This article appeared in the Baltimore Sun newspaper, May 8, 1847 and was written by its correspondent "SPLINTERSHANKS"
Georgetown, Sussex county, Delaware, May 2, 1847:
Gentlemen:
Several times have I promised myself to let you hear from me from this place, but from press of business matters I have been debarred from it as often.
I shall give but a short though somewhat succinct description of the place and its people, with their merits, demerits, and appearances, as they appear to me.
It is the seat of justice, the county town of Sussex county, Delaware, and is situated in its centre, on the main mail stage and state road, within 20 miles south of Milford, Kent county, and respectively within 8, 18, 16 and 20 miles of Milton. Lewis, Laurel, Seaford and horsey X Roads, all in the same county, and withibn about 20 miles of the Maryland line on its west and south, and the Atlantic Ocean on its east.
It has an old but somewhat inviting look, particularly at a distance, with its church spire and court house, and college steeples. It has a fine brick court house, a neat and most beautiful brick church, a handsome and capacious brick college and three hotels. Several stores with good stock of goods, clever, honorable and accommodating owners, a sound and thriving bank, the money and officers of which are "as good as old wheat" without chaff. There are from 500 to 600 well bred, jocose, hospitable and intelligent inhabitants. Last, but not least of all, about 'almost' several scores of gentlemen of spiritual, medical and legal callings, rights and privileges.
The country round about the town is very level and sandy, though somewhat productive. There are several snug country residences just out of the borders of the town. SPLINTERSHANKS
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Sussex Return Day
Some Sketches of a Curious Down Country Custom.
How the Sussex People Learn About the elections, Curious Vehicles and Funny Scenes
The Ways of the County Politicians, Governor Hall in a Triumphal Procession, Colonel Martin Makes a Little Speech, A Pleasant Visit at Charles C. Stoakelys.
Georgetown, Delaware; November 8, 1878:
John M. Clayton used to say that the man who had been to a political meeting in Dagsboro, had seen Return Day at Georgetown and visited Paris, had witnessed the three most interesting sights in the world. It is just possible that Paris may furnish more splendid opportunities for the satisfaction of the aesthetic tastes, but I doubt if anywhere else there can be found such an opportunity for observing curious types of a particular people as at the Sussex County seat on Return Day. The congregation of people from all parts of the county on such occasions is probably RELIC OF THE English customs, where the supporters and constituents of the Parliamentarian candidates assemble at the county seat to learn the result of the contest. It was, and is, I believe the custom of these times for the member elect to entertain the people with feast and music. The absence inn Sussex until late years of railroad and telegraphic facilities has rendered it necessary for the politicians to come to Georgetown on the day when the official count is made, and an old English habit has thereby been observed and on every Thursday after a general election is a very red letter day in Georgetown indeed. “ Return Day in Sussex” has become as celebrated almost as the Fourth of July or any other great National Holiday.
A stranger in town on Wednesday afternoon would be somewhat astonished at the unusual activity prevailing throughout the place. Carpenters are apparently barricading the court house, about which long structures, tabled beneath, and covered with a rather secure roofing of planks are built up all sides, even before the windows and doors. These are the cake and candy booths where even a mild kind of beer which the old colored women are fond of making, is sold. Long tables are stretched within the halls and the Circle, from which the town radiates, present a jubilant appearance, clattered up with little stands and various sorts of contrivances to catch the eye and pocketbook of the expected multitude. Painters are busy marking on canvas the results of the election in other State, which are stretched like huge banners of victory from court house windows and hotel porches. From these it cannot be said that they would furnish strictly reliable information, States being claimed for both political parties with a recklessness that would astonish even a partisan newspapers the day after election when only a few counties have been heard from. There is nervous bustle all over town, the hostelries are provisioned with lavishness, the boys are getting their Sunday best prepared and the girls prepare their best gowns and most stunning hats for the morrows display.
I left orders with the hotel clerk to have me called at 3 o’clock in the morning, and by quarter past I was in the comfortable waiting room of mine host, Mr. Rosenbaum, when the clear, sharp morning air bore to my ears the sounds of the first arrival. Nearer came the sound of slowly rolling heavy wheels. The driver of the clumsy vehicle seemed to be in some difficulty in getting snugly up to the hotel door and I went out. A rugged old man was just in the act of alighting from his seat upon a cart it would be impossible to describe. Two pair of home made, broad tired wheels, connected by a pole and supporting something that appeared to be a cross between a coach of a hundred years ago, minus the top, and a modern Western grain wagon, were hitched behind a tandem team, and such a tandem. The leader of the pair was a small, restless jackass , with ears as long as the longest eared jackass that ever was seen. Between the shafts, in apparent dangerous proximity to that jackass’ heel, there was a bullock which would have tipped the beam at 1900 pounds. The wagon, buggy, coach, or whatever it might be called, held four young girls, a youngster of nineteen summers and an old lady in the frilled cap and flowered shaw of the last century. They all got out and came in to the hotel s fire.
“Right smart likely of rain, but when we started out from down home last night it ware clair. How’d the lection go?”. Before the old mans question could be answered there was a clatter outside and he went out to tend the tandem. New arrivals had come and in a short time there was a constant stream of all sorts of vehicles pouring into town. Smart buggies from Seaford and Milford, and more curious tandems from down the county, all sorts of people and any quantity of curious characters. By 7 o’clock there were more than 300 arrivals, not withstanding the threatened rain. Old women bending beneath the burden of 80 years, young girls bedecked with all colors of the rainbow, matrons with suckling babies, Mingling with the crowds , here and there, could be seen that curious Sussex County politician. Good hearted, honest in everything else, and mostly honest in this, they are ever busy with some deeply laid scheme for office or advancement. Here is one of them, my friend, lets call him Henry, from one of the smaller hundreds. Some years ago je defeated at the polls the opponent who had overreached him in the county convention. He is whispering confidentially to a couple of friends over there by the clerks office, I venture to guess he is putting down some wires which are to be used in the next two years. They say that there are fourteen gentlemen in the county who are working for control of the delegation to the State Convention four year to come. What a delightful series of plots and counter plots of intrigue such as old Machiavelli would not blush to own, “ It is one of my great desires of my heart to live to see the contest for the next gubernatorial nomination “ said one of the court judges to me last week.
By 10 o’clock there was a great crowd in town, which filled up two street and completely blocked up the circle about the Court House and hotels. Colonel Martin had arrived as well as prominent gentlemen from all parts of the State and county. The Court house and nearly all the offices, as well as the court room, were given up to the crowd which completely filled them. One family took up its quarters in the corner of a hall and with a hand stove are getting dinner ready. Oyster booths are peddling out stews in a pretty lively rate, two for 25 cents.
The court room presents a scene which hold one’s attention with more interest, perhaps, than any other of the day. Up in the judges chair are a young couple in ecstasy and each others arms, the proverbially bashful rustie had lost his differences and between long drawn happy sighs and warm kisses , the pair munch peanuts and ginger cake with an occasional bite of stick candy. In a corner a fine looking young mother is suckling a chubby pair of twins at the same time. Everybody is at home and entirely careless of each others presence but in many curious circumstances to be witnessed by a close observer there was nothing indecent although somewhat without the bounds of what some people might call ‘good taste’. All were honest people who did nothing for which they thought it necessary to blush.
Outside the refreshment booths are doing a brisk business and although there is a sprinkling of rain the crowd surges about from place to place. Some few fights occur and there is affair sprinkling of drunken men and boys with one or two instances of inebriated women. The fine ladies of the town are to be found escorted about the points of interest by their beaux. The perches about the square are generally occupied by folks who are interested on the many peculiar things to be seen and heard. Like all Sussex county people the folks of Georgetown are clever and hospitable, and society here will compare very favorable with that anywhere in the State. Indeed, beneath all the somewhat provincial habits of the crowd in the town , there lurks a kindly, sturdy good fellowship and honesty that is not found in some more cultivated sections. There is also, evidently, a growing intelligence among the people of Sussex that is seen more and more each return day in the conversation and ways of those who come up to such occasions.
Abut noon the Frederica Cornet Band, from Governor elect Halls house, came into town with their lofty chariot and a stampede was made for the street up which they were approaching, until the Court house and Hotels were almost deserted. The band, followed by not less than 1000 people, marched about the town and was escorted at last to the circle where the banners, bulletins and American flags were flying in the breeze. Here they delighted the applauding crowds with some excellent music until the arrival of the Delaware Railroad train which had on board Governor elect Hall and his escort of personal friends. Crowds pressed about the little depot, filling it completely, covering the platform and roof , such a jam as Mr. Hall found it difficult to pass through but he finally made way to the waiting carriage and with the band leading the gaily decked coach with plumed horses and bannered top , driven by Dr. Richards, and the shouting enthusiastic crowd passing on behind, he was born in triumph to Rosenbaums Hotel where he was received by Colonel Martin and others. The two were escorted to the porch above and in response to the calls of the multitude which completely filled all the space in the circle and the street as far as the eye could reach, Mr. Hall bowed in all directions. Mr. Martin was called out and in a few simple words thanked the people for their recognition and in behalf or himself and Governor Hall thanked them for the support they had given them at the polls. This little excitement over, everyone returned to the court house and refreshment booths.
In the meantime the canvassers had figured up the election result which was announced from the court house steps at 4 o’clock. By 5 o’clock the people of Sussex county began to return home and by 7 there were very few persons in town other than visitors from a great distance and the usual town folks.
In the evening the band and a large number of personal and political friends went out to hon. C. C. Stockely’s house where a hospitable welcome awaited them. The evening was spent in a quite, delightful manner and when the party left, three cheers were given Mr. Stockley. Upon their return to town the party, accompanied by the band, serenaded Gov. Hall at Dr. Richards and complimented the ladies who were at the entertainment with some choice tunes. The town remained alive with music and cheers until 2 o’clock in the morning when every body retired.
The Sussex Return Day article was found in the Easton, Maryland Gazette, the November 23 1878 issue.
How the Sussex People Learn About the elections, Curious Vehicles and Funny Scenes
The Ways of the County Politicians, Governor Hall in a Triumphal Procession, Colonel Martin Makes a Little Speech, A Pleasant Visit at Charles C. Stoakelys.
