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Silver plated solid steel knives - a full assortment of these knives which every family is now using in preference to all others, just received and selling low. A good thing for $3 per dozen. C.P. Forbes. Greenfield.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, September 20, 1875
Silver wedding
Silver wedding - Whoever originated the modern idea of celebrating wedding annniversaries deserves much credit, as all will testify who were present at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. F.G. Davis of Sadawga,Vt. Aug. 25, it being the 25th anniversary of their wedding day. The worthy couple were surprised at dinner by the arrival of friends from Brattleboro, and soon after appeared in a body, 15 other teams, bringing neighbors, relatives and friends to the number of 40 or more, who unceremoniously took possession of the old house, and after greeting and hand shaking, proceeded to enjoy themselves in the most approved style, and as man (and woman as well) is a social being, they succeeded admirably.
Late in the day Mrs. Davis was again surprised by the arrival of sisters and friends from Bennington and White Creek, New York, who had crossed the mountain that day to assist in the celebration.Meanwhile sundry boxes and baskets appeared from their hiding places and their contents loaded the dining tables with the many good things which our mountain ladies know so well how to produce.
The tables were also beautifully decorted with flowers and two elegant vases, the gift of one of the guests, added much to their tasteful appearance. After refreshments Rev. N.E. Jenkins, in a few timely remarks, addressed the bride and groom, and in behalf of the donors presented a few articles of silver - a caster, cake basket, napkin rings, spoons and forks and some pieces of statuary.
Mr. Davis responded briefly, but to the point, referring to the same day 25 years ago. Though a shade of sadness marked the occasion, on account of the recent death of the aged father of the groom, the day was one long to be remembered by those present. Four generations of the family were present - the mother of the groom, his children, and one grandchild.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 30, 1875
What savages think of twins
In Africa according to Dr. Robert Brown ("Races of Mankind") the birth of twins is commonly regarded as an evil omen. No one, except the twins themselves and their nearest relatives, is allowed to enter the hut in which they first saw light. The children are not to play with other children, and even the utensils of the hut are not permitted to be used by any one else.
The mother is not allowed to talk to any one not belonging to her own family. If the children both live till the end of the 6th year, it is supposed that Nature has accommodated herself to their existence, and they are thenceforth admitted to association with their fellows. Nor is this abomination of twin births restricted to Africa.
In the island of Bali, near Java, a woman who is so unfortunate as to bear twins is obliged, along with her husband, to live for a month at the sea shore or among the tombs, until she is purified. The Khasias of Hindostan consider that to have twins assimilates the mother to the lower animals, and one of them is frequently put to death.
An exactly similar belief prevails among some of the native tribes of Vancouver Island. Among the Ainos, one of the twins is always killed, and in Arebo in Guinea, both the twins and the mother are put to death (Popular Science Monthly).
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 9, 1875
Turners Falls
It is said that President Field of the Russell Company intends, hereafter, to reside in Lowell with his family, giving general superintendence of the cutlery company, but spending most of his time on other business in which he is interested.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 2, 1875
Turners Falls
At the annual election of the John Russell Cutlery Co. http://johnrussellcu...2007/07/welcome.html at Turners Falls, the following named officers were elected: D.C.G. Fields, President; R.N. Oakman Jr. of New York, Treasurer; E.P. Hitchcock of Greenfield, Assistant Treasurer; Frederick Clapp, Clerk; David Hunter of Greenfield, superintendent; D.G.C. Field, Charles T. Crocker of Fitchburg, Thomas Talbot of Billerica, Edwin Bulkley of New York, George H. Sargent of New York, H.M. Whitney of Lawrence, A.G. Cook of Lowell, Directors. The company declared a dividend of 4 percent, payable Oct. 1.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 19, 1875
Millers Falls
The Langdon Miter Box company, which lately removed from Northampton and occupies the rooms formerly used by the Chapman Cutlery Company, finds its orders keeping ahead of its production.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 19, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
Miss L.M. Ross closed her popular dress making establishment in the Pond Block last week. To show her appreciation and friendship of the young ladies who have been in her employ, she entertained them most cordially at her boarding place on Wed. eve. She had previously received a beautiful piece of silver service as a testimonial from her employees, and other friends bestowed upon her like favors.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 12, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
One of the drivers of Packer & Woodard's butcher carts got into trouble the other day, over on the west side of Green River, near the old cutlery. Having occasion to turn around his horse, before he could stop it, the animal backed against a railing which gave way, and the wagon, meat, horse, and driver were rolled down a steep embankment in a heap together. All were more or less damaged by the operation.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 14, 1875
Shelburne Falls
Fri. night there was a free fight among the construction railroad hands. William Fitzgerald, a cutlery hand, seems to have commenced the disturbance by throwing stones at the hands on the construction train. He got his left ear pretty much chawed off while attempting to play the biting game on his antagonist. After being let up, he threw a large stone at Michael Edwards, one of the contractors, which made a dangerous wound on his head. After that there was another knock down in which the contestants were badly handled. Edwards is in a critical situation.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 7, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
There was a very brilliant gathering on Tues. eve. at the residence of Alonzo Parker, Esq. on Congress Street, to witness the marriage of his daughter, Miss Carrie Parker, to H.J. Davis, the well known photographer. The guests, numbering some 200, represented the best of Greenfield society, and many of the toilets of the ladies were very fine [I guess I'll never get over the use of that word in this context!]. A little before 9, the interesting ceremony was performed by Rev. F. A. Warfield, who used a brief and appropriate service.
