Historic Nantucket, April 1954, Vol. 1 No. 4

Historic Nantucket

NANTUCKET TOWN From an original lithograph by Ruth Haviland Sutton.

APRIL, 1954

Published Quarterly by

NANTUCKET HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

HISTORIC NANTUCKET Published quarterly and devoted to the preservation of Nantucket's antiquity, its famed heritage and its illustrious past as a whaling port.

VOLUME 1

APRIL 1954

No. 4

Historic Nantucket is published quarterly at Nantucket, Massachusetts, by the Nantucket Historical Association.

It is sent free to all members of the Association. Membership dues are — Annual-Active $2.00: Sustaining $10.00. Life—one payment $50.00.

Entered as Second Class Matter, July, 1953, at the Post Office, Nantucket, Massachusetts, under Act of August 24, 1912.

Copyright 1954 Nantucket Historical Association.

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

2

Date To Nantucket Historical Association Nantucket, Massachusetts Application is hereby made for membership in the Association.

I enclose my check for the dues of the class marked X, made payable to the Association. ( ) Life — $50.00 (one payment)* ( ) Sustaining — $10.00 — annual ( ) Active —$ 2.00 — annual Name Permanent Address

Nantucket Address * Placed in "Permanent Fund" and used for capital purposes only.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS Factual Information

2

Editorial

j

Winter Gam

g

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary

u

American Association for State and Local History

19

History Making Events

21

Membership Report

29

Legacies and Bequests

3g

Officers and Committees

31

4

EDITORIAL The advent of spring, no doubt, accounts for the inability to develop any ideas for an editorial. So, in reprisal, spring is picked upon as the basis for a few random thoughts.

Spring, to every good housewife, means spring cleaning, re­ pairing the ravages of winter and preparing for summer with its visitors, both relatives and friends. Spring to the Historical Asso­ ciation means just the same only in aggravated form. Seven buildings closed all winter must be opened, aired, cleaned and put in repair. Not much of a task with a Chairman in charge of each building, says the uninitiated observer, but how far from the truth that opinion.

Let us take just one section of one building, Sanderson Hall of the Whaling Museum, housing the metal whaling implements, the whale boat, Sankaty Light with its many glass reflectors and numerous other exhibits. For eight months they have been victims of repetitive deteriorating conditions—dust, moisture condensa­ tion, and varying temperatures, but always the bleak cold and dampness found only in a seashore closed brick building.

Think of cleaning, polishing, oiling, removing rust and making repairs to such a collection of items and they are only a very small part of what is in the seven buildings. But every year it should be done in every one of our buildings and to all our exhibits.

Failure to do so means steady deterioration of non-replaceable exhibits and that is exactly what is happening for the Association's present financial position permits only dusting, washing floors and windows and minor repairs. That is the limit to which we can go, but the trained eye sees the untouched damage from the merci­ less winter. The answer is to be found only in the creation of an endowment fund as outlined in the Finance Committee's report published in the July 1953, issue of this magazine, a report which should be re-read as part of "Spring Cleaning" this and every year until the conditions are corrected and the recommendations car­ ried out.

But spring cleaning can and should mean even more, especially for all historical associations. It should mean bringing out for airing and inspection musty, retrogressive and "let well enough alone" ideas of management.

5

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Today an historical association has a far greater duty than just to preserve relics of the past as inanimate evidences of what used to be. Today our country, a mere child in age, is called upon to lead the "Western World". Today the people of the world are asking—what makes the United States so strong, so resourceful and is it really so democratic?

Is it any wonder then that the people of our own country representing beliefs, customs, habits from all over the world are said to be seeking in the record of our comparatively short past the answers which when properly applied may well be the answers to the problems of a chaotic world we are trying to help solve?

Is it not therefore the duty of every historical association to bring to life the lessons of the past as a reservoir of understanding and knowledge of our heritage? And is it not true that this understanding and knowledge must begin with local history first of all and the part it played in the making of our Country what it is today?

It has been said: "History is worth reading when it tells us truly what the attitude towards life was in the past. That is what history means to everyone except the most fact-bound pedant."

And so when doing our spring cleaning let us clean our thoughts as to what our Association can do and should do. Let us make it a vibrant, active and constructive force in presenting the lessons and evidence of the past as possible answers to the problems of the present and the future.

6

Winter Gam

By NANCY S. ADAMS

"Ship ahoy! Come aboard for a good old Nantucket Gam." This call was issued to all who like to reminisce and about 65 people gathered at the Maria Mitchell Library on Vestal Street on Wednesday evening, February 24th.

Promptly at 7:30 o'clock the President of the Nantucket His­ torical Association, Mrs. Nancy S. Adams, welcomed the group to the third "Winter Gam" sponsored by the Association.

Mrs. Adams spoke about reading log books of her grand­ father and other whaling logs in which it seemed that "gamming" a ship was as frequent as catching whales. She told of her grand­ father Capt. Charles Grant when Master of the ship Niger had asked various masters of other ships to agree to meet the Niger at a certain latitude and longitude in the South Pacific on Christmas Day. When December 25th arrived eight ships responded to the invitation and hove to at the spot agreed upon. The Masters and their wives were invited aboard the Niger by Capt. and Mrs. Grant for a dinner of roast pig. A good time was had by all present and it certainly helped to make the time go a little faster for all those who were so far from home and family.

Mrs. Adams then introduced "Archie" Cartwright, Chief of the Fire Department, as Chairman of the evening, the last Nan­ tucket man who has shipped out on a whaler. Archie said he was sorry there were not more Nantucket men present "but we will get along without them, I guess. Anyone can start right in who wants to."

"How about you, Wallace, can you start us going?"

Wallace Long, Custodian of the Whaling Museum, responded, "Old Cap'n Zeb Tilton used to tell a story about someone who could talk a man to death and then whisper in his ear after he was dead. I'll just sit by and listen for a while."

Cap'n Arthur McCleave, an elderly salt, told a story which a minister had told him about some young men "who gave money like Baptists—but smelled like Congregationalists".

Mrs. Elkins Hutaff told about her great-grandfather's (John Elkins) funeral. "It was summer and hot and lots of flies. A man was stationed outside to care for the horses. After a while he poked his head in the window to request 'short prayers in fly time'."

7

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Archie told a story of a hobo who belonged to the volunteer fire department. He died and the fellow members had a floral piece sent (the only one there) which read: "Tom has gone to his last fire". "I saw a television show recently that made me think of the women in 'Sconset when Engine 1 was new. At the trial the women wanted to take part so the men started and threw a stream of water reaching 123 feet 2% inches; after which the women threw a stream 123 feet 2x/% inches."