Georgetown, Delaware; November 8, 1878:
John M. Clayton used to say that the man who had been to a political meeting in Dagsboro, had seen Return Day at Georgetown and visited Paris, had witnessed the three most interesting sights in the world. It is just possible that Paris may furnish more splendid opportunities for the satisfaction of the aesthetic tastes, but I doubt if anywhere else there can be found such an opportunity for observing curious types of a particular people as at the Sussex County seat on Return Day. The congregation of people from all parts of the county on such occasions is probably RELIC OF THE English customs, where the supporters and constituents of the Parliamentarian candidates assemble at the county seat to learn the result of the contest. It was, and is, I believe the custom of these times for the member elect to entertain the people with feast and music. The absence inn Sussex until late years of railroad and telegraphic facilities has rendered it necessary for the politicians to come to Georgetown on the day when the official count is made, and an old English habit has thereby been observed and on every Thursday after a general election is a very red letter day in Georgetown indeed. “ Return Day in Sussex” has become as celebrated almost as the Fourth of July or any other great National Holiday.
A stranger in town on Wednesday afternoon would be somewhat astonished at the unusual activity prevailing throughout the place. Carpenters are apparently barricading the court house, about which long structures, tabled beneath, and covered with a rather secure roofing of planks are built up all sides, even before the windows and doors. These are the cake and candy booths where even a mild kind of beer which the old colored women are fond of making, is sold. Long tables are stretched within the halls and the Circle, from which the town radiates, present a jubilant appearance, clattered up with little stands and various sorts of contrivances to catch the eye and pocketbook of the expected multitude. Painters are busy marking on canvas the results of the election in other State, which are stretched like huge banners of victory from court house windows and hotel porches. From these it cannot be said that they would furnish strictly reliable information, States being claimed for both political parties with a recklessness that would astonish even a partisan newspapers the day after election when only a few counties have been heard from. There is nervous bustle all over town, the hostelries are provisioned with lavishness, the boys are getting their Sunday best prepared and the girls prepare their best gowns and most stunning hats for the morrows display.
I left orders with the hotel clerk to have me called at 3 o’clock in the morning, and by quarter past I was in the comfortable waiting room of mine host, Mr. Rosenbaum, when the clear, sharp morning air bore to my ears the sounds of the first arrival. Nearer came the sound of slowly rolling heavy wheels. The driver of the clumsy vehicle seemed to be in some difficulty in getting snugly up to the hotel door and I went out. A rugged old man was just in the act of alighting from his seat upon a cart it would be impossible to describe. Two pair of home made, broad tired wheels, connected by a pole and supporting something that appeared to be a cross between a coach of a hundred years ago, minus the top, and a modern Western grain wagon, were hitched behind a tandem team, and such a tandem. The leader of the pair was a small, restless jackass , with ears as long as the longest eared jackass that ever was seen. Between the shafts, in apparent dangerous proximity to that jackass’ heel, there was a bullock which would have tipped the beam at 1900 pounds. The wagon, buggy, coach, or whatever it might be called, held four young girls, a youngster of nineteen summers and an old lady in the frilled cap and flowered shaw of the last century. They all got out and came in to the hotel s fire.
“Right smart likely of rain, but when we started out from down home last night it ware clair. How’d the lection go?”. Before the old mans question could be answered there was a clatter outside and he went out to tend the tandem. New arrivals had come and in a short time there was a constant stream of all sorts of vehicles pouring into town. Smart buggies from Seaford and Milford, and more curious tandems from down the county, all sorts of people and any quantity of curious characters. By 7 o’clock there were more than 300 arrivals, not withstanding the threatened rain. Old women bending beneath the burden of 80 years, young girls bedecked with all colors of the rainbow, matrons with suckling babies, Mingling with the crowds , here and there, could be seen that curious Sussex County politician. Good hearted, honest in everything else, and mostly honest in this, they are ever busy with some deeply laid scheme for office or advancement. Here is one of them, my friend, lets call him Henry, from one of the smaller hundreds. Some years ago je defeated at the polls the opponent who had overreached him in the county convention. He is whispering confidentially to a couple of friends over there by the clerks office, I venture to guess he is putting down some wires which are to be used in the next two years. They say that there are fourteen gentlemen in the county who are working for control of the delegation to the State Convention four year to come. What a delightful series of plots and counter plots of intrigue such as old Machiavelli would not blush to own, “ It is one of my great desires of my heart to live to see the contest for the next gubernatorial nomination “ said one of the court judges to me last week.
By 10 o’clock there was a great crowd in town, which filled up two street and completely blocked up the circle about the Court House and hotels. Colonel Martin had arrived as well as prominent gentlemen from all parts of the State and county. The Court house and nearly all the offices, as well as the court room, were given up to the crowd which completely filled them. One family took up its quarters in the corner of a hall and with a hand stove are getting dinner ready. Oyster booths are peddling out stews in a pretty lively rate, two for 25 cents.
The court room presents a scene which hold one’s attention with more interest, perhaps, than any other of the day. Up in the judges chair are a young couple in ecstasy and each others arms, the proverbially bashful rustie had lost his differences and between long drawn happy sighs and warm kisses , the pair munch peanuts and ginger cake with an occasional bite of stick candy. In a corner a fine looking young mother is suckling a chubby pair of twins at the same time. Everybody is at home and entirely careless of each others presence but in many curious circumstances to be witnessed by a close observer there was nothing indecent although somewhat without the bounds of what some people might call ‘good taste’. All were honest people who did nothing for which they thought it necessary to blush.
Outside the refreshment booths are doing a brisk business and although there is a sprinkling of rain the crowd surges about from place to place. Some few fights occur and there is affair sprinkling of drunken men and boys with one or two instances of inebriated women. The fine ladies of the town are to be found escorted about the points of interest by their beaux. The perches about the square are generally occupied by folks who are interested on the many peculiar things to be seen and heard. Like all Sussex county people the folks of Georgetown are clever and hospitable, and society here will compare very favorable with that anywhere in the State. Indeed, beneath all the somewhat provincial habits of the crowd in the town , there lurks a kindly, sturdy good fellowship and honesty that is not found in some more cultivated sections. There is also, evidently, a growing intelligence among the people of Sussex that is seen more and more each return day in the conversation and ways of those who come up to such occasions.
Abut noon the Frederica Cornet Band, from Governor elect Halls house, came into town with their lofty chariot and a stampede was made for the street up which they were approaching, until the Court house and Hotels were almost deserted. The band, followed by not less than 1000 people, marched about the town and was escorted at last to the circle where the banners, bulletins and American flags were flying in the breeze. Here they delighted the applauding crowds with some excellent music until the arrival of the Delaware Railroad train which had on board Governor elect Hall and his escort of personal friends. Crowds pressed about the little depot, filling it completely, covering the platform and roof , such a jam as Mr. Hall found it difficult to pass through but he finally made way to the waiting carriage and with the band leading the gaily decked coach with plumed horses and bannered top , driven by Dr. Richards, and the shouting enthusiastic crowd passing on behind, he was born in triumph to Rosenbaums Hotel where he was received by Colonel Martin and others. The two were escorted to the porch above and in response to the calls of the multitude which completely filled all the space in the circle and the street as far as the eye could reach, Mr. Hall bowed in all directions. Mr. Martin was called out and in a few simple words thanked the people for their recognition and in behalf or himself and Governor Hall thanked them for the support they had given them at the polls. This little excitement over, everyone returned to the court house and refreshment booths.
In the meantime the canvassers had figured up the election result which was announced from the court house steps at 4 o’clock. By 5 o’clock the people of Sussex county began to return home and by 7 there were very few persons in town other than visitors from a great distance and the usual town folks.
In the evening the band and a large number of personal and political friends went out to hon. C. C. Stockely’s house where a hospitable welcome awaited them. The evening was spent in a quite, delightful manner and when the party left, three cheers were given Mr. Stockley. Upon their return to town the party, accompanied by the band, serenaded Gov. Hall at Dr. Richards and complimented the ladies who were at the entertainment with some choice tunes. The town remained alive with music and cheers until 2 o’clock in the morning when every body retired.
The Sussex Return Day article was found in the Easton, Maryland Gazette, the November 23 1878 issue.
Sussex Return Day 1878
Some Sketches of a Curious Down Country Custom.
How the
The Ways of the
John M. Clayton used to say that the man who had been to a political meeting in Dagsboro, had seen Return Day at
A stranger in town on Wednesday afternoon would be somewhat astonished at the unusual activity prevailing throughout the place. Carpenters are apparently barricading the court house, about which long structures, tabled beneath, and covered with a rather secure roofing of planks are built up all sides, even before the windows and doors. These are the cake and candy booths where even a mild kind of beer which the old colored women are fond of making, is sold. Long tables are stretched within the halls and the Circle, from which the town radiates, present a jubilant appearance, clattered up with little stands and various sorts of contrivances to catch the eye and pocketbook of the expected multitude. Painters are busy marking on canvas the results of the election in other State, which are stretched like huge banners of victory from court house windows and hotel porches. From these it cannot be said that they would furnish strictly reliable information, States being claimed for both political parties with a recklessness that would astonish even a partisan newspapers the day after election when only a few counties have been heard from. There is nervous bustle all over town, the hostelries are provisioned with lavishness, the boys are getting their Sunday best prepared and the girls prepare their best gowns and most stunning hats for the morrows display.
I left orders with the hotel clerk to have me called at
“Right smart likely of rain, but when we started out from down home last night it ware clair. How’d the lection go?”. Before the old mans question could be answered there was a clatter outside and he went out to tend the tandem. New arrivals had come and in a short time there was a constant stream of all sorts of vehicles pouring into town. Smart buggies from
By
The court room presents a scene which hold one’s attention with more interest, perhaps, than any other of the day. Up in the judges chair are a young couple in ecstasy and each others arms, the proverbially bashful rustie had lost his differences and between long drawn happy sighs and warm kisses , the pair munch peanuts and ginger cake with an occasional bite of stick candy. In a corner a fine looking young mother is suckling a chubby pair of twins at the same time. Everybody is at home and entirely careless of each others presence but in many curious circumstances to be witnessed by a close observer there was nothing indecent although somewhat without the bounds of what some people might call ‘good taste’. All were honest people who did nothing for which they thought it necessary to blush.
Outside, the refreshment booths are doing a brisk business and although there is a sprinkling of rain the crowd surges about from place to place. Some few fights occur and there is affair sprinkling of drunken men and boys with one or two instances of inebriated women. The fine ladies of the town are to be found escorted about the points of interest by their beau. The perches about the square are generally occupied by folks who are interested in the many peculiar things to be seen and heard. Like all
About noon the Frederica Cornet Band, from Governor elect Halls house, came into town with their lofty chariot and a stampede was made for the street up which they were approaching, until the Court house and Hotels were almost deserted. The band, followed by not less than 1000 people, marched about the town and was escorted at last to the circle where the banners, bulletins and American flags were flying in the breeze. Here they delighted the applauding crowds with some excellent music until the arrival of the Delaware Railroad train which had on board Governor elect Hall and his escort of personal friends. Crowds pressed about the little depot, filling it completely, covering the platform and roof , such a jam as Mr. Hall found it difficult to pass through but he finally made way to the waiting carriage and with the band leading the gaily decked coach with plumed horses and bann
Some Sketches of a Curious Down Country Custom.
