20 years as president of the Bank of Manhattan Company, in Sew York Cit_v. Hon. ,Abrahanz Topping Rose He was one of the three sons of Dr. Samuel Haines Rose. a native of Bridgehampton, and a surgeon in the Revolutionary liar. Abraham Top- ping Rose \\-as born in Bridgehanlpton Sovember 17th.. I 792. and died -April 28th.. 1857. 111 the yeas 1810 he entered Yale College and graduated in 1814. HENRY P. HEDGES DAVID GELSTON after 15-hich for three years he studied law in Sen- 1817-1911 1744-1 828

{ 1% 5 SKETCHES FROM LOC-AL HISTORY natural ability, and stood at the head of the Suffolk Deacon David Hedges County bar for the greater portion of his profes- Deacon David Hedges was born June I jth., I/'+& siOnal career? and worked to the very last- -A seat and died xovember Stha, 1817. He must have been man in this Town and County. a very remarkable man, one possessed with unusu;r.l Judge Henry Parsons Hedges mental as well as physical ability. -A prosperous farmer, yet did a vast amount of work for the public. He was the son of Zephaniah Hedges and was To illustrate this fact, he served the town of South- born in East Harnpton town October 13th., 1817, ampton as Supervisor for 20 years, was member of and died in Bridgehampton, N. Y., Sept. ->6th., 191 I. Assembly in 1786, 1787, 1788, IT@, 1804, 1806, In his boyhood days he attended the district schools, 1807, also a member of the convention which met at for this he told me himself (see cut of IVainscott Poughkeepsie and ratified the Constitution of the and Sagaponack schoolhouses) later he attended United States, July 26th., 1788. -A great man both Clinton Academy in East Hampton. He entered in the church and con~munity. Yale College and graduated with the class of 1838. He then studied law, and after being admitted to the Colonel Edm-n Rose bar went to Ohio to follow that profession, but he never liked that country, and soon returned to Long Colonel Edwin Rose was born in Bridgehampton, Island. In September of 1843 he opened a law office N. Y., February 14th., 1807, entered West Point in Sag Harbor. In March of 1854 he bought a farm Military Xcade~ny as a Cadet in June of 1826, in Bridgehampton and made that his pennanent graduating therefrom in the class of 1830, and was residence ever after, though he continued his piac- commissioned to duty in the Third Artillery, Unitzd tice in Sag Harbor until 1893. In 1851 he was States Army, became Provost Marshal of the first elected to the State Assembly. Then District -At- Congressional District of New York, and died sud- torney for Suffolk County, and later County Judge. denly on the evening of January 12th.. 1864, in the He stood at the head of the Suffolk County bar for service of his country. many years. A busy man, yet he found time to write and compile a history of East Hampton Town Judge Huglz Halsey which is authority in local history even to this day. He was the son of Dr. Stephen Halsey, born in When a young man, and in fact until after middle Bridgehampton, N. Y., June 26th., 1794. and died Jife he was decidedly autocratic, domineering and May ~9th.~1858. He was a graduate of Yale Col- set, but later in life a great change took place. This lege, was elected member of ,4ssembly in 1822, Sur- was admitted by all of his contemporaries. I will rogate of Suffolk County in 1827, County Judge ir, admit that after I became better acquainted, I grew 1833. Presidential Elector in 1844. at which time to love, honor, admire, respect, and in business re- he was appointed Secretary of the Electoral College. lations remember him with no other than happy In February of 1845 he was appointed Surveyor thoughts, and kind memories. General of the State of New York. SKETCHES FROM LOCAL HISTORY

