Amos Wood TEWKSBURY was born in Weare, N. H., July 30, 1798. His ancestry emigrated to Amesbury, Mass., from England, previous to the Revolutionary war. While it can hardly be said that he was born in extreme poverty, the early life of Mr. TEWKSBURY was one of struggle and privation. His parents removed from Weare to the adjoining town of New Boston when he was but two years of age. His schooling was very limited, even for those days. Three months in each of a few of the years of his boyhood he received instruction in reading, spelling, writing and arithmetic in a barn provided with rough benches, which was the only school-house in his immediate section. This mode of instruction, together with a firm purpose and an underlying principle of right, was the foundation of his life. May 13, 1823, he married Abigail BALCH, who died October 26, 1826, her two children dying very young. He married, for his second wife, Annis CAMPBELL, daughter of Robert COCHRAN, of New Boston. Mr. TEWKSBURY remained in New Boston until 1855, and during that time carried on mercantile business, together with the manufacture of fish, molasses and other kinds of barrels, many thousands of which he shipped to Boston every season.

      The confidence in which Mr. TEWKSBURY was held by his townsmen is best shown by the fact that for twelve successive years he was elected town clerk, ten years town treasurer, sixteen years treasurer and collector of the Presbyterian society, finally positively refusing to serve longer, though strongly urged to continue. For fourteen years he was treasurer and collector of the New Boston Mutual Fire Insurance Company. During his residence in New Boston, besides carrying on his mercantile and cooperage business, he cultivated considerable land in the town, and built several houses in the village. In the fall of 1854 he disposed of his business interests and a few months later purchased the store in West Randolph, standing upon the ground now occupied by the present store of A. W. TEWKSBURY & Sons, which was built some years ago. His two oldest sons immediately engaged in business in this place, with him, and have since continued under the firm of A. W. TEWKSBURY & Sons.

      In August, 1855, Mr. TEWKSBURY removed to West Randolph with his family, remaining the rest of his life. He never forgot the town of his youth and manhood, and it was his constant delight to relate to friends incidents of his early life and struggles. His life in Vermont covered a period of twenty-eight years, almost to a day, and during all of that time, except when disabled by bodily infirmities, he kept his hand at his work. As the business of the firm increased, and he saw that age was creeping upon him, he gradually let go the more burdensome cares of life, but was never for a moment idle. He was a man of few words and of no display, loved everything that was good and hated everything that was wrong. He wanted right measure of his fellows, and insisted that they should receive the same from him, and was "a gentleman of the old school"-courteous and respectful to all. His heart was large, his gifts generous; but he never proclaimed his good deeds. A large part of his gifts were voluntary, like that of the bell which bears the inscription of his name in the tower of the Congregational church.

      As a business man Mr. TEWKSBURY was prompt, careful, straight-forward and reliable. As a citizen no man was held in higher esteem wherever he was known. He was most emphatically a self-made man. His private life was without a stain; his character above reproach. He was very public spirited and always labored for the best interest of the town in which he lived. In social life he was of remarkably even temper, always obliging to every one and kind to the poor. The Town history of New Boston says of him: "He is noted for his liberality; his strict integrity. The church, the Sunday-school, .and everything good has in him a friend and supporter."

      Mr. TEWKSBURY died at his home in West Randolph, August 16, 1883, leaving a widow and four children. In 1878 the aged couple celebrated their golden wedding. Mrs. TEWKSBURY passed away October 13, 1887. She was of the good old Scotch-Irish descent, was a woman of good capabilities, and her life was spent in the interests of those about her. The children of these parents were three sons and one daughter, all of whom are still living (1888), and all live in West Randolph. The daughter, Nettie E., occupies the family residence. Of the sons, A. B. and M. A. have both represented the town in the legislature. Henry W. graduated from Dartmouth college in 1870, practiced law a few years in Manchester, N. H., and, in 1883 appeared upon the lecture platform, meeting with great success in, all portions of the country. February 5, 1887, he met with very serious and permanent injuries in the terrible railway disaster at "Hartford Bridge," on, the Central Vermont railroad.

      Since the death of the elder TEWKSBURY the business has been carried on by the children in the old firm name of A. W. TEWKSBURY & Sons, and has been largely increased. Besides being engaged in mercantile business, the firm carries on a large wood manufacturing business, having two mills at West Randolph and one at Roxbury, and employing upwards of 100 men.

      Laureston RICHMOND, son of Amaziah and Hannah (THROOP) RICHMOND, was born in Barnard, Windsor county, in 1806. He married Deborah, daughter of William and Deborah (BISHOP) HUTCHINSON, in 1835, and they had born to them two sons and two daughters, viz.: Frances E., born in 1838, married J. F. BURHAM, of West Randolph; Lemuel, who was born, in 1840; Charles, born in 1847, died in 1849; and Clara E. (Mrs. Hazen P. SANFORD) resides in West Randolph. Mr. RICHMOND located in this town in, 1855, and now owns a farm of 130 acres on road 82.

      John L. MOSES, son of Dearborn and Mary (LEAVITT) MOSES, was born in, Meredith, N. H., in 1828, where he was reared upon a farm, and engaged in various occupations, locating in Randolph in 1856. He married Abbie A., daughter of N. K. and Abigail (FISH) JONES, of Woodstock, Windsor county, in 1859, and they have two daughters-Mary A. (Mrs. Albert GAY), of Stockbridge, Windsor county, and Emma Louise, a teacher, who resides with her parents. Mr. MOSES is proprietor of a livery and sale stable at West Randolph village.

      Edward CONANT, son of Seth of Melvina (PERKINS) CONANT, was born in, Pomfret, Windsor county, May 10, 1829. He was educated at Dartmouth college, received the honorary degree of A. M. from Middlebury college in 1866, and from the University of Vermont in 1867. He was principal of the Orange County Grammar school from 1861 to 1867, which in the latter year was changed to a State Normal school, Mr. CONANT continuing as principal, until 1875. He was a member of the state board of education in 1866-67, a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1870, and was elected state superintendent of education in 1874, which office he held by successive elections until 1880. In 1881 he became principal of the State Normal school, at Johnson, Lamoille county, where he remained three years. In 1884 he returned to Randolph; and has since been principal of the Normal school here. Mr. CONANT married Cynthia H., daughter of John and Betsey (AVERY) TAGGART, of Stockbridge, Windsor county, in 1858, and has two sons and two daughters, viz.: Frank H., a civil engineer, of Hayward, Wis.; Seth E., a salesman for J. W. FARGO, of Randolph village; Nellie Florence and Grace Lucia.

      Charles E. ABBOTT, son of Ebenezer and Sally (FLINT) ABBOTT, was born in Braintree in 1803, and was reared upon a farm. Early in life he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked until 1866. He built the ABBOTT mills, and is now their competent manager. In 1858 he married Hannah J. NICHOLS, who bore him one son, Charles R., of Tampa, Florida, and a daughter, Carrie J., also a resident of Tampa. His wife died in 1865, and March 24, 1871, he married Jane E., daughter of Nathan and Abigail (WILSON) SANBORN, by whom he has four sons and two daughters, viz.: Inez H., born in 1872; Edith A., born in 1875; Ernest A., born in 1877; Clayton W., who died in infancy; Leighton E., born in 1880; and Robert H., born August 27, 1884. Mr. ABBOTT located in this town in 1861, and now resides on Franklin street, corner of Cross, at West Randolph village.

      Nathaniel M. Draper was born in Claremont, N. H., in 1836, learned the tailor's trade, and in 1862 located in West Randolph as a merchant tailor. In 1871 he engaged in the same business in Ashland, Mass., returning to West Randolph in 1876, where he has since been located. In 1885, with Aaron FALES, he built the DRAPER & FALES block. Mr. DRAPER also deals in fine trotting horses, with stables on Randolph avenue.

      Benjamin T. LOMBARD, son of Nahum and Elizabeth (TUELL) LOMBARD, was born in Weathersfield, Windsor county, in 1831, and was educated at Springfield Wesleyan seminary. In 1857 he engaged in the mercantile business in Springfield, where he remained until 1862, when he located in West Randolph. In 1875 he engaged in farming, which business he followed four years, when he entered the employ of A. W. TEWKSBURY & Sons, as salesman. He married, first, Harriet, daughter of Royal and Harriet (HACKET) FLINT, in 1858, who died in 1861; and second, in 1864, Myra A., daughter of Elias B. and Mary Ann (EDGERTON) SHERMAN, and they have an adopted daughter, Maud E., aged twelve years. Mr. LOMBARD has been selectman several years, and represented this town in the legislature in 1886-87. He resides on Randolph avenue, West Randolph.