How the
The Ways of the
John M. Clayton used to say that the man who had been to a political meeting in Dagsboro, had seen Return Day at
A stranger in town on Wednesday afternoon would be somewhat astonished at the unusual activity prevailing throughout the place. Carpenters are apparently barricading the court house, about which long structures, tabled beneath, and covered with a rather secure roofing of planks are built up all sides, even before the windows and doors. These are the cake and candy booths where even a mild kind of beer which the old colored women are fond of making, is sold. Long tables are stretched within the halls and the Circle, from which the town radiates, present a jubilant appearance, clattered up with little stands and various sorts of contrivances to catch the eye and pocketbook of the expected multitude. Painters are busy marking on canvas the results of the election in other State, which are stretched like huge banners of victory from court house windows and hotel porches. From these it cannot be said that they would furnish strictly reliable information, States being claimed for both political parties with a recklessness that would astonish even a partisan newspapers the day after election when only a few counties have been heard from. There is nervous bustle all over town, the hostelries are provisioned with lavishness, the boys are getting their Sunday best prepared and the girls prepare their best gowns and most stunning hats for the morrows display.
I left orders with the hotel clerk to have me called at
“Right smart likely of rain, but when we started out from down home last night it ware clair. How’d the lection go?”. Before the old mans question could be answered there was a clatter outside and he went out to tend the tandem. New arrivals had come and in a short time there was a constant stream of all sorts of vehicles pouring into town. Smart buggies from
By
The court room presents a scene which hold one’s attention with more interest, perhaps, than any other of the day. Up in the judges chair are a young couple in ecstasy and each others arms, the proverbially bashful rustie had lost his differences and between long drawn happy sighs and warm kisses , the pair munch peanuts and ginger cake with an occasional bite of stick candy. In a corner a fine looking young mother is suckling a chubby pair of twins at the same time. Everybody is at home and entirely careless of each others presence but in many curious circumstances to be witnessed by a close observer there was nothing indecent although somewhat without the bounds of what some people might call ‘good taste’. All were honest people who did nothing for which they thought it necessary to blush.
Outside the refreshment booths are doing a brisk business and although there is a sprinkling of rain the crowd surges about from place to place. Some few fights occur and there is affair sprinkling of drunken men and boys with one or two instances of inebriated women. The fine ladies of the town are to be found escorted about the points of interest by their beaus. The perches about the square are generally occupied by folks who are interested on the many peculiar things to be seen and heard. Like all
Abut noon the Frederica Cornet Band, from Governor elect Halls house, came into town with their lofty chariot and a stampede was made for the street up which they were approaching, until the Court house and Hotels were almost deserted. The band, followed by not less than 1000 people, marched about the town and was escorted at last to the circle where the banners, bulletins and American flags were flying in the breeze. Here they delighted the applauding crowds with some excellent music until the arrival of the Delaware Railroad train which had on board Governor elect Hall and his escort of personal friends. Crowds pressed about the little depot, filling it completely, covering the platform and roof , such a jam as Mr. Hall found it difficult to pass through but he finally made way to the waiting carriage and with the band leading the gaily decked coach with plumed horses and bannered top , driven by Dr. Richards, and the shouting enthusiastic crowd passing on behind, he was born in triumph to Rosenbaums Hotel where he was received by Colonel Martin and others. The two were escorted to the porch above and in response to the calls of the multitude which completely filled all the space in the circle and the street as far as the eye could reach, Mr. Hall bowed in all directions. Mr. Martin was called out and in a few simple words thanked the people for their recognition and in behalf or himself and Governor Hall thanked them for the support they had given them at the polls. This little excitement over, everyone returned to the court house and refreshment booths.
In the meantime the canvassers had figured up the election result which was announced from the court house steps at
In the evening the band and a large number of personal and political friends went out to hon. C. C. Stockely’s house where a hospitable welcome awaited them. The evening was spent in a quite, delightful manner and when the party left, three cheers were given Mr. Stockley. Upon their return to town the party, accompanied by the band, serenaded Gov. Hall at Dr. Richards and complimented the ladies who were at the entertainment with some choice tunes. The town remained alive with music and cheers until
I
The Sussex Return Day news item was found in the Easton, Maryland, Gazette issue of 23 November 1878
Sunday, December 13, 2009
John M. Clayton's birthday
One of the most interesting events which have occurred in lower Delaware for many years was the celebration today at Prince George's Chapel just a few miles from this town, of the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of John M. Clayton, one of Americas illustrious statesmen.
Born at Dagsboro, Sussex County, on July 24, 1796, John Middleton Clayton, after a youth of struggle for a livelihood, was sent to Yale where he was graduated with distinction in 1815. He then completed a course at Litchfield Law School and was admitted to the Delaware State Bar in 1819. His success was simultaneous with his admission and he immediately rose to distinction. This was achieved not less by his ability in the highest court, than by his skill before a jury.
In 1837 he was appointed to Chief Justice of Delaware. In 1829 Mr. Clayton represented his State in the United States Senate. He was reelected twice but resigned in 1849 to accept a seat in President Taylor's cabinet and was again elected to the United States Senate in 1851, continuing in the office until his death.
Prince George's Chapel, Dagsboro, renovated in 1895 and put in repair by patriotic men and women of the area, is the identical parish meeting house where John M. Clayton was baptized a century ago.
Born at Dagsboro, Sussex County, on July 24, 1796, John Middleton Clayton, after a youth of struggle for a livelihood, was sent to Yale where he was graduated with distinction in 1815. He then completed a course at Litchfield Law School and was admitted to the Delaware State Bar in 1819. His success was simultaneous with his admission and he immediately rose to distinction. This was achieved not less by his ability in the highest court, than by his skill before a jury.
In 1837 he was appointed to Chief Justice of Delaware. In 1829 Mr. Clayton represented his State in the United States Senate. He was reelected twice but resigned in 1849 to accept a seat in President Taylor's cabinet and was again elected to the United States Senate in 1851, continuing in the office until his death.
Prince George's Chapel, Dagsboro, renovated in 1895 and put in repair by patriotic men and women of the area, is the identical parish meeting house where John M. Clayton was baptized a century ago.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Broadkill Bridge 1910
Date: December 1990
As late as 1908 or 1910, visitors to Broadkill Beach had to cross Deep Hole Creek at a footbridge. Every member of the family had to portage the provisions by foot and hand. *Since there were no government stimulus plans, local men had to plan and construct this project*. The Milton area men who volunteered the time and materials were J. Leon Black, Charles Waples, Robert and Morris Black, Joe Robbins, Dick White and Charlie Thackeray. No doubt there were others involved but their names did not survive.
Deep Hole Creek was at this time 600 feet wide and the four foot wide wooden bridge was built using log pilings as its base. On the west side of the bridge were several structures which provided accommodations for their automobiles or horses, while the first building across the creek was the store of Mrs. Barker, which had a boardwalk to the creek so boaters could access the store. Mrs Barker was the mother of Charles and Howard, *Charles at one time being a longtime mayor of Milton. Still with us this year of 2009 is her grandson, Clarence Barker who holds post office box number 2 at the Milton Post Office, an oldtimer for sure*.
Also from the boardwalk at Barkers Store. Captain Dave Dutton operated his motor launch, fueled by 'naphtha', and ran excursions out into the bay.
When you left the Barker's place, going toward the beach and bay, you passed S. J. Wilson's cottage that for some reason was called the 'anchor cottage', perhaps because it was a starting point for other cottage owners trips to their beach houses. In front of this small structure was a water pump that allowed folks to wash their sandy feet with fairly clean water. From here to Mr. Wilson's beach front house there was a cement walk.
Along the creek side there were at least fourteen cottages and back to, fronting the bay, were a like amount. The owners in the 1930's of some of these cottages were Joseph Hearn, Dr. John Wiltbank, Leon Black, Davis Lingo, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Fithian, Charles Thackeray, Dick White and Jim Jester. Erosion, after construction of the new inlet and jetty, caused these bay front places to be moved back and after this all construction was to the south of the bridge. *To the north there was the Halstead Layton hunting lodge. Layton's daughter later married Sam Burke, colorful Georgetown lawyer, who recently owned the property*.
It was not until 1932 that a bridge was built to allow vehicles to cross over to Broadkill Beach from the mainland side.
Newspaper published in: Milton, Delaware
Source: Collection of Bill Wagamon & Wanda King/Milton Historical Society
Broadkill Beach, DelawareAs late as 1908 or 1910, visitors to Broadkill Beach had to cross Deep Hole Creek at a footbridge. Every member of the family had to portage the provisions by foot and hand. *Since there were no government stimulus plans, local men had to plan and construct this project*. The Milton area men who volunteered the time and materials were J. Leon Black, Charles Waples, Robert and Morris Black, Joe Robbins, Dick White and Charlie Thackeray. No doubt there were others involved but their names did not survive.
Deep Hole Creek was at this time 600 feet wide and the four foot wide wooden bridge was built using log pilings as its base. On the west side of the bridge were several structures which provided accommodations for their automobiles or horses, while the first building across the creek was the store of Mrs. Barker, which had a boardwalk to the creek so boaters could access the store. Mrs Barker was the mother of Charles and Howard, *Charles at one time being a longtime mayor of Milton. Still with us this year of 2009 is her grandson, Clarence Barker who holds post office box number 2 at the Milton Post Office, an oldtimer for sure*.
Also from the boardwalk at Barkers Store. Captain Dave Dutton operated his motor launch, fueled by 'naphtha', and ran excursions out into the bay.
When you left the Barker's place, going toward the beach and bay, you passed S. J. Wilson's cottage that for some reason was called the 'anchor cottage', perhaps because it was a starting point for other cottage owners trips to their beach houses. In front of this small structure was a water pump that allowed folks to wash their sandy feet with fairly clean water. From here to Mr. Wilson's beach front house there was a cement walk.
Along the creek side there were at least fourteen cottages and back to, fronting the bay, were a like amount. The owners in the 1930's of some of these cottages were Joseph Hearn, Dr. John Wiltbank, Leon Black, Davis Lingo, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Fithian, Charles Thackeray, Dick White and Jim Jester. Erosion, after construction of the new inlet and jetty, caused these bay front places to be moved back and after this all construction was to the south of the bridge. *To the north there was the Halstead Layton hunting lodge. Layton's daughter later married Sam Burke, colorful Georgetown lawyer, who recently owned the property*.
