At a Meeting of theCorporation,&c.June13, 1786.Whereasthe enjoining of an uniform colour, in the clothing of the Undergraduates, and prohibiting a certain ſpecies of materials, in their apparel, will have a great tendency to leſſen the expenſe of dreſs (which, at preſent, conſtitutes too large a proportion of the Collegiate charges) while, at the ſame time, the appearance will be more academical:Voted, That it be recommended, that the Freſhmen, who ſhall be admitted into the Univerſity thepreſent year, before the end of the Summer Vacation, be provided with coats of blue-gray, being a mixture of deep blue and white wool, as nearly as may be, ſeven eighths of the blue, and one eighth of the white, or, if that cannot conveniently be obtained, of a dark blue colour,—and with waiſtcoats and breeches of the ſame colour, or of a ſtraw colour.That, when they ſhall procure clothes, afterwards, and while Undergraduates, their coats ſhall be of the colour firſt mentioned, and their waiſtcoats and breeches of the ſame colour, or of a ſtraw colour.That the Freſhmen, who ſhall be admitted into the Univerſity in the year 1787, and afterwards, ſhall be provided with coats of the colour firſt mentioned, and with waiſtcoats and breeches as laſt mentioned, and ſhall continue provided with clothes of theſe ſpecified colours while they remain Undergraduates.That all, who ſhall hereafter be admitted, when they commence Sophimores, ſhall have the addition of frogs to the button holes of their coats, the cuff of the ſleeve to be plain.That when they commence Junior Sophiſters, their coats ſhall have the further addition of frogs on the button-ſide,—continuing the plain cuff; and they ſhall alſo provide themſelves with black gowns, having a cloſe ſleeve and ſlit cuff, to be made according to the direction of the Corporation.That, when they commence Senior Sophiſters, they ſhall have the further addition of buttons andfrogs to the cuff of their coat, and ſhall alſo have black gowns, with a wide ſleeve,—the mode to be determined by the Corporation.That when they are admitted to the Bachelor's degree, they ſhall appear in like gowns and clothes as are preſcribed for the Senior Sophiſters.That the Seniors and Juniors ſhall wear their black gowns, on all publick occaſions, and whenever they ſhall publickly declaim in the Chapel.That no Undergraduate, to whom theſe injunctions may extend, be permitted to appear within the limits of the College, or town of Cambridge, in any other dreſs than is before deſcribed, unleſs he has on a night gown, or an outſide garment be neceſſary over his coat.That no part of the dreſs of the Undergraduates be made of ſilk;—and that it be recommended to them, to clothe themſelves in home manufactures, as far as may be.That theſe regulations be extended to all who ſhall hereafter be admitted into the Univerſity;—and that it be recommended to ſuch as are already Members, to conform thereto, upon principles of economy, as far as may conſiſt with their preſent ſupply of clothing.
At a Meeting of theCorporation,&c.
June13, 1786.
Whereasthe enjoining of an uniform colour, in the clothing of the Undergraduates, and prohibiting a certain ſpecies of materials, in their apparel, will have a great tendency to leſſen the expenſe of dreſs (which, at preſent, conſtitutes too large a proportion of the Collegiate charges) while, at the ſame time, the appearance will be more academical:
Voted, That it be recommended, that the Freſhmen, who ſhall be admitted into the Univerſity thepreſent year, before the end of the Summer Vacation, be provided with coats of blue-gray, being a mixture of deep blue and white wool, as nearly as may be, ſeven eighths of the blue, and one eighth of the white, or, if that cannot conveniently be obtained, of a dark blue colour,—and with waiſtcoats and breeches of the ſame colour, or of a ſtraw colour.
That, when they ſhall procure clothes, afterwards, and while Undergraduates, their coats ſhall be of the colour firſt mentioned, and their waiſtcoats and breeches of the ſame colour, or of a ſtraw colour.
That the Freſhmen, who ſhall be admitted into the Univerſity in the year 1787, and afterwards, ſhall be provided with coats of the colour firſt mentioned, and with waiſtcoats and breeches as laſt mentioned, and ſhall continue provided with clothes of theſe ſpecified colours while they remain Undergraduates.
That all, who ſhall hereafter be admitted, when they commence Sophimores, ſhall have the addition of frogs to the button holes of their coats, the cuff of the ſleeve to be plain.