Mrs. Hutaff told another story about her grandmother Susan Elkins who ran a tavern in 'Sconset. She was called "walking Sankaty" because she always carried a lantern. One evening she was carrying not only her lantern but a pail of "emptins" (potato yeast). A man was following her and she turned around and dumped the emptins on his head and said "he will rise by morning".

In one of the rooming houses a guest asked, "Haven't you running water in the room ?" "Wait until it rains, then you will have running water in all the rooms," was the reply.

Mrs. Rozelle Jones read some newspaper clippings from an 1887 Nantucket paper. There was one about old Cap'n Baxter's side-wheel boat, which was safe and reliable. Also the yacht Lillian made two trips daily from Steamboat Wharf, fare 20c.

Also there were advertisements of bargains in the grocery store, such as, flour 23c a bbl; tea 25c; coffee 18c, and butter 3 lbs for $1.

Stories were told of Capt. Baxter, and then Mrs. Jones read the old poem known to all Nantucketers as "Noted Men of Our Town".

This poem boasts of its noted men among them old characters like "Alec Egg who burnt the beans"; Sammy Manter; Daddy Boo; Cat Holmes; Hap Hazard, who made wooden spoons; Quack Waldron; Reub. Ramsdell; Billy and Nancy Bowen; Billy Clark; Tow Line T, and Punk Holmes.

Archie told how Cap'n Baxter won a harness as the most pop­ ular carriage driver on Nantucket. The Cap'n had the duty to transport the mail to 'Sconset, where the villagers could obtain their letters and papers by calling at his house. A complaint having been made that a sign: "Post Office" had been placed over the door of his house, an official of the postal service visited the Island to verify the charge. Cap'n Baxter had him for a passenger and the official unburdened his story to him. "I live right there in the village," he said, "and I would be sure to know it if there was such a sign, but I never saw it. However, the best way will be for you to see for yourself." So he drove to Polpis and allowed the

WINTER GAM

8

official to inspect personally every farmhouse in the place. "You see," said the Cap'n, "the's no such sign here." The official was satisfied that the story had no foundation, was driven back to town and left the Island on the next boat, none the wiser for having been fooled.

Frank Ramsdell told about the days when Smith's Point was nearer to Tuckernuck, so near that a man could wade across with a wheelbarrow in which he had a kitchen range, having pushed it all the way from Town.

Mrs. Amey questioned about the old "Hose House, No. 4" on Gardner Street which she thought should be preserved if possible.

This brought out discussion about the old "Cataract" which re­ poses now in the Historical Museum. Archie said the old hose reels with leather hose were kept in the Gardner Street hose house.

A discussion followed about stores on Main Street. Jim Westgate, watch repairer, had a space in Leander Cobb's Tailor Shop; "V-Piece" Cobb he was called because he either had to put in a V-piece or take a V-piece out of anything he was making.

Union Store was run by Mr. Myrick and John Harps had a store on the corner of Main and Orange Streets, later removing to the Union Store.

Miss Grace Brown Gardner spoke about the scrap book she is preparing about Main Street and other streets in town and the houses that were on these streets. She had books with her which she invited the people present to inspect after the "Gam". She would like contributions of pictures of old houses and stores, but they must be printed on thin paper, not cardboard.

Mrs. Adams told about Billy Bowen of 'Sconset who refused to come to town because "they might get me like they did Capt.

Grant. Look at him, a retired sea captain—went around the world eight times and made a fortune, now look at him, they have got him up there at that Old Mill, that never was any good only to grind corn, and there he is all day talking to people and taking 15 cents from them to look at that decrepit old mill. Oh, no, I'll stay right here in 'Sconset the rest of my life." Billy was a shipmate with Archie's father, Mr. Benjamin Cartwright.

A discussion of the ship "Hoqua" was brought up by Mrs. Jones whose grandfather Cap'n Henry Coleman was master of her for a voyage. She also told about remembering her father tell

9

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

about the news coming to the ships that Perry had opened ports of Japan, and a great many of the Nantucket ships went to Yoko­ hama. Everyone gaped at them as they had never seen any like them before.

Archie said in the old days it wasn't anything to count 80 sails of vessels going through the sound at one time. Mr. Sayle also saying that he was told that as many as 13 wrecks were sighted from the tower at once, men going to the wrecks from which they thought they could salvage the most.

Mrs. Frank Crocker told about having a bell from the Ellen E. Perkins, and some of the people present recollected that a flag pole, made from the mast of that boat, was formerly in the yard of E. H. Perry's home.

Mr. Long told why they called the place they kept the meat "harness cask" was because they said it was horse meat, and sometimes they would even pull up a horseshoe.

Archie told about his father and Miss Minnie Townsend's father being lost upon Japan and living on rice for 30 days. They were taken in to Yokohama under guard.

In 1897 the Mystic Shriners came down and stayed at the old Springfield house. They gave a band concert at the old skating rink.

It was supposed to be a sacred concert, and they began with "Nearer My God To Thee" but ended with "There Will Be a Hot Time in the Old Town To-night".

A man once came to town from the West and he was said to have been "as amiable as a cross cut saw".

Charles Sayle told a story he had heard about the old coal yard and how someone stole a dory load of coal and thinking he was going to be caught, he sank the dory, coal and all. The gate to the old coal yard was always kept closed and locked at night

by Mr. Perry, and one night in winter when it was bitterly cold he told the watchman, "leave the gate open to-night. Anyone who comes out to-night to steal coal needs it".

Leland Topham told about old Dan Coffin not being used to soap and water. He was taken to the Island Home, given a bath, and he died in less than a week.

Archie then entertained the audience with "Life on a Whaler" as he lived it aboard the "Sunbeam", for a voyage. He said the meals were not too hot. There were not any idle moments on board.

WINTER GAM

10

He told about a cask of beef which had been opened by the cooper which had stated on the head that it was from the "A. R. Tucker, Use first". When it was opened a greenish blue vapor arose from the cask. It was ordered to be thrown overboard. The next day with the 3rd Mate on watch and Archie at the wheel they saw the cook go forward and report to the "Old Man": "Cap'n no beef in cask".

They were punished by being given half ration of beans, which at best were scarce, as they were half cooked and floated on the pork.

Archie kept all present interested for a time and then with the closing story from Wallace Long who told about the two brothers, George and Zeb Tilton. "One was meaner than his brother, and he was meaner than the little end of nothing whittled down to a fine point" the "Gam" adjourned.

We feel sure those present enjoyed the evening and it is the earnest desire of the Association to have another bigger and better "Gam" in the future.