/ The bride was beautifully attired in white, with a long court train and veil. After the twain had been made one, they led the way to the dining room, where blessing was invoked by Rev. Warfield, and the choicest cake, cream and other refreshments were served under the direction of J.J. Richardson, our popular caterer. The evening was very agreeably spent, and congratulations were showered upon the united pair in lavish profusion. The bride's presents were abundant, including articles of silver ware from her relatives and friends, pictures and the usual souvenirs of utility and adornment, a magnificent ice pitcher, salver and goblets were the united gift of some invited guests. The bride, who has for two or three years held the position of organist at the Second Congregational Church, will still continue her engagement. Mr. Davis some time ago purchased the Bailey cottage on Main Street, which has been fitted up and furnished, and the pair enter at once upon the pleasures and cares of housekeeping.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 7, 1875
Turners Falls
Mr. Griswold commenced laying brick on his factory last week. The Clark & Chapman Machine company have just completed a contract for the trip hammers and forges for F.R. Chapman's cutlery shops at Holyoke.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 31, 1875
Shelburne Falls
On Tues. June 8 will occur the annual sugar eat on Clark Hill. A large snow drift is doing its level best to be present at the exercises. The Shelburne Falls Band will furnish music. Some good speeches may be expected. Saucers and spoons are to be carried by each one attending.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 17, 1875
Turners Falls
The Turners Falls Lumber Co. have resumed business at their mill, but are running only one saw at present. The Turners Falls Cutlery co. are driving business with fully 150 hands, and the Keith Paper Co. are way behind their orders.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 10, 1875
Conway - a welcome home
Tues. eve. Apr. 27, a very happy and complete surprise and "welcome home" was given Mr. Alpheus Bates, who with Mr. George Stearns, has been specifically the past winter South, on account of failing health. His friends and relatives, by way of expressing their joy at his safe return and decided benefit derived therefrom, assembled to the no. of between 70 and 80, invading his premises most unceremoniously, but receiving a kind and hearty welcome, and accepting the invitation extended to all for a splendid sugar eat with the plentiful crystal snow that appeared like magic upon the long spread tables. After being thoroughly sweetened, it being also in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of their marriage, which had just occurred, a full and beautiful set of silver table cutlery was given them in honor of the event.
/ The presentation was by Chelsea Cook Esq., in his usual pleasant and humorous manner,,,"saying that "In his next Southern sojourn he hoped he would be able to capture and bring home two alligators instead of one, brought by him this time"...The poem for the occasion, written by Mrs. William Stowe, we give below [Typical poem follows] .
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 10, 1875
News of the week
Mrs. Peters of Bennington, Vt. was awakened Sat. night by finding a man trying to steal some money from under her pillow; but she frightened him off before he got it, and in his haste he left one of his boots, which identified him as John Higgins, a former boarder of hers, and he is now in jail.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, April 12, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
The mill site north of the screw mill (Holyoke) on the Newton plot, 150 x 128 ft., has been purchased by Frank R. Chapman of Greenfield, upon which Messrs. D.H. Newton and J.C. Newton have contracted to build for the purchaser a cutlery mill, 40 x 60 ft. in dimensions, the same to be completed and in running order about June 1st. The mill will be two stories high; the first for grinding and the second for finishing. The mill will be of brick, using one mill power of water, employing 50 or more men. Mr. Chapman will take up his residence among us upon the completion of his mill (Holyoke Transcript).