That when they commence Junior Sophiſters, their coats ſhall have the further addition of frogs on the button-ſide,—continuing the plain cuff; and they ſhall alſo provide themſelves with black gowns, having a cloſe ſleeve and ſlit cuff, to be made according to the direction of the Corporation.
That, when they commence Senior Sophiſters, they ſhall have the further addition of buttons andfrogs to the cuff of their coat, and ſhall alſo have black gowns, with a wide ſleeve,—the mode to be determined by the Corporation.
That when they are admitted to the Bachelor's degree, they ſhall appear in like gowns and clothes as are preſcribed for the Senior Sophiſters.
That the Seniors and Juniors ſhall wear their black gowns, on all publick occaſions, and whenever they ſhall publickly declaim in the Chapel.
That no Undergraduate, to whom theſe injunctions may extend, be permitted to appear within the limits of the College, or town of Cambridge, in any other dreſs than is before deſcribed, unleſs he has on a night gown, or an outſide garment be neceſſary over his coat.
That no part of the dreſs of the Undergraduates be made of ſilk;—and that it be recommended to them, to clothe themſelves in home manufactures, as far as may be.
That theſe regulations be extended to all who ſhall hereafter be admitted into the Univerſity;—and that it be recommended to ſuch as are already Members, to conform thereto, upon principles of economy, as far as may conſiſt with their preſent ſupply of clothing.
Universityin Cambridge, June 12, 1786.Candidatesfor their ſecond degree, at the next Commencement, are notified, that it is expected that they give their attendance at the Univerſity by the 12th day of July; and if anyſhould not attend by that time, they will not receive their degree this year, unleſs they give ſufficient reaſons for their abſence.They who deſire admiſſion into the Univerſity this year, are alſo notified, that the Preſident and Tutors will attend the buſineſs of examination on Friday and Saturday, the 21ſt and 22d of July.JOSEPH WILLARD, Preſident.
Universityin Cambridge, June 12, 1786.
Candidatesfor their ſecond degree, at the next Commencement, are notified, that it is expected that they give their attendance at the Univerſity by the 12th day of July; and if anyſhould not attend by that time, they will not receive their degree this year, unleſs they give ſufficient reaſons for their abſence.
They who deſire admiſſion into the Univerſity this year, are alſo notified, that the Preſident and Tutors will attend the buſineſs of examination on Friday and Saturday, the 21ſt and 22d of July.
JOSEPH WILLARD, Preſident.
In 1788 the industry of the people of Providence, R.I., is set forth in the following notice, from the "Salem Mercury" of November 25:
American Manufactures.A Providence paper informs, that the Carding and Spinning Machines uſed in England in manufacturing cotton ſtuffs, are introducing into that town by ſome publick ſpirited gentlemen—and that there are few families in that town which are not manufacturing ſome kind of cloth.
American Manufactures.
A Providence paper informs, that the Carding and Spinning Machines uſed in England in manufacturing cotton ſtuffs, are introducing into that town by ſome publick ſpirited gentlemen—and that there are few families in that town which are not manufacturing ſome kind of cloth.
It appears from the "Columbian Centinel," July 14, 1790, that the wealthy of that day had a fondness for foreign articles.
Complaint is very prolifick in all countries. In the United States we complain, that,
Tho' rich at home, to foreign lands we ſtray,And trade for trinkets our beſt wealth away.
Tho' rich at home, to foreign lands we ſtray,And trade for trinkets our beſt wealth away.
The following advertisement from the "Massachusetts Centinel" recalls the time when cows were pastured on Boston Common.
Strayed, on Saturday laſt, from Boſton Common, and belonging to JONATHAN AMORY, a young red COW, with ſome white on the back and belly, forehead white, ſmall horns, with the tips off. Whoever will bring her to the owner will be rewarded.Boſton, May 24, 1788.
Strayed, on Saturday laſt, from Boſton Common, and belonging to JONATHAN AMORY, a young red COW, with ſome white on the back and belly, forehead white, ſmall horns, with the tips off. Whoever will bring her to the owner will be rewarded.
Boſton, May 24, 1788.