      George D. BLANCHARD was born in 1834. He chose dentistry as his profession, first located in Barre, Washington county, and in 1864 in West Randolph village, where he died in 1885. He married Ellen BLOOD, by whom he had two sons and one daughter, viz.: Edwin O., born in 1862; Eugene, who died young; and Eva Maud. Edwin O. graduated from Boston Dental college, April 1, 1885. He married M. Alice, daughter of Willard and Susan (DUBOIS) GAY, August 5, 1886. His office is in the Bradish block, West Randolph, and his residence is on Randolph avenue.

      Henry M. WIRES, son of Alvin and Anna (LEWIS) WIRES, was born in Cambridge, Lamoille county, in 1830, and was reared upon a farm. At the age of twenty years he removed to Holliston, Mass., and worked at comb-making for five years; then engaged in teaming between Sheldon and St. Albans for eight years, and in 1864 located in West Randolph, where he kept a restaurant for a time, in 1866 engaging in the grocery business, in which he has since continued. He married Sarah R. Powers in 1854, and they have two daughters, Florence B. (Mrs. C. W. HAYWARD) and Bertha L., both residents of this town.

      Charles W. HAYWARD, son of Samuel and Mary A. (SMITH) HAYWARD, of Tunbridge, was born in 1851, spent his early life upon a farm, and later learned the cabinet-maker's trade. He married Florence B., daughter of Henry and Sarah R. (POWERS) WIRES, September 2, 1873, and they have two sons and two daughters, viz.: Bersba I., Harry H., Hattie F., and Fred C. Mr. HAYWARD is a barber and hair-dresser, and resides in, West Randolph .Village.

      Dr. George DAVENPORT, son of Amos and Laura (STOCKWELL) DAVENPORT, was born in Williamstown, December 28, 1822, and was educated at Newbury seminary. He taught school several terms, and in 1849 graduated from the Vermont College of Medicine, first commencing practice at Brookfield, where he remained until 1865, when he located in East Randolph, and has since been in practice there. He married Eleanor, daughter of Capt. Samuel and Huldah (PEABODY) SMITH, of Brookfield, in 1851, and their children .are Frank W., of Dakota; Annie H. (Mrs. Arthur G. OSGOOD), of Randolph; Walter B., of Ashland, Wisconsin; George E., salesman and deputy postmaster at East Randolph; and John P., who resides with his father. Dr. DAVENPORT is a member of Vermont State Medical society, of the United States Medical society, and one of the school board of this town.

      Leonard WHEELER, son of Nathan and Lydia (Leonard) WHEELER, was born in Brighton, Mass., in 1807, and died in this town in 1883. He was educated for the ministry, and commenced his labors with the Christian denomination, preaching many years in this town. In 1839 he married Hannah, daughter of AVERY and Polly (LITTLE) GILLMAN, and they had four sons and two daughters, viz.: Avery G., Mary L. (Mrs. John W. ROWELL), George H., who died in 1886, Flora E. (Mrs. E. P. FLINT), James L., who died in 1844 and Edward, born in 1846. Avery G., born in 1830, engaged in the milling business five years, kept a store at Marshfield, Washington county, and worked at farming. He came to Randolph in 1865, and kept a grocery and provision store here for seven years, when he removed to Boston and was a member of the firm of WHEELER & LATHROP for one year, then was employed by WADLEIGH & Co., grocers, as a traveling salesman, with whom he remained nine years, when he returned to this town and engaged in the clothing trade. In 1853 he married Lucinda, daughter of John D. and Mira (BULLOCK) WOODCOCK, who bore him three sons, viz.: Jenness D., born in 1854, Leonard D., born in 1860, and Gillman A., born in 1868. Jenness D. married Janette T., daughter of J. Q. ADAMS and Roena (FLINT) BASS, in 1879, and his wife died in 1884 Mr. WHEELER resides on Randolph avenue, West Randolph.

      Leonard H. GOODRICH, son of George and Olive (WATERMAN) GOODRICH, was born in Orange in 1834, and at the age of sixteen commenced to learn the furniture-making trade. In 1862, he enlisted in Co. B, 6th Vt. Vols., served in the first and second battles of Fredericksburg, and was shot through the left leg, which was amputated below the knee. After his discharge he worked at the sash and blind business at Montpelier for a time, and in 1865, located in West Randolph and became superintendent of Abbott mill, which business he is now conducting. He married, first, Julia HUBBARD, in 1856, and their children were George R., Fred L., Henry J., Bertram A., Jedd H. and Edah G. His wife died in 1877, and in 1879 he married Louise E., daughter of Oliver and Philena (WALDRON) GOSS, of Pomfret, Windsor county.

      Edson EMERY, son of Joel and Lucy (GODDARD) EMERY, was born in Tunbridge in 1834. His mother was a daughter of Samuel and Mary (BURBANK), GODDARD. June 20, 1861, he enlisted as a private in the Union army, in, 1862 was promoted to sergeant, served three years and participated in eighteen battles. In 1866 he married Jennie, daughter of Paul W. and Phalina (ABBOTT) GAY, and the same year bought the C. TEMPLE farm, on road 55, and removed to this town. He is now justice of the peace and town lister.

      Dr. Luman A. NOYES, son of Stephen and Julia A. (GUSHA) NOYES, was born in Tunbridge in 1844. He studied medicine with Dr. BUGBY, of Chelsea, and graduated from the Medical department of Pennsylvania university in 1862. He enlisted as surgeon of the 2d Regt. Vt. Vols., and later served as surgeon of the 19th Penn. Cav., remaining until the close of the war. He married. Louise R., daughter of John and Anna (PARKER) BOYLE, of Philadelphia, Pa., in 1862, and by her had one son, Frank V., who died in infancy, and two daughters, Blanche G. and Anna Louise. Dr. NOYES located in Randolph in 1866, and practiced here until 1880, when he went to St. Paul's Island, and later to St. George's Island, in the practice of his profession. The family reside at Randolph Center.

      Samuel C. VORSE was born in Canada in 1838, was reared upon a farm, learned the blacksmith’s trade, worked in Montpelier in 1859, and in Barre until 1861, when he enlisted in Co. C, 1st Vt. Cav., and served till the close of the war. In 1866 he located upon a farm in the north part of this town, where he remained until 1883, when he removed to Randolph Center, where he is now located, and engaged in blacksmithing. Mr. VORSE married Ellen R., daughter of Daniel and Roxana (PIERCE) DODGE, in 1886, and they have one daughter, Lucinda Roxana.

      Ralph W. HODGES, son of Jacob S. and Elizabeth D. (DAY) HODGES, was born in Williston, Chittenden county, in 1836, married Fidelia P., daughter of Harvey and Persis (CHURCH) FIELD, of Jericho, Chittenden county; in 1861, and they have two daughters, Florence Nellie and Olive May. In 1866 Mr. HODGES removed to this town and purchased the Judge CHASE farm, on road 47, corner 61, where he now resides.

      Eli CAMP, son of Abial and Sally (CAMP) CAMP, born in Chelsea in 1817, was educated at the Chelsea High school, and at the age of seventeen began teaching. He became a land surveyor, and learned the trade of carpenter and builder. In 1841 he married Sally, daughter of Elijah and Emma (WHITING) DICKERMAN, by whom he had four sons and five daughters, viz.: Milo E., of Chelsea; Arthur H., of Worcester; Flora S. (Mrs. Frank DELANO), Elijah D., Emma W., a teacher, Minnie (Mrs. E. G. FITTS), and Mary and Belle, teachers, of this town. Mr. CAMP came to Randolph in 1866, and is proprietor of a lumber, planing, shingle and cider-mill, and owns a farm on road 20.

