Читать книгу History of Western Maryland - J. Thomas Scharf - Страница 4

Hagerstown, the county-seat of Washington County, is beautifully situated near Antietam Creek, eighty-seven miles from Baltimore, and lies five hundred and sixty-six feet above tide. It is located in the midst of the charming Hagerstown Valley, and is one of the most attractive and thrifty towns in the country. The streets are regular and in good condition, and the buildings substantial, and in many instances unusually handsome. Stores and shops of various kinds are numerous. The railway lines which center here are the Washington County Branch of the Baltimore and Ohio, the Western Maryland, the Cumberland Valley, and the Shenandoah Valley. These roads drain a magnificent section of country, decidedly the richest in Maryland, and embracing also some of the fairest portions of Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. From an elevated position in the town may be seen for miles the fertile fields of the Hagerstown Valley, while on the south lies the bleak battle-field of Antietam, and on the eastward that of South Mountain. From a point northwest of Hagerstown the line of intrenchments thrown up by Lee's army in his last invasion of Maryland extended in a southerly direction to the Potomac. At some points the entrenchments were not more than three-quarters of a mile or a mile and a half from the town, which was completely covered by the Confederate guns. The Union fortifications were also very extensive. In fact, Hagerstown was the theatre of some of the most important events of the war, and the vestiges of the havoc wrought by both armies are by no means effaced even yet. In addition to its railroad facilities, the town enjoys the advantage of being the point of convergence for a number of admirable turnpike roads, which have largely contributed to building up its flourishing trade. It is abundantly supplied with water-power, which, with the richness and productiveness of the surrounding country, has contributed to give it not only the appearance but the reality of remarkable prosperity and enterprise.

Looking eastward, towards the South Mountain ridge, the scenery is of the most imposing character. Splendid firms, teeming with richness of soil and all under perfect cultivation, are within visual range in every direction, whilst blue mountains rise up in the distance, making altogether a panorama that has few equals anywhere. Beautiful springs gush forth from limestone rocks at frequent intervals, and sparkling streams are seen winding through the rich fields like threads of glittering silver. To all this rural beauty is added a pure, salubrious atmosphere. One of the most attractive features of the town itself is the number of beautiful gardens and green enclosures attached to private residences.

The town is divided into five wards. The principal streets are Washington and Potomac. Washington runs nearly east and west, and Potomac north and south. Each is divided by the other into two sections, thus making East and West Washington and North and South Potomac Streets. The streets running parallel with Washington Street, beginning on the north, are North, Bethel, Church, Franklin, Antietam, and Baltimore. Those running parallel with Potomac Street, beginning on the east, are Mulberry, Locust, Jonathan, Walnut, Prospect, and High. Green Lane is an extension of West Washington Street, and Pennsylvania Avenue is a continuation of Jonathan Street. The Washington Branch of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad enters the town from the south, passing between Potomac and Jonathan Streets. The depot is situated at the intersection of South Jonathan and West Antietam Streets, a short distance northwest of St. John's Lutheran church, which fronts on Potomac Street near the intersection of Antietam Street. The Cumberland Valley Railroad passes through the western portion of the town, along Walnut Street. The depot is situated at the intersection of South Walnut and West Washington Streets. For some distance the course of the Western Maryland Railroad is parallel with and westward of that of the Cumberland Valley, which, however, curves suddenly to the northward and intersects the Western Maryland in the northwestern section of the town. The depot is situated on West Washington Street.

The principal buildings in Hagerstown are the court-house, on West Washington Street, at the corner of Jonathan, near which stands the banking-house of Hoffmann, Eavey & Co.; the Baldwin House, a handsome new hotel, located on Washington Street, diagonally opposite from the court-house, to the eastward; the market-house, on the east side of Potomac Street, at the corner of Franklin; county jail, on Jonathan Street, at the corner of West Church; Hagerstown Female Seminary, located in the extreme southeastern portion of the town, and the Hagerstown Academy, which is situated in the southwestern portion, near Walnut Street. The town hall is situated at the corner of Franklin and Potomac Streets, with market-house under it.

The churches are located as follows: Catholic, Washington and Walnut Streets; St. John's Episcopal, Antietam and Prospect Streets; St. John's Lutheran, Potomac Street near Antietam; Presbyterian, corner of Washington and Prospect Streets, and another on South Potomac near Baltimore Street; Methodist, Jonathan Street near Franklin; Trinity Lutheran and the Reformed churches, on Franklin Street between Jonathan and Potomac; Bethel Methodist Episcopal church, on Bethel Street near Potomac; Colored Methodist church, on Jonathan near Church; United Brethren, at the corner of Locust and Franklin Streets; and St. Matthew's German Lutheran church, on the corner of Antietam and Locust Streets. Besides these there is another Reformed church on Potomac Street near Church. The handsomest and most conspicuous church in Hagerstown is St John's Protestant Episcopal, a beautiful structure of graystone, with an imposing tower. The court-house is a spacious building of brick, with tower, and is one of the finest structures of the kind in the State. The Baldwin House is the principal hotel, and is a new, roomy, and well-appointed structure. The other hotels are the Franklin House, on Potomac Street; Antietam House, on West Washington Street; Hoover House, corner Franklin and Potomac Streets; and the Mansion House, near the depot of the Cumberland Valley Railroad. The Hagerstown Bank, one of the oldest institutions of the kind in Western Maryland, is situated on Washington Street, opposite the Baldwin House, and the First National Bank is now erecting a new building on Washington Street, opposite the court-house.

The sidewalks are paved with brick, and the streets are substantial turnpike-roads. The site of the old court-house, which stood at the intersection of Potomac and Washington Streets, is now need as a public square. It is a great rendezvous for market people. The finest private residences are situated on Prospect, and at the head of West Washington and North Potomac Streets, but there are also a number of others scattered about in different localities. The houses are mostly of brick, but some graystone is also used with handsome effect.

Hagerstown was laid out as a town in 1762 by Capt. Jonathan Hager, and its site is said to have been in the main a dreary, uneven swamp. Capt. Hager came from Germany about 1730 and settled in what is now Washington County, about two miles west of the present site of Hagerstown, on a tract of land which was known as " Hager's Delight," and which was owned recently by the late Samuel Zeller. The earliest information of Jonathan Hager, Sr., is found in the statement that he received a patent of certain land on which a portion of the city of Philadelphia now stands. He was a man of much independence and force of character, and pushed on to Maryland. Having obtained patents for extensive tracts of land in Washington County, he settled, as stated above, in the vicinity of Antietam Creek. On this farm was built the first two-story log house, with an arched stone cellar so constructed that if the family were attacked by the Indians they could take refuge there. Capt. Hager was frequently assailed by the savages, and his family found the cellar a most useful asylum. It was often necessary to protect the dairy-maids with armed men while engaged in milking the cows. As a rule, however, Capt. Hager generally managed to keep on pretty friendly terms with the Indians of the vicinity.

Jonathan Hager was not, however, the first settler in the neighborhood of Hagerstown. He was no doubt preceded several years by Capt. Thomas Cresap, the famous Indian-fighter, and other fearless settlers. Capt. Cresap at a very early period built an Indian fort of stone and logs over a spring at " Long Meadows," on the farm now owned by George W. Harris, about three miles from Hagerstown, which was known for many years as " Old Castle Cresap." During the Indian wars Cresap's fort was an important point, as it afforded protection to those who fled to it for safety. It was also a general rendezvous for the rangers established in the county for the protection of the back settlements. When the inhabitants increased and the Indians were driven farther into the interior, Cresap abandoned his castle near Hagerstown and erected a more formidable one at his new home at Skipton, or Old Town, in Allegany County. Some of the ruins of his old fort are yet visible; indeed, the old stone barn, on the farm of Mr. Harris which was purchased by him in 1868 from the executors of the late Richard Ragan, was built out of the stone of Castle Cresap, which stood on that farm. " Long Meadows" was the favorite abode of the early settlers of Washington County, and within the memory of many living the farms in that locality were owned by the Harts, Spriggs, Thomas B. Hall, and other names once familiar, but now extinct.