11

Keziah Coffin Fanning's Diary

By NANCY S. ADAMS (Continued)

1776 Wed. Jan. 3rd. 1776—Francis Brown's wife died last evn'g.

Sun. Jan. 7—Jo. Mitchell spoke in meeting (2nd time) "nothing extraordinary".

Wed. Jan. 10th—This morn fire cried, Reuben Joy's house (weather side) catch'd on the roof supposed from the spark of a chimney that was afire just before, it was discovered so soon that it was happily extinguished with but little damage.

Thurs. Jan. 11—Silv. Ellis' wife was buried to-day.

Sun. Jan. 14—"the man we was suspicious that was here some time ago came in to-day from L. Island—his name is Thatcher."

Tues. Jan. 16—Matthew Ellis died this afternoon.

Wed. Jan. 17—Thatcher dined here "is master of music".

Fri. Jan. 19—"Kezia (Starbuck) and I went to Esqr Hussey's.

Mrs. Hammatt & Lucy were there. Messrs, Fanning & Hammatt & Peleg Coffin came there. Capt. Thatcher came afternoon & played on the Spinnet. My spinnet is at Esqr. Hussey's carried there because the friends or Quakers were displeased with its being at Father's. Thatcher plays tolerably well. Eve. Mr. Johnson & B Burton & Eben Calif were there they danced, play'd on the violin etc. a singing school upstairs. We had a variety of music— spent a very agreeable afternoon & eve."

Jan. 21st—Sunday—Dr. Tupper came to-day from the main and tells that Genl. Carleton has killed 130 or 140 men that went up under Montgomery to take Quebec, and has taken 300 prisoners.

Montgomery with his men attacked the city of Quebec in two places. Those that he killed & took scaled the walls and had got in but were not properly supported outside, and they fell a prey.

Montgomery is among the slain, and Arnold (an American Com­ mander) is badly wounded. This news is believed to be true.

Jan. 25—Davis Hatch came to the island to-day.

Jan. 28—Harbor frozen.

Jan. 29—George Coffin came to the Ban- to-day from N. York with provisions could not get in for the ice.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

12

Jan. 30—Young Nat Macy's wife had a son born this morn. Reuben Joy's wife a son. Paul Hussey's wife a daughter.

Feb. 5—"Harbor froze almost to the Barr, ground covered with snow."

Feb. 7—Water froze out of sight.

Feb. 9—"ice thaws fast—Dr. Gelston ran away from Headquar­ ters some time ago, he was taken at Newport by the guard in attempting to crawl by them on his belly. Benoni Nickerson came in to-day from Falmouth tells the above—there is a vessel at the E. end from the W. Indies, have been out 35 days have had nothing but bread and Molassas to eat for 3 (wks) weeks—a Frenchman (who is on board) owns her. Seth Pinkham is in her, she has been blown off 3 times has lost most of her sails, her cables, anchors, etc. some of the people are on shoar."

Feb. 14—Col. Wm. Swain went down to the wharf to go to Providence with S. Starbuck. Nathan Stone gone down to go to Hawich.

Feb. 15—Nathan Coffin's youngest child died last eve.—2 months old.

Feb. 16th—Thursday—A boat came in to-day from the Vineyard and tells (Liberty news) that a number of men of war and tenders, with soldiers on board, from Boston, went to Virginia and landed their men. The Virginians gave the alarm and armed themselves and killed almost to a man every Regular Soldier. It is supposed they were to join Earl of Dunmore, alias Gov. Dunmore, who is now in Virginia with an army. The story is that there was not one Virginian slain. It must certainly be as the high sons of Liberty say (alias Sons of Belial) that Providence smiles on them and that the very elements fight for them for in all the battles that have been fought there has scarcely one American fallen.

Always vast numbers of Regulars have been slain. Great en­ couragement to go on in so noble a cause. Ha, ha, ha. I can't but laugh at the folly of mankind! Poor deluded Mortals.

"Surrounding nations with amazement view, The strange infatuation they pursue."

Sunday, Feb. 18—Thad Starbuck & Polly Brock married.

Feb. 21—John Darling sail'd to-day for N. York, is bound whaling from there. Uriah Swain has gone with him.

Feb. 23—Capt. Waterman s'l'd to-day for Philadelphia after flour.

13

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

Feb. 25—"When Doct. Gelston was taken up some time ago he was put in Plymouth Goal. He with 3 or 4 men have lately broke goal, stole a small boat gone off to Boston." Shubael Gardner's child died last night—a year old.

March 6—"there was a ship seen yesterday & to-day off Tuckernuck Shoals. We hear to-day that she was lately from London to N. York was bound with two others from N. York to L. Island to get Convoy for Boston—this ship was lost in the fog—a small sloop from the Vineyard with arm'd men have taken the ship— She has potatoes—beer, cheese, etc., on board.

March 9th—The Congress have ordered that no Nantucket vessel be supplied with provisions unless they have a permit signed by three Justices of the Peace at Barnstable. Stephen Paddock has been off to get a number signed, he came on to-day with them.

Paddock tells that the Americans have got possession of Dorches­ ter Hill which commands Boston. He got one for Phineas Fanning to go to Long Island.

March 10—One Hand of L. Island came to this island to-day says that Nat Shaw one of the principle men of N. Haven & a very high son of Liberty says it can be prov'd that half the cargo that Mr. Fanning brought here last fall was carried to Boston he has taken great pains to spread this report through Connecticut & L. Island which I fear will be a great damage to Mr. Fanning— the whole is absolutely false not a sixpence worth ever went to Boston—they are much enraged on L. Island believing it to be true.

March 11—"3 o'clock P. F. went away bound in my Father's vessel to L. Island after provisions—David Rand, Stephen Coleman, Chrispus Gardner, Brown Coffin, Thos & Prince Coffin are the crew.

March 12—One Allen of the Vineyard dined here, very polite for the Vineyard."

March 13—"Tis said that the Americans are bombarding Boston, they split the Brass Congress in their first attempt—the Brass Congress is one they set great store by—they took it in a trans­ port some time ago—wish them the like success in all their undertakings."

March 22—A. Briggs sailed this afternoon in my Father's vessel for N. York is bound up the North River to carry Josiah Gorham & family. Thad Starbuck & wife (they are bound to Saratoga) Paul Coffin's family. John Proctor came to-day from Dartmouth.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

14

March 23—News has come to the Island to-day, have positively evacuated Boston without pillaging the Town—they have left their guns on the Neck & Bunker Hill the Americans rushed in imme­ diately on their leaving the Town.