People were expected to have long memories in old times, judging from the following notification in the "Boston Gazette" of 1760:—
Whereason the 17th of January 1740-1, twenty-ſeven yards and an half of yard-wide ſheeting linnen, and ſome ſmaller articles, was ſold at Mr.James Gordon'sſhop inBoſton, and deliver'd toone capt.Stevens, as appears by ſaidGordon'sbook; and thro' ſome miſtake in keeping his books, ſaid articles are charg'd to another of the ſame name. If therefore the ſaid capt.Stevens, that really had ſaid goods, or any of his family, or others, can give any light into the matter, it is deſired they would acquaint the printers hereof, and they ſhall be generouſly recompenced for their trouble.
Whereason the 17th of January 1740-1, twenty-ſeven yards and an half of yard-wide ſheeting linnen, and ſome ſmaller articles, was ſold at Mr.James Gordon'sſhop inBoſton, and deliver'd toone capt.Stevens, as appears by ſaidGordon'sbook; and thro' ſome miſtake in keeping his books, ſaid articles are charg'd to another of the ſame name. If therefore the ſaid capt.Stevens, that really had ſaid goods, or any of his family, or others, can give any light into the matter, it is deſired they would acquaint the printers hereof, and they ſhall be generouſly recompenced for their trouble.
The "small pox" was very troublesome in Colonial times, as this announcement from the "Boston Gazette," Feb. 2, 1761, shows:—
Samuel Parkman hereby informs his Cuſtomers and others, That immediately on the breaking out of the Small-Pox in the back Part of his Houſe in Union Street, he removed his Shop Goods to a Store on a Wharf that they may be ſafe from any Infection, and himſelf to the Houſe of Mr. Joſhua Winter Stationer—The Perſon who had the Diſtemper is perfectly recovered, and departed the Houſe ſome Days ago, and the Houſe thoroughly cleanſed.
Samuel Parkman hereby informs his Cuſtomers and others, That immediately on the breaking out of the Small-Pox in the back Part of his Houſe in Union Street, he removed his Shop Goods to a Store on a Wharf that they may be ſafe from any Infection, and himſelf to the Houſe of Mr. Joſhua Winter Stationer—The Perſon who had the Diſtemper is perfectly recovered, and departed the Houſe ſome Days ago, and the Houſe thoroughly cleanſed.
The following notice from the "Massachusetts Gazette" reminds us of the time of open fire-places and blazing, cheerful wood-fires:
The Selectmenwould inform the Town, that they haveapprobateda number ofChimney-Sweepers, who are furniſhed with badges agreeable to the By-Laws, and have ſtipulated to execute their buſineſsfaithfully, at the following rates, viz.—For lower-room chimnies,fourteen pence two fifths, orone piſtareen; and forallchamber chimnies,one ſhillingeach—that all concerned may govern themſelves accordingly.Boſton, Sept. 21, 1786.
The Selectmenwould inform the Town, that they haveapprobateda number ofChimney-Sweepers, who are furniſhed with badges agreeable to the By-Laws, and have ſtipulated to execute their buſineſsfaithfully, at the following rates, viz.—For lower-room chimnies,fourteen pence two fifths, orone piſtareen; and forallchamber chimnies,one ſhillingeach—that all concerned may govern themſelves accordingly.
Boſton, Sept. 21, 1786.
The spinning-wheel at Ipswich. From the "Columbian Centinel," June 7, 1791.
For theCENTINEL.The Printeris requeſted to record it among the numerous inſtances of female benevolence and harmony, which have been exhibited in theſe times, and ſo well reprove the jarring diſſenſions of themen—that at Ipſwich, lately, at the houſe of the Rev. Mr.Dana, a numerous band of ladies, in harmonious concert, have again "laid their hands to the ſpindle, and held the diſtaff," and preſented the fruit of their generous toil, 118 run of good yarn; viz. 88 linen, 30 cotton; the materials, proviſions, and handſome attendance, all furniſhed by themſelves and thoſe who joined with them.—"Give her of the fruit of her own hands, and let her own works praiſe her in the gates."
For theCENTINEL.
The Printeris requeſted to record it among the numerous inſtances of female benevolence and harmony, which have been exhibited in theſe times, and ſo well reprove the jarring diſſenſions of themen—that at Ipſwich, lately, at the houſe of the Rev. Mr.Dana, a numerous band of ladies, in harmonious concert, have again "laid their hands to the ſpindle, and held the diſtaff," and preſented the fruit of their generous toil, 118 run of good yarn; viz. 88 linen, 30 cotton; the materials, proviſions, and handſome attendance, all furniſhed by themſelves and thoſe who joined with them.—"Give her of the fruit of her own hands, and let her own works praiſe her in the gates."