      Austin A. SMITH, son of J. ALLEN and Almira (ALLEN) SMITH, was born in Brookfield in 1832, at the age of eighteen years worked upon a farm, and in 1855 purchased a farm in Barre; Washington county, where he remained two years. He married Betsey A., daughter of Alden and Betsey (KENDALL) LOOMIS, of Roxbury, in 1856, by whom he has had two sons and two daughters, viz.: Alice A. (Mrs. L. P. THAYER); Walter A., of Jacksonville, Florida; Jennie A. (Mrs. L. D. WHEELER), of White River Junction; Emma A., a student at Wellesley college, class of 1887; and A. PARKER, teller of a bank in Jacksonville, Florida. Mr. SMITH located in Randolph in 1867 and engaged in the grocery business. In 1878 he built the Smith block, in West Randolph, where he conducted a general store for four years. He served in Co. C, 15th Vt. Vols., during the late war.

      Martin L. SCOTT, son of Rev. Nathan W. and Dorotha (PHILLIPS) SCOTT, was born in Glover, Orleans county, in 1835. He was educated at Lyndon, Caledonia county, taught school several terms, studied medicine and graduated from the Medical department of the University of Vermont in 1856. He first commenced practice in Canada, where he remained three years, then practiced in Bradford six years, in Colorado two years, located in West Randolph in 1869 and remained here eleven years, removed to Northampton, Mass., and remained five years, returning to West Randolph in 1885, where he has since resided. Dr. SCOTT married Sarah M., daughter of George and Lucy A. (DARROW) WORTHINGTON, of Rome, N. Y., June 2, 1857, and they have one son and two daughters, viz.: Cora E., born in 1858; Lulu A., born in 1867; and George W., born in 1868.

      Duron A. WHITTLESEY, son of Arphaxad and Rosette O. (REED) WHITTLESEY, was born in Plainfield, Washington county, in 1854, and was reared upon a farm. He was educated at Barre academy, studied medicine with Prof. George A. HALL, of Chicago, and graduated from Hahnemann Medical college in 1880, and the same year commenced practice at West Randolph village, where he is still located. He married Elvie E., daughter of Nelson H. and Prunella (MARTIN) MARTIN, in 1881.

      Joseph D. DENISON, son of Hon. Dudley C. and Eunice (DUNBAR) DENISON, was born in Royalton, Windsor county, in 1847, attended Royalton academy, and graduated from the University of Vermont in 1868. 

      Rufus D. PIERCE was born in Poultney, Rutland county, in 1812, and was educated for the ministry. He married Maria C. FINCH, by whom he had one son and four daughters, of whom Sarah A. and James A. are living. The latter, born in Chautauqua, N. Y., in 1849, was educated at Madison university, and was ordained as a Baptist clergyman in 1873. He was pastor of Poultney Baptist church for six years, was four years at JOHNSON, Lamoille ,county, and in 1883 located at West Randolph, where he is- pastor of the Randolph Baptist church.

      George H. HOYT was born in Tunbridge in 1847, and at the age of nine years commenced work in his father's carriage shop. In 1863 he enlisted in Co. B, 9th Vt. Vols., and in 1864 was transferred to the 24th corps sharpshooters. At the battle of Appomattox he was shot through the right leg below the knee; served in the hospital at Montpelier, and was discharged September 1, 1865, and in the fall of that year returned to Tunbridge and worked at carriage-making until 1870, when he spent three years in Montpelier and two years in Lowell, doing carpenter work in the latter town. June 28, 1867, he married Adelaide C., daughter of Ziba C. and Laura L. (QUAID) CUSHMAN, and they have one daughter, Minnie V., born November 25, 1868, Mr. HOYT is a contractor and builder, and resides on School street, West Randolph village.

      Melvin CHURCH was born in Jericho, Chittenden county, was reared upon a farm, and learned the carpenter's trade. He married Electa, daughter of Robert and Lydia (CHAPIN) WRIGHT, in 1838, and their children were William, born in 1839, killed at the battle of Gettysburg; Leland, who died in this town in 1873; Lucy M.; Eunice (Mrs. R. W. WALBRIDGE), of Brookfield; Olive A. (Mrs. A. L. MORSE) and Melvin D., of this town; Orville D., who died in 1865; and Fred I. Melvin D. was born in Highgate, Franklin county, in 1850, and was reared upon a farm. He conducted a meat market at South Hadley Falls, Mass., for ten years, in 1882 locating in Randolph, where he purchased the Samuel FLINT homestead. He married Fanny, daughter of Stephen B. and Frances A. (BENT) HALE, in 1879, and their children are William H., born September 2, 1880, and Warren M., born February 11, 1882. Mr. Church is a farmer and dairyman.

      Charles C. PRESTON, born in Goshen, Vt., in 1824, was reared upon a farm, and at the age of twenty-three years removed to Brookfield, where he remained about ten years. In 1854 he engaged in the lumber business in Michigan, and in 1864 located in this town. He married Sarah Ann, daughter of Ralph and Electa (HAWES) FREEMAN, in 1851, and they have one daughter, Belle S., born in 1852. Belle S. married Albert H. NORRIS, of Williston, in 1873, and their children are Clara Belle, born in 1874, and Albert C., born in 1876. In 1865 Mr. PRESTON purchased a farm on road 2, where he now resides.

      John H. BLAISDELL, son of Hezekiah and Lucinda (WILLIAMS) BLAISDELL, was born in Strafford in 1833, and was reared upon a farm. He married Mary M., daughter of Gilbert and Sally (SPRAGUE) MORRILL, in 1859, and their children were Sarah O., who died at the age of nine years; Mary Etta, born, in 1863; Gilbert M., born in 1866; Sarah, born in 1873; and one who died in infancy. Mr. BLAISDELL owns and occupies the old AINSWORTH farm on road 22.

      Henry W. SMALLEY, son of Charles and Lucy (COMBS) SMALLEY, was born in 1847. He enlisted in Co. A, 1st Vt. Vols., in 1864, and served till the close of the war. In 1873 he married Jennie L., daughter of Eleazer and Lucia (WHITE) EDSON, and their children are Florence L., born in 1881, and Alice C., born in 1884.

      Oscar B. HINCKLEY, son of Thomas H. and Elizabeth B. (GREEN) HINCKLEY, was born in Lewis, Essex county, N. Y. He learned the trade of carpenter and builder and carried on business in Ticonderoga, locating in this town in 1885, in which year he married Laura Jennette, daughter of Ammi and Lucy (YOUNG) BURNHAM, and they have one daughter, Bessie K. B., born August 13, 1886. Mr. HINCKLEY owns and occupies one individual half of the BURNHAM homestead. 

      Benjamin P. PARKER, son of Benjamin G. and Hannah S. (WILLEY) PARKER, was born in Maine in 1835. He studied for the ministry, was licensed to preach in 1859 and ordained by the Freewill Baptist church in 1860, and preached at New Gloucester, Maine, one year, when he entered the employ of the government in the navy yard at Kittery, Me., remaining there six years. He then preached at Gorham, New Buxton Center, North Berwick, Me., and in Candia and Contoocook, N. H., and in 1883 removed to Randolph, where he has since been located. He married Katie, daughter of Rev. Edward and Eleanor (HAMMOND) MCGENLEY, in 1858, and they have had born to them three sons and one daughter, viz.: Benjamin A., of Maine; Isaac W., who died young; Hattie L., a school teacher and teacher of music, who resides in this town; and Frank E., also a resident of this town. Mr. PARKER preaches at East Randolph and Brookfield.

      Frank ST. CLAIR, son of Henry, was born in New Orleans in 1849, and when a young man shipped as a sailor on board a schooner. In 1862 he enlisted in the 18th N. Y. Cav. and served until 1865. In February, 1871, he enlisted, in the U. S. navy, was assistant engineer of the steamship Worcester, and was severely injured by a boiler explosion in March of the same year, receiving his discharge about September 1, 1871. He married Clare E., daughter of John and Amanda T. (BISHOP) HALSEY, in 1881, and they have two daughters, Nellie A. and Isabelle A. Mr. St. Clair is proprietor of a hotel at East Randolph.

      Henry L. WILLS, son of Jonathan and Susan (SPRAGUE) WILLS, was born in Brookfield in 1843. He married Sarah J., daughter of Samuel S. and Mary Ann (ST. CLAIR) BOOTH, in 1866, and their children were three sons and two daughters, viz.: Sarah Lillian, born in 1868; Susie May, born in 1870; Edward L., born in 1873; Frank H., who died young, and Earl P., who died in 1884, aged six years. Mr. WILLS is a farmer on road 83.