March 26—Sam'l Starbuck arr'd from Newport. Barney the rope maker went with him jammed his leg so badly last Saturday it mortified and he died this afternoon, just after the vessel was over the bar. He has left a family (poor and wretched).

March 29—"Hear there is an Act of Parliament to burn, sink & destroy all American vessels."

April 2—Eben Pinkham's wife—she lay in last night—Eliza was buried this afternoon.

April 3—Capt. Waterman arr'd from Philadelphia loaded.

April 5—Capt. Thorp (an acquaintance of ours) came in to-day with flour & Tim Coffin with flour from N. York.

April 6—Capt. Folsa in Timo. Fitch's Brig at bar loaded with salt.

April 7—Daniel Paddock came to-day from Philadelphia loaded.

April 8—Ben Barnard & Micajah Coffin came in to-day from Philadelphia loaded with flour &c.

April 10—Jas Gardner (elder) died to-day. Col. Tupper sailed for Falmouth to-day.

April 13—"Tis said there has been an engagement with Hopkins & Wallis' fleets. Don't know which was conqueror.

April 18—Paul Paddock came in to-day has been away 7 or 8 weeks up North River after provisions.

April 20—George Coffin arr'd at bar loaded. He had a fatiguing Voyage—chased by Men of War & tenders April 25—Mr. Goodale & family left for Salem. Briggs came in to-day from N. York in father's vessel.

May 4—Solomon Bunker sailed whaling.

May 5—P. F. went to Vineyard to get hands for David Rand to go whaling. Fred Cromwell spoke in Meeting—Jonathan Macy told him after some time that he had better sit down, but he did not. Uriel Rea and Tobby Coffin married. Jonathan Jenkins and Sally Waterman published.

15

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

May 6—"Solomon Gardner (formerly a liver here) in a sloop came in from Nova Scotia. Doct. Gelston came with him have not heard any particulars about the Doct.

May 8—Allen died this morning.

May 9—P. F. returned—Wm. Black died.

May 12th—The vessel that Doctor Gelston came here in was taken last year by the British and carried into Halifax. He was fitted out in Halifax to go a fishing, but instead of fishing ran away with the vessel & came here. It is supposed he had leave to come here, and gives out that he ran away only to avoid trouble. The vessel belonged to a man in Dartmouth, and is a schooner of 90 tons. A number of men from the other side seized her last Tuesday, but Tim Folger went & took her from them. The former owner came on last Friday from Biddeford. This morning a little vessel from the other side with a number of armed men came on and retook the schooner again, and are going off with her for trial, expecting to get one or 2/3 to themselves.

May 13—"the Sons of Balael went off last night in the Schooner.

May 14—Edward Grey & Sally Fitch married.

May 17—Moses Giles in from Brazils—whaling 200 bbls tells of many whales caught—fast day appointed by Continental Congress.

Ebenezer Calif died.

May 18—David Rand sailed to-day in my father's vessel for Fal­ mouth after hands to go whaling to Iceland. Briggs sailed in my father's vessel for N. York & North River. John Coleman with his family & Nathaniel Coleman the preacher have gone with Briggs bound into the country to buy a farm. Joseph Jenkins and family have gone to the Nine Partners & Silas Jones & family all gone with Briggs. Capt. Orrock (Capt. of the ships was taken some time ago by the Vineyardites) & his brother & young man came to the Island to-day.

May 19—Calef buried. Large number of people. Quilting parties are quite a feature whenever quilting is to be done the neighbors & friends assemble.

May 23—Mr. and Mrs. Gray left for Falmouth. Jenkins & Sally Waterman married. P. F. & myself invited to wedding we went at 4 o'clock, a large company. Thos. Jenkins & Wife, eldest son & daughter. Seth Charles & Ben Jenkins & their wives. Tristram Jenkins & wife. Tut Gardner & wife. Sally Cowdra, Hannah

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIARY

16

Waterman, Eunice Barnard, Happy Bunker, Polly Hussey, Polly Coffin, Sally Folger, Lucy Hammatt, Abiel Clark, Eliza Delano & Eliza Pinkham, Tut & Sam Husseys, James Tupper. George Ahearn, Cotton Gelston, & a number of others I cannot name.

The Gordon knot was tied about 7 by Major Coffin. After the marriage, hot supper, boiled dish, roast veal & lamb, chicken pye, apple, Cranberry — minced pye &c. After supper very many danced cushing dances &c. We came away 1/2 past 10. Sally alias Mrs. Jenkins made a very neat & pretty appearance dressed in green damask. George Lawrence came in this afternoon from N. York.

May 26—David Rand came in to-day from Falmouth—Grannis came off to-day from Falmouth, with a number of soldiers to carry off Doc. Gelston. It is said he is to be kept there until further orders from the Court. Elihu preached. Mary Barnard pray'd.

David Rand had got his full crew but one. Hendricks enlisted 3 of his men (Bristers was one of the 3) & he got away as soon as possible least they should all be taken from him.

May 30—One of Col. Gorham's sons came to the Island to-day says that Lucy Paine, (Taylor that was) was buried night before last, she died in child bed.

June 2nd—Doct. Gelston gone off to-day with Grannis.

June 3—Briggs came in to-day from N. York, sold my father's sloop in York for $700.

June 6—Peter Fitch came in from West Indies to-day, tells that Isaac Myrick died some time ago in London.

June 10—Folks gone to Tuckernuck to wash sheep. Eben Pinkham & wife went to bed last night with a young child 9 weeks old found it dead this morn in bed. Peter Fitch lost a child last night 2 yrs. old.

June 11—People gone to Quaise to wash sheep.

June 12—People gone to Tuckernuck to Shear Sheep.

June 13—People gone to Quaise to shear sheep. Shubael's house in Quaise is finished as to be habitable.

June 15—P. F. went up to Quaise with raft for a barn Father is going to build in his part of Quaise.

June 17—Dr. Tupper came from Falmouth to-day.

June 19—A number of people came on to-day from Barnstable.

Shearing day also Thursday.

17

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

June 23—Coleman (husband to Happy) at Bar from whaling 250 bbls.

June 25—John Beard came in to-day from N. York says there is 30 thousand American soldiers in N. York & 10 thousand more daily expected & that there is 150 men of War & Transports now in the (?) birk. They expect a battle at York daily.

June 26—P. F. bought a mare of Elisha Gardner for $60. Starbuck came in to-day with a number of Friends some speakers.

James Long died to-day.

June 30—Barzillai Folger arr'd from whaling. Brazil 400 bbls.

July 2—Quaise barn raised.