Jonathan Hager was attracted to Washington County by the fertility of its soil and the great abundance of pure and wholesome water, and was not disappointed in the hope of speedily accumulating a comfortable maintenance.

About 1740 he married Elizabeth Kershner, who lived in the same neighborhood. They had two children, Rosanna and Jonathan. Rosanna married Gen. Daniel Heister, and Jonathan married Mary Madeline, daughter of Maj. Christian Orndorff, who lived near Sharpsburg. Maj. Orndorff's house was the headquarters of the Revolutionary officers who passed that way to or from the scene of military operations in the North or South. Mrs. Jonathan Hager, Jr. (Mary Orndorff), was a great belle and beauty in her day, one of her suitors being the famous Gen. Horatio Gates. She rejected him, however, and when fifteen years of age accepted Jonathan Hager, Jr., and was married to him. They had one daughter, Elizabeth, who married Upton Lawrence. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence, and their descendants are very numerous. Among them are the two Misses Lawrence, who reside in the Lawrence mansion, and who have many interesting relics of the Hagers in their possession. Among them is the original plat of the town, as shown in the cut. They also have Jonathan Hager, Sr.'s, old-fashioned silver watch of the " turnip" pattern, the massively engraved silver shoe-buckles worn by Jonathan Hager, Jr., and the latter's suspender-buckles of silver, with his initials engraved on them. Among the other articles in their collection is a handsome silver stock-buckle set with brilliants and attached to a stock of black lace and blue satin, a brooch of brilliants for the shirt, a gold ring set with a ruby and diamonds, and a full-dress suit with lace and ruffles. This costume consists of two vests, — one of them of white satin embroidered with spangles and colored silks, and the other of apple-green silk embroidered with spangles, gold thread, and colored silks. The spangles and embroidery are still as bright, probably, as when they were first put on. They also have Mr. Hager, Jr.'s, silver shoe-buckles, magnificently set with brilliants, and retain possession of all the old silver and plate.

The elder Jonathan Hager named the new village Elizabeth Town in honor of his wife, Elizabeth, but in after-years it came to be written Elizabeth (Hager's) Town, and gradually the Elizabeth was discarded and it was denominated solely Hagerstown. Capt. Hager laid off the town in about 520 lots of 82 feet front and 240 feet deep, making half an acre each, which were leased for £5 consideration money, $1, or 7 shillings and 6 pence, per annum as a perpetual ground-rent. He reserved all the lots outside the town which were not numbered in the original, but these were afterwards sold by his heirs. There are still in the possession of his descendants about 300 ground-rents of the original town lots. A large square was laid out, and a market-house was erected in the center, at the intersection of what is now Washington and Potomac Streets. Afterwards a courthouse and market-house combined was built, the market-house being below and the court-house above. When Washington County was created out of Frederick in 1776, Mr. Hager, we are told, " rode down to Annapolis and had his town made the county town." This must have been Jonathan Hager, Jr., as the date of his father's death is given as being 1775. In the previous year (1773) Jonathan Hager, Sr., had been returned as a delegate to the General Assembly of Maryland from Frederick County, but not being a native subject of the English crown nor descended from one, but naturalized in 1747, was declared ineligible by the House. The act created a considerable stir., and the Governor and Council declared it unprecedented. He was also a member of the House of Delegates in 1771. The course of the Assembly in 1773 was predicated on a petition from Samuel Beall setting forth that a number of voters in Frederick County had not produced certificates of their naturalization, and on account of their religious tenets had refused to take the oaths required by law. The old Hager residence, a massive stone building on the eastern side of the public square and fronting on Washington Street, was torn down a few years ago in order to make room for a store. In this ancient structure the Hagers resided for a number of years, and after them Col. Henry Lewis, who married Mrs. Mary Hager, widow of Col. Jonathan Hager, Jr. Mrs. Mary Hager was still a very beautiful woman, and still young when Col. Hager died. At one time Luther Martin, the great lawyer, was an ardent suitor for her hand, but she rejected him and married Col. Lewis. Both the Jonathan Hagers, father and son, were very popular with the citizens of Hagerstown, and enjoyed almost unbounded influence. The elder Hager was accidentally killed on Nov. 6, 1775, in his sixty-first year, at a saw-mill near the site of Hager's mill, by a large piece of timber rolling upon and crushing him. The timber was being sawed for the German Reformed church, which Mr. Hager was very active in building. Jonathan Hager, Jr., entered the Revolutionary army, and served through the war. After his marriage he resided in Hagerstown, and died in December, 1798. In its issue of the 20th of that month the Hagerstown Herald paid him a warm tribute as a worthy citizen and an affectionate husband and father. His daughter, Elizabeth, married Upton Lawrence, a distinguished lawyer of Hagerstown.

In 1791, Henry Shryock, Matthias Need, and Martin Harry were appointed commissioners, with power and authority to lay out a portion of ground in Elizabeth Town for the purpose of building a market-house thereon not less than fifty feet in length and thirty in breadth. By the act of 1793 ail the powers to these commissioners were transferred to the commissioners of the town. By an act passed by the General Assembly in 1791 " to improve the streets," etc., Elizabeth Town was incorporated. By this act Thomas Hart, Ludwick Young, William Lee, John Shryock, John Geiger, Peter Heighley, and Baltzer Gole were appointed the first commissioners.

The preamble of the act sets forth that the citizens of the town petitioned for the act of incorporation, stating in their petition that the streets of the town were frequently rendered almost impassable by means of many of the inhabitants raising the ground before their own houses, and turning the water with a view to their private convenience only, and that disputes often arose respecting boundaries of lots by filling up the streets and alleys, etc. The commissioners were empowered to levy a tax not exceeding three shillings on one hundred pounds, to dig wells, purchase a fire-engine, etc.

The commissioners were also made a body corporate by the name of the Commissioners of Elizabeth Town, and to have a common seal and perpetual succession. Additional powers were conferred on the commissioners by the act of 1792. At this time the lower part of the town was built on very low and swampy land, the streets have been raised many feet above the original ' level, and were often in a very bad condition. The marsh at the southern edge of the town accounts for the bend in South Potomac Street, as it was bent east of the straight line to avoid it. In the year 1802 the General Assembly authorized a lottery for the purpose of raising money to repair the streets. About 1810, Samuel Rohrer made an addition to the original town.

The first census of Hagerstown of which any record remains was taken in 1810. At that time the population numbered 2342, of which 1951 were whites, 297 slaves, and 94 free negroes.

In 1820 the population was as follows: Whites, males, 1161; whites, females, 1137; total whites, 2298; slaves, males, 147; slaves, females, 133; total slaves, 280; free colored persons, males, 55; females, 57; total, 112; total population, 2690.

A writer describing Hagerstown in 1822 says:

" There are perhaps few towns in this county which have risen more rapidly in importance within the last few years than this town. Nor are its advantages in other respects less important. The arrivals and departures of stages in one week amount to forty-two, — seven arrive from Wheeling, seven from Washington, Georgetown, and Baltimore via Frederick; three from Baltimore via Westminster, Taney Town, and Emmittsburg, which line is intersected twenty miles from this place by a direct line from Philadelphia via Gettysburg; three from the respective sections of Pennsylvania via Chambersburg; and one from Virginia via Winchester, Martinsburg, and Williamsport, making twenty-one arrivals from, and the same number of departures for, the respective places above named. . . . An idea of the progress of improvement may be gathered from the fact that a court-house equal, perhaps, in elegance and taste, to any in the country has just been completed, and that there are now in progress a market-house, connected with a town hall and Masonic Hall, independent of a large Episcopal church and several private dwellings. The number of well-conducted public-houses is not, perhaps, surpassed by those of any inland town in the country, the enterprise and activity of our mercantile men are proverbial, and the industry and perseverance of our mechanical population give life and energy to the various branches of active business."

In connection with the town hall and market alluded to an animated discussion arose. It seems that the steeple of the old market-house was surmounted by a little old man of tin, with a rotund abdomen, who was popularly known as " Old Heiskel," doubtless from his resemblance, real or fancied, to some well-known resident of the town. The citizens generally wanted to have " Old Heiskel'" placed on the steeple of the new building, but the Freemasons desired a compass and square to indicate the character of the edifice. Neither party would give way at first, and a violent controversy in and out of the newspapers was the result. The Masons finally triumphed, however, and the compass and square were placed on the vane.