      Chase ROWELL was born in Tunbridge in 1822, and in 1847 married Sarah A., daughter of Ira and Sarah (FLINT) HILL, by whom he had four sons and two daughters, viz.: Ira H., Martin C., Sarah H., of California, James P., who died in infancy, Edgar W., of Tunbridge, and May I. (Mrs. Edgar W. MCWAIN), of Nebraska. Ira H., born in 1848, married Eveline Eldora, daughter of Alonzo and Wealthy (MOODY) HARWOOD, September 12, 1869, and they have one daughter and one son -- Ada May and Erskine P. Mrs. Sarah ROWELL and son Ira H. reside on the Benjamin GRISWOLD place at Randolph.

      Moses S. SPAULDING, born in Roxbury in 1820, was reared on a farm, and at the age of twenty-two years learned shoemaking. He married, first, Cornelia SPROUT, in 1841, who bore him one daughter, Ethel Ione, dying in 1852. For his second wife he married Lucy A., daughter of William and Hannah (SEAVY) REED, in 1853, by whom he has had two sons, Frank M., born in 1855, now a resident of St. Albans, and Willie F., who died in 1861. Ethel Ione married Elroy SPAULDING, and they have one daughter, Floss V. Frank M. married Jennie A. ROOT and they have a daughter, Eva B. Mr. SPAULDING is a shoemaker and dealer on Main street, West Randolph.

      Paschal P. RIPLEY, son of Joshua W. and Rhoda (JOHNSON) RIPLEY, was born in Highgate, Franklin county, in 1833. He learned she printer's trade and for three years worked in the St. Albans Messenger office, and in 1853-54 published the Swanton Herald, as Burlington. In June, 1861, he enlisted in Co. K, 3d Vs. Vols., serving three years as fifer and bugler. He married Bridget, daughter of Hugh and Mary (BELL) SCULLY, in 1855, and they have had two sons and five daughters, viz.: Mary Rhoda, who died in infancy; Catherine Eliza, who resides with her parents; Minnie A., a poet and teacher in this town; John Hugh, who died in 1874, aged ten years; and Amy Ellen, Nathaniel S., and Margaret Georgiana, who reside with their parents. Mr. RIPLEY was editor of the Orange County Eagle from 1865 to 1871. He resides on West Center street, West Randolph.

      Isaac NEWTON was born in Pomfret, Windsor county, in 1844, and at the age of eighteen years had learned the blacksmith and carriage-maker's trade. He married, first, Ellen F. SHURTLEFF, who bore him two sons, Lester T. and Arthur L., dying in 1879. For his second wife he married, in 1881, Ellen L. PRATT, widow of Normas GOODELL. He is a carriage-maker, on Center street, West Randolph.

      Thomas BURNNAM, of Essex, Mass., married Ruth Cavis, in 1794, by whom he had four children, viz.: Thomas, John, Abraham, and Lucy (Mrs. S. C. LOVERN), of New Hampshire. John, born in 1796, married Susan WADLEIGH, daughter of Thomas, (who was a Revolutionary soldier, and was present at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis,) in 1828, by whom he had three sons, viz.: James M., in the government's employ at Washington; John F., of this town; and Edward D., of Contoocook, N. H. John F. was born in Hopkinton, in 1833, and in 1858 married Satira W. PEABODY, by whom he had one son and three daughters, viz.: Susie W. (Mrs. Allen PRIEST), of this town; Herbert B., of Holyoke, Mass.; Addie L., also of Holyoke; and Ella.. M., of Concord, N. H. His wife died in 1869, and in 1872 he married Frances E., daughter of Laureston .T. and Deborah (HUTCHINSON) RICHMOND, and they have one daughter, Clara Blanche, born in 1880. Mr. J. F. BURNHAM is a dealer in wood and lumber, and resides on Center street.

      James. M. ATWOOD, son of James and Sarah (HOLDEN) ATWOOD, was born in Rochester, Windsor county, in 1839. He studied for the ministry, was ordained in 1874, and located in this town in 1883. He married Frances, daughter of Thomas and Tinney (DAVIS) GIFFORD, in 1859, and they have three daughters, viz.: Ida May (Mrs. Edwin AMSDEN), of Bethel, Washington county; Carrie C. and Josie Belle.

      Ezra PUTNAM and wife, Rebecca DYKE, came from Sutton, Mass., and located in Bethel, Windsor county, about 1780. They had four sons and two daughters, of whom Ezra, who lived and died in Bethel, married Mary, daughter of John and Mary (WELLS) TOWNSHEND, in 1816, and they had three sons and four daughters, of whom two sons and two daughters are. living, viz.: Joel B.; Ezra N., Harriet T. (Mrs. George B. CHASE), of Michigan, and Lucinda A., widow of Solon CHASE, of this town. Ezra N. was born in Bethel in 1824, learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1847 married Luciah, daughter of Josiah and Lucy (STORRS) WASHBURN. They had three sons and three daughters, viz.: Norman W., born in 1848; Lucy S. (Mrs. L. ABBOTT), born in 1849; Hattie L., who died in 1857, aged four years; Mary S., a teacher in the State Normal school; Simeon N., of Randolph; and, Frederick C., of Windsor. Mr. PUTNAM located in this town in 1881, and is engaged in Carpentering at Randolph, village.

      Roswell SHEPHERD, son of Simeon, was born in Alstead, N. H., in 1776, and in 1796 located in Brookfield, where he died in 1864. He married, first, Polly HAMLIN, who bore him four sons and one daughter, of whom Joel H. lives in Williamstown. His wife died in 1807, and the same year he married Lavina WHITE, widow of Samuel NEWMAN, and daughter of Solomon WHITE, a Revolutionary soldier. The fruits of this marriage were nine sons, and three daughters, of whom Roswell was a physician and died in Ohio;.. Enoch A., a Presbyterian clergyman, died in Michigan; Almon is a Baptist clergyman; Solomon W. was a lawyer and died in San Francisco. Almon was born in 1811, and first preached with the Freewill Baptist denomination at Brookfield, in 1837. He married Mahala, daughter of Solomon and Mercy (BUCKLIN) STODDARD, in 1842, and they reared one adopted daughter, May, who died in 1866, aged twenty-two years. Mr. SHEPHERD resides at East Randolph.

    Aaron FALES, born in Sharon, Windsor county, learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1832 married Philinda B. CHILDS, by whom he had three daughters and one son, viz.: Louisa B. (Mrs. Jesse W. MARTIN), of Braintree; Emily P. (Mrs. H. A. HASTINGS); Edwin A., who died in 1873; and Florence E. (Mrs. Fred H. JOSLYN), of this town. Mrs. FALES died in 1884. Mr. FALES, with N. M. DRAPER, built the DRAPER & FALES block, at West Randolph.
James V. NEWTON, son of James O. and Betsey (CHASE) NEWTON, was born in Rochester, Windsor county, in 1842. He served in Co. E, 2d Vt. Regt. S. S., and also in Co. E, 43d Wis. Vols., and was with SHERMAN in his march to the sea, serving until the close of the war. He married Mary M., daughter of Rev. Justus and Mary (WOODRUFF) BREWER, in 1865, and they have two daughters-Flora B. (Mrs. Cortis F. NUTTING), and Rebecca T. Mr. NEWTON is a coal dealer, and proprietor of the Newton House on South Main street, West Randolph.

      Henry C. SOPER, son of John L. and Eliza (VIALL) SOPER, was born in Dorset, Bennington county, in 1831. He learned the marble-cutter's trade and' worked for a time in Northfield, Washington county, later locating in business in West Randolph, in which he still continues. He married, first, Laura A., daughter of Nelson J. and Sophia (AYLESWORTH) SANFORD, in 1852, who died January 15, 1882, and second, Abby Ellen, daughter of Ephraim and Abigail (SPEAR) THAYER, September 19, 1885. Mr. SOPER has held the office of town lister, and is now first selectman. He manufactures monumental marble, and resides on Randolph avenue.

      Walter S. S. BUCK, son of Walter J. and Sophia (SMITH) BUCK, was born in Washington in 1854, and was educated at Randolph academy. He engaged in the printing business with L. P. THAYER, and is now publisher of BUCK's Monthly. In 1878 he married Emma E., daughter of Heman G. and Betsey (ABBOTT) PERRY, and they have had one son, Errold W. C., who died in infancy, and a daughter, Emogene Sophia, born in 1881. Mr. BUCK resides on South Pleasant street, West Randolph.