It was not until 1932 that a bridge was built to allow vehicles to cross over to Broadkill Beach from the mainland side.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION
The State of Delaware, Executive Department.
Because of the growing tendency to regard the day set apart for prayer and thanksgiving,as a day for indulgence in riotous living and worldly sports, contrary to the spirit in which the custom originated, many good people are beginning to consider the propriety of its discontinuance unless its observation should come to be characterized, as in times of gone by, with the sentiment of true devotion. Every day should be a day in which praise and thanksgiving should ascend from every human heart to God, the author and giver of all good. But in accordance with the established custom in this State, and in conformity with the proclamation of the President of the United States, I, ROBERT J. REYNOLDS, GOVERNOR of the State of Delaware, DO HEREBY SET APART: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER THIRTIETH, INSTANT: as a day of THANKSGIVING to Almighty God for His many good and perfect gifts bestowed upon us during the past year; and do most earnestly recommend that, on that day, the people of this State lay aside all secular occupations and in such a manner as their consciences may dictate, offer to God their reverent thanksgiving for all His mercies and pray for a continuance of Devine favor.
In Testimony Whereof. I have hereunto set my hand and caused the great seal of the State of Delaware to be hereunto affixed st Dover, this seventh day of November, in the year of out Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety three, and of the independence of the United States, the one hundred and eighteenth.
By the Governor: ROBERT J. REYNOLDS
JOHN D. HAWKIS, Secretary of State {SEAL}
Because of the growing tendency to regard the day set apart for prayer and thanksgiving,as a day for indulgence in riotous living and worldly sports, contrary to the spirit in which the custom originated, many good people are beginning to consider the propriety of its discontinuance unless its observation should come to be characterized, as in times of gone by, with the sentiment of true devotion. Every day should be a day in which praise and thanksgiving should ascend from every human heart to God, the author and giver of all good. But in accordance with the established custom in this State, and in conformity with the proclamation of the President of the United States, I, ROBERT J. REYNOLDS, GOVERNOR of the State of Delaware, DO HEREBY SET APART: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER THIRTIETH, INSTANT: as a day of THANKSGIVING to Almighty God for His many good and perfect gifts bestowed upon us during the past year; and do most earnestly recommend that, on that day, the people of this State lay aside all secular occupations and in such a manner as their consciences may dictate, offer to God their reverent thanksgiving for all His mercies and pray for a continuance of Devine favor.
In Testimony Whereof. I have hereunto set my hand and caused the great seal of the State of Delaware to be hereunto affixed st Dover, this seventh day of November, in the year of out Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety three, and of the independence of the United States, the one hundred and eighteenth.
By the Governor: ROBERT J. REYNOLDS
JOHN D. HAWKIS, Secretary of State {SEAL}
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION
The State of Delaware, Executive Department.
Because of the growing tendency to regard the day set apart for prayer and thanksgiving,as a day for indulgence in riotous living and worldly sports, contrary to the spirit in which the custom originated, many good people are beginning to consider the propriety of its discontinuance unless its observation should come to be characterized, as in times of gone by, with the sentiment of true devotion. Every day should be a day in which praise and thanksgiving should ascend from every human heart to God, the author and giver of all good. But in accordance with the established custom in this State, and in conformity with the proclamation of the President of the United States, I, ROBERT J. REYNOLDS, GOVERNOR of the State of Delaware, DO HEREBY SET APART: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER THIRTIETH, INSTANT: as a day of THANKSGIVING to Almighty God for His many good and perfect gifts bestowed upon us during the past year; and do most earnestly recommend that, on that day, the people of this State lay aside all secular occupations and in such a manner as their consciences may dictate, offer to God their reverent thanksgiving for all His mercies and pray for a continuance of Devine favor.
In Testimony Whereof. I have hereunto set my hand and caused the great seal of the State of Delaware to be hereunto affixed st Dover, this seventh day of November, in the year of out Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety three, and of the independence of the United States, the one hundred and eighteenth.
By the Governor: ROBERT J. REYNOLDS
JOHN D. HAWKIS, Secretary of State {SEAL}
Because of the growing tendency to regard the day set apart for prayer and thanksgiving,as a day for indulgence in riotous living and worldly sports, contrary to the spirit in which the custom originated, many good people are beginning to consider the propriety of its discontinuance unless its observation should come to be characterized, as in times of gone by, with the sentiment of true devotion. Every day should be a day in which praise and thanksgiving should ascend from every human heart to God, the author and giver of all good. But in accordance with the established custom in this State, and in conformity with the proclamation of the President of the United States, I, ROBERT J. REYNOLDS, GOVERNOR of the State of Delaware, DO HEREBY SET APART: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER THIRTIETH, INSTANT: as a day of THANKSGIVING to Almighty God for His many good and perfect gifts bestowed upon us during the past year; and do most earnestly recommend that, on that day, the people of this State lay aside all secular occupations and in such a manner as their consciences may dictate, offer to God their reverent thanksgiving for all His mercies and pray for a continuance of Devine favor.
In Testimony Whereof. I have hereunto set my hand and caused the great seal of the State of Delaware to be hereunto affixed st Dover, this seventh day of November, in the year of out Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety three, and of the independence of the United States, the one hundred and eighteenth.
By the Governor: ROBERT J. REYNOLDS
JOHN D. HAWKIS, Secretary of State {SEAL}
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Lemon Bars From Slower Lower
The January '88 Milton Chamber Clipper newspaper, has in the late Joan F. Nagy's column a recipe she got from Florence Balentine for Lemon Bars. Take 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup sugar and 1 cup of melted butter and mix together until the mix is crunbly, whatever, then pat in the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan and bake at 350 degree for 20 minutes. Now the good stuff, beat up 4 eggs, 2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 4 tablespoons of flour and 4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Mix this together and pour over the baked crust you just made and return to the 350 degree oven for 25 minutes. When done, cut while warm and remove from the pan. It says here to do not allow to cool over 25 minutes, that must mean to eat 'em up fast as you make them.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Chapter 1 of Robert Boyce Hazzard' History of Seaford
Chapter 1, 1720 on up to 1799. Hoopers Land become Seaford. Contributors are remembered.
The earliest reference to the tract of land, now the site of Seaford, that was found, was around 1720. So far, back at that date it belonged to the Hoopers. I desired that before I completing the manuscript I should be able to obtain the original deed under which the land came in possession of that family, but after a careful research among the old folios in the court house at Georgetown, Delaware, I was obliged to give it up and proceed to publish such facts as through the aid of Mr. Morris and Mr. Foster in the clerks office at Georgetoewn, I was able to gather from those folios.
I shall try to reproduce all the facts of the origin and history, comprising events, religious, social, financial, and tragical, that I have been able to retain in memory and to gather up from our old citizens. Among those who have contributed to this end were; Mrs. Margaret Wallace, Mr. James Darby, Mrs. Hosea Dawson, Hry Hopkins, Miss Ann Cannon, all of whom have passed away during the years since I began to write this history. Also Miss Sallie Harper.
The first name of the Hooper family found in the old county records and remembered by by an oler citizen, was Thomas. As 1720 must have been before he reached majority, the land probably was purchased by his father. Thomas, raised at his home somewhere on this tract of land , consisted of a famly of three sons and four daughters, Thomas, John and Henry, Nancy, Mollie, Priscilla and Sallie. As most of these daughters in marriage became citizens of Seaford we will name their husbands. Nancy married a Mr. Douglas, his christian or first name we have not been able to get, and this name soon became obsolete in the history of this village. Sallie married John Tenant, who owned and resided on the farm now known as the Governor Ross farm where the old Ross Mansion now stands. It is very possible that this was the homestead of the first Thomas Hooper. John Tenant died in 1831 or 1832, a young man , his tomb was in the old Hooper graveyard, now the Protestent Methodist Church Cemetery of Seaford. His family were soon broken up after his death and left the state. Priscella married Henry Travers, a Dorchester County Maryland man and died a few years thereafter. These family names soon became obsolete in the village. Mollie married John Wallace, the grandfather of the oldest family of the name now living in Seaford. Mollie was left a widow with one son and and one daughter, and married a second time to Jacob Wright of Dorchester county Maryland, who was the father of Mrs. Margaret Wallace, who lived almost eighty years in Seaford and who died but a few years ago, aged ninty three years. She, then Miss Margaret Wright, married Henry Wallace, son of John and Mollie, in 1815 or thereabouts. Her children, now comprising the several families living in Seaford, being the Cottingham families, the children of Mrs. Jane Rogers and Mrs Susana Roop, are the only survivors of that oigional family within or knowledge
In the division of of the lands, John Hooper. became possessor of the site of Seaford. We shall confine our record mostly to the families which grew out of his marriage , of himself personally, who he married, when he died and where hewas buried. I have been unable to gather any facts but suppose his dust lies in the Hooper Graveyard.
In this family there was one son, Henry, the father of Hicks Hooper, who was a long time resident of Seaford, well remembered by many of the older citizens of the town, his tomb is near the street in the Protestant Methodist Church Cemetery. There were three daughters in this Hooper family, Ann, Elizabeth and Susan. Ann married Dr. cottingham, Seaford's first physician. He died a young man and left three sons, Jn. Alfred and Charles, frm whom have descended Hooper families now in the town. Elizabeth married Nathan Vickers, one of the first settlers in Seaford village. The Vickers name has become obsolete here, Washington vickers, captain of a signal station on the Atlantic is the only grandchild living to my knowledge. Susan married Zebediah Fountain and had but one son, Zebediah, Jr., who married, but died a young man and left but one child who became the wife of Lewis Wallace, another of Seafords oldest citizens. The elder Zebediah Fountain died young. After hid death his widow married Captain Isaac Bradley who followed the coasting trade. He went down with his ship at the Delaware Breakwater in 1842. his wife died before he did and left four children, Jane, Susanna, Joseph and John. The roop and Rogers famlies perpetuate their memory. Mary Hudson, now Mrs Phillips, worthily esteemed, is a descendent of that family.
The earliest reference to the tract of land, now the site of Seaford, that was found, was around 1720. So far, back at that date it belonged to the Hoopers. I desired that before I completing the manuscript I should be able to obtain the original deed under which the land came in possession of that family, but after a careful research among the old folios in the court house at Georgetown, Delaware, I was obliged to give it up and proceed to publish such facts as through the aid of Mr. Morris and Mr. Foster in the clerks office at Georgetoewn, I was able to gather from those folios.