Early Notes and Reminiscences. — In 1805 there were about two hundred and fifty houses on Washington, Potomac, Antietam, Locust, and Franklin Streets. They were nearly all built of logs, very substantial and roomy, and a very few were of brick. Upton Lawrence, Samuel Hughes, Mr. Brent, and John Thomson Mason, the elder, were the principal lawyers. Brent and Otho Stull, who succeeded Mr. Beltzhoover as the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, fought a duel in 1805, in Virginia, and Brent was shot in the knee. Old Dr. Frederick Dorsey attended them as their surgeon. Joseph I. Merrick removed to Hagerstown soon after, and was a very brilliant lawyer.

Two of the oldest houses in Hagerstown are Kirschtenfeter's, on Potomac Street, built by the elder Knapp in 1778, and the stone house now occupied as the office of the Hagerstown Agricultural Works, on South Washington Street, which was built in 1781.

From time immemorial Tuesday has been observed as " public day" in Hagerstown. The same custom prevails in most of the other county towns of Maryland, but in Hagerstown it has always been marked with peculiar observances. Even at the present day the people from the surrounding country assemble from miles around in order to transact their business and discuss the political situation. On these occasions peripatetic " fakers" ply a thriving trade in " thimble-rigging" and other games shrewdly calculated to deceive the unwary and ease them of their cash, and the whole town is full of bustle and excitement.

Harry Cookus was one of the oddities of Hagerstown about seventy years ago. He was a large, corpulent man, weighing considerably over two hundred pounds, and was always strolling about, apparently waiting for something to turn up. He had been a recruiting sergeant and a soldier in the war of 1812. His favorite occupation, like many other prominent citizens in the town, was cock-fighting, and his elation or depression as his favorite chicken conquered or was vanquished is described as having been manifested by the most ludicrous writhings and contortions. Jacob Yeakle, who carried on the business of tinsmith in a log house on West Washington Street, was also a most peculiar character. He kept several fine horses, and rode with the practiced ease and skill of an Arab.

When the post-office became vacant by the death of William Krebs, who had been postmaster for many years, there was quite an exciting contest among a number of applicants for the vacancy. As there was then no direct travel between Hagerstown and Washington City, except on horseback, each of the candidates started themselves or dispatched couriers to the capital to procure the possession of the desired vacancy. Yeakle was employed by Daniel H. Schnebly to carry his application to the seat of government. Some of them got the start of Yeakle, but he overtook them on the banks of the Monocacy beyond Frederick Town, and while they were waiting to be ferried over he plunged his horse in, swam the river, arrived in Washington first, and procured the appointment for his employer, and came back triumphant ahead of them all. Charles Ohlwein also achieved a local reputation by his bluntness in discharging the rather delicate duties of a constable. On one occasion he had a bill against a certain " very respectable" gentleman to collect, and instead of approaching him privately, blurted out one day in the street, " Say, Mr. ––– , I've got a warrant for you."

The " very respectable" gentleman was, of course, highly indignant, and the constable, concluding that he was the wrong man for the place, gave up his position and returned to his trade, that of a stonemason. Maj. Benjamin Galloway, who lived on the southwest corner of Washington and Jonathan Streets, in the house now occupied by E. W. Mealey, was another man of peculiar characteristics. He was a graduate of Eton College, England, and often prided himself upon that fact. He was quite a politician, and was always in his element when there was any political excitement. He was somewhat erratic, but always honest. He was frequently desirous of a seat in the Legislature, but having but few of the elements of popularity about him, he was often defeated or ruled out. On one occasion, however, after the death or resignation of a member of the Legislature, he was returned to fill the unexpired term. He was a man of strong prejudices, and vented his feeling against his opponents in placards and in doggerel verse, which he read aloud in the streets whenever he could obtain an audience to listen.

Considerable excitement was created one day in Hagerstown, about 1805, by the announcement that the old Episcopal church was haunted. The report arose from the fact that a large black dog got into the building on Sunday and went to sleep without being observed. When he awoke the door was locked, and his howls and frantic efforts to get out alarmed the neighborhood. It is a curious evidence of the prevalence of superstition at the time that the people generally jumped to the conclusion that the church was inhabited by ghosts. It was also gravely asserted that when the door was opened the dog sprang over the heads of twenty men.

An even more significant illustration of the superstition then prevailing is found in the conduct of the people immediately after the execution of the three Cotterills, — the father and his two sons. Some of the spectators, we are told, struggled fiercely for fragments of the ropes with which the men were hanged. Their object in striving to get possession of them was to wear them as "charms" against disease or misfortune. It is asserted that the bodies of the executed men were stolen from their graves by resurrectionists and dissected by local physicians. Upton Lawrence, the principal lawyer for the defense of the criminals, is described by Dr. W. H. Grimes as having been a genial, whole-souled man, of medium size, with dark complexion, piercing black eyes, black hair, and very pleasing address.

Old "Oak Spring" has been a famous local resort in Hagerstown for a great many years. It is situated on West Franklin Street, and the water flows from beneath the roots of an ancient oak, which is the only one remaining of the original forest. It is related that an aged Indian, who passed through Hagerstown about 1816, recognized the spring as the one at which he had often slaked his thirst in his boyhood. The water is famous for its sweetness and purity. In 1856 the town authorities enclosed the lot in which it stands with a substantial brick wall. The bowl of the spring was deepened and enlarged and a stone wall was thrown up around it.

One of the local features of Hagerstown was the general muster of the county militia, which was held in October of every year. There were sometimes over two thousand men in line.

A peculiar custom, by no means indigenous to Hagerstown, however, was the suspension, on the eve of St. Patrick's day, in some conspicuous place, of a dummy figure, popularly denominated a " Paddy," with the view of annoying the Irish residents of the town and vicinity. On several occasions this foolish practice provoked serious disturbances, which, however, ended without bloodshed.

In 1805, George Strouse built about the first of the large brick houses. It was located at the corner of Locust and Washington Streets. About this time there was a race-track out Locust Street on the Funkstown road, and races were run in four-mile heats. Among those most active in getting them up were Alfred Kline, Jonathan Hager, John Ragan, Maj. Bailey, Thomas McCardell, and William Fegley. Purses of five hundred dollars were contested for, and the meetings were held every fall. Horses from distant points, such as New York, Virginia, and Kentucky, as well as horses nearer home, from many different localities, took part in them. Betting was very heavy. Lafayette and White Stocking were famous winners. White Stocking slipped, while running one day in a light rain, and broke his leg. Gen. Samuel Ringgold had fine horses, but he was unlucky, and never won more than two races. Gen. Williams had a course at Springfield, and used to train his horses there. Gen. Williams was very fortunate in his races.

Stone's tavern, on Potomac Street, was a notorious gambling resort about 1805. George Stone is described as having been very gentlemanly and pleasing in his manners, but was always determined to win his intended victim's money, whether by fair means or foul. It is related that on one occasion a woman entered the tavern and " collaring" her husband, picked up his hat and forced him to leave with her. The tavern was the scene of many fierce brawls and violent deeds.

The old jail stood in an alley between Washington and Franklin Streets, and was an old log house, looking very much like a stable. There were little peep-holes for windows, and the door was thickly studded with huge spikes. Elbert, the jailer, was shot previous to 1805, by a prisoner named Orndorf, while the latter was endeavoring to escape.

About 1805 both town and country people were very sociable, and balls were frequently given at the Globe Tavern. No man was asked to an apple-butter boiling, which was one of the favorite amusements, unless he would consent to dance.

" Fourth of July" was always celebrated at Hagerstown in early days with a good deal of enthusiasm. In 1810, for instance, it was observed with a parade, volleys of artillery, and a dinner at the Cold Spring, south of the town. The cannon used was a large one, which lay unmounted on the hill just east of the town. It subsequently burst, killing one man, George Bower, and so seriously wounding another, George Gelwig, that his leg had to be amputated.