      Alanson C. BAILEY, son of Clark and Susan J. (COOPER) BAILEY, was born in Rochester, Windsor county, in 1850, and was reared upon a farm. He was educated at the State Normal school at Randolph, and taught school, several terms, attended the Vermont Conference seminary, studied medicine at the Medical college at Burlington, and graduated from the Medical university of New York in 1877, the same year locating in this town, at West Randolph, where he is still in practice and is also engaged in the drug business. He married Alice. M., daughter of Col. Isaiah P. and Rebecca (WORCESTER) MATTHEWS, in 1877, and they have a daughter and a son, viz.: Grace Alice, born April 14, 1879, and Glenn C., born April 23, 1881.

      Edmund A. SHATTUCK, son of Edmund and Louisa (PROCTOR) SHATTUCK, was born in Windsor, Windsor county, in 1832. He was employed on a railroad in 1852, and in 1854 became a locomotive engineer for the Central Vermont railroad, with whom he continued until 1880, when he voluntarily retired from the business. He married Annie M., daughter of OSGOOD and Mary (BAILEY) EVANS, of Middlesex, Washington county, in 1863, and in 1880 removed to West Randolph and purchased the "Evergreen Home," on Pleasant street, where he now resides.

      Alpheus GEORGE, son of Rev. Stephen and Susanna (PEAK) GEORGE, was born in Holderness, N. H., in 1822, and learned the carpenter's trade. He married Lavinia M. SMART, in 1845, who bore him two sons, Charles H. (deceased), and Frank W., of Chelsea. She died in 1855, and in 1875 he married Marinda M., daughter of John C. and Clarissa A. (JUDD) JOHNSON. Mr. GEORGE enlisted in the 1st Regt. Vt. Cav., September 8, 1864, and participated in the battles at Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek and Newton, sustaining a fracture of the left knee near Cedar Creek. He is a carpenter and cooper, and resides on East Center street, West Randolph.

      Ezra C. BRUCE, son of Warren and Elizabeth (LAMPHIRE) BRUCE, was born in Roxbury, Washington county, in 1839, and spent his youth and early manhood upon a farm. He married Alice A., daughter of William and Eliza (COLLINS) MCALLISTER, and is now employed by Salisbury Bros., at West Randolph. Eliza (COLLINS) MCALLISTER is a daughter of Moses and Polly (BAGLEY) COLLINS. She married William MCALLISTER, and has one son, Charles C., and .a daughter, Alice A.

      John PRINCE, son of John and Mary (MCINTOSH) PRINCE, was born in Bethel, Windsor county, in 1825. He was engaged in the manufacture of lumber and butter tubs at Roxbury, Washington county, for many years, located in Braintree in 1868, and in 1870 built a tub factory at West Randolph, where he located in 1877. He married Amanda B., daughter of George and Bertha B. (BAXTER) CLARK, in 1851, who bore him three sons and four daughters, viz.: Ada H., born in 1852; George J., born in 1855; Fred E., of Mt. Pleasant, Mich., and Frank A. (deceased), twins, born in 1858; Loretta B., born in 1860, died in 1861; Mary Bertha, who resides at home, and Jessie Aurora, born in 1867. George J. PRINCE married Mary E., daughter of Franklin B. and Ellen F. (FLINN) SALISBURY, in 1876, and they have had two daughters -- Alice Mabel, born in 1878, died in 1880, and Fanny May, born in 1880. In 1875 Mr. PRINCE took the butter tub factory built by his father, which business he still continues.

      William B. VIALL, son of A. Boynton and Lucy (Newell) VIALL, was born in Dorset, Bennington county, in 1842, and in 1862 entered the employ of the Central Vermont railroad, with which he has continued nineteen years, now holding the position of adjuster of claims for that road. In 1868 he married Eunice L., daughter of Alden and Clarissa (RICE) LAMB, of Granville, Addison county, and they have one daughter, Lucy Clarissa, born January 14, 1880. Mr. VIALL located in West Randolph in 1878, where he is the present postmaster. He has traveled in all the states of the Union except one.

      Joseph J. BUTTERFIELD, son of Truman T. and Martha (WILLEY) BUTTERFIELD, was born in Berlin, Washington county. He learned cigar-making and worked at his trade in Montpelier for six years. In 1875 he married Sophia LACHNER, by whom he has had two sons-Elmer, born in 1876, and Edward, who died in infancy. Mr. BUTTERFIELD is now employed by Salisbury Bros., at West Randolph.

      Dr. Simon N. GOULD was born in Newfane, Windham county, in 1840, and when a young man located in Plymouth, where he married Julia Ann, daughter of Luther and Saloma T. (WEBSTER) JOHNSON, in 1862, and by whom he has had two daughters -- Lillie Julia, born in 1865, and Ethelynd H., born in 1873. Dr. GOULD is proprietor of "Good Samaritan" and other proprietary medicines, and resides on Railroad street, West Randolph.

      Rev. Elbridge GERRY was born in Braintree, July 5, 1837, was reared upon a farm, fitted for college at West Randolph academy, graduated from Middlebury college in the class of 1862, and from Andover seminary in 1866. His first call was to Sterling, Mass., where he preached two years, when he removed to Oregon City, Oregon, and was pastor of the Congregational church there for four years, serving as county superintendent of schools two years of the time. He returned to Randolph in the fall of 1872, and was pastor of a church in Bethel until 1882, when he again located in Oregon, remaining there one year. In 1883 he bought a farm of Dr. A. SMITH, and has since been pastor of the church at Braintree Hill. In 1873 he began the publication of the Green Mountain Herald, at West Randolph, and the same year sold it to L. P. THAYER, the present publisher, Mr. GERRY acting as assistant editor. In 1868 Mr. GERRY married Lucia, daughter of Horace and Lucinda (CHILD) CHURCH, and they have one daughter, Constance May, born in Oregon, December 17, 1871.

      Justin H. MOULTON was born in 1830, and was educated at the Orange County Grammar school. In 1861 he married Olivia H., daughter of Philander and Hannah (EDGERTON) PERRIN, and they have one son and two daughters, viz.: Clarence E., a student at Dartmouth college; Lucy H. and Mary A., who reside with their parents. Mr. MOULTON is manager of the Green Mountain Stock Farm, and resides on School street, West Randolph.

      Rev. Jonathan BALDWIN was born in Westminster, Windham county, in 1797, and died in 1863. At the age of eighteen he joined the Baptist church, and a few years later entered the ministry. He married, first, Sophia GOULD, who bore him seven children, and second, Annis, daughter of Henry and Dinah (FORD) BROWN, of Randolph, in 1843, by whom he had two sons and one daughter, viz.: Henry M., who was born in 1845, and died in Boston in 1882; Sophia (Mrs. Lucius BATCHELDER), who died in 1883; and F. Wayland. The latter, born in 1851, was educated at the State Normal school, at Randolph, taught school for a time, and at the age of eighteen was employed at the depot in West Randolph, and has since been engaged in the railroad business. About 1880 he went to Mexico and was assistant superintendent of the Mexico National railroad for six years. He returned in September, 1886, and is now superintendent of the Vermont division of the Portland & Ogdensburg railroad, with headquarters at Ogdensburg, where he now resides. In 1880 he married Hattie, daughter of Charles H. WILLIAMS, of Essex Junction, Chittenden county, and they have one son, Percy W., born August 18, 1885. Mrs. Jonathan BALDWIN resides on Main street, West Randolph.

      Rev. V. M. HARDY, son of Levi and Catherine (MOSIER) HARDY, was born in Wilton, Me., in 1840. In 1865 he graduated from Amherst college, from Chicago Theological seminary in 1869, and from Bangor (Me.) Theological seminary in 1870. He commenced his ministerial work at Morrisville, Vt., in 1870, and remained there seven years, locating in West Randolph in 1878. The outward signs of success which attended his ministry in these two churches appear in the entire reconstruction of the house of worship at Morrisville and the erection of a memorial parsonage at West Randolph. The spiritual gains which have attended his labors are recorded in the fact that of the resident membership in the churches which he served, more than half were added to them during his pastorate. June 10, 1873, Mr. HARDY married Sarah A. NOYES, of Morrisville. He is pastor of the First Congregational church at West Randolph.