I shall try to reproduce all the facts of the origin and history, comprising events, religious, social, financial, and tragical, that I have been able to retain in memory and to gather up from our old citizens. Among those who have contributed to this end were; Mrs. Margaret Wallace, Mr. James Darby, Mrs. Hosea Dawson, Hry Hopkins, Miss Ann Cannon, all of whom have passed away during the years since I began to write this history. Also Miss Sallie Harper.
The first name of the Hooper family found in the old county records and remembered by by an oler citizen, was Thomas. As 1720 must have been before he reached majority, the land probably was purchased by his father. Thomas, raised at his home somewhere on this tract of land , consisted of a famly of three sons and four daughters, Thomas, John and Henry, Nancy, Mollie, Priscilla and Sallie. As most of these daughters in marriage became citizens of Seaford we will name their husbands. Nancy married a Mr. Douglas, his christian or first name we have not been able to get, and this name soon became obsolete in the history of this village. Sallie married John Tenant, who owned and resided on the farm now known as the Governor Ross farm where the old Ross Mansion now stands. It is very possible that this was the homestead of the first Thomas Hooper. John Tenant died in 1831 or 1832, a young man , his tomb was in the old Hooper graveyard, now the Protestent Methodist Church Cemetery of Seaford. His family were soon broken up after his death and left the state. Priscella married Henry Travers, a Dorchester County Maryland man and died a few years thereafter. These family names soon became obsolete in the village. Mollie married John Wallace, the grandfather of the oldest family of the name now living in Seaford. Mollie was left a widow with one son and and one daughter, and married a second time to Jacob Wright of Dorchester county Maryland, who was the father of Mrs. Margaret Wallace, who lived almost eighty years in Seaford and who died but a few years ago, aged ninty three years. She, then Miss Margaret Wright, married Henry Wallace, son of John and Mollie, in 1815 or thereabouts. Her children, now comprising the several families living in Seaford, being the Cottingham families, the children of Mrs. Jane Rogers and Mrs Susana Roop, are the only survivors of that oigional family within or knowledge
In the division of of the lands, John Hooper. became possessor of the site of Seaford. We shall confine our record mostly to the families which grew out of his marriage , of himself personally, who he married, when he died and where hewas buried. I have been unable to gather any facts but suppose his dust lies in the Hooper Graveyard.
In this family there was one son, Henry, the father of Hicks Hooper, who was a long time resident of Seaford, well remembered by many of the older citizens of the town, his tomb is near the street in the Protestant Methodist Church Cemetery. There were three daughters in this Hooper family, Ann, Elizabeth and Susan. Ann married Dr. cottingham, Seaford's first physician. He died a young man and left three sons, Jn. Alfred and Charles, frm whom have descended Hooper families now in the town. Elizabeth married Nathan Vickers, one of the first settlers in Seaford village. The Vickers name has become obsolete here, Washington vickers, captain of a signal station on the Atlantic is the only grandchild living to my knowledge. Susan married Zebediah Fountain and had but one son, Zebediah, Jr., who married, but died a young man and left but one child who became the wife of Lewis Wallace, another of Seafords oldest citizens. The elder Zebediah Fountain died young. After hid death his widow married Captain Isaac Bradley who followed the coasting trade. He went down with his ship at the Delaware Breakwater in 1842. his wife died before he did and left four children, Jane, Susanna, Joseph and John. The roop and Rogers famlies perpetuate their memory. Mary Hudson, now Mrs Phillips, worthily esteemed, is a descendent of that family.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
ROBERT BOYCE HAZZARDS STORY OF SEAFORD
This will be a serial type endeavor, hopefully a post a week for ten or twelve weeks. This History of Seaford was written written by my great-grand father, Robert Boyce Hazzard, my grandmother Howeth's father. Maybe the date of this writing will show up in some of the posting. Robert died in Hurlock, Maryland in 1901 and is buried at Unity-Washington Cemetery there.
First the title, "The History of Seaford; From its First Survey and Plotting in 1799 to the Completion of the Delaware Railroad in 1856." The book I am transcribing from came to me through the Howeth Family from Grandmother Sarah Emma Hazzard Howeth, and it is very 'frail'. I understand the content of this book has been published at least twice and copys are 'out there', however this is probably the first electronic form of it. Thanks to my 'cousin' , Norma Jean Fowler's encouragement of this project. Norma Jean is from the Boyce side. Now to the book.
INTRODUCTION
Eight or nine years ago I conceived the notion that in view of the fact that the Centennial of Seaford was but a few years ahead, a small history of its settlement and a few years of its progress would be interesting to the citizens now living in and around it. My first notion was to write these chapters and offer them to the editor and publisher of the weekly journal here. Upon second thought I concluded to put them in cheap pamplet form and put them on sale as the history is local in its character. But Seaford is the place of my nativity and where I grew to almost manhood, and as I was observant of and remembered much early history, I thought that but a few now living there would remember any better than myself these facts, and that they might not feel disposed to this task.
I was at some pains and a little cost of travel in gathering up th facts of the history which did not come under my own observation, since I was born nearly twenty-four years after its first plotting.
For two reasons I have held this manuscript for all these years, first, the need of funds necessary to its publication; secondly, I thought it would be more opportune as a centennial offering to the people.
I propose to publish the facts of this history in as courteous and respectful manner as possible and hope no one will be offended by any statement which may appear to reflect upon their progenitors who must necessarly figure in the history of Seaford. Robert B. Hazzard
First the title, "The History of Seaford; From its First Survey and Plotting in 1799 to the Completion of the Delaware Railroad in 1856." The book I am transcribing from came to me through the Howeth Family from Grandmother Sarah Emma Hazzard Howeth, and it is very 'frail'. I understand the content of this book has been published at least twice and copys are 'out there', however this is probably the first electronic form of it. Thanks to my 'cousin' , Norma Jean Fowler's encouragement of this project. Norma Jean is from the Boyce side. Now to the book.
INTRODUCTION
Eight or nine years ago I conceived the notion that in view of the fact that the Centennial of Seaford was but a few years ahead, a small history of its settlement and a few years of its progress would be interesting to the citizens now living in and around it. My first notion was to write these chapters and offer them to the editor and publisher of the weekly journal here. Upon second thought I concluded to put them in cheap pamplet form and put them on sale as the history is local in its character. But Seaford is the place of my nativity and where I grew to almost manhood, and as I was observant of and remembered much early history, I thought that but a few now living there would remember any better than myself these facts, and that they might not feel disposed to this task.
I was at some pains and a little cost of travel in gathering up th facts of the history which did not come under my own observation, since I was born nearly twenty-four years after its first plotting.
For two reasons I have held this manuscript for all these years, first, the need of funds necessary to its publication; secondly, I thought it would be more opportune as a centennial offering to the people.
I propose to publish the facts of this history in as courteous and respectful manner as possible and hope no one will be offended by any statement which may appear to reflect upon their progenitors who must necessarly figure in the history of Seaford. Robert B. Hazzard
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Milton's Hosiery History.
Remember silk stockings? What a mess they were. I am sure they were as much trouble to put on as they were to get off. Did you know that the Sears & Roebuck 'best' were made in Milton. Read Freddie Harpster's memories about the Portland Hosiery Mill. Fred's gone now , bless his soul.
Fred's Story: Sometime before September 1994 fire had all but destroyed the old Portland Hosiery Mill at the southeast edge of Milton, where Cave Neck road takes over from Atlantic Avenue. [Fred Harpster, who wrote this article, died Wednesday, October 28, 2009, which brought his memories to my mind, and the report of the 1994 fire that had kindled his memories sometime ago.]
He tells us he came to town on a dark and stormy night in 1949 or early 1950, admitting his memory was a bit hazy that far back about the dates but felt they were within reason, so be it. He and his father, who had been named the manager of Portland, resided at Lena Jefferson's 'room & board' on Federal Street. [Lena's husband, Webb Jefferson, operated a restaurant in downtown Milton. You need to be an old time Miltonian to remember Webb's, almost next to the theater. It was an eating place, hangout, coffee joint, whatever. Midnight oyster stew was the favorite to the after hours bunch who gathered at Webb's after all the bars in the county had closed for the night. Webb had several 'markets' to choose from, Lord knows just what creek they came from but usually they were fat and tasty. They were somewhat expensive too, because after midnight when you ordered one, the waitress made you pay, then when little Effie brought it to you, she made you pay. Then on your way out, Webb, at the only door to the place, made you pay. Happy days, nobody cares and never made a fuss, because Bill Betts, town cop, was handy.]
Back to Freddie;
He credits Miss Helen Hastings for her help with the early history of the building and adds that she was with the plant when it was taken over by Pohatcong Hosiery Mill of Washington, New Jersey and that she remained on the job until 1966 when Portland closed the operations.
The building was erected in 1938 by a Mr. Schultz when the ladies hosiery industry was moving southward. There were 72 hosiery mills in Delaware and a few of them centered about Lewes and Milton
Helen and Fred worked together worked together at the last mill to close, the Mar Clay Mill, at Milford in 1975.
When Fred and his father came to manage the newly acquired mill they brought with them more modern equipment to replace the old obsolete machinery which called for additions to the building, air conditioning was one improvement enjoyed by the workers. The post war machinery produced some cotton and silk stockings but the major part of the business was of nylon.
After Portland became fully operational. 30 knitting machines, running seven days a week, around the clock, with 110 or so employees, produced in the neighborhood of 10,000 dozen pairs of hosiery each week. A most up to date knitting machine, with 50 needles per inch could knit 30 stocking at a time. All of Portland's production went to Sears and was considered the 'top of the line'. The knitting was the only part of the manufacturing taking place in Milton. Company trucks hauled the product to Siler City, North Carolina for the dyeing and 'finishing'. That operation was owned by Sears and known as Kellwood Company.
Employees of Portland, if they so chose, could obtain a lot, free of charge, to build their home, in a new section of Milton, what was once the Conwell Nursery, located between Bay Avenue and Atlantic Street, soon known as the 'New Development'. Local contractors, Roy Murray and Glen Marvel, who had made the additions to the mill, were engaged to build most of the new homes. Standing in 1994, the 75,000 gallon water tower on the plant site, was used entirely for fire protection. It was built by Chicago Bridge and Iron Works.
The King Cole Company ended up with the building, using it for a storage facility.
Fred has said in his writing that many of those who came to Milton with the mill were not all that happy with the area, himself included, however, those who remained and became permanent residents could not be removed by a team of mules today. [The Sussex Tavern, across the street for the fire hall helped in that aspect, most of the knitters were well known there. John and Mildred Geyer where host and hostest that knew how to make you feel at home and have another beer.] [addendum]
Fred's Story: Sometime before September 1994 fire had all but destroyed the old Portland Hosiery Mill at the southeast edge of Milton, where Cave Neck road takes over from Atlantic Avenue. [Fred Harpster, who wrote this article, died Wednesday, October 28, 2009, which brought his memories to my mind, and the report of the 1994 fire that had kindled his memories sometime ago.]