BRIDGEHAMPTON MEN OF THE MEDICAL FRATERNITY

Dr. Steplzen Iialsey fastened to his tooth securely, but could neither pull Dr. Stephen Halsey \- born in Bridgehampton. the tooth nor get the unfastened, was N. Y., April 13th., 1733, was appointed surgeon of obliged to walk to Fairfield with the instrumexit in Samuel Drake's Regiment in 1776. I cannot find the his mouth, when the Doctor performed the opera- date of his death. His home was located on the tion- corner of Ocean Road and Mecox Road, that is on Dr. Jolzn L. Gardiner the northwest corner where is at this time a cluster Practiced medicine in Bridgehampton through a of lilac bushes, which very nearly mark the site of long and successful life. He was born in East the old homestead. Hampton, L. I., May 6th., 1823 and died in Bridge- Dr. Steplzelz Halsey (and.) hampton, L. I., May 29th., 1908. He was the son of Dr. Stephen Halsey (1st.) and lived on the same homestead, was born in Bridge- Dr. Levi D. Wright hampton, K. Y., in the year 1757, and died January \Vas an eminently successful physician and prac- -35th., 1837. Both of these men practiced medicine ticed in Bridgehampton, L. I., throughout a long and in this community throughout their active life, and active life. He was born November gth., 1810, and left an enviable record. died March 23rd., 1883. At first thought one would be impressed with the idea of his being very austere, Dr. ATathaniel Topping stern and severe, but the fact was, he was just the LVas born at Sagaponack, L. I., November fth., opposite. He loved to stop a child on the street and 1790. Taught school in his early days, then studied get into a real earnest conversation and so draw out medicine. and followed that profession wit11 success the thoughts and mind of the child. His sympa:h!es in his home town during the greater portion of his were always manifest toward his patients to 3 re- active life. He died Feb. 25th., 1871. -An amusing lnarkable degree, and he really seemed to assist incident is told in which he took an important part. them in carrying their burden of grief and sorrow

In those days the turnkey was in general- use for to such an extent that they really felt it. I will re- the extracting of teeth. X neighbor called on the late a rather amusing incident in which he was the Doctor one morning to have a tooth pulled. The prime factor. It appears that he was very fond of Doctor mas at work at Fairfield, inore than a mile cucumbers, so the day in question he made not a from home. He told Xrs. Topping he thought he professional but rather a friendly call on a family could pull the tooth himself if she \vould get him where he was their family physician. The lady sf the turnkey, which she did. He got the instrument the house had just prepared a large dish of cuc~lm-

DR. NATHANIEL TOPPING DR. JOHN L. GARDINER DR. LEV1 D. WRIGHT 1790-1871 1823-1908 1810-1883 SKETCHES FRO31 LOC-\L HISTORY bers for the entire family for dinner that day. Said the lady, "Doctor, I wonder if these green things are fit to put into one's stomach, I do not believe that there is any nourishment in them. What do you think about it?" "Well," said the Doctor, "I do not really believe they are fit to eat." "There, that is just n1y idea," said the good woman, "so we are not going to eat them," and set them off the table. They talked for some time, when the Doctor asked, "are you not going to eat those cucumbers?" "Why no." said she, "not after what you have said." "~lTell,"said the Doctor. "I wish you'd pass them over to me with the fixings." IVhich she did. and he ate them all.

Dr. Edgar R. -ldlilford IVas born in -Amagansett, L. I., October 5th.. 1848. After graduating fro111 the Bellevue Hospital Medical College he located in Bridgehampton, L. I. He was exceptionally successful in his profession, DR. EDGAR B. MULFORD a.nd died Feb. 17th.. 1926. 1848-1926

x-~---v-V--P~- .. 0 - -2 t In the foregoing "Sketches from Local History" I i have sought to be as accurate and correct as pos- sible, but I am confident there are inany errors 2nd 1 mistakes. i In the year I 796 the school in Sagalmnack was taught by B. I(. Hobart, with IVilkes Hedges, as t assistant for one quarter. In sub~nittinghis report I to the Trustees he makes this statement, "A true i act, Errors Excepted." So in sub~nittingthese 1 "Sketches fro111 Local History" to the public, I do it believing the111 to be true, "Errors Excepted." I To the people of this area "The lines are fallen i unto us ..in pleasant places; yea, we have a goodly i heritage. f \VILLI.\M DOSALDSGSHXLSEY +I 2?-*--- 2?-*--- I &-4-4----b&-sE F

Photographs reproduced by Morris Studios, Southampton, L. I. 17jo Jlap, Cart Path to Great Jleadows, Stanish Topping shculd be Stephen. 1830 Map, B. H. Center, School Dis. SO. 2 should be So. 9. 1850 Jlap. Bull's Head Tavern. -\. Gelston should be R. Gelston. 18j0 Map, Hay Ground Road, Capt. James Rog- ers should be Jones Rogers. 1850 Map, Butter Lane. -Annie Woodruff should be -Abby Ii~odruff. 1850 %lap. Main Road, Hay Ground, Malsby G. Rose should be Maltby G. Rose. 1900 Map, Sear Noyack Path, P. Cook should I)e R. Cook. 1900 Map, In Hay Ground. T. S. Hand should he T. J. Hand. 1900 Map, Halsey Lane, C. S. Edwards should be 0. E. Edwards. 1900 Map, Sorris Lane, J. Terry should be J. Ferry. .A11 J4aps. Hunttingon Hills and Path should be Huntington Hills and Path. 1750 Map, The line connecting the name Zebedee Osborn with the square indicating his house is cjmitted.