In olden times there was a singular custom prevalent among the people of designating a person by the trade or occupation followed, or from some particular habit or act done or committed. For instance, an old man who drove a two-horse team and did most of the local transportation about town was known everywhere by the pseudonym of " Bopple Miller," from a habit he had of talking a great deal in a loud and rapid manner. He had small bells attached to his horses' necks, so that anyone having hauling to do knew by the tinkling of his little bells that " Bopple Miller" was about. A man residing in West Washington Street, who supplied his customers with bread and cakes, was always known as " Berker Hanus." So a man who had appropriated some bacon not legitimately his own was ever afterwards known as " Speck Martin." " Cold Spring," situated about half a mile from Hagerstown, near the Williamsport road, was a very popular resort in early times. The water gushes forth from the rock in a pure and limped stream, and the surroundings are of a charming character. The spring is situated in a sequestered dale, and was the favorite resort for picnics, etc.

Negro " runaways" appear to have been very numerous about 1817, as we find in a single number of the Hagerstown Herald, under date of Sept. 17, 1817, four advertisements of rewards for slaves who had disappeared. The rewards offered were ten, twenty, and fifty dollars.

In the Hagerstown Herald of Feb. 7, 1799, Samuel Hughes, Jr., advertised for sale " the house wherein I now keep my office, with a valuable lot belonging thereto."

Fishing in the Antietam was a favorite sport in the latter portion of the last century; so much so that, in 1798, John Booth, Elijah Cheney. George Powell, John Shafer, Jeremiah Cheney, Nicholas Broadstone, Matthias Springer, Nicholas Frankhauser, John Smith, Joseph Cheney, Stephen Poller, Edward Breathed, Elizabeth South, Christian Binckley, Jacob Sharer, and John Claggett advertised that as very great inconvenience had arisen from sundry persons fishing in the creek, they would not thereafter allow any persons to fish in the creek unless they first obtained permission.

On Wednesday afternoon, at two o'clock, Oct. 20, 1790, the approach of President Washington was announced in Hagerstown. Capt. Rezin Davis, of the light-horse, with a number of the prominent citizens of the place, met the distinguished visitor about three miles from town and escorted him to its environs, where they were met by a company of infantry commanded by Capt. Ott. The Presidential escort was then conducted through Washington Street amid the welcoming shouts of the inhabitants who lined the. sidewalks and filled the windows, doors, etc., along the route of the procession. The bells of the city were also rung during the march. President Washington was conducted to Beltzhoover's tavern, where " an elegant supper was prepared by direction, of which the President and principal inhabitants partook." In the evening the town was illuminated, bonfires appeared in all quarters, and every demonstration of joy and enthusiasm was indulged in. At the close of the banquet the following toasts were drunk, accompanied with a discharge of artillery and volley of musketry to each:

1. "The President of the United States."

To this toast Gen. Washington responded in a few fitting remarks, and proposed the toast, " Prosperity to the inhabitants of Elizabeth-Town."

2. " The Legislature of the United States."

3. "The land we live in."

4. "The river Potomac."

5. "May the residence law be perpetuated, and Potomac view the Federal City."

6. " An increase of American manufactories."

7. "May commerce and agriculture flourish."

8. " The National Assembly of France."

9. " The Marquis de Lafayette."

10. " May the spirit of liberty liberate the world."

11. "The memory of those who fell in defense of American liberty."

12. " The memory of Dr. Franklin."

13. " May America never want virtuous citizens to defend her liberty."

The feast terminated before ten o'clock, and on the following morning, at seven o'clock, Gen. Washington resumed his journey to Williamsport, where, after a short stay, he took his passage down the river to his home at Mount Vernon. During his visit at Hagerstown the following address was presented to him by the citizens:

"To The President of the United States:

"Sir, — We, the inhabitants of Elizabeth Town and its vicinity, being deeply impressed with your illustrious character, and sensibly awake to your resplendent and innumerable virtues, hail you a hearty welcome!

" We are happy to find that, notwithstanding your perils, toils, and guardianship, you are still able to grant us this first, this greatest of all favors,— your presence!.

" We felicitate ourselves on your exploring our country, and as you already reign in our hearts, so we should think ourselves doubly blessed could we have the honor to be included within your more especial command and jurisdiction,— -within the grand center of virtues.

"Our beloved Chief! Be pleased to accept our most grateful thanks for this honor conferred on us. And may the disposer of all things lengthen out your days, so that you may behold with satisfaction the virtue and prosperity of the people whom you have made free! And when you come to close the last volume of your illustrious actions, may you be crowned with a crown not made with bunds!

" Thomas Sprigg,

" Henry Shryock,

" William Lee,

"In behalf of the whole."

The President returned the following reply:

"Gentlemen, — The cordial welcome which you gave me to Elizabeth Town, and the very flattering expressions of regard contained in your address, claim and receive my grateful and h sincere acknowledgments.

" Estimating as I do the affection and esteem of my fellow-citizens, and conscious that my best pretension to their approbation is founded in an earnest endeavor faithfully to discharge the duties which have been assigned me, I cannot better reply to their confidence than by assuring them that the same impartiality which has heretofore directed, will continue to govern my conduct in the execution of public trusts.

" I offer sincere wishes for your temporal happiness and future felicity.

"G. Washington."

Washington Street, Hagerstown, was so named because Gen. Washington and his escort passed down that thoroughfare in proceeding through the town.

June 8, 1791, the editor of the Washington Spy, at Hagerstown, announced that he had been disappointed in receiving any papers from Baltimore by the last post. " The reason assigned by the person who came as post was that owing to a horse-race at Baltimore the post-office was shut."

On the 28th of December, 1792, the commissioners of Hagerstown prohibited the firing of guns and pistols in the town.

In March, 1792. by direction of the town commissioners, the Hagerstown market was ordered to be opened at sunrise on each market-day, of which notice was to be given by ringing the court-house bell.

On the 4th of May, 1801, Albert Gallatin, then recently appointed Secretary of the United States Treasury, stopped at Hagerstown with his family, on his way to Washington to assume the duties of his office.

In 1794 the following advertisement appeared in the Washington Spy:

" 100 Dollars Reward.

" Whereas, some evil-disposed person or person set up at the Market-House in this Town, last night, an advertisement in the German Language, charging us with having cut down the pole lately erected in this town, termed by the deluded authors of its erection a liberty-pole, and commanding us in menacing terms to erect another in its stead, or that we shall surely be put to death by the sword. And as the authors of said dangerous threats ought to be brought to condign punishment. We hereby offer a reward of One hundred Dollars to any person or persons who will give such information of the author or authors of the said advertisement, or of the person or persons who set up the same, that he or they may be brought to justice; to be paid on conviction.

" Henry Shyrock,

"Rezin Davis,

"Alexander Clagett,

"Adam Ott,

"John Geiger,

" Jacob Shryock,

"William Williams."

This pole had been erected by the whisky insurrectionists, but was cut down at night, and, as shown above, a placard was posted ordering some of the principal inhabitants, mentioning them by name, to put up another pole, but the threat was not regarded except by the publication of the above reward.

One of the earliest celebrations of the Fourth of July was that which took place in 1796. The Washington Blues, commanded by Capt. Jacob Schnebly, the mechanics of the town, and other citizens took part in the parade, A public dinner was given, and toasts were drunk, accompanied by discharges of artillery. Thomas Sprigg was chairman of the meeting, and Daniel Heister was vice-president. In the following year, on the same anniversary,

" a number of citizens, and the Washington Blues, Capt. J, Schnebly, met at Mr. Hager's, at Fountain Inn. After the usual evolutions they proceeded to Mr. Smith's tavern to dinner, where a number of toasts were drunk."