He tells us he came to town on a dark and stormy night in 1949 or early 1950, admitting his memory was a bit hazy that far back about the dates but felt they were within reason, so be it. He and his father, who had been named the manager of Portland, resided at Lena Jefferson's 'room & board' on Federal Street. [Lena's husband, Webb Jefferson, operated a restaurant in downtown Milton. You need to be an old time Miltonian to remember Webb's, almost next to the theater. It was an eating place, hangout, coffee joint, whatever. Midnight oyster stew was the favorite to the after hours bunch who gathered at Webb's after all the bars in the county had closed for the night. Webb had several 'markets' to choose from, Lord knows just what creek they came from but usually they were fat and tasty. They were somewhat expensive too, because after midnight when you ordered one, the waitress made you pay, then when little Effie brought it to you, she made you pay. Then on your way out, Webb, at the only door to the place, made you pay. Happy days, nobody cares and never made a fuss, because Bill Betts, town cop, was handy.]
Back to Freddie;
He credits Miss Helen Hastings for her help with the early history of the building and adds that she was with the plant when it was taken over by Pohatcong Hosiery Mill of Washington, New Jersey and that she remained on the job until 1966 when Portland closed the operations.
The building was erected in 1938 by a Mr. Schultz when the ladies hosiery industry was moving southward. There were 72 hosiery mills in Delaware and a few of them centered about Lewes and Milton
Helen and Fred worked together worked together at the last mill to close, the Mar Clay Mill, at Milford in 1975.
When Fred and his father came to manage the newly acquired mill they brought with them more modern equipment to replace the old obsolete machinery which called for additions to the building, air conditioning was one improvement enjoyed by the workers. The post war machinery produced some cotton and silk stockings but the major part of the business was of nylon.
After Portland became fully operational. 30 knitting machines, running seven days a week, around the clock, with 110 or so employees, produced in the neighborhood of 10,000 dozen pairs of hosiery each week. A most up to date knitting machine, with 50 needles per inch could knit 30 stocking at a time. All of Portland's production went to Sears and was considered the 'top of the line'. The knitting was the only part of the manufacturing taking place in Milton. Company trucks hauled the product to Siler City, North Carolina for the dyeing and 'finishing'. That operation was owned by Sears and known as Kellwood Company.
Employees of Portland, if they so chose, could obtain a lot, free of charge, to build their home, in a new section of Milton, what was once the Conwell Nursery, located between Bay Avenue and Atlantic Street, soon known as the 'New Development'. Local contractors, Roy Murray and Glen Marvel, who had made the additions to the mill, were engaged to build most of the new homes. Standing in 1994, the 75,000 gallon water tower on the plant site, was used entirely for fire protection. It was built by Chicago Bridge and Iron Works.
The King Cole Company ended up with the building, using it for a storage facility.
Fred has said in his writing that many of those who came to Milton with the mill were not all that happy with the area, himself included, however, those who remained and became permanent residents could not be removed by a team of mules today. [The Sussex Tavern, across the street for the fire hall helped in that aspect, most of the knitters were well known there. John and Mildred Geyer where host and hostest that knew how to make you feel at home and have another beer.] [addendum]
Submitted: 10/31/09
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Report: Agricultural Museums Tour: 10/20/09
This is a report about a real interesting day for the 5-Points Arby's Coffee Group, from over here near Lewes, Delaware. All of us are, almost old men, retired, with plenty of time on our hands, mostly Republican. Eight of the coffee group visited the Delaware Agricultural Museum, north of Dover, direct across from the Dover Downs Racetrack. There is no excuse for telling anyone "'you don't know where it is". It is very visible and well worth and hour or two of your time. Yes, it cost $3, but try to get them to take a bit extra since the State has reduced their operational fund. There is a gift shop, go in, spend some money. The staff and volunteers are great and very helpful. Most of the museum artifacts pertain to farming, antique farming, more modern farming, good ole days housekeeping, hog killings, hand milked cows, water driven grist mill and saw mill, general store, barber shop, one room school, church and railroad station where you can sit and wait for the train. Do you know what a 'cucumber' pump is? Visit and find out. Also, this month, there is the art exhibit of the Hammond family, Mrs. Hammond and her daughter are there to greet you. The paintings, pencils sketches, etc., are well worth the visit. Of interest too, there is a two generation family of turkey buzzards living in or around the barn. If you hurry up and go, the two 'young ones' will still have 'face feathers' and ain't that bad to look at.
Now, this was not the end of our exciting day, for on the trip back home to Lewes, after a failure to visit the South Bowers Indian Burial Site, it being 'closed', we made an abrupt stop at the Bennett Farm Museum , just south of Argo's Corner, and great day, what a surprise. There at the sheds on the west side of the beach bound highway, Delaware 1, is a collection of 'good ole days' farm equipment, tractors, hay gathering machines, threshers and wagons. Yes, there is a 'timber cart'. After you have looked this exhibit over real good, it is a good bet that Fred Bennett III will drive up in his grey Dodge pickup, engage you in a lively conversation and then invite you to follow him to the 'barn' down the road, and, yes, during the conversations, sooner or later, everybody, will know everybody that everybody knows. The barn is full, I mean 'full' of history. Thanksgiving Dinner table is set with antique dinnerware. Everything but the turkey and taters, and pumpkin pie. Next to it is a memorabilia table, documents you have never seen before, pamphlets we all threw away years ago, magazines, newspapers, of times past and of interest. This is just the beginning of a three, maybe four, generation farm family collection of just everyday things. A collection to toy tractors that the kids will love , family things from the home that both mom and grandmom will want to spend time with. This is one 'free' museum that has been open since January 20, 2001 you want to make an 'extra effort' to visit, take my word for it. Fred II says "it is for the benefit of all to enjoy the history of agriculture". You can call before a visit, 684-1627. Mr. Bennett also said he has a wonderful wife, so don't worry if she answers your ring. Mrs, Bennett is from Sussex County farm families too, the Argo's and Cliftons. A family can't get much better than this.
Now, this was not the end of our exciting day, for on the trip back home to Lewes, after a failure to visit the South Bowers Indian Burial Site, it being 'closed', we made an abrupt stop at the Bennett Farm Museum , just south of Argo's Corner, and great day, what a surprise. There at the sheds on the west side of the beach bound highway, Delaware 1, is a collection of 'good ole days' farm equipment, tractors, hay gathering machines, threshers and wagons. Yes, there is a 'timber cart'. After you have looked this exhibit over real good, it is a good bet that Fred Bennett III will drive up in his grey Dodge pickup, engage you in a lively conversation and then invite you to follow him to the 'barn' down the road, and, yes, during the conversations, sooner or later, everybody, will know everybody that everybody knows. The barn is full, I mean 'full' of history. Thanksgiving Dinner table is set with antique dinnerware. Everything but the turkey and taters, and pumpkin pie. Next to it is a memorabilia table, documents you have never seen before, pamphlets we all threw away years ago, magazines, newspapers, of times past and of interest. This is just the beginning of a three, maybe four, generation farm family collection of just everyday things. A collection to toy tractors that the kids will love , family things from the home that both mom and grandmom will want to spend time with. This is one 'free' museum that has been open since January 20, 2001 you want to make an 'extra effort' to visit, take my word for it. Fred II says "it is for the benefit of all to enjoy the history of agriculture". You can call before a visit, 684-1627. Mr. Bennett also said he has a wonderful wife, so don't worry if she answers your ring. Mrs, Bennett is from Sussex County farm families too, the Argo's and Cliftons. A family can't get much better than this.
Monday, October 12, 2009
MILTON AREA SCHOOLS 1800’S – 1900’S, THEREABOUTS.
MILTON AREA SCHOOLS 1800’S – 1900’S, THEREABOUTS.
This article comes from the Chamber Clipper newsletter of the Milton Chamber of Commerce. The issue date I do not have, but it is somewhere in the late1980’s or early 1990’s. It was first written by William Wagamon, the local historian at that time, now deceased, and his able assistant, Wanda Clendaniel King, who on this day of our Lord, October twelfth, two thousand and nine, is very much alive and an active ‘bridge’ player.
The article will have names of people you may not know nor remember, but they were very much part of the Milton and Broadkill Hundred population.
Bill Wagamon wrote “ Schooling, education, book learning, basic education and higher learning, are phrases that maintain knowing about one’s world and oneself, is important to mankind and the ‘schoolhouse’ is and will ever be, a revered place where we began to nurture other ideas besides ones learned at mothers knee”.
In Milton, one of the first school buildings, located next to the Chestnut Street Goshen Cemetery, also called the Milton Methodist Cemetery, was called the Milton Academy. Bill writes, “Academy, the word has such an erudite ring to it that one wishes more buildings of learning were called academies”. This building was probably built in the late 1700’s and is said to have ‘run’ from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street.. This old academy building had only two rooms so plans were made to build another school for an increasing number of Milton school children. A new building was erected in late 1800 , located on Atlantic Street. but caught fire and burned before it was ever occupied.
The old two room Academy was moved to the river, amongst the wharfs at the foot of Walnut Street, then used as a community hall for town meetings and voting. In its place was built what was or is now called by local folk ‘the old school’. This happened in 1890 and the school was named Milton High School, District #8. Students of this school found some of the ‘accommodations’ rather rustic, what with the ‘outdoor lavatory’, one for ‘boys’ and one for ‘girls’. There was no cost spared to make these outdoor buildings commodious and they were ‘well built’ and roofed with slate. Pupils attended this school from 1890 until 1933.
In his writing, ‘Bill’ said that one of the ‘outhouses’ was still in existence on ‘Puddin Hill’.
The year 1932 saw the erection of what was when this article was first written called Milton Consolidated School #8. The first graduating class there was in 1934. A gentleman named Art Wagamon was in that class. Art was Bill’s next younger brother and was lost in an air plane crash at the end of World War II.
In 1922 Milton School #8 on Chestnut Street was ‘consolidated’ and students from all the ‘one room’ schoolhouses nearby in Broadkill Hundred were brought together.
The Cave Neck School, located about one and one half miles ‘east’ of Milton, a wood structure probably built in the mid 1800’s and educated in the one room and one teacher situation, maybe 30 to 40 pupils, age six to almost twenty. Two of the Milton people, known to many old timers, were Pete Reed and Melson Carey. This school was most likely near the Cave Neck and Round Pole Bridge road intersection. Pete and the Carey fellow had to walk to the Chestnut Street school house.