From the "Salem Mercury," April 28, 1787.
Not long ago a number of ladies belonging to the Preſbyterian ſociety in Newbury-Port, aſſembled at the Parſonage-houſe, with their ſpinning-wheels and other utenſils of induſtry, for the day, to the benefit of their miniſter's family. The aſſembly having firſt united in the ſolemn exerciſes of ſocial worſhip, the buſineſs of the day was opened. Every apartment in the houſe was full. The muſick of the ſpinning-wheel reſounded from every room. Benevolence was ſeen ſmiling in every countenance, and the harmony of hearts ſurpaſſed even the harmony of wheels. The labours of the day were concluded about 5 o'clock; when the fair labourers preſented Mrs.Murraywith cotton and linen yarn, of the beſt quality, amounting to 236 ſkeins. Neceſſary refreſhment being paſt, publick worſhip was attended; and a diſcourſe delivered, by the Rev. Mr.Murray, to a large aſſembly, from Exodus 35, 25,And all the women that were wiſe-hearted did ſpin with their hands.
Not long ago a number of ladies belonging to the Preſbyterian ſociety in Newbury-Port, aſſembled at the Parſonage-houſe, with their ſpinning-wheels and other utenſils of induſtry, for the day, to the benefit of their miniſter's family. The aſſembly having firſt united in the ſolemn exerciſes of ſocial worſhip, the buſineſs of the day was opened. Every apartment in the houſe was full. The muſick of the ſpinning-wheel reſounded from every room. Benevolence was ſeen ſmiling in every countenance, and the harmony of hearts ſurpaſſed even the harmony of wheels. The labours of the day were concluded about 5 o'clock; when the fair labourers preſented Mrs.Murraywith cotton and linen yarn, of the beſt quality, amounting to 236 ſkeins. Neceſſary refreſhment being paſt, publick worſhip was attended; and a diſcourſe delivered, by the Rev. Mr.Murray, to a large aſſembly, from Exodus 35, 25,And all the women that were wiſe-hearted did ſpin with their hands.
From the "Salem Mercury," Feb. 6, 1787.
There is a young Miſs in New-Haven, who will ſoon wear a ſilk gownof her own make. Such noble induſtry ought to be written in letters of gold. May the ladies profit by the example—and may itſoon be eſteemed diſreputable, by both ladies and gentlemen, to wear any thick ſilk but of our own manufacture.
There is a young Miſs in New-Haven, who will ſoon wear a ſilk gownof her own make. Such noble induſtry ought to be written in letters of gold. May the ladies profit by the example—and may itſoon be eſteemed diſreputable, by both ladies and gentlemen, to wear any thick ſilk but of our own manufacture.
An advertisement in the "Boston Gazette," Feb. 19, 1760, rather indicates that "searchers" sometimes exceeded their powers.
AllPerſons who within five Years paſt, have had any Shoes or Boots, ſeiz'd and taken from them, in the Town of Boſton, by any of the Searches and Sealers of Leather there, for being made of Leather unduly tann'd or curried, or on Pretence thereof; are hereby notified to give or ſend in to the Printers hereof, an Account in Writing, of the Number of Shoes, &c. ſo taken from them, the Time when (as near as they can) with the Name of the Perſon that ſeiz'd and took them, and the Name of the Juſtice of Peace to whom Complaint or Information was made concerning ſuch Shoes, &c. by the eighth Day ofMarchnext, if they deſire any Recompence for the Injuries they have ſuffer'd by ſuch Seizures.
AllPerſons who within five Years paſt, have had any Shoes or Boots, ſeiz'd and taken from them, in the Town of Boſton, by any of the Searches and Sealers of Leather there, for being made of Leather unduly tann'd or curried, or on Pretence thereof; are hereby notified to give or ſend in to the Printers hereof, an Account in Writing, of the Number of Shoes, &c. ſo taken from them, the Time when (as near as they can) with the Name of the Perſon that ſeiz'd and took them, and the Name of the Juſtice of Peace to whom Complaint or Information was made concerning ſuch Shoes, &c. by the eighth Day ofMarchnext, if they deſire any Recompence for the Injuries they have ſuffer'd by ſuch Seizures.