      James P. CLEVELAND, Sr., son of Stephen and Hannah (HUNTINGTON) CLEVELAND, was born in Bethel, Windsor county, in 1803, and when a young man learned the clothing and cloth-dressing business. In 1827 he married Anna P., daughter of Millen and Betsey (MILLER) HUNTINGTON, and they have one son and one daughter-James P., Jr., and Elizabeth A., the latter principal of Ricon Grammar school, of San Francisco, Cal., and a member of the board of education of that city. James P. CLEVELAND, jr.; was born in 1828. He represented the town of Braintree in 1866-67, was overseer of the poor for sixteen years, sheriff of the county two years, associate judge in 1879-80, the latter year locating in this town, where he carries on a general insurance business. He is now deputy sheriff and overseer of the poor. In 1850 he married Martha A., daughter of Elijah and Patience (NEFF) FLINT, and they have two sons and one daughter, viz.: Frank H., of Braintree, Jennie A., who married Rev. William J. CHALMERS, a Congregational clergyman, of Long Island; and Harry L., of St. Paul, Minn.

      Albert TATRO, son of Alexander F. and Elizabeth (DU CHARME) TATRO, was born in East Highgate, Franklin county, in 1859, and in 1876 located in this town, where he married, November 26, 1885, M. Harriet, daughter of William and Mary H. (CROSS) ALBIN. He owns a farm of 175 acres on road 76.

      Luther Penn BULLARD, son of Luther and Nancy (GREENLEAF) BULLARD, was born in Bethel, Windsor county, in 1827. He married Emily R., daughter of Moses and Ruth (AMES) MORSE, in 1853, and their children are Edson P. and Alton E., of Massachusetts; Mattie E. (Mrs. G. W. BRYANT), of Virginia; and Jessie, who lives at home with her parents. Mr. BULLARD owns the celebrated stock horse "Como," and resides near West Randolph, on road 75.

      George L. STEARNS, son of Leonard and Elizabeth (SHATTUCK) STEARNS, was born in Plainfield, N. H., in 1844. He married Josephine E., daughter of Moses and Lucy (GUILE) PEARLEY, in 1868, and they have one daughter, Jennie, born in 1869. Mr. STEARNS located at West Randolph in 1880, where he is engaged in the manufacture of soap.

      George Petrie BEARD, son of Kendall and Roxcinda (RICHARDSON) BEARD, was born in Orange in 1834, and graduated from the University of Vermont with honors in 1860. In 1865 he became superintendent at Chillicothe, Mo., and in 1871 was elected president of the State Normal school at Warrensburg, Mo. In 1872 he was elected president of Cumberland Valley State Normal school in Pennsylvania, was at the Southwestern State Normal school in the same state, and in 1883 located at Lock Haven, Pa., and is now president of the school at that place. In 1862 he married Luna C., daughter of Ahira and Sarah (MILLEN) GRISWOLD, and they have three daughters Stella S., Lucy E. and Luna L. Mr. BEARD owns the GRISWOLD homestead on road 1.

      Samuel W. DIMICK, son of Joel and Sarah (WOOD) DIMICK, was born in Hartford, Windsor county, in 1826. He married Mary Jane, daughter of Levi and Abiah (HOPSON) BARBER, in 1850, and the fruit of this marriage was a son, Charles H., and a daughter, Susan M. (Mrs. William F. WASHBURN). Charles H., born in 1851, married Fanny STONE, by whom he had one daughter, Grace S. He died in 1874, aged twenty-three years. Mr. DIMICK was a farmer with W. F. WASHBURN on road 47.

      Seth A. HEATH, son of Moses and Nancy (NORRIS) HEATH, was born in Bristol, N. H., in 1828. In 1851 he married Abigail, daughter of John and Sarah (PARKHURST) DURKEE, who bore him children as follows: Abbie (Mrs. James BUCK), of Massachusetts; Daniel W., who died in 1863, aged five years; Joanna and Josie, who reside with their parents; William S., born in 1864; and Irwin G., born in 1866.

      Moses BASS was born in Braintree in 1806, and died in 1872. He married Louisa W, daughter of Francis and Louisa (GILMORE) WILLIAMS, of Taunton, Mass., in 1839, by whom he had three sons and four daughters, viz.: Delia L. (Mrs. L. TILSON); Ellen F., of Pittsfield, Rutland county; Bradford G.; Clementina (Mrs. B. PRATT); Frank, born in 1848, died in 1877; Philura (Mrs. R. G. PAGE); Edward L. and Edmund F. Edward L., born in 1855, married Eleanor Louise, daughter of John R. and Sarah (PITTS) WILLIAMS, in 1884, and they have one son, Royce E., born in 1885. Edmund F. married, first, Fanny A. GRAINGER, in 1876, who died in 1880, and second, Mary E. CHAMBERLAIN, in January, 1882, who died July 2, 1882.

      Heber T. HOLMAN was born in Brookfield in 1847, spent his youth and early manhood upon a farm, and later engaged in bridge building. He married Mary L., daughter of Caleb L. and Amanda (WOODWARD) THOMSON, of Waterbury, Washington county, in 1874, and they have one daughter and three sons, viz.: Lizzie Louise, born in 1875; Roy C., born in 1879; Guy T., born in 1881; and Heber T:, born in 1884. Mr. HOLMAN is a farmer and resides on road 69.

      Samuel F. SLEEPER was born in Strafford in 1839. In 1862 he enlisted in the Union army and served three years. He married Maria, daughter of Rev. Silas and Lydia (MANCHESTER) LAKE, in 1859, and their children were William R., of Boone, Iowa; Alice May, of Moriah, N. Y.; Fred C., of Chelsea; Lena Adella, Calvin L., and Florence Isabel. Mr. SLEEPER died August 24, 1881. His widow and family reside at West Randolph.

      Joshua C. RUSSELL, son of Harry, was born in Shelburne, Vt., in 1836, and in 1860 married Lottie L., daughter of Abel and Anna (HICKOK) LEAVENWORTH, of Charlotte, Chittenden county. In 1864 he removed to Decker, Ill., where he worked at Carpentering for five years, when he removed to Carlisle, remaining here seven years, again locating in Shelburne, where he died April 20, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. RUSSELL had born to them three sons and one daughter, viz.: Florence Louisa, born October 18, 1861; Burton L., born October 4, 1863, now a resident of Dakota; Harry M., born October 2, 1869; and Fred E., born May 27, 1874. Mrs. RUSSELL came to Randolph in 1875 and purchased the place formerly owned by her brother, Abel E. LEAVENWORTH.

      Bela KINGSBURY, son of Capt. Daniel and Martha (ADAMS) KINGSBURY, was born in Connecticut, and at the age of four years removed with his parents to Brookfield. He married Abigail, daughter of Joseph and Betsey (CUTLER} BOTTOM, in 1810, and their children were one son and three daughters, of whom Betsey C. married Abel BIGELOW; Mary upon the death of her sister also married Abel BIGELOW, in 1835, and they had nine children, only one of whom is now living, (Martha K., who married Julian J. WASHBURN, by whom she has one son and one daughter, Edward A. and Mary V.) Mr. BIGELOW died in 1860, and in 1867 Mrs. BIGELOW married Isaac NICHOLS, who died in 1881. Mrs. NICHOLS resides on Main street, Randolph Center.

      Charles S. PAINE, son of Samuel and Pamelia (CHASE) PAINE, was born in 1819. His mother was a daughter of Jonathan CHASE, of Cornish, N. H. In 1850 he married, first, Eliza, daughter of Rev. Sumner I. and Grace (SMITH) LINCOLN, by whom he had one son, William L., a physician and surgeon of Union Village, in the town of Thetford. Upon the death of his wife, in 1854, he married Abbie B., daughter of Smith and Elizabeth (CUMMINGS) FULSOM, in 1855, by whom he has had one son and three daughters, viz.: Eliza A. (Mrs. H. W. FOWLER), of East Bethel, Windsor county; C. Carrol, Carrie M., and Amy L. Mr. PAINE is a farmer and resides on the homestead where he was born.