On the 15th of June, 1798, the companies of light infantry commanded by Capts. Rutledge and Davis held a meeting at Hagerstown, and adopted an address to the President concerning the threatened troubles with France. The correspondence which resulted was as follows:

"To The President of the United States:

" Permit us, sir, the companies of infantry commanded by Capts. Rutledge and Davis, of Washington County, and the State of Maryland, to join the general voices of our countrymen in addressing you upon the present important and critical situation of our national affairs; to express our sincere affection for the government of our choice, and our firm determination at every hazard to support it. While we contemplate with the liveliest emotions of sorrow the unhappy issue which your late attempts to accommodate our differences with France are likely to experience, we cannot but derive peculiar consolation from the belief that nothing has been left undone on your part to have insured them a very different fate, and we are persuaded, sir, if the friendly disposition manifested by your instructions to our envoys at Paris had been met with a similar disposition on the part of the present rulers of that nation, the two republics would ere now have been reunited in the closest bonds of amity and friendship. Under this impression, and with full confidence in the wisdom, patriotism, moderation, and energy of our united councils, we deem it our duty to declare that we will support with promptitude and firmness such measures as they may find themselves indispensably called upon to adopt for our mutual defence and security. We hope, sir, that this address will not be less acceptable because a majority exercising the rights of freemen have not only indulged, but freely expressed their opinions, in opposition to certain measures of government. It ought, we conceive, rather to enhance its value, inasmuch as it offers to the world an animating proof that the American people, however they may differ in their sentiments as to their interior arrangements and regulations, will always be found ready to unite and defend with their lives and fortunes, the honor, dignity, and independence of their country, whenever they shall be assailed by any foreign power on earth,

"Signed by desire and in behalf of said companies.

" Abraham Rutledge,

"Dennis Davis,

" Captains.

"June 15, 1798."

The following was President Adams' reply:

"To the Companies of Infantry commanded by Capts. Rutledge and Davis, of Washington County, in the State of Maryland.

"Gentlemen, — I thank you for this address, presented to me by your representative in Congress, Mr. Baer.

"The sincere affection you express for the government of your choice, and determination at every hazard to support it, are the more acceptable, because a majority of you, exercising the rights of freemen, have not only indulged, but freely expressed their opinions in regard to certain measures of government, I cannot, however, upon this occasion, forbear to lament the gross misrepresentations which have misled so many citizens in their opinions of many measures.

"John Adams.

" Philadelphia, June 25, 1798."

In the Hagerstown Herald of Feb. 14, 1799, the following advertisement appeared:

" To be rented, for one or two years, and possession to be given the 1st of April next, the house and lot where George Diffenderfer now lives, three doors above Mr. Shall's tavern.

" This stand is well calculated for a tradesman, as there is a convenient back building adjoining the house very suitable for a store. For terms apply to

"Henry Hoover.

"Hagerstown, Feb. 14, 1799."

In the same paper of July 7, 1802 appeared the following:

" All persons are hereby forewarned from taking assignments on certain bonds given by me to Capt. Peregrine Fitzhugh, late of Washington County, in consideration of a tract of land called Chew's Farm, which I purchased from him, he not having complied with his agreement concerning the same. I am, therefore, determined not to pay said bonds, or any part thereof. until he shall have complied with his contract, unless compelled by law.

" Henry Lochar.

" Washington County, July 5, 1802."

On the Fourth of July, 1799, Capt. Schnebly's troop of Washington Blues, after parading and going through various evolutions, repaired to Peck's Garden, in Hagerstown, where they had dinner and drank a number of toasts. The garden was handsomely illuminated, and was visited by a number of citizens. On the same day " a respectable number of the citizens," together with a company of the Twenty-fourth Regiment of militia, assembled " at the usual place of parade," before Maj. Ott's, " to celebrate the national anniversary." Maj. Ott presided, and Capt. Douglass acted as vice-president. After appropriate addresses, etc., they marched to " Mr. Rohrer's Spring, near town, where a handsome entertainment was prepared for them." Having refreshed themselves, " they withdrew to an adjoining eminence and drank a number of toasts, accompanied with cheers and discharges of cannon and small-arms."

Gen. Washington's death was announced by the Hagerstown Herald in the following extract from the Rights of Man, published at Frederick:

" Fredericktown, Tuesday evening,

"9 o'clock, Dec. 16, 1799.

" Disagreeable as the talk is to me, I think it is my duty to announce to the public the Dissolution of his excellency George Washington, who died at Mount Vernon (of a few hours' illness) on Sunday morning last, about 5 o'clock.

" This intelligence was received by two honest countrymen, who left Georgetown yesterday at 12 o'clock, and stopped at Maj. Miller's tavern about four this evening. A third person arrived from Alexandria near the same hour, who corroborates the melancholy circumstance, and leaves us to lament it is but too true.

" Printer of the Rights of Man."

As soon as the news reached Hagerstown a meeting was held, at which it was resolved to have a funeral procession in Washington's honor on Friday of the following week. Elie Williams occupied the chair, and Nathaniel Rochester acted as secretary. The following resolutions were adopted:

"Resolved, That Messrs. Elie Williams, Adam Ott, N. Rochester, Jacob Schnebly, George Waltz, William Fitzhugh, Samuel Ringgold, David Harry, Josiah Price, Thomas Sprigg, and Daniel Heister be appointed a committee to make the necessary arrangements for, and to superintend, the said Procession, and that they or a majority of them meet at the Court-house, on Saturday next, to make the arrangements.

" Resolved, That the Committee consult the Rev. Mr. Smucker, Rev. Mr. Rauhauser, and Rev. Mr. Bower on the oration to be delivered on the occasion.

" Resolved, That the Military and other citizens of Washington County be, and that they are hereby invited to attend and join the said Procession.

" Resolved, That the secretary have these proceedings published in the papers of this town to-morrow.

" By order.

" N. Rochester, Secretary"

In May, 1800, while the Tenth Regiment United States troops, commanded by Col. Moore, were stopping at Hagerstown on their, way from Carlisle to Harper's Ferry, a duel was fought between Capt. Gibbs and Lieut. Franklin, in which the former was wounded in the side, but not seriously.

In January, 1807, a duel was fought in Shepherdstown, Va., between Wm. L. Brent and Otho H. W. Stull, both of Washington County. Mr. Brent was wounded in the leg.

Early in July, 1801, ten prisoners broke out of the jail. They were Wm. Dunn, John Johnson, James McDeid, Michael Ward, J. McCreery, Andrew Dawd, John Johnson, Wm. Harvey, John Lynch, and William Jolly.

Five Indian chiefs of the Pottawatomie tribe passed through Hagerstown in December, 1801, on their return from Washington City, accompanied by a Capt. Wells, who acted as their interpreter. Among them were the powerful chiefs " Little Turtle" and " The Toad." In January of the following year the "kings" of the Delaware and Shawnee tribes, nine chiefs and two attendants, passed through Hagerstown. In March of the same year fifteen Indians of the Seneca tribe passed through Hagerstown. Among them was the well-known chief Cornplanter. Doubtless many similar delegations passed through Hagerstown from time to time.

John Randolph of Roanoke visited Hagerstown in July, 1803, and was tendered and accepted a dinner at John Ragan's tavern.

In 1804 the Fourth of July was celebrated with the usual artillery salute and the parade of the Washington Blues, under the command of Capt. Otho H. Williams. A public dinner was also served at Ragan's tavern. Gen. Thomas Spring was president of the day, and Capt. Otho H. Williams vice-president. The Declaration of Independence was read by Benjamin Galloway, after which a number of toasts were drunk. On this occasion Sebastian Fink was severely wounded in the thigh by the bursting of a swivel.

George Clinton, Vice-President of the United States, visited the town in June, 1809, while on his way to New York.

In 1821 it was proposed to erect a statue to Gen. Washington in the public square, but no further action appears to have been taken in the matter. The monument was to have been of Washington County marble, and was to have included a fountain, etc. At the November election of that year the sum of one hundred and six dollars was contributed by the voters in the different districts towards the completion of the Washington monument at Washington City, D. C.

During Lafayette's visit to this country in 1824 it was proposed that he should visit Hagerstown among other places in Maryland. In September of that year a public meeting was held at the court-house in Hagerstown, at which Willian Gabby presided, and J. Schnebly acted as secretary. The following resolutions were adopted:

"The citizens of Hagerstown and Washington County, participating in the general joy of the American people on the appearance among them of the distinguished and gallant Gen. Lafayette: deeply impressed with the importance and value of his services in their eventful and glorious struggle for independence; and being desirous of manifesting in a suitable manner their veneration for his person and character, have therefore

" Resolved, That Col. O. H. Williams, Col. F. Tilghman, the Hon. John Buchanan, William Price, and V. W. Randall, Esqs., be appointed a committee on behalf of this meeting to wait on Gen. Lafayette on his arrival in the city of Baltimore, tendering him their hearty congratulations, and inviting him to visit their county.

" Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be published.

" William Gabby, Chairman.

" Jacob Schnebly, Secretary."

At a subsequent meeting the committee reported their proceedings, as follows:

" That they repaired to Baltimore upon the arrival of the general at that place, and on Friday, the 8th inst., were introduced to him, at bis quarters in Light Street, by the city authorities.

"Col. Williams, as chairman of the committee, then addressed him as follows: 'General, the spontaneous burst of grateful enthusiasm which has been elicited by your recent return to the United States is without parallel in the history of any modern people; it is not confined to our populous cities, but has diffused itself to the remotest borders of our country.

" ' The citizens of Washington County, Md., largely participating in this general feeling, have deputed us to wait on you, and directed us to tender to you their warm and heart-felt congratulations on your return to a country whose rights you defended and whose liberties you greatly assisted to achieve. They have also directed us to present to you an invitation to visit them so soon as it may suit your convenience. Although we cannot compete with our brethren of the great commercial cities on the sea-board in the reception we shall give you, yet so far as the pure incense of grateful hearts, and the frank and cordial hospitality of republican manners, can supply the deficiency of pomp and splendor, we can affirm there shall be nothing wanting.

" ' We feel proud, general, of the distinction conferred on us, in being made the organ of a community of freemen, through which this slight tribute of respect is presented to the champion of liberty in both hemispheres, the early and strong advocate of America, and the bosom friend of the illustrious father of our country. Be pleased to accept the assurance of our great personal esteem and affection.' "

To this address the general replied that he felt highly gratified by an invitation from the citizens of Washington County, and that he would, with great pleasure, pay them a visit at the earliest opportunity.

At a meeting of the citizens of Washington County at the court-house in Hagerstown, on Wednesday, the 27th of October, 1824, Col. David Schnebly was called to the chair, and R. M. Tidball was appointed secretary. The following resolutions were proposed and adopted:

" Resolved, That the following citizens be appointed a committee to make such arrangements and adopt such measures as they may deem necessary for the reception and entertainment of Gen. Lafayette in Hagerstown, viz.: John Hershey, Dr. F. Dorsey, Richard Ragan, Frisby Tilghman, William Heyser, P. Humrickhouse, Col. William D. Bell, Joseph Graff, Stewart Herbert, George I. Harry, George Brumbaugh, Alexander Neill, Jacob Schnebly, John Robertson, John Harry, Charles Shaffner, John Albert, F. Anderson, John Curry, A. Johnston, Samuel Hughes, Henry Kealhofer, Eli Beatty, Dr. J. Reynolds, T. Eichelberger, John Ragan, George Shryock, Jacob Motter, Daniel Schnebly, Maj. J. Reynolds, John Gruber, J. V. Swearingen, David Artz, Dr. W. D. Macgill, M. Rickenbaugh, Henry Dillman, Frederick Stover, David Clagett, William Gabby, George Shiess, John Witmer, Peter Seibert, William Webb, Col, D. Schnebly, Thomas Keller, Andrew Kershner, John Bowles, Henry Ankeny, John Barnett, Arthur Jacques, B. Kershner, Thomas C. Brent, James H. Bowles, Robert Mason, Benjamin Bean, Anthony Snyder, Dr. M. A. Finley, Daniel Weisel, Dr. W. Van Lear, William Dickey, Col. J. Blackford, Dr. Joseph C. Hays, Jacob Miller, Dr. T. Hammond, George Hedrick, William P. Stewart, Dr. Ezra Slifer, Jonathan Shafer, M. Stonebraker, Alexander Mitchell, Dr. C. Boerstler, Henry Shafer, W. Fitzhugh, Jr., Elias Davis, Jacob I. Ohr.

" Resolved, That the members composing the Committee of Arrangements be notified by the chairman and secretary of their appointment, and be requested to meet at the town-hall on Saturday, the 6th of November, at four o'clock a.m., for the purpose of entering on the duties of their appointment.

" Resolved, That the Military Committee be respectfully communicate with the Civil Committee of Arrangements on the object in contemplation."

On motion of D. G. Yost, it was

" Resolved, unanimously, that a committee be appointed to address the representative in Congress from this District in behalf of this meeting, and to request him to use his influence in procuring a suitable appropriation from our government for Gen. Lafayette for his meritorious services in our Revolutionary struggle. David G. Yost, William Price, and Frisby Tilghman, Esqs., were appointed the committee.

"Resolved, That the above proceedings be published in the several newspapers of the place for the information of the citizens generally.

"David Schnebly, Chairman.

" R. M. Tiddall, Secretary."

At a meeting of the officers attached to the Second Brigade, Maryland Militia, convened at the town hall in Hagerstown on Saturday, the 30th inst.. Gen. Samuel Ringgold was appointed chairman, and Capt. V. W. Randall secretary. The following preamble and resolutions were adopted:

" Whereas, The acceptance by Gen. Lafayette of the invitation given him by the citizens of Washington County will soon afford them an opportunity of testifying their respect and affection for our illustrious guest, it becomes necessary that arrangements should be made forthwith for receiving and welcoming him in such a manner as will evince an attachment to the benefactor and friend of our country. Therefore

" Resolved, That the following officers be a Committee of Ways and Means: Col. Wellier, Col. Fouke, Lieut.-Col. Wolf, Majs. Robrback, Hall, and Sprecker, Capts. Barr, Swearingen, Beall, Funk, Kessinger, Grosh, Brookhartt, Donnelly, Fletcher, Baker, Barnett, Lieuts. Hallman, H. Shafer, and J. Zwisler.

" Resolved, That the Committee of Arrangements and the Committee of Ways and Means assemble at the town hall on Saturday next at 10 o'clock a.m., to confer with the committee appointed on Wednesday last by the citizens, and to co-operate with them in making the necessary arrangements for the reception of Gen. Lafayette."

At the reception in Frederick a company of riflemen from Hagerstown, commanded by Capt. V. W. Randall, was present, and elicited the warmest commendation for its drill and evolutions.

Gen. Lafayette was unable to visit Hagerstown, but we give the foregoing account as a curious picture of the times and of the spirit then pervading the counties of Maryland.

On the 15th of July, 1826, it was resolved " that the citizens of Washington County be requested to meet at the courthouse at Hagerstown on Saturday, July 22nd, to arrange for a public tribute of respect to the memory of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson." In accordance with this resolution " a large and respectable meeting" was held at the court house in Hagerstown on the 22nd of July, 1826. David Schnebly was elected chairman, and Thomas Kellar secretary. The following resolutions were adopted:

" Having heard with the deepest sorrow and most unfeigned regret of the deaths of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, and desirous to evince to the world in common with our fellow-citizens of these United States the great veneration and respect we entertain for the characters of those illustrious patriots of the Revolution, for their pure and exalted worth, pre-eminent talents, and long and faithful public services, we therefore resolve as follows, viz.:

" 1st. Resolved, That there be a public procession in Hagerstown on Tuesday, the first day of August next.

" 2nd. Resolved, That the citizens of this county be requested to wear crape on their left arm for sixty days, and the ladies be solicited to wear badges of mourning for the same period.

" 3rd. Resolved, That the clergymen of the different congregations of this county be requested to preach an appropriate sermon in their respective churches at such times as may be convenient.

" 4th. Resolved, That in order to impress the minds of the rising generation with the virtues and characters of those illustrious dead, the teachers of the public schools in this county be requested to read at least once a week for two months obituary notices of those benefactors of mankind.

" 5th. Resolved, That the committee of arrangements request their fellow-citizens to deliver an eulogium on the above solemn occasion; also request two clergymen to address the Throne of Grace.

" 6th. Resolved, That the citizens of Hagerstown be requested to abstain from all business during the procession.

" 7th. Resolved, Th.at the chairman of this meeting, together with such other persons to be named by him, constitute the committee of arrangements, who shall have power to carry the foregoing resolutions into full effect, and make all other arrangements which the occasion may require.