In 1767 snuff was apparently of more importance, as merchandise, to say the least, than were Bibles and Testaments. In an advertisement it was printed in capitals, while the latter were in smaller type.
Caleb Blanchard,In Union-Street,BOSTON.HAS juſt Imported by CaptainRhodesfromLondon,and CaptainBainfromGlaſgow.A Great Variety of Engliſh, India, and Scotch GOODS, ſuitable for all Seaſons of the Year, which He ſells at the loweſt Rates, by Wholesale or Retail, for Caſh or Treaſurer's Notes.N.B.Kippen's and Tillich's SNUFF, Bibles and Teſtaments, all Sorts of Stationary, &c. &c. &c.
Caleb Blanchard,
In Union-Street,BOSTON.
HAS juſt Imported by CaptainRhodesfromLondon,and CaptainBainfromGlaſgow.
A Great Variety of Engliſh, India, and Scotch GOODS, ſuitable for all Seaſons of the Year, which He ſells at the loweſt Rates, by Wholesale or Retail, for Caſh or Treaſurer's Notes.
N.B.Kippen's and Tillich's SNUFF, Bibles and Teſtaments, all Sorts of Stationary, &c. &c. &c.
Boſton, April 19th, 1788.Whereasſome perſon or perſons have acted ſo villainous a part, as to make uſe of my name in vending and ſelling Snuff of a very bad quality; not only injuring me in my credit, but cheating the purchaſer, as the Snuff manufactured by me is of the beſt kind, and which I always warrant to be ſuch.Some of the purchaſers of ſaid bad Snuff have brought the ſame to me, ſuppoſing it to be really of my manufacture; but upon examination, found it to be of a looſe and dry kind, and may be eaſily diſcovered.Whoever will give information of the perſon or perſons, who thus impoſe on the publick, by makinguſe of my name to vend and ſell ſuch baſe Snuff, ſhall be handſomely rewarded, by their humble ſervant,SIMON ELLIOT.N.B. The publick are informed, that to prevent the above deception, the advertiſements on bladders of Snuff, in future, will be altered from letter-preſs, to a copperplate impreſſion. (2m)Massachusetts Centinel.
Boſton, April 19th, 1788.
Whereasſome perſon or perſons have acted ſo villainous a part, as to make uſe of my name in vending and ſelling Snuff of a very bad quality; not only injuring me in my credit, but cheating the purchaſer, as the Snuff manufactured by me is of the beſt kind, and which I always warrant to be ſuch.
Some of the purchaſers of ſaid bad Snuff have brought the ſame to me, ſuppoſing it to be really of my manufacture; but upon examination, found it to be of a looſe and dry kind, and may be eaſily diſcovered.
Whoever will give information of the perſon or perſons, who thus impoſe on the publick, by makinguſe of my name to vend and ſell ſuch baſe Snuff, ſhall be handſomely rewarded, by their humble ſervant,
SIMON ELLIOT.
N.B. The publick are informed, that to prevent the above deception, the advertiſements on bladders of Snuff, in future, will be altered from letter-preſs, to a copperplate impreſſion. (2m)
Massachusetts Centinel.
The habit of Snuff-taking was formerly very prevalent in New England, as well as elsewhere. Within the writer's recollection it was a very common thing to see the snuff-box passed round for friends to take a pinch. Very few now a days indulge in this uncleanly habit; but a recent traveller relates that on visiting St. Peter's in Rome, the first thing upon entering the church which attracted his attention was seeing the Pope take a pinch of snuff and then shake from his pocket a large old-fashioned bandanna handkerchief, which he applied to his nose. Many years ago a gentleman of Salem was questioned by a stranger about a certain man who happened to be an inveterate snuff-taker and who was at the same time greatly interested in free-masonry. "Yes," said the gentleman, "I knowhim."—"He's about one third masonry and two thirds snuff." Mr. Francis H. Lee, of Salem, has a curious collection of a hundred or more snuff-boxes of former generations. They are of various patterns; some are made of shell and tipped with silver, and look quite ancient. Simon Elliot, of Boston, and later Wm. Micklefield, of Salem, were famous snuff manufacturers.
A curious snuff-box, advertised in the "Columbian Centinel," 1819.