      Horace WHEELER, son of Dr. Samuel and Eunice (WOOD) WHEELER, was born in Townshend, Windham County, in 1791. He married Nancy, daughter of John and Lavina (COLLINS) BUSWELL, in 1820, by whom he had one son and five daughters, viz.: Orpha J., of Randolph; Eliza Ann, who died young; Ellen A., also of this town; Emily and Horatio A., who died in infancy; and Eliza A., born in 1835, died in 1865. January 6, 1818, Mr. WHEELER was obliged to have the thumb and forefinger of his right hand amputated on account of a diseased condition of the bone. November 3, 1831, the arm was amputated at the shoulder joint. September 28, 1837, the collar bone and shoulder blade were removed, and May 9, 1839, an ulcerated tumor was removed from his right side, and also one from one of his limbs. Mr. WHEELER was constable and collector fifteen years, and also held the offices of deputy sheriff and selectman. He died in 1868, and his wife in 1864. His daughters Orpha J. and Ellen A. reside in East Randolph.

      Charles W. TAFT, son of Elijah and Orinda (KIMBALL) TAFT, was born in Williston, Chittenden county, in. 1828. In 1846 he went to Massachusetts, where he worked at farming, shoemaking, and on the railroad, later returning to Williston, remaining here until 1860. He then run a farm in Brookfield for sixteen years, again locating in Williston, and in 1881 located in Randolph, where he bought the Cleveland farm on road 20, his present home. Mr. TAFT has been married three times. His first wife, Lovina A. BOUTELL, whom he married in 1849, died in 1185. His second wife, Eliza J. MUZZEY, he married in 11853 and by her had two sons -- Charles H. W., of Brookfield, and Sumner B., a soldier in the U. S. army, stationed in Texas. For his third wife he married Susan C., daughter of Josiah THOMPSON, in 1881, and they have an adopted daughter, Carrie J., born in 1883.

      Larnard L. PERSONS, son of Dennis, was born in Barre, Washington county, in 1827, and in 1848 married Amanda E. PERSONS, by whom he had two sons and three daughters, viz.: Ella C. (Mrs. George RACKET); Abbie A. (Mrs. Foster SPRAGUE), of Tunbridge, and Alma A. (Mrs. W. R. HOLDEN), of Randolph, (twins); Fred L., of Randolph, and Charles E., of Massachusetts. Mr. Persons enlisted in Co. K, 12th Vt. Vols., in 1862, and in 1863 in the 1st Vt. Cav., serving until the close of the war. He located in East Randolph in 1872, where he is proprietor of a livery stable.

      Charles L. HODGES, son of Jacob S. and Elizabeth D. (DAY) HODGES, was born in Williston, Chittenden county. He married Lucy S., daughter of Frederick and Deborah (FOSTER) WASHBURN, in 1870, and they have one son and four daughters, viz.: Lottie E., Jennie E., Frederick C., Mary D. W., and Josephine A. Mr. HODGES occupies the Washburn homestead, on road 59, where his wife was born.

      Miller HUNTINGTON was sixth in descent from Simeon and Margaret HUNTINGTON, who emigrated from England in 1633, with three sons -- Christopher, Samuel and Simon. James, third son of Simon, was born in 1680, and married Priscilla MILLER. Their son James, born in 1706, married Elizabeth M. DARBY, whose son William, born in 1736, married Anna PRIDE. Miller, son of William and Anna (PRIDE) HUNTINGTON, was born in 1770, and married Betsey MILLER. Their son Alvah, born in 1802, married Ann, daughter of Oliver and Ann (HAYWOOD) STEVENS, in 1827, and they had three sons and three daughters, viz.: John C., born in 1827; William, who died in infancy; Oliver, of Kansas; Nancy, who died at the age of nine years; Thirza (Mrs. N. K. PUTNAM), of Massachusetts; Jennette N. (Mrs. A. T. DRIVER), of Illinois. John C. HUNTINGTON learned the blacksmith’s trade when he was eighteen years of age. He married Nancy K., daughter of Lewis and Harty (KING) MOULTON, of this town, in 1848, and they have two daughters -- Ellen . Eliza (Mrs. Millard T. KING), of Tunbridge, and Marion Adella. Mr. HUNTINGTON occupies the Moulton farm, where his wife was born.

      Samuel H. BROOKS, son of O. H. and Sarah (RICE) BROOKS, was born in Bethel, Windsor county, in 1828, where he learned the trade of tinsmith. He married Emma L., daughter of H. M. and Abigail (CARTRY) SMITH, in 1856, and they have two sons and two daughters, viz.: Minnie A., Edward E., Florence H., and Theron C. Mr. BROOKS is patentee and manufacturer of Brooks's force and suction pumps, at West Randolph.

      Fred BRYANT, son of Thomas and Abbie (NASON) BRYANT, was born in Cavendish, Vt., in 1857. He married Cedora, daughter of George M. and Lorinda (WATERMAN) ERSKINE, in 1881, and they have one child, a daughter of Mrs. BRYANT by a former marriage. Mr. BRYANT is employed in the livery stable of J. L. MOSES, in West Randolph.

      John MCBRIDE, son of James and Mary (HANCOCK) MCBRIDE, was born in Kentucky in 1844, and in 1870 located in this town, and the same year married Hattie M., daughter of Benjamin B. and Elizabeth (HARADEN) ALLEN. They have a daughter, Harriet A., born in 1873. Mr. MCBRIDE resides at West Randolph.

      Ira A. ROGERS, son of Hiram T., was born in the Province of Quebec in 1817, and early in life learned the blacksmith’s trade. He married Mary H., daughter of Martin and Lucy (WHEELER) RICE, by whom he had three sons and three daughters, viz.: Emily A., Waldo W., Permilla E. (deceased), James A., Addis A., and Mary A. Waldo W. was born in 1850, and came to West Randolph in 1874. He married Clara Belle A., daughter of A. J. and Sophronia (RYDER) BOYCE, of East Roxbury, Washington county, in 1883, and they have one son, Homer B., born in 1884. Mr. ROGERS is a blacksmith on South Main street, West Randolph.

      Samuel RIFORD, son of Samuel and Betsey (FORD) RIFORD, was born in Braintree in 1827, and there resided until his death in 1875. He married Betsey E., daughter of Beriah and Betsey (HUNT) BATTLES, in 1852, and they had two sons and four daughters, viz.: Celia Ada, Carrol S. (deceased), Nellie B. (deceased), Nina Carrie, Pearly S. (deceased), and Winnie Alice. Celia Ada RIFORD is the second wife of Worthen W. JONES, whose first wife, Nellie CLARK, bore him two children-Lulu B. and Gladys. Mr. JONES resides on School street, West Randolph.

      Eugene L. WILLIAMS, son of Leonard K. and Nancy (MORSE) WILLIAMS, was born in Bethel, Windsor county, in 1852. He married Alice, daughter of William and Lucy (KING) LAWTON, of Northfield, Washington county, in 1875, and they have one son, Edgar H., born in 1876. Mr. WILLIAMS was a clerk in Canton, Mass., for-two years, and located in this town in 1880. He is now a clerk for A. W. TEWKSBURY & Sons, at the Abbott mill, and resides on Church street, West Randolph.

      Waldo S. CURTIS, son of Nelson and Caroline (SNOW) CURTIS, was born in Montpelier in 1853. He studied dentistry with Dr. C. R. PELL, attended dental schools at New York, Chicago and Philadelphia, and practiced his -profession at Hardwick, Caledonia county, twelve years. He married Laura A., daughter of Fred LACKNER, in 1875, and they have two children -- Carrie A., born in 1878, and Fred W., born in 1879. Mr. CURTIS is located in West Randolph, with his office in Dubois & Gay's block.

      Frank A. PHILLIPS, son of Calvin B. and Louisa J. (MCCOLOM) PHILLIPS, was born in Brandon, Rutland county, and is a house painter by trade. In 1875 he located in West Randolph, and in 1879 married Abbie R., daughter of Rufus and Mahala (York) CHADWICK, and they have one son, Harry C., born August 30, 1880. Mr. PHILLIPS is leader of the Mechanics band, and resides at West Randolph.