" 8th. Resolved, That the bells in the different churches in this county be tolled for one hour on the morning and evening of the day of the procession."

The following persons composed the committee of arrangements: " David Schnebly, chairman. Samuel Ringgold, William Gabby, Frederick Dorsey, Thomas Kennedy, George W. Boerstler, Otho H. Williams.

The committee held a meeting soon afterwards and agreed on the following order of procession:

Chief Marshal.

Revolutionary officers and soldiers in carriages.

Committee of arrangements.

Choristers. Orator and officiating clergy.

Clergy of the county.

Moderator and commissioners.

Judges and officers of the court.

Judges of Orphans' Court.

Judges of Levy Court.

Members of the bar.

Physicians.

Students of divinity, physic, and law.

Teachers, with their pupils.

Representatives in Congress.

Delegates of the General Assembly.

Officers of the United States army and navy.

Militia officers.

Band.

Masonic brethren.

Citizens.

The procession rested with its right near the courthouse, at the intersection of Washington and Jonathan Streets, and moved up Jonathan to Franklin Street, down Franklin to Potomac, up Potomac to the " stone" church, then countermarched down Potomac Street to the Lutheran church, which it entered in the same order. The officers of the army, navy, and militia appeared in uniform with crape on the left arm, and the usual badges of mourning on their side-arms. The ladies of the choir and the young girls attached to the different schools were dressed in white with a black ribband around the waist. One gun was fired at dawn, another at twelve o'clock, and a third at sundown, and the bells of the different churches tolled during the procession, which was under the direction of a chief marshal on horseback, with his assistants on foot, all of whom were designated by white sashes and wands.

A public meeting was held at the court-house, in Hagerstown, on the 24th of July, 1827, at which a committee was appointed to meet the engineers employed in surveying the proposed route of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and give them all the information in their power. William Gabby was selected as chairman, and William D. Bell was chosen secretary. After remarks by Dr. John Reynolds and Col. Otho H. Williams, the committee was appointed, as follows:

District No. 1, Col. John Miller, Robert Clagett; No. 2, Joseph Hollman, Col. Daniel Malott; No. 3, Gen. Samuel Ringgold, Col. Henry Fouke; No. 4, Lancelot Jacques, Henry Fiery; No. 5, John Johnson, Anthony Snider; No. 6, David Brookhartt, Elie Crampton; No. 7, M. W. Boyd, John Welty.

In December, 1827, the Hagerstown Torch-Light announced that Lieut. Dillebunt and a party of engineers had examined the route through Harman's Gap to the Antietam, thence down the stream to a point below Funkstown, and thence to Williamsport.

On the 4th of July, 1828, a number of gentlemen from Hagerstown repaired to the Black Rocks on South Mountain and celebrated the day in festive fashion with a good dinner, toasts, etc., and encamped there all night.

In the Hagerstown papers of April 7, 1841, there appeared an advertisement of Wise's twenty-sixth balloon ascension, announced to take place on the afternoon of the 24th day of that month from the prison-yard in Hagerstown.

During the performance of the circus company of J. M. June & Co., in Hagerstown, one evening early in October, 1850, some persons outside pulled down part of the canvas, and a conflict ensued between the circus people and the aggressors. The combatants fought for some time with dirks and clubs, and a number of persons were injured more or less severely.

On the 22nd of May, 1872, Alexander Smith, Wesley Finnegan, and Frederick Fridinger were crushed to death by the falling of a wall of the court-house, which they were engaged in taking down. Smith was forty years of age, and lived on the Cavetown turnpike near Hagerstown. He served through the civil war, and was at the battle of Gettysburg. Finnegan was thirty-six years old, and had also been a Federal soldier. Fridinger was about seventeen years of age, and his father lost his life when the court-house was burned during the previous fall. On the Sunday following the catastrophe the three funerals took place, and the bodies were borne to the grave in a procession of Odd-Fellows, the Fire Department, and many citizens.

Hagerstown, like many other communities throughout the country, was invaded by the centennial epidemic, and a Martha Washington tea-party was the result. The entertainment was given on the evenings of the 18th and 19th of March, 1875, at Lyceum Hall. The following ladies were appointed on the various committees which managed the affair:

President, Mrs. Louis F. McComas; Vice-President, Albert Small; Treasurer, Miss Agnes McAtee; Secretary, Miss Nellie Gibson. Members of Committees: Mrs. J. E. McComas, Mrs. P. A. Brugh, Mrs. J. H. Seymour, Miss Lizzie Hagerman, Miss J. E. McComas, Mrs. Kate Fechtig, Mrs. Charles Bechtel, Miss Laura Kepler, Mrs. P. A. Brugh, Mrs. E. C. Bushnell, Mrs. P. B. Small, Mrs. N. B. Scott, Mrs. George Freaner, Mrs. S. D. Straub, Miss M. Robertson, Miss Lily Syester, Miss Ada McComas, Mrs. J. H. Van Lear, Mrs. David Zeller, Miss S. Thompson, Mrs. F. M. Darby, Miss Minnie Moon, Miss Cephie Herbert, Miss Nannie Cushwa.

In addition to these ladies the following gentlemen took part: Messrs. W. S. Herbert, C. A. Small, Albert Small, W. Harry, and Samuel Ogilby.

The executive committee consisted of Messrs. Straub, Small, Brugh, Kendall, and Rev. J. C. Thompson. Mrs. P. A. Brugh, Mrs. John H. Seymour, and Miss Nannie F. Little had charge of the fancy table. Among the interesting articles exhibited were the following: An oil-painting of Gen. Washington when forty-five years old, painted by Charles W. Peale, by order of Congress while the army was encamped at Valley Forge in 1777, which now belongs to Gen. T. J. McKaig; also a head of Washington woven in silk at Paris on a Jacquard loom (which was shortly afterwards destroyed), as fine-lined as a steel-engraving; also an engraving of Gen. Otho Holland Williams, the founder of Williamsport; a portrait of Commodore Jesse Duncan Elliott, born in Hagerstown in 1780; a portrait of John Henry Purviance, secretary to President Monroe, with an autograph letter from Samuel Purviance; also Robert Parker's certificate of membership in The Society of the Cincinnati, dated 1785, signed by George Washington. On the right of the stage was an oil-painting of Mrs. Gen. Heister, the only daughter of Jonathan Hager, painted in 1780.

On the east side of the stage was an Indian wigwam, in front of which was a table containing a number of articles of Indian workmanship. On the left: of the stage there hung an engraving of President Monroe, taken from an original painting by I. Van der Lyn. On the stage was a chair one hundred and seventy-five years old, which belonged to Mrs. Dr. Bates; and a pair of arm-chairs, imported by Col. Daniel Hughes, of Antietam, in 1770, and another which belonged to Mrs. Murdock, of Frederick, one hundred and fifty years old; also a memorial picture, worked in silk by Rev. Mrs. Thompson's grandmother, Mrs. Hannah Upham, in 1797; a facsimile of Washington's headquarters at Valley Forge; an autograph receipt from Gen. Washington to Mr. William McAnulty, dated Jan. 25, 1774; two autograph notes to Capt. Van Lear, inviting him to dinner; a copy of " John Drane's Poems," published in 1560, and a number of other ancient volumes. In addition to these were the watch of Jonathan Hager (founder of Hagerstown) and the watch of Mrs. Gen. Heister, his daughter, together with articles worn by Capt. Jonathan Hager, of the Revolutionary army, including two embroidered vests, shoe-buckles, knee-buckles, suspender-buckles, stock-buckle, brooch, saddle ornaments, and Mrs. Hager's shoe-buckles. Besides these the exhibits comprised a copper kettle used by Lafayette while in the Revolutionary army, presented by him to Col. John Holker, of his staff; a medallion on satin of Louis XVI. and Marie Antoinette, presented to the Marquis de Lafayette, and given by him to Col. John Holker, agent of the French government during the Revolution; a pair of brass candlesticks, one hundred years old; a pair of solid silver goblets, one hundred and fifty years old, which belonged to Col. Hughes; a set of teaspoons and sugar-tongs, which were brought from Switzerland one hundred and twenty years before; an amber bead bracelet, which had been worn by six generations in succession; a set of tablespoons made in Hagerstown from Spanish half-dollars in 1785.