The Williams School was north of Milton, located on what is now the Williams Farm Road out on the Waples Pond Road, also Route 5. It was at lease half way to Reynolds Road. Some of the Donovan children, including Martha, Sam Williams, his brother Asa and Nate, two sisters, had that walk to make to ‘get’ educated. Sam was well know about town after serving the Navy during WWII, as ‘THE SIGN PAINTER’ and painted many of the local business delivery trucks doors.
Then there was the Ingram School. History tells it was built on the old foundation of the St. Johns Episcopal Church which I place right about where Gravel Hill Road and Shingle Point Road intersect. Wagamon tells us there was a mill pond near by named Tam Mill Pond and also known as Fraser Mill Pond.
Other one room schools had been established in Prime Hook Neck, Argos Corner, Broadkill and New Market which more likely were transferred to he Milton #8 consolidated school. Close to Overbrook , east of here , Draw Bridge , Whites Chapel, West Hill and Sunshine schools probably were transferred to the Lewes district. Anyway, these children had to walk to the town school unless their fathers or mothers were not to busy to harness up the horse and buggy. Later this conditioned changed and the school district made a contract with Merritt Hopkins to transport the children to and from school. Bussing had begun.
This article comes from the Chamber Clipper newsletter of the Milton Chamber of Commerce. The issue date I do not have, but it is somewhere in the late1980’s or early 1990’s. It was first written by William Wagamon, the local historian at that time, now deceased, and his able assistant, Wanda Clendaniel King, who on this day of our Lord, October twelfth, two thousand and nine, is very much alive and an active ‘bridge’ player.
The article will have names of people you may not know nor remember, but they were very much part of the Milton and Broadkill Hundred population.
Bill Wagamon wrote “ Schooling, education, book learning, basic education and higher learning, are phrases that maintain knowing about one’s world and oneself, is important to mankind and the ‘schoolhouse’ is and will ever be, a revered place where we began to nurture other ideas besides ones learned at mothers knee”.
In Milton, one of the first school buildings, located next to the Chestnut Street Goshen Cemetery, also called the Milton Methodist Cemetery, was called the Milton Academy. Bill writes, “Academy, the word has such an erudite ring to it that one wishes more buildings of learning were called academies”. This building was probably built in the late 1700’s and is said to have ‘run’ from Chestnut Street to Walnut Street.. This old academy building had only two rooms so plans were made to build another school for an increasing number of Milton school children. A new building was erected in late 1800 , located on Atlantic Street. but caught fire and burned before it was ever occupied.
The old two room Academy was moved to the river, amongst the wharfs at the foot of Walnut Street, then used as a community hall for town meetings and voting. In its place was built what was or is now called by local folk ‘the old school’. This happened in 1890 and the school was named Milton High School, District #8. Students of this school found some of the ‘accommodations’ rather rustic, what with the ‘outdoor lavatory’, one for ‘boys’ and one for ‘girls’. There was no cost spared to make these outdoor buildings commodious and they were ‘well built’ and roofed with slate. Pupils attended this school from 1890 until 1933.
In his writing, ‘Bill’ said that one of the ‘outhouses’ was still in existence on ‘Puddin Hill’.
The year 1932 saw the erection of what was when this article was first written called Milton Consolidated School #8. The first graduating class there was in 1934. A gentleman named Art Wagamon was in that class. Art was Bill’s next younger brother and was lost in an air plane crash at the end of World War II.
In 1922 Milton School #8 on Chestnut Street was ‘consolidated’ and students from all the ‘one room’ schoolhouses nearby in Broadkill Hundred were brought together.
The Cave Neck School, located about one and one half miles ‘east’ of Milton, a wood structure probably built in the mid 1800’s and educated in the one room and one teacher situation, maybe 30 to 40 pupils, age six to almost twenty. Two of the Milton people, known to many old timers, were Pete Reed and Melson Carey. This school was most likely near the Cave Neck and Round Pole Bridge road intersection. Pete and the Carey fellow had to walk to the Chestnut Street school house.
The Williams School was north of Milton, located on what is now the Williams Farm Road out on the Waples Pond Road, also Route 5. It was at lease half way to Reynolds Road. Some of the Donovan children, including Martha, Sam Williams, his brother Asa and Nate, two sisters, had that walk to make to ‘get’ educated. Sam was well know about town after serving the Navy during WWII, as ‘THE SIGN PAINTER’ and painted many of the local business delivery trucks doors.
Then there was the Ingram School. History tells it was built on the old foundation of the St. Johns Episcopal Church which I place right about where Gravel Hill Road and Shingle Point Road intersect. Wagamon tells us there was a mill pond near by named Tam Mill Pond and also known as Fraser Mill Pond.
Other one room schools had been established in Prime Hook Neck, Argos Corner, Broadkill and New Market which more likely were transferred to he Milton #8 consolidated school. Close to Overbrook , east of here , Draw Bridge , Whites Chapel, West Hill and Sunshine schools probably were transferred to the Lewes district. Anyway, these children had to walk to the town school unless their fathers or mothers were not to busy to harness up the horse and buggy. Later this conditioned changed and the school district made a contract with Merritt Hopkins to transport the children to and from school. Bussing had begun.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Hurlock - They observed LUCY HURLOCK GERMAN DAY here the other day in recognition of the 100th birthday of the only surviving daughter of the man for whom the town was named. Members of her family and friends greeted Lucy Hurlock German at an open house in the Academy Avenue home where she had lived so long. She had lived here for 99 years. A year ago she moved to a nursing home in Denton after breaking her hip. When the town was incorporated in 1892, it was named for her father, JOHN MARTIN HURLOCK, who was the town's railroad station agent. He came to Hurlock in 1869.
News paper item from the Daily Times of Salisbury on June 18, 1985
News paper item from the Daily Times of Salisbury on June 18, 1985
Great Rehoboth 1912 Fire
This news items is reprinted from the Delaware Pilot newspaper printed in Lewes on November 22 , 1912
On last Saturday night , fire was discovered at the
Cooper cottage on Surf Avenue. The Rehoboth Fire Department was prompt to arrive but for half an hour it was impossible to obtain water other that what was in the engines which lasted only about ten minutes and was not enough to extinguish the flames. The brisk north west wind blowing flames soon caught the Pennington cottage afire on Surf Avenue. About the same time the large double cottage of Horsey and Wolfe were on fire also. While a line of water buckets were kept coming from the force pump at Hill's bath houses a block away it was impossible to save these cottages or the stables of Dr. Wolfe on Olive Avenue. The Cannon cottage on Maryland Avenue was also destroyed. The fire was stopped at a vacant lot between the Cannon cottage ad the Judge Handy cottage on Maryland Avenue about ten o'clock. The Lewes Fire Department arrived just a little too late to be of much assistance due to the railroad being unable to move its train in time to allow the Lewes engine to arrive. To Dr. Walter Robinson belongs the credit for bringing the Lewes Engine as he towed it here and back using his own automobile. The origin of the fire has not been determined. Some cry "fire bug"" but those who carefully sized up the situation think it was some of the younger boys of this town who have been in the habit of playing 'hide and seek' behind these cottages where cigarette stumps and half burned matches are found scattered on the porch floors. The losses by the Saturday night fire were as follows; Harvey L Coopers cottage and nearly all it's contents $2000 with $1500 covered by insurance ; Mrs Lydia Pennington's cottage and content of one bedroom was $2200 and insured for $1500; Harry P. Cannon's cottage $1200, insured for $600; and furniture saved. The Horsey and Wolfe cottage, $3000, insured for $1500, furniture saved; the Stable of Dr. Wolfe $600 with no insurance. . Loss estimates by some of the city dailies correspondent ran as high as $30,000. We wish we could access the property as they had it rated. A call is out to improve the town water supply and have a water system installed. After the fire the V. I. A. ladies served hot coffee and sandwiches at the home of Mr. and Mrs. William J. Ruddell on Baltimore Avenue, while another very prominent citizen of the town furnished some left over Republican Campaign whiskey and to the everlasting disgrace of the town, some of our young men were so drunk they had to have assistance to reach their homes and while we thank the Lewes Fire Department for their assistance we beg to apologies to the citizens of Lewes for returning their young men in such intoxicated conditions.
On last Saturday night , fire was discovered at the
Cooper cottage on Surf Avenue. The Rehoboth Fire Department was prompt to arrive but for half an hour it was impossible to obtain water other that what was in the engines which lasted only about ten minutes and was not enough to extinguish the flames. The brisk north west wind blowing flames soon caught the Pennington cottage afire on Surf Avenue. About the same time the large double cottage of Horsey and Wolfe were on fire also. While a line of water buckets were kept coming from the force pump at Hill's bath houses a block away it was impossible to save these cottages or the stables of Dr. Wolfe on Olive Avenue. The Cannon cottage on Maryland Avenue was also destroyed. The fire was stopped at a vacant lot between the Cannon cottage ad the Judge Handy cottage on Maryland Avenue about ten o'clock. The Lewes Fire Department arrived just a little too late to be of much assistance due to the railroad being unable to move its train in time to allow the Lewes engine to arrive. To Dr. Walter Robinson belongs the credit for bringing the Lewes Engine as he towed it here and back using his own automobile. The origin of the fire has not been determined. Some cry "fire bug"" but those who carefully sized up the situation think it was some of the younger boys of this town who have been in the habit of playing 'hide and seek' behind these cottages where cigarette stumps and half burned matches are found scattered on the porch floors. The losses by the Saturday night fire were as follows; Harvey L Coopers cottage and nearly all it's contents $2000 with $1500 covered by insurance ; Mrs Lydia Pennington's cottage and content of one bedroom was $2200 and insured for $1500; Harry P. Cannon's cottage $1200, insured for $600; and furniture saved. The Horsey and Wolfe cottage, $3000, insured for $1500, furniture saved; the Stable of Dr. Wolfe $600 with no insurance. . Loss estimates by some of the city dailies correspondent ran as high as $30,000. We wish we could access the property as they had it rated. A call is out to improve the town water supply and have a water system installed. After the fire the V. I. A. ladies served hot coffee and sandwiches at the home of Mr. and Mrs. William J. Ruddell on Baltimore Avenue, while another very prominent citizen of the town furnished some left over Republican Campaign whiskey and to the everlasting disgrace of the town, some of our young men were so drunk they had to have assistance to reach their homes and while we thank the Lewes Fire Department for their assistance we beg to apologies to the citizens of Lewes for returning their young men in such intoxicated conditions.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Magnolia Trees in Georgetown at East Market Street and Railroad Avenue.