A CURIOSITY.E. COPELAND, Jr., has for sale a most elegant Gold SNUFF BOX set with Pearls, &c. It is about 2½ inches long and from the top a beautifullittle Birdrises at command and sings a tune. The movements of the wings, beak, eyes, &c. are perfectly natural, and all its motions while singing are in complete unison with its notes. This is probably as ingenious a piece of mechanism as was ever seen in this town. It will be sold a great bargain.august 21
A CURIOSITY.
E. COPELAND, Jr., has for sale a most elegant Gold SNUFF BOX set with Pearls, &c. It is about 2½ inches long and from the top a beautifullittle Birdrises at command and sings a tune. The movements of the wings, beak, eyes, &c. are perfectly natural, and all its motions while singing are in complete unison with its notes. This is probably as ingenious a piece of mechanism as was ever seen in this town. It will be sold a great bargain.
august 21
In this connection we notice "Micklefield's Indian," as it was called, a well-known landmarkin Salem half a century ago. Mr. Micklefield was much respected, and noted for his liberality and public spirit.
TheSubscriber begs leave to inform his friends and the public, that owing to the fall in prices of different Scents and Stock in general, that compose the article of Snuff, he is thereby enabled to sell his different kinds, viz.—Maccoboy, Scented and Plain Rappee and ScotchSNUFFS,at a much lower price than heretofore.—Traders in the neighboring towns that deal in those articles are particularly solicited to call at his Store, sign of theIndian Chief, corner of Central and Front streets, where they can purchase at very low prices, and warranted of the first quality.ALSO,Spanish, half Spanish and commonCIGARS,Cavendish, Ladies' Twist, Pigtail, and all kinds of ManufacturedTOBACCO,wholesale and retail.WM. MICKLEFIELD.Salem, Jan. 18, 1827.tf
TheSubscriber begs leave to inform his friends and the public, that owing to the fall in prices of different Scents and Stock in general, that compose the article of Snuff, he is thereby enabled to sell his different kinds, viz.—Maccoboy, Scented and Plain Rappee and Scotch
SNUFFS,
at a much lower price than heretofore.—Traders in the neighboring towns that deal in those articles are particularly solicited to call at his Store, sign of theIndian Chief, corner of Central and Front streets, where they can purchase at very low prices, and warranted of the first quality.
ALSO,
Spanish, half Spanish and common
CIGARS,
Cavendish, Ladies' Twist, Pigtail, and all kinds of Manufactured
TOBACCO,
wholesale and retail.
WM. MICKLEFIELD.
Salem, Jan. 18, 1827.
tf
From the "Salem Mercury," Nov. 25, 1788.
S. Breck, Eſq. member of the Houſe of Repreſentatives for Boſton, appears in his ſeat with a complete ſuit of American manufactured broadcloth, of an elegant colour.
S. Breck, Eſq. member of the Houſe of Repreſentatives for Boſton, appears in his ſeat with a complete ſuit of American manufactured broadcloth, of an elegant colour.
About 1787 and 1788, spinning-wheel meetings seem to have been very popular. We copy notices of meetings of young ladies in Attleboro', Dighton, Gloucester, Rehoboth, Mass., and Providence and Johnston, R.I., all from the "Salem Mercury."
Attleboro',June 20. Yeſterday, 63 reſpectable young ladies, belonging to this town, aſſlembled, at 2 o'clock, P.M. at the houſe of Mr. Daniel Balkum, and, to the ſurpriſe and great ſatisfaction of all the friends to induſtry, ſpun, before ſunſet, 199 ſkeins of excellent linen yarn. Induſtry is the genuine ſource of all laudable pleaſure. On it depend all the conveniences of life. Health, the greateſt of bleſſings, depends on induſtry—beauty, on health. If ladies, then, wiſh to be beautiful, they muſt be induſtrious; they muſt animate their countenances with that blooming health which comes from theSpinning-wheel. The fair ſex, when rightly and induſtriouſly employed, are juſtly termed the beauty of this lower creation. Beauty without virtue is contemptible. Merit only gains the heart. Idleneſs is diſgraceful. Induſtry is the ornament of wealth, the ſupport and conſolation of poverty. We hope ſoon to ſee the time, when the fair daughters of America will be clothed in the manufactures of their own hands. Happy are we, that ſome have already ſet the example. May it never be ſaid, that American ladies riſe 15 minutes later than the ſun. May they ever have thread enough in their hands to make a halter for a Shays.