July 3—Doct. Gelston came from Falmouth to-day—is released.

July 4—Jethro Coffin died this morning, he has had a very un­ common disorder in his throat which turned to mortification, he was out of town yesterday, died with his clothes on, he has been in from sea but five or 6 weeks.

July 5—James Bowdoin son of James Bowdoin that owns the Nannemeset Island drank tea here, he came to the Island last Wednesday, lodge at I. Starbucks.

July 6—-Nicolls wife had a daughter born. Meader & Hathaway arr'd from whaling 260 bbls. each.

July 9—Paul Hussey came in to-day from the Brazille with 90 barrells of oil. He says he was taken by the Eagle Man of war and that Genl. Howe was on board. Genl. Howe told Hussey that he was bound to N. York and had full power to settle the controversy betwixt Great Britain and her Colonies, he was determined to make peace immediately. The General treated him handsomely and dismissed him.

July 10—John Gage came in to-day from St. Peters. Sailed from here for St. Peters, a short time ago. P. F. had a considerable venture with him. He was taken a few days ago by the ship Eagle. They asked him if he did not know that it was against the acts of trade etc. to trade with the French. They treated him well and released him. Mrs. Coggeshall had a son born to-day.

Charles Coleman came in from whaling with 300 bbls. Sampson with him.

July 11—Wm. Jenkins & Dinah Starbuck were married he per­ formed but poorly. She admirably.

July 14—Mr. Shaw went off last week. Mr. Butler preached for him.

KEZIAH COFFIN FANNING'S DIAKY

18

July 16—Sturges Gorham came here this afternoon, had just come to the Island. Brings the Declaration of the Continental Con­ gress declaring America to be free and independent States. Hor­ rible. I wish they and all their well wishers had been strung 50 feet in the air before they had been suffered so far to bring about their wicked and ruinous plans. I believe the only motive they have in view is to aggrandise themselves, they care not for their bleeding country; the Lord reward them according to their works.

July 18—Quaise barn finished.

July 23—Went to Bill Worth's bought 5 large silk handerchiefs.

July 25—Barzillai Swain came in to-day from whaling with 100 bbls. B. Slade has been with him.

July 30—Moon eclipsed—visible.

August 5—P. F. is 26 yrs. old to-day.

Aug. 6—Capt. Orrock, Mr. Hobby & Capt. of a transport was taken and carried into Plymouth & another Gentleman were here a Little while this afternoon the last mentioned Gentleman is said to be a spy. Supposed from the British Army.

Aug. 12—Geo. Lawrence's wife lay in two weeks.

Aug. 18—Peleg Bunker's wife died yesterday, (brought to bed Friday night).

Tuesday, Aug. 20—P. F., Meader & several others went to Quaise with a raft of clear boards, 7 thousand to build Father's house.

Aug. 22—Uncle Shubiel Folger, Grandmother's brother died yes­ terday.

Aug. 23—George Folger's black boy enlisted to-day and has gone off to Providence to join a privateersman.

Aug. 25—Dined on fry'd & boiled Blue Fish, Bass & Flat Fish.

September 3rd—Brown Coffin, Rand's mate was here. Rand sailed for Iceland in my father's sloop Ranger on the 27th. of May, he was taken by the Orpheus man of war. Rand and Prince Coffin were sent in the sloop to Halifax. The others were carried into the Hook (N. Y.) Jonathan Moore was taken by the Orpheus after Rand was. Brown & Stephen Coleman begged the Capt. to let them go aboard Moore's vessel & he consented. Moore was soon after retaken by an American and carried to the E. end of the island.

Brown & Stephen got over to Connecticut & from there here.

To Be Continued

19

American Association for State and Local History.

By W. RIPLEY NELSON

Its object, according to its Constitution is "the promotion of effort and activity in the fields of state, provincial, and local his­ tory in the United States and Canada". Organized December 27th, 1940, it has become a clearing house of information and ideas for the local history societies and the state historical agencies. It serves to unify the interests of thousands of individuals interested in local history.

The Association has made substantial progress in achieving its major objectives which briefly summarized are: To bring together the work of historical and patriotic societies and agencies working in local history through exchange of news and ideas, bulletins, visitations, and correspondence.

To enlarge the scale of operations of the state and local historical agencies and societies by effective guidance and help along lines of what to do; how to do it; how to get resources with which to do it.

To develop a noteworthy increase in popular knowledge about American history on the local level.

To encourage the increased use of local history in the schools.

To raise standards and improve practices connected with the pre­ serving of historic buildings and land marks, the marking of historic sites, and other related conservation measures.

To promote national activity in the conservation of public records, historical documents, newspapers, museum material, and re­ lated Americana through stimulating the historical societies to further effort and improvement of standards for preserving material once acquired.

To act as a clearing house for information, ideas, contacts, news, and thought in the field of local history as a means of preserv­ ing American local history and making it known as a reservoir of understanding and knowledge of our heritage.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR STATE AND LOCAL HISTORY

20

Its most basic aim is to realize the fullest opportunities for the devolopment and use of local history as a basis for the under­ standing of all American history. Its objectives and work are carried to its membership through annual meetings and various publications.

History News is a monthly publication sent to every member.

American Heritage, published quarterly, is primarily devoted to the problems of teaching local history in the schools. Many mem­ bers, to whom it is available at a reduced subscription rate, find it interesting and valuable. Advisory bulletins issued from time to time contain valuable suggestions and instructions to promote the work of historical societies.

Through its membership in the American Association for State and Local History the Nantucket Historical Association en­ ables its members to participate in the growing national move­ ment for the preservation of historic sites, relics and the history of localities, the foundation of our democracy, and for the creation of a strong spirit of loyalty to our American ideals.

Suggestions With this number, Historic Nantucket completes its first year as a publication and we hope our members have enjoyed it. Plans are being made to continue its publication during the coming fiscal year, 1954-55: To departmentalize it into different subjects each in charge of an associate editor has been proposed. Suggestions from members as to subjects for discussion or review will be welcomed for it is our desire to present to our readers a wellbalanced publication of historic information and articles which will satisfy their varied interests. Tell us frankly how you think Historic Nantucket can be improved upon during the coming year.

21

History Making Events Sixty years ago this Association was born. On May 9th, 1894, a meeting was held described as follows in the opening paragraph of the Proceedings of the First Annual Meeting of the Association: In accordance with the sentiment so widely spread and so deeply felt that a society should be formed at once for the purpose of collecting books, manuscripts, and articles of any sort to illustrate the history of our Island, a meeting was held on May 9th, 1894, at the house of Mrs. Elizabeth Starbuck and the Nantucket His­ torical Association was organized then and there." Following sev­ eral organizational meetings, incorporation was completed July 9th, 1894.