      Michael BRYANT, from Hartland, Windsor county, located in Braintree in 1840, where he resided about twenty-five years. He married Mary MILLER, and their children were Harriet (Mrs. Whiting CLEVERLY); Joseph C.; Wealthy L. (Mrs. William STOUGHTON), of South Royalton, Windsor county; George, who died in Ohio in 1873; Lavina (Mrs. Parker ADAMS), of Lowell, Orleans county; Hubbard, of West Brookfield; and Saloma T., also of Lowell. Joseph C., born in 1819, married Ellen J., daughter of Rufus and Olive (HOLMAN) FLINT, in 1857, and their children were two sons and two daughters, viz.: George C., who died in 1862; Ella C., who died in 1865; Jennie Mable, born June 27, 1867; and Will S., born in 1869. Mr. BRYANT came to Randolph in 1871, and died here October 12, 1884. Mrs. BRYANT resides on road 66.

      Rev. W. F. PETERS, the present pastor of the First Christian church of West Randolph, was born in Ripley, Brown county, Ohio, April 30, 1859; attended the High school in that place until he entered the Bee and Times office, where he remained three years. Leaving home at eighteen, he studied two years at Starkey seminary, Eddytown, N. Y., and three years at a theological seminary at Stanfordville, Duchess county, N. Y. He was first called by the West Randolph church in 1882, in the year of his ordination, which occurred at Stanfordville, N. Y., the ordaining board consisting of President J. B. Weston, Prof. A. H. MORRILL, and Rev. J. A. YOUNG. He resigned in 1883, and was again called in 1886.

      Hazelton A. SPENCER, son, of Dr. John and Sophia (COATE) SPENCER, was born in the Province of Ontario, Canada, in 1837. He was educated at the Victoria university of Coburg, Ont., was licensed to preach in 1858, and in 1864 located in St. Johnsbury Center, and since preached in Newbury, Groton, Derby, Newport, St. Johnsbury, Montpelier and St. Albans. He was presiding elder of Springfield district from 1879 to 1881, and of Montpelier district from 1882 to 1885 inclusive, locating in Randolph in 1886. He married Lydia, daughter of William and Maria HUTTON, in 1862, and their children were five sons and two daughters, viz.: Maria S., who resides with her parents; George Hazelton, a student at Boston university, class of '90; J. Wesley, also a student at Boston university; William S., a student at the Methodist Conference seminary at Montpelier; and Frederick A. and Marion L., who reside with their parents. Mr. SPENCER is trustee of the Vermont seminary, which office he has held since 1873, and since 1882 has been a member of the executive committee. He has been president of the Y. M. C. A. of Vermont for three years.

      The First Christian church of West Randolph. -- In the fall of 1816 a Christian minister; Benjamin PUTNAM, came to Capt. Thomas LAMSON's home, and began religious services. The meetings continued during the winter, and resulted in many conversions and a thorough awakening throughout the town. A union meeting was begun, which was participated in by the Christian church, which was organized in 1817. Persons now living give the names of LAMSON, MARTIN; FISH, MORTON, EDSON and BATES as being enrolled among the charter members. The first house of worship, a wooden structure, was built in 1827, was altered and enlarged in 1834, and again in 1865, will comfortably seat 300 persons, and is valued, including other property, at $7,000. W. F. PETERS is the present pastor. The society has 115 available members.

      The East Randolph Freewill Baptist church. -- The first Freewill Baptist meetings in this town were held in the fall of 1805, by Elder Aaron BUZZELL, who, to use his own words, “felt it a duty from the Lord to visit this uncultivated field of my Master." The first meeting is said to have been held in the BATES barn, and perhaps some subsequent ones were held there. Many of the first meetings were held in the house of Bethuel KEITH, who was chosen the first deacon of the church, which was organized January 28, 1806, by Elders Aaron BUZZELL and Nathaniel KING with eight members, Elder BUZZELL being the first pastor. Their first house of worship, a wooden structure, was built in 1816, and the present one, also of wood, in 1848, will seat 250 persons, and cost $2,000, about its present value. The society has a membership of fifty-four, under the pastoral charge, of Rev. Benjamin P. PARKER. The Sunday-school has a membership of sixty, with G. A. ROBINSON, superintendent.

      The First Congregational church of West Randolph was organized October 21, 1831, by a council of churches and Rev. Salmon HURLBURT, the first pastor. At its organization it was composed of fifteen members, all of whom united on profession of faith. Three places are spoken of in the records of the church as having been occupied for public worship, namely, the "Brick Church" (which was in part a union house), the "Village School House," and "Esquire SALISBURY's hall,"-which latter place was permanently used for some years previous to the erection of their house of worship in 1844-45. This house was dedicated January 29, 1845, and enlarged and refitted in 1867-68. The present structure will seat about 350 persons, cost $8,000, and is now valued, including other church property, at $10,000. The society has a membership of 172, with Rev. V. M. HARDY, pastor. The Sunday-school, organized in 1831, has a membership of 198, with an average attendance of 125.

      The First Congregational church of Randolph, located at Randolph Center, was organized May 6, 1786, and Rev. Elijah BRAINARD was the first pastor. The first house of worship was built of logs, on Nutting hill, and gave place to the present wooden building in 1837, which will seat 500 persons, cost $4,000, and is now valued, including other church property, at about $5,000. The last pastor was Rev. Charles A. PERRY. The Sunday-school has a membership of about 100, with Elias GROW, superintendent.

      Grace Protestant Episcopal church, located at Randolph Center, was organized May 5, 1834, by Hon. Dudley CHASE and others, and at its organization consisted of twenty-two members. The society, which took to itself the name of "The Episcopal Society in Randolph," was governed by the articles of association it had adopted until the canons of the Diocese required the wardens and vestry to hold a meeting by themselves, after being: elected. The first wardens were Hon. Edmund WESTON and Dr. J. S. SMITH. The first clerk was Hon. Dudley CHASE. These gentlemen were re-elected from year to year until 1840, except that in 1838, in consequence of the illness of judge CHASE, Dr. SMITH was elected to fill his office as well as those of senior warden, treasurer and sexton. The Masonic Hall, which was not then in use by the fraternity, was fitted up and made a comfortable place for a small congregation. At Easter Monday meeting, April 20, 1835, the wardens reported that they had employed a clergyman, the Rev. John T. SABINE, during the past year, and that he had, according to their contract: with him for five dollars a Sunday, preached to the society thirty-eight Sundays. The Rev. Mr. SABINE was at first in deacon's orders, but by exchanges with his father, the Rev. James SABINE, rector of Christ's church, Bethel, the communion was regularly administered. When the Rev. J. T. SABINE was advanced to priest's orders it was voted to employ him as rector at a salary of five dollars a Sunday, or two hundred and sixty dollars a year, and he became the first rector. It was also voted to give the parish the name of Grace church. In 1847 Mr. William NUTTING offered a site for a church and $100, towards building it. Judge Isaac F. REDFIELD, who had recently moved into the town, offered $500 towards the building of a church and an organ, and a subscription paper was circulated with the understanding that the amount subscribed should be allowed in payment for pews, and a building committee was selected. The church, a wooden structure, was consecrated December 14, 1848, the original cost of building being about $2,500. The building will seat about 400 persons, and is now valued at $2,000. The present membership is thirty-five, and they have no regular rector.

      St. John's Episcopal church of West Randolph was organized in 1868, by Rev. Henry KINNEY, the first rector, The first house of worship was erected, in 1866, was consecrated September 22, 1869, the estimated cost of the building being about $4,000, its present value. The present number of members is about sixty, with Rev. Andrew D. MERKEL, rector. A prosperous Sunday-school is held, with Lewis P. THAYER, superintendent.

      The First Baptist church of West Randolph was organized in 1876, by Rev. D. C. BIXBY and others, with twenty-three members. Their house of worship, a brick structure, was erected in 1877, at a cost of $8,000, will comfortably seat 450 persons, and is now valued, including, other church property, at $15,000. The present number of members is seventy-five, under the pastoral charge of Rev. J. A. PIERCE.

      The Church of St. Donation and Rogation (Catholic) was erected under the auspices of Rev. Z. DURON, in 1864, will seat 200 persons, and cost about $2,000. It is located on South Pleasant street, and Rev. Father CLAVIS is the pastor. 
 
 

Gazetteer Of Orange County, Vt. 1762-1888.
Compiled And Published by Hamilton Child,
The Syracuse Journal Company, Printers and Binders. 
SYRACUSE, N. Y., 1888.
Page 339-399.

Transcribed by Karima Allison ~ 2004