A very pleasant gathering of the members of Athol Lodge, F. and A.M., with their ladies, was held in the Lodge room on Thurs. eve., it being the 25th anniversary of the marriage of Brother Erastus Smith. The eve. was passed happily with vocal and instrumental music, speaking, presentations, social chat, an abundance of fruits, confectionery, pastry and other "good things". During the eve. Bro. E.T. Lewis, on behalf of the brethren, presented the bridal pair with a fine table, and a lot of silver cutlery, spoons, etc. Shortly after, Bro. W.H. Amsden was escorted to the front, and to him Dr. Humphreys, on behalf of the Lodge presented an elegant silver P.M.'s jewel.
On Sat. eve. Mar. 27, Mr. and Mrs. James Trask of Erving were made happy by a very pleasant and enjoyable surprise, about 30 couples being present, also some from out of town. After the arrival of the guests, the couple were made the recipients of a very nice silver ice pitcher from Mr. and Mrs. Taylor of New Britain, Conn.; also a large silver cake basket from Mr. and Mrs. George Trask of Sing Sing, N.Y., and a set of silver spoons from their friends in Westport, N.H.
/ Mrs. Hunt presented them with a nice silver sugar spoon, also a tidy from Mrs. Hunt's daughter. They were also remembered by their grandchildren with a pair of silver napkin rings, a set of silver spoons from Henry F. Trask of Boston, and also a pair of napkin rings by him, also a pair of spoons from David Barnett of Vermont, Mrs. Trask's brother, besides other articles.
/ After a few hours of pleasant conversation and remarks, refreshments were furnished for all in abundance. A letter was read from Bingham Taylor of New Britain, Conn., and also a poem written by Mrs. David Kenney for the occasion. The evening passed off pleasantly, and all seemed to enjoy themselves...Thanks are due to Mrs. Seth S. Allen for kind efforts in getting up the surprise. The presents amounted in all to about $75.
/ Lines read at the silver wedding of Mr. and Mrs. James Trask of Erving, March 27, 1875, by Mrs. N. Kenney: "Husband and wife, James and Kate / We crave a welcome, though coming late / 25 years have sped along / And we've but sung your wedding song...Years went by and little ones came / To gladden the hearts and cheer the home / A sturdy boy and a pale, sweet lass / Made mirth of this home's happiness / Where are they now? I see them not / Though I look around and scan each spot / The mother looks up, with tearful eye / And softly whispers "At home in the sky" [Arggh!].
Gazette & Courier - Monday, March 29, 1875
Turners Falls
About 30 of the finishers in the handle department of the cutlery company's works struck for higher wages the other day, and on being refused, left their benches. The workmen claim that their wages have been continually reduced until they were entirely unable to earn a decent livelihood. The company state however, that this is false, and that many of the strikers were able to earn from $1.25 to $1.75 a day. [Arrgh!] The company reports a very satisfactory business, and will begin running their works ten hours a day on Monday. The hours of labor during the winter have been regulated by the daylight, no work being done after dark.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, March 15, 1875
News about home
Greenfield - A brick building, belonging to the old cutlery property on the east side of the road, was crushed in by the weight of snow on the roof. Some people passing narrowly escaped injury from the crumbling walls.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, March 15, 1875
The streets of Benares, India
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benares [also known as Banaras or Varanasi). From the New York Observer - We took a gharry to see the town. We rode through the new part of the city, where the streets are broad and well macadamized, and smooth as a floor. Beautiful shade trees are planted all along the broad streets. There are many modern houses and shops, and some of them have large yards, beautifully ornamented with trees, shrubs, and flowers. We did not, however, drive through all the streets, for in the old part of the city http://gallery.photo.net
hoto/2643448-lg.jpg they are not over 5 or 6 ft. wide. Many of these narrow streets are lined on either side with substantial stone houses, 6 or 7 stories high.
/ These streets are so crooked and winding that one needs a guide to go most anywhere, and certainly to get out of them. The shops of the same kind of business are congregated in one street. We went through quite a long street, and every shop was devoted to workers in brass. The same holds good as to iron workers, the silver and gold workers.
/ It is a great manufacturing city, and many curious things are made here. There are shops of every kind, and every trade is represented. Every shop is open to the street. We visited them, and were particularly interested in the workers in brass. They manufacture and carve, in the most beautiful manner, the vases and all the utensils used in housekeeping. These shops are filled with all types of brass goods, and every article is as bright as gold. Every dealer will be after you to buy his wares at some price, and you will very likely get loaded with goods. We visited the tin and ironsmiths, and thought we never saw such a variety of goods before.