President Nancy S. Adams, therefore, is formulating plans for appropriate recognition at the July annual meeting of the sixtieth anniversary. In further celebration a series of weekly neighborly evening meetings are being planned. Guest speakers will address the meetings on timely and appropriate subjects.

Public announcement at a later date will be made as to the dates, speakers, subjects, and other details.

Being curious as to what other outstanding historic events occurred in Nantucket during the year of our birth, 1894, we con­ sulted Harry B. Turner's "Argument Settlers" and here is what we found: 1894 State road to Siasconset commenced.

Three-masted schooner "Minnie C. Taylor" wrecked in the Chord of the Bay, January 13, laden with 1,500 barrels of lubri­ cating oil. Crew saved in breeches buoy. Vessel total loss. About 1,000 barrels of the oil saved.

Nantucket Historical Association organized and incorpo­ rated.

On the 22nd of June the south shore of the island was strewn with bunches of bananas. 2,500 bunches had been thrown over from steamer Bernard" which stranded on a shoal south of Nantucket.

Sons and Daughters of Nantucket" organized.

Friends meeting-house on Fair Street purchased, for use of the Nantucket Historical Association.

The rear piazza of the Springfield House, North Water Street, collapsed July 30 and over seventy people assembled

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

22

there slid down in a heap. A number of people were injured, one lady having both legs broken, another a fractured ankle, and several others suffered bruises and lacerations.

Prior to 1894 the county fair was held in September. After that year it was held in August.

Name of North Street was changed to Cliff Road in October.

Steam roller landed on October 12, 1894.

Hiram C. Folger was Superintendent of Streets.

"Patriots Day" was first observed in Massachusetts this year—April 19th.

Our congratulations are extended to the "Sons and Daugh­ ters of Nantucket" on their sixtieth birthday.

With the announcement of our births sandwiched in between the wrecks of two ships scattering oil and bunches of bananas, to say nothing of seventy people being dumped in a heap, some might say both organizations are fortunate to have survived. To which one might reply: that's what comes from having good captains and navigators.

There is no report of what happened to the steam roller!

It is with pleasure that we announce the election of George W. Jones as a member of the Council, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mrs. C. Clark Coffin. Mr. Jones is a birthright Nantucketer, with parents and grand-parents of Nantucket origin, and he has a keen interest in Nantucket historic sites and atmos­ phere. The Council made a wise decision in electing him a member and are fortunate in having received his acceptance.

The ever-present fire hazard to the Nantucket Historical Asso­ ciation Whaling Museum and the irreplaceable collection it houses is to be eliminated in so far as possible and at an early date by the installation of an Automatic Sprinkler System. The Council, which met Tuesday March 9th approved the signing of a contract with the Rockwood Sprinkler Company, Worcester, Mass., for the installation throughout the building in accordance with the regu­ lations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters and to meet the approval of the New England Fire Insurance Rating Assn.

A dry pipe system of Rockwood automatic spray sprinklers is to be installed so that the premises, which are not heated during the Winter months, will continue under complete automatic pro­ tection at all times and without danger of freezing. The system will provide direct wiring to the Nantucket Central Fire Station so

23

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

that the automatic operation of the system will sound immediately an alarm in the fire station. The installation is to be completed by May 1st, 1954.

The efforts of the Chairman of the Council and the Finance Committee to secure funds for their work by personal solicitation from members and friends, who it was felt would be capable finan­ cially to help, has resulted in substantial gifts to date. There is still needed about $2,600 to cover the cost but the Council, recog­ nizing the necessity of promptly providing relief from the dan­ gerous fire hazard, decided to proceed at once with the work.

It is felt that members and friends who sense the urgency and importance of taking this measure will without doubt con­ tribute the funds still needed to cover the cost. Contributions, both lai ge and small, may be sent to the Nantucket Historical Asso­ ciation where they will be gratefully received.

At the Oldest House, interior restoration has been continued in the first and second floor east rooms. Four floor joists were re­ placed by using old but perfect timbers from the House of Correc­ tion. This replacement made it possible to remove the two heavy modern cross beams set in iron collars which had been installed to reinforce the second floor. Thus the original structural appear­ ance of the first floor east room ceiling has been restored. The floor boards in the second story east room, which were badly worn, were removed and then re-layed on top of new but aged wide pine boards. The original appearance of the floor is retained but the double flooring insures public safety. Whitewashing the ceiling and other parts of the first and second floor east rooms will further bring back the tidy and neat long-ago appearance of both rooms.

The House of Correction is now but a memory for its removal and the levelling of the ground was completed in February. As the job progressed the judgment of the Council was more than upheld by the deterioration found within the walls. Material was salvaged to reconstruct in each cell of the Old Jail the double tier bunks. Supports to fit exactly the old notches were obtained so perfect restoration is assured.

President Nancy S. Adams attended the Winter Meeting of the Bay State Historical League held Saturday, January 23rd at Boston. When she answered the roll call, a round of applause fol­ lowed the Chairman's welcome to the "overseas representative the President of the Nantucket Historical Association".

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

24

Following a tradition of several years standing thirty boys and girls of Buxton School of Williamstown, Massachusetts, were given a weekend trip in February. This year instead of visiting Canada, or New York, or the South, accompanied by Mrs. Margaret Sangster, Headmistress, and several of the faculty, they walked off the Nantucket steamer on the coldest day of the winter, Saturday, February tenth. Had the visit occurred in summer, there would have been small comment, but coming in Winter—"Well, that's news", said an off-Island newspaper reporter. Housed by Mr. and Mrs. Lester Ayers in Patricia House; fed at the Methodist Church by a committee headed by Mrs. Norman P. Giffin; enter­ tained by the Nantucket High School Student Council and Hospi­ tality Committee, welfare and pleasure were taken care of.

Educational work was stressed as well with a visit to the Maria Mitchell Observatory as guests of Miss Margaret Harwood; a tour of inspection and explanatory talk at the Airport, the Weather Bureau and the Civil Aeronautics Administration offices.

The Whaling Museum, Friends Meeting House, and Fair Street Museum were opened specially for the occasion, and the visitors toured the buildings with a member of our Council whose explana­ tory comments on the various exhibits prompted no end of ques­ tions, many of which were to be answered by suggested research and book references. It was an unusual weekend and one in which the Association was glad to cooperate, not only from the educa­ tional standpoint but because it proved, without a doubt, Nantucket has a great deal to offer even in the winter months and above all its people have the will to offer it with the most cordial and friendly hospitality.