Among the china was a water-pitcher with the coat of arms of the thirteen original States, painted in 1778; a butter-dish and cup and saucer which were used in the family of President Monroe; a small box made out of the table on which the Declaration of Independence was written; a pitcher made the year after Washington died, to commemorate his death, which has on it a quaint picture; three dishes which were used in the Mitchell family when Maryland was a colony; an old set of china, used in the Price family over a hundred years; a set of spoons sent during the reign of George III. to Mrs. Kealhoffer's great-grandfather, then a missionary on the island of Jamaica.

The various supper-tables were ranged around the sides of the room, each table having the name and motto of the State it represented on the wall above it. The ladies in charge of the tables were:

Virginia, Misses Lily Cushwa and Lily Syester; New York, Misses Rene Boullt and Ada McComas; Connecticut, Misses Lily Seymour and Lottie Croynin; South Carolina, Misses Eva Poulke and Maggie Keller; Rhode Island, Misses Lily Scott and Nannie Ogilby; Massachusetts, Misses Kate Marshall and Sue Love; North Carolina, Mrs. Allan Yingling and Mrs. W. H. A. Hamilton; Delaware, Mrs. S. D. Straub and Miss Sue Herbert; Pennsylvania, Misses Bettie Zeller and Cephie Herbert; Maryland, Misses Emma Herbert and Mary McComas; New Jersey, Misses Nannie Cushwa and Lily Ogliby; New Hampshire, Mrs. E. C. Bushnel, Mrs. P. B. Small, and Misses Nellie Gibson, Eliza Keller, Annie Campbell, V. Dunn, and Mary Small; Georgia, Mrs. Kate Fechtig, Mrs. A. K. Syester, Mrs. C. Bechtel, Mrs. Joseph B. Loose, and Misses Louisa Johnson and Laura Keppler.

On the 6th of June, 1872, the first passenger-train over the Western Maryland Railroad from Baltimore arrived in Hagerstown. The run was made from Baltimore, 86 miles, in three hours and twenty minutes with seven stoppages. The train comprised the locomotive, which was tastefully decorated with flowers and flags, the baggage-car, and a new passenger-car. The latter contained a number of officials and invited guests, among whom were the president of the company, James L. McLane, and his predecessor in that office, George P. Bokee; Robert Hooper, secretary and treasurer; J. T. Rigney, general superintendent; B. H. Griswold, agent at Hagerstown; Mr. Hutton, chief engineer; Col. Longwell, of Carroll County; ex-Senator Briggs, of Frederick; John Welty, one of the Washington County directors; Col. Fred. Raine, of the German Correspondent, of Baltimore, and others. The conductors in charge of the train were Messrs. Besler and R. Stoner. The train was met by the mayor of Hagerstown and other municipal officers, together with a large assemblage of citizens. After being entertained at the residence of Mr. Harris, one of the directors, near the town, the visitors inspected the site of the depot, not then erected, and the officers of the company concluded the negotiations for its purchase with its owner, Richard Wise. In the afternoon they took dinner at the Washington House with the mayor and a number of other citizens of Hagerstown, after which they returned to Baltimore.

The Fourth of July, 1876, was observed in Hagerstown with elaborate and appropriate ceremonies. Two platforms were erected, — one in the southwest angle of the public square and the other in front of the courthouse. The former was erected for the school of Joseph Updegraff, and the latter by the citizens of the town, — a spacious structure, which nearly covered one-half of the pavement in breadth, and was nearly the full length of the building.

Bunting was extensively displayed all over the town, and banners of all nations were flung to the breeze. The eve of the Fourth was celebrated by the school of Joseph Updegraff on their platform on the square, which was brilliantly festooned, and illuminated with Chinese lanterns interspersed among American flags. The exercises consisted of music led by Prof Mentzer, and orations, recitations, and songs by members of the school, which continued until after ten o'clock, and were attended by a very large concourse of citizens.

At midnight the bells sounded a simultaneous peal, which was accompanied by the steam-whistles of the Agricultural Works on Washington Street. Next morning the marched through the streets of the town according to programme, drew up in front of the court-house, when the officers of the day, the choir, and leading participants in the procession took their seats upon the platform, the Hon. Daniel Weisel having been called upon to preside. The young ladies and other musicians under Prof Mentzer occupied the eastern division of the platform, the judges of the courts and other officials the western side, and in the center were the aged men who represented the original States. The music was rendered with effect, the Declaration of Independence was read by W. H. A. Hamilton, of the Hagerstown bar, prayer was offered by the Rev. S. W. Owen, of St. John's Lutheran Church, and the oration was delivered by Hon. A. K. Syester.

In the afternoon there was a procession of the different Sabbath-schools, which concluded the day's proceedings. The heat of the day had gradually intensified until five o'clock, the hour fixed for this parade, when rain fell for half an hour, delaying and interrupting the proceedings. The ceremonies advertised had to be dispensed with on account of the rain, with the exception of the procession, which was formed in the following order by William H. Seidenstricker, chief marshal, with his aides, consisting of the superintendent of each Sunday-school in line, as follows:

First Reformed School — William Gassman, superintendent, 200 in line. Left resting on Householder's corner.

Presbyterian School. — W. H. Herbert, superintendent, 75 in line. South side Washington Street.

St. Johns Lutheranian School.—John Bikle, superintendent, 360 in line. East side South Potomac Street.

United Brethren School.— Mr. Worst, superintendent, 75 in line. Right resting on Beachley's corner.

Methodist Episcopal School. — J. S. McCartney, superintendent, 150 in line. Right resting on Byers' corner, north side West Washington Street.

German Lutheran School. — Mr. Brey, superintendent, 75 in line. East Washington Street, right resting on Martin & Stover's corner.

Second Reformed School. — John Gassman, superintendent, 65 in line. North Potomac Street, right resting on Gassman's corner.

Trinity Lutheran School. — Jacob Roessner, superintendent, 250 in line. North Potomac Street, right resting on J. D. Swartz' corner.

Updegraff's Practical School.— Preceded by a drum-corps, and each scholar wearing upon his breast a shield emblazoned with the " Stars and Stripes."

In all the procession numbered about twelve hundred and fifty scholars and teachers. The line of procession shone brightly with numerous banners and flags, and various expressive devices and mottoes. One of these was a large bell, a representation of Independence Bell, made entirely of natural flowers, which was borne by Children of the German school.

The line of march was from the public square to Antietam, Locust, Franklin, Walnut, Washington Streets to Square, headed by the drum-corps and the Heyser Band, and thence by countermarch to the court-house.

The display of fire-works was the finest, probably, ever witnessed in the town. The illumination and decoration of houses was also very effective, though not so general as might have been desired.

On the 31st of December, 1880, an entertainment was given at the Baldwin House by the gentlemen connected with the Shenandoah Valley Railroad, who had previously been entertained by the citizens at a banquet. The men from the company's shops at Shepherdstown were brought over to decorate the large dining-room of the hotel, and succeeded in making the apartment look very handsome and attractive. The colors used were chosen with a view to represent the signals employed in the running of the trains, and the head-light of a locomotive was also introduced in the decoration with striking effect. Over the entrance were the words " Welcome, 1881," and bunting and evergreens were tastefully draped from the walls, ceiling, and chandeliers. A locomotive was stationed so as to appear to be in the act of approaching, and on its head-light was the monogram " S. V. R. R." On the front of the engine the figures 1880 were so arranged that on the expiration of the old year the figures 1881 would instantly appear. At midnight the engine-bell struck and the whistle sounded, announcing the arrival of the new year, and from the smoke-stack a banner representing smoke, and bearing the inscription "1880," floated out and then disappeared, only to be followed by another bearing the inscription "A Happy New Year." About two hundred persons were present, and between ten and eleven o'clock dancing commenced. A handsome supper was provided, including roast venison, olio, oysters, sweet-breads, turkey, and desserts. Music was furnished by John Ziegler's band from Baltimore, and the dancing continued until a late hour.