/ The jewelry shops and stores are filled with very rich and costly goods. We were left to wonder where such beautiful and expensive wares of silver and ornaments of gold jewels could find a market. There is quite a street where slippers are made, apparently enough to supply all India. We saw shops where saddlery hardware was made. It is all very interesting and curious, and all those shops were filled with Hindoos, and not an idle person in the number.
/ One of the most interesting places in the city is where the accoutrements and uniforms of the soldiers and others are made. We visited the shop where all kinds of Oriental fabrics are made. The looms were in motion, and human muscle furnished the power. Apparently there is nothing so cheap as man power. These nearly naked men seem to work with the regularity of a machine. These shops are in the lower story of the houses. The first story is used not only for shops, but frequently for stabling cattle.
/ Of all the curious and costly products of the looms of this city, the celebrated Brocade of Benares http://www.indianselections.net/wall-hangings.html is the most wonderful. We visited one of these establishments, but made no purchases. We have often read of this fabric - the gold cloth of the famous city. Our guide led the way up several flights of stone steps. The passageways, as well as the stairs, were all narrow as well as winding. We reached the store room, but nothing but the stone floor and naked walls were in sight, but soon a salesman appeared and unlocked some massive doors and spread out a sheet upon the floor, and upon that, piece after piece of the beautiful brocade. We saw no piece that cost less than 60 dollars a yard, and several pieces that cost twice that sum.
/ Some of these brocades seemed half gold, but the cloth was as soft and pliable as though all silk...We wondered at the skill of the weaver and admired his work, but the polite merchant was compelled to replace his beautiful fabrics in their place of safety, and we, with many thanks and bows took our leave. There is an indescribable charm about the streets and street sights of this ancient city.
/ The aristocracy, consisting of the princes and priests and wealthy merchants, are all elegantly dressed, many of them in costly silks; but the laboring classes have the merest apology for clothing, many of them wearing only the dhotee, or a piece of cotton cloth about their loins, while most of the children http://gallery.photo.net
hoto/3340407-lg.jpg are entirely naked.But we soon get used to this costume of the laboring classes, for we see it everywhere in warm climates. Half of the people of the town seem to live in the streets and transact all their business there. All kinds of goods are offered you as you walk along the streets, but the Hindoo is always polite and respectful.
/ We saw a great variety of small paintings on isinglass, illustrative of the customs and habits of the people. Those of the military represent the officers and the common soldiers, the priests and the people. The most curious of all these illustrations are those of the religious beggars. They assume costumes according to caste, and are very numerous, and many of them very degraded.
/ There are some horses and cows in the street, but I did not see a single bull at large. There are but few horses in Benares, and they are seldom used to draw heavy loads or bear burdens. They are harnessed before the most curious little cart in the world. The harness is composed of a kind of saddle, unto which the thills of the cart are fastened clear up on the back of the horse. The cart itself is a rude affair. The thills are bent so that they have to go by the horse’s side, and then crook up on to his back. It has a little top about as large as an umbrella, and often has bells hanging to it. It is only the rich that can afford one of these outfits.
/ The common people use the little bullock, but he is nimble and trots off like a horse. We visited the parks and gardens of the city, were greatly interested in the beautiful and luxuriant tress of this favored land. Most of these trees are new to us, and as we look upon them for the first time, we are amazed at the richness of the foliage. There is a boundless variety of shrubs and trailing vines and flowers in these wonderful gardens. There is no frost to stiffen the ground or to chill the air, and all these trees and shrubs are forever green.
/ The old leaf ripens and is pushed from its place by the new ones, but the stalk is never bare. There is no winter here, but there are long seasons of dry weather, but these beautiful gardens are kept fresh and verdant by irrigation. The water is raised for that purpose by immense wells by rude machines, here worked by oxen. The water is conducted all over the gardens in cement conduits. It is all very laborious, but human muscle is very cheap in India.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, March 8, 1875
Bankrupt sale! at American House block
Bankrupt sale! at American House block, Bouker's old stand, chamber, sets, mattresses, lounges, bedsteads, tables, extension tables, 500 chairs of all kinds, splendid desks, center tables, whatnots, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/whatnots brooms, pails, tubs, cutlery, tin ware, axes, hatchets, hammers, stoves, 500 swing cradles, wagons, sleighs, harnesses, and a great variety. Come and see. C.H. Tyler, Agent.
- Sun, Feb 21, 2010