The Coffin School boys paid us another visit as part of their course in Nantucket History. In January they visited the Quaker Meeting House and, while seated listening to a short talk on Quakerism and its important effect upon Nantucket history, the students had first hand evidence of Quaker hardihood measured by the Meeting House indoor winter temperature. A visit to the Fair Street Museum followed and even the cold could not abate their interest in the Folger clock, Indian relics, and the old fire engines.

It is always interesting to hear what others say about us, and more often than not beneficial results can be gained by taking such comments to heart. Recently the Scituate Historical Society Bulletin printed what might be termed an envious commendation,

25

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

but we quote it because the words so nearly reflect what we hope is truly the part the Association can and does play in the life of our Community. The comment reads in part: "We have recently received the latest bulletin of the up and coming Nantucket Historical Society. In its well-planned and in­ terestingly-written pages is overwhelming proof of what can be accomplished when all members of such a society really pull to­ gether.

"All of its more famous buildings have been refurbished and made more attractive to visitors—the Oldest House, the Old Jail, the Quaker Meeting House, the famous Windmill, etc.—and the exhibits at the Fair Street Museum have been rearranged and placed to greater advantage, and to quote their words, 'we never knew we had so much and that we never knew much about what we have'. How true those words are of our own society!

"The total paid admissions last year up to August 31 were 25,521. Think what even a tenth part of that could mean to Scituate as a whole and our society in particular. But the paid admis­ sions are only a by-product. Every merchant in the town sold more because he had customers who were in the mood to buy things on Historic Nantucket. Every public vehicle was used to carry those 25,000 people from one place to another and to all the interesting spots in other parts of the island. The hotels and restaurants serviced more people. The party boats and the fishing boats did a bigger business. The Inquirer and Mirror sold more copies. Every­ one on the island benefited, and they realize it.

"Today, the Nantucket Historical Society has almost 1,000 active members, and their goal is (think this one over carefully) at least one member for every family, Islander and Off-Islander alike, who make their home on Nantucket. Does it sound fantastic?

Well, they don't think so, but they do know that it means work, work, and more work, not only by their able President, Mrs. Wal­ ton H. Adams, and all the other officers and committee heads, but work, suggestions, and help from every single member of their society, young and old. . . ."

The Men's Club of the First Congregational Church at a regular supper meeting held January 20th heard a talk by the guest speaker, W. Ripley Nelson, who spoke as a member of the Council of the Historical Association and Editor of its publication, Historic Nantucket. Using as a title "A Key to Nantucket Pros­ perity" Mr. Nelson repeated the address he made to the Rotary

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

26

Club of Nantucket reported in the January issue of Historic Nan­ tucket. After reviewing the work of the Historical Association, the tremendous present interest which continues to grow in historic sites throughout the United States and the numerous restoration and reconstruction projects undertaken at great expense through­ out the country, he enumerated the remarkable number and quality of historic assets Nantucket has in hand requiring only preservation and no reconstruction or restoration.

He pointed particularly to the plans being discussed by the Nantucket Civic League, the Rotary Club, Town of Nantucket Public Relations Committee and the Historical Association for better and more active presentation to summer visitors of ac­ curate and interesting historic information about Nantucket. This, he emphasized, is a constructive and dignified way of exploiting Nantucket's greatest asset—its antiquity—something different from anything on the mainland. The speaker urged the members to become active advocates of such a plan as a logical and real "Key to Nantucket's Prosperity" which, of necessity, would re­ quire the cooperation of all townspeople and local organizations to preserve Nantucket's historic buildings, sites, streets, traditions and genuine way of living.

At a meeting of the members of the Winter Club held De­ cember 5th, 1953, Mr. Nelson was the member speaker of the evening. His subject was the same as for his address to the Congregational Church Men's Club. An interesting discussion per­ iod followed during which the members evidenced active interest in the subject and its bearing upon Nantucket's prosperity.

Among the new accessions added during the past three months is a very fine portrait of Capt. James Gwinn which has come to the Whaling Museum. Capt. Gwinn was a retired Captain of one of the William Rotch ships and married a Nantucket lady. This painting was done by William Swain and for many years it was in the possession of a member of the family on the mainland, but was returned to the former home of Capt. Gwinn when it was purchased by the late Mrs. Elizabeth Morse. The house was that of the late Capt. William Tice, on Liberty Street, bought by Capt.

Gwinn about 1812 and held until sold to Capt. Tice in the 1870's

by Capt. Gwinn's descendants who had moved from the Island and who had decided the $30 a year rental received from each of two families did not justify spending $600 to install gas in the house.

Mrs. Morse requested that the portrait be given after her death to the Whaling Museum.

27

HISTORIC NANTUCKET

The "Annals of the Fosdick Family" is another valuable ac­ cession. The old tools formerly belonging to Mr. Alvin E. Paddock have been donated. The blue frock coat and tall hat which were worn by our late friend Mr. Austin Strong at several of the Hos­ pital Fetes has been given by Mrs. Strong. This coat was made of wool grown, spun, woven and tailored for a Nantucket gentle­ man of long years ago. Other accessions include the usual num­ ber of photographs, clippings, books, and papers which we are always happy to receive.

Dr. Arthur L. Rawlings has offered to restore the Walter Folger telescope which stands beside the Folger clock in the Fair Street Museum. This telescope is 125 years old. Its peculiar feature is its large speculum, a disk of alloy of tin, copper, brass, and ar­ senic, probably cast in a brazier by Walter on the hearth of the front room of "Molly" Starbuck's house on Pleasant Street. This disk, when polished, has a reflecting quality far superior to that of a mirror. To ascertain the extent and quality of this reflecting power is of considerable interest to chemists and astronomers.

The telescope will not be used for observations as its value is limited in comparison with the modern instruments at the Maria Mitchell Observatory. Dr. Rawlings is a life member of the Asso­ ciation. His interest and generosity is greatly appreciated.

"He's as odd as huckleberry chowder", that is what the Nantucketers said of Walter Folger who came from the same source as Benjamin Franklin and all the famous "faculized" Folgers.

Will Gardner, in his third book: "The Clock That Talks and What It Tells", says: "The Islanders were right". Walter made a tall astronomical clock when he was young which tells more about himself than it tells about the mystery of time made by the motions of the earth, moon, and sun. Walter educated himself in astronomy, surveying, and navigation; he made a five-inch Gre­ gorian telescope, became a lawyer, judge, and congressman and then turned back to his Island home, and lived as the town's "Clock and Watchmaker" and philosopher, and was visited by Emerson. May 10th is the date for the appearance of the book, illustrated with gravure pictures and issued by the Whaling Mu­ seum Publications.