Magnolia Trees in
at
The next time you are in
According to the “Sussex County Snapshot Column” of the
The Clemson University Home & Garden Center list three main Magnolia varieties, the Southern, the Star and the Sweetbay, then goes on to say there are eighty species. The
Google “Magnolia Society International” or “
But, slowdown at the railroad next time in
Monday, October 5, 2009
Traveling Sand Hill of Cape Henlopen
This article was found in the June 5th , 1890 issue of Hagerstown, Maryland, Herald & Torch Light newspaper. We still have a 'walking dune' located at this Cape in the Cape Henlopen State Park and can be visited.
Lewes, Del., June 5, 1890:
Without a doubt a most interesting feature of the Atlantic Coast, a most interesting phenomena, is the traveling sand hill of Cape Henlopen. A ridge of sand, more than a mile long, fifty feet high and two hundred yards wide at its base, is rolling inland like a mighty wave from the sea and with power that is irresistible. Formed at the oceans edge, no body knows for certain when it began to move inland. Within the memory of men barely past middle age , it has traversed a space worth describing.
In 1845, General Joe Johnson, as a government engineer, was engaged in surveying the coast, he found on Cape Henlopen a great ridge of sand. It was in appearance like the ridges of sand that divide the Great South Bay of Long Island from the sea. It towered seventy two feet above high water mark. It was a ragged ridge, with course grass growing over a few parts of its surface and a few gnarled and stunted pines on its land side.
Behind it is a salt marsh with water from one to three feet deep at low ebb tide. Inland from the marsh, a small growth of pine trees. Half a mile back from the beach trees from two to three feet in diameter, tall in proportion, were found. Winding through this forest was a road established in colonial days, having mile stones by its side to show the wayfarer how far he had traveled from Lewes to the Cape Henlopen lighthouse.
In making the survey, General Johnson, noted whenever the wind came from North'erd it picked up sand on the weather side of the great ridge in such clouds that one could not travel the ridge except with face covering and then with great effort and pain, it was sometimes almost like facing a charge of birdshot. The sand thus picked up by the wind was carried over the brow of the hill where the wind formed an eddy that could not support the weight of the sand. With every northerly gale, inch after inch was cut away in front and carried to the back. The gnarled and twisted pine on the back disappeared under the wave of sand. The edge of the salt marsh was covered, the tree covered ridges were next buried out of sight. Then the great forest was reached. Where the trees stood thick and formed a solid wall of limbs and leaves the sand wave rolled up into a perpendicular wall before them, higher and higher, until level with the tree tops and then curled over and broke on them as a wave of water might have done. Where the trees were far apart the sand flowed in and filled the opening. It steadily advanced and the people saw with wonder the forest buried before their eyes. The great trees that seemed to be able in their strength to defy all that nature might bring against them, strove to put forth new branches above the rising tide, grew faint in the struggle, turned their green leaves to yellow, the yellow cones to grey and black, then died of suffocation.
As the years passed the receding wave began to uncover the old surface that had been buried. Old land marks along the edge of the salt marsh reappeared. Finally the winds scooped the sand out of the ridges and hollows of the marsh and today the the tide ebbs and flows there and at low tide the water is as deep as it was before. Then, strange to tell, a new growth of pines sprung up on the little old ridges and a new ridge of sand formed alongshore where the old one had stood. The new ridge alongshore is only a
small one , twelve to fifteen feet above high
water, but it is growing as the new trees behind it grow and it may be possibly start inland as the big one that proceeded it did. As the big sand wave continued its way, the old forest that had been buried began to be uncovered again, so that now the stranger that traverses the ridge sees on one hand the living giants of the forest grasping in the last throes of death and one the other the bleached and decaying skeletons of those that had succumb. The picture is desolate and depressing.
Judging from what the local people say here, the wave travels now from fifty feet a year to thirty feet a year where it is obstructed by the forest. It has covered one-half a mile in the last forty years.
Lewes, Del., June 5, 1890:
Without a doubt a most interesting feature of the Atlantic Coast, a most interesting phenomena, is the traveling sand hill of Cape Henlopen. A ridge of sand, more than a mile long, fifty feet high and two hundred yards wide at its base, is rolling inland like a mighty wave from the sea and with power that is irresistible. Formed at the oceans edge, no body knows for certain when it began to move inland. Within the memory of men barely past middle age , it has traversed a space worth describing.
In 1845, General Joe Johnson, as a government engineer, was engaged in surveying the coast, he found on Cape Henlopen a great ridge of sand. It was in appearance like the ridges of sand that divide the Great South Bay of Long Island from the sea. It towered seventy two feet above high water mark. It was a ragged ridge, with course grass growing over a few parts of its surface and a few gnarled and stunted pines on its land side.
Behind it is a salt marsh with water from one to three feet deep at low ebb tide. Inland from the marsh, a small growth of pine trees. Half a mile back from the beach trees from two to three feet in diameter, tall in proportion, were found. Winding through this forest was a road established in colonial days, having mile stones by its side to show the wayfarer how far he had traveled from Lewes to the Cape Henlopen lighthouse.
In making the survey, General Johnson, noted whenever the wind came from North'erd it picked up sand on the weather side of the great ridge in such clouds that one could not travel the ridge except with face covering and then with great effort and pain, it was sometimes almost like facing a charge of birdshot. The sand thus picked up by the wind was carried over the brow of the hill where the wind formed an eddy that could not support the weight of the sand. With every northerly gale, inch after inch was cut away in front and carried to the back. The gnarled and twisted pine on the back disappeared under the wave of sand. The edge of the salt marsh was covered, the tree covered ridges were next buried out of sight. Then the great forest was reached. Where the trees stood thick and formed a solid wall of limbs and leaves the sand wave rolled up into a perpendicular wall before them, higher and higher, until level with the tree tops and then curled over and broke on them as a wave of water might have done. Where the trees were far apart the sand flowed in and filled the opening. It steadily advanced and the people saw with wonder the forest buried before their eyes. The great trees that seemed to be able in their strength to defy all that nature might bring against them, strove to put forth new branches above the rising tide, grew faint in the struggle, turned their green leaves to yellow, the yellow cones to grey and black, then died of suffocation.
As the years passed the receding wave began to uncover the old surface that had been buried. Old land marks along the edge of the salt marsh reappeared. Finally the winds scooped the sand out of the ridges and hollows of the marsh and today the the tide ebbs and flows there and at low tide the water is as deep as it was before. Then, strange to tell, a new growth of pines sprung up on the little old ridges and a new ridge of sand formed alongshore where the old one had stood. The new ridge alongshore is only a
small one , twelve to fifteen feet above high
water, but it is growing as the new trees behind it grow and it may be possibly start inland as the big one that proceeded it did. As the big sand wave continued its way, the old forest that had been buried began to be uncovered again, so that now the stranger that traverses the ridge sees on one hand the living giants of the forest grasping in the last throes of death and one the other the bleached and decaying skeletons of those that had succumb. The picture is desolate and depressing.
Judging from what the local people say here, the wave travels now from fifty feet a year to thirty feet a year where it is obstructed by the forest. It has covered one-half a mile in the last forty years.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Part V: OLD MILTON BUSINESSES
PART V
OLD MILTON BUSINESSES FROM CHAMBER CLIPPER 1989
BY WILLIAM ‘BILL’ WAGAMON, HISTORIAN AND WANDA CLENDANIEL KING, REPORTER.
1700’S MAIN STREET – NOW FRONT STREET
Street names change, who knows why or when, but Milton’s Main Street in the late 1700’s has become Front Street today. This is where Bill Wagamon begins his story.
The 1909 fire destroyed many buildings at the corner where Federal and Union Streets meet and intersect with Front Street, and replaced with new buildings and businesses. Today this is sort of town center, so to speak, after all, a bank and town Police Station sit there. Going East on Front Street, river side, the first building was the S. J. Wilson & Son farm machinery and general hardware, feed and seed business. A popular item was a hand push/walk behind garden cultivator. Next door was Billy Robinson’s movie house. Bill Wagamon says Billy also showed movies on a platform on the pond for the entertainment of people in the hotel and adjoining park at Federal and Mulberry Streets.
Joe Wall’s butcher shop was next down the street, then, with no thoughts of zoning and planning , a two story structure with the union quarters of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, JROUAM, situated on the second floor and a printing or newspaper shop. The printers were Walter Crouch, printer of the Milton Times, the Bill McDaniel, Howard Carey and Tom Hughes. The next building was the shoe maker shop of John T. Crouch. Later, all of these, except the Wilson building, were demolished or renovated to make room for the Sussex Tavern, owned and operated for years by John and Mildred Geyer. Behind this line of businesses, on the river, was the Edgewater Milling Company operated by the S. J. Wilson family. The Royal Packing Company, canners of tomato products and strawberries, and a series of wharves ran along the river also. This business area was situated between Federal Street and Chestnut Street. According to Ms. Mary King Morgan , another great lady, local teacher and Milton historian, Chestnut Street was at first named Appletree Street.
Chestnut Street ends its northern way at Front. Across the street at this end was the Milton Creamery operated by J. William Fox, a nephew of S. J. Wilson. His mother, Ida , owned the theater and an ice cream parlor on Union Street. William Fox also owned one of three ice houses located on the pond near the grist mill, the other ice houses being owned by Joe Walls and Handy Prettyman. Later, Charles G. Porter took over the Fox creamery and operated an ice cream business. Next was a blacksmith shop where Walt Blizzard forged and hammered many years. Lately this section became a poultry processing factory, then a section of the city’s sewer disposal facility.
Walnut Street also ends at Front. It is unknown what name Walnut had at one time, but at the top of the hill going southward, a section was known as “Pudding Hill”.
There were more wharves along the river in this area of Walnut Street which were used to load barges with timber by Mr. Reuben Harrington. Somewhere along in this general area was an oyster shucking house.
The original structure of the Milton Academy, once situated near the Goshen Methodist Cemetery, had been moved to this river side area. It served as a community center and the local voting place. Jim Ponder had a pool room around the area but I am not sure it was located in the old academy building or not.
The next block, Walnut to Collins Street, was mostly marsh that had been filled in to make a road to one of the Ponder shipyards and the Birdsong Tomato Factory, run by the Apt Brothers. Skull Town was across Front Street and had its own “Mayor”. Right about now we are at ‘Round Pole Branch’ and that is the end of Milton town limits and this story.
Welcome
My name is Harrison and I collect historical newspaper clippings and information that I will share with you. I volunteer with local historical societies and do research for them. I will post whenever interesting items are available. Maybe I will tell you about something about my work with the historical society. Most of my research is from Sussex County DE and surrounding counties, as well as Eastern Shore Maryland. Thank you for visiting, and I'll be right back with an interesting post!
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