President Nancy S. Adams and W. Ripley Nelson, acting as a committee appointed by the Council, have completed an over all tentative plan for presenting to the public Nantucket's historical sites, events, and story of its buildings, streets, wharfs, etc. This

HISTORY MAKING EVENTS

28

tentative plan has been submitted to the representatives of the Nantucket Rotary Club, Town of Nantucket Public Relations Com­ mittee, and the Nantucket Civic League. A second meeting of the group, which includes the Historical Association, was held and part of the plan was approved, to be put in effect this summer. The first venture will be an eight-page folder called "Main Street" which will give brief historic descriptions of the houses from the bank to the monument. The research and presentation has been done by the Historical Association. Distribution of the folders will be under the auspices of the four organizations.

Last fall the Association entered into a sub-lease arrangement with the Nantucket Chapter of the American Red Cross with re­ spect to space in the latter's office in the Folger Building on Main Street and Mrs. Arthur Vincent, Executive Secretary of the Chap­ ter, agreed to act as Office Secretary for the Historical Association.

Started as an experiment it has proved to be a "necessitus" set up, for the winter activity of the Association has grown beyond all expectations. Rarely a day goes by without President Nancy S. Adams and Editor of Historic Nantucket, W. Ripley Nelson, put­ ting in an appearance and Dr. William E. Gardner, Chairman of of the Council, is also a frequent visitor. The membership cam­ paign, editing and publishing Historic Nantucket; planning the Winter Gam; the Whaling Museum Sprinkler System installation project; laying out the 1954 summer event program; handling new accessions; building maintenance; research for the Civic League, Rotary, Publicity Committee, and Historical Association proposed publicity project to say nothing of handling current inquiries are just a few of the Association's activities being handled through the office. Yes, your Association has become an active year-round business showing every sign of constantly increasing productivity for the benefit of the Association and the Town of Nantucket.

Historic Nantucket for January traveled to 35 States, the District of Columbia, and to England. This represents distribution of which many a larger and older publication might well be proud but with an enlarged membership we aspire to even wider distri­ bution.

29

MEMBERSHIP REPORT

By NANCY S. ADAMS

With an increasing sense of satisfaction we watch our family growing. We welcome all who would like to join with us and help enlarge our family to "1,000", before June 1st.

Three members' names were inadvertently omitted from our January issue, namely, Mrs. Harold Anderson, Mrs. Oswald Cammann, and Mr. Joseph King. We apologize for the error.

Membership now stands at 816. Life—135; Sustaining—30; Annual—651. New members and changes in classes since January 1, 1954, are: ACTIVE MEMBERS Alliot, Mr. and Mrs. Eric Anderson, Miss Ethel Barrett, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Jr. Bornemann, Mr. Alfred Brady, Mr. Malcolm Butler, Mr. Edward R. Caskey, Mr. and Mrs. Paul D. Chadwick, Mr. Charles C. Coffin, Miss Anne Cole, Mrs. Edward B. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Deacon, Miss Josephine Donnell, Mr. Kenneth S. Eyre, Mr. Benjamin Fleming, Miss Caroline Frye, Mr. Paul M.

Jenney, Mrs. Edgar W. Kenyon, Mrs. R. Albert Lavoie, Mr. Albert J. Lewis, Mrs. Vivian M. Miltimore, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall T. Moynihan, Mr. Leon F. Powell, Miss Helen M. Rablin, Mrs. Frank Ramsdell, Mr. and Mrs. Marcus L. Reed, Mr. Ernest P. Ryder, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Spinney, Mrs. Zeta Squires, Mrs. Eva Colesworthy Swain, Mr. Charles Waine, Mr. William Robert Wescott, Mrs. 0. D.

SUSTAINING MEMBERS *Grout, Mrs. John Barr, Mrs. John

*Legg, Mr. Seddon W. Robinson, Mr. W. E.

LIFE MEMBERS Bigelow, Mrs. A. A. * Formerly Active Members.

*Satler, Mrs. Charles

30

Legacies, Bequests and Gifts To most income taxpayers the coming of spring is the time of year they are revising their "donation" lists. Including the Nantucket Historical Association on your list means you will help support its program, which, as a member, you are interested in carrying out successfully.Your dues help us to meet current operating expenses but additional support in the form of a gift helps to finance major repairs and restorations. Please, therefore, include the Nantucket Historical Association on your 1954 dona­ tion list. Counsel has rendered an opinion that gifts to the Nan­ tucket Historical Association are deductible from federal income tax by virtue of United States Code Annotated, Title 26, Section 23 (0) (2).

Irrespective of the time of year but at least at periodic inter­ vals thoughtful people take time out to consider how they may perpetuate their interest in the work of organizations such as the Nantucket Historical Association. What better way is there than to name the Association to receive a legacy or bequest under your will. Counsel advises that legacies or bequests to the Nan­ tucket Historical Association are deducted from federal estate tax by virtue of Internal Revenue Code, Title 26, Section 812 (d).

Legacies will be used for general or specific purposes as di­ rected by the donor. A sample form of bequest may read as follows: I give, devise, and bequeath to the Nantucket Historical Association, a corporation duly incor­ porated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and located in the town of Nantucket, in said Commonwealth, the sum of dollars.

Bequests may be made also in real estate, bonds, stocks, books, paintings, or any objects having historical value, in which event a brief description of the same should be inserted instead of a sum of money.

The officers and members of the Council will be glad to dis­ cuss the Association's need for an Endowment Fund of $500,000.

What better occasion than the 60th birthday of the Association for a member to arrange a legacy to its benefit?

Officers 1953 - 1954

President Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Vice Presidents Howard U. Chase

Everett U. Crosby

Burnham N. Dell

Miss Grace Brown Gardner

Dr. William E. Gardner

W. Ripley Nelson

Treasurer Mrs. Elizabeth B. Worth

Councillors Term Expires

Henry B. Coleman Robert M. Waggaman Mrs. Stacy Knopf Mrs. Lewis S. Edgarton John W. Grout Earl S. Ray George W. Jones

1954 1954 1955 1956 1956 1957 1957

Chairman of the Council Dr. William E. Gardner

Custodian of Collections Mrs. Walton H. Adams

Finance Committee W. Ripley Nelson, Chairman Earl S. Ray

Howard U. Chase

Membership Committee Mrs. Walton H. Adams, Chairman

Editor "Historic Nantucket" W. Ripley Nelson