Attleboro',June 20. Yeſterday, 63 reſpectable young ladies, belonging to this town, aſſlembled, at 2 o'clock, P.M. at the houſe of Mr. Daniel Balkum, and, to the ſurpriſe and great ſatisfaction of all the friends to induſtry, ſpun, before ſunſet, 199 ſkeins of excellent linen yarn. Induſtry is the genuine ſource of all laudable pleaſure. On it depend all the conveniences of life. Health, the greateſt of bleſſings, depends on induſtry—beauty, on health. If ladies, then, wiſh to be beautiful, they muſt be induſtrious; they muſt animate their countenances with that blooming health which comes from theSpinning-wheel. The fair ſex, when rightly and induſtriouſly employed, are juſtly termed the beauty of this lower creation. Beauty without virtue is contemptible. Merit only gains the heart. Idleneſs is diſgraceful. Induſtry is the ornament of wealth, the ſupport and conſolation of poverty. We hope ſoon to ſee the time, when the fair daughters of America will be clothed in the manufactures of their own hands. Happy are we, that ſome have already ſet the example. May it never be ſaid, that American ladies riſe 15 minutes later than the ſun. May they ever have thread enough in their hands to make a halter for a Shays.
On Tueſday laſt, thirteen young ladies aſſembled, with their ſpinning-wheels, at the houſe of Mr. Joſeph Whipple, in North-Providence, and, between thehours of eight in the morning and ſix in the afternoon, completed fifty ſkeins of excellent linen yarn.July 1, 1788.
On Tueſday laſt, thirteen young ladies aſſembled, with their ſpinning-wheels, at the houſe of Mr. Joſeph Whipple, in North-Providence, and, between thehours of eight in the morning and ſix in the afternoon, completed fifty ſkeins of excellent linen yarn.
July 1, 1788.
The ſpinning-wheel, a few years ago imprudently neglected, begins to be held in general reputation by the Fair; and the exploits of ſome on that uſeful machine, are deſervedly celebrated, as worthy of imitation. To thoſe good works of female induſtry may be added the ſingular attachment of two young ladies in Dighton, who ſpun, the 11th inſtant, between the riſing and ſetting of the ſun, thirteen ſkeins and eleven lees of good linen yarn; one ſix ſkeins and ſeven, and the other ſeven ſkeins and four lees. The ſpirit of induſtry is becoming more prevalent, eſpecially among the fair ſex. They begin to lay aſide their uſeleſs and idle viſits, or, at leaſt, make them leſs frequent. When perſons become more induſtrious and mind their own buſineſs, they talk leſs, and to better purpoſe; they become more contented, and the world around them is more peaceable and happy.Providence Gazette, July 1, 1788.
The ſpinning-wheel, a few years ago imprudently neglected, begins to be held in general reputation by the Fair; and the exploits of ſome on that uſeful machine, are deſervedly celebrated, as worthy of imitation. To thoſe good works of female induſtry may be added the ſingular attachment of two young ladies in Dighton, who ſpun, the 11th inſtant, between the riſing and ſetting of the ſun, thirteen ſkeins and eleven lees of good linen yarn; one ſix ſkeins and ſeven, and the other ſeven ſkeins and four lees. The ſpirit of induſtry is becoming more prevalent, eſpecially among the fair ſex. They begin to lay aſide their uſeleſs and idle viſits, or, at leaſt, make them leſs frequent. When perſons become more induſtrious and mind their own buſineſs, they talk leſs, and to better purpoſe; they become more contented, and the world around them is more peaceable and happy.
Providence Gazette, July 1, 1788.
Providence,May 24. On the 7th inſt. 71 ladies met at the houſe of the Rev. Mr. Ellis, in Rehoboth,and lodged 187 ſkeins of good linen yarn, which they had ſpun for Mrs. Ellis; and others have ſince added 31. Solomon, in deſcribing a virtuous woman, ſays, "She ſeeketh wool and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.—She layeth her hands to the ſpindle, and her hands hold the diſtaff." Induſtry is certainly a virtue, which, while it adorns, enriches, ſociety; it baniſhes the languid hue from the countenances of the fair, and adds vigour and vivacity to the mind.—The ſpirited exertions that the daughters of Columbia are making, to manufacture our wool and flax, which are neceſſary for our conſumption, are praiſe-worthy, and demand the approbation and aſſiſtance of every true patriot. We flatter ourſelves with the pleaſing expectation of ſeeing the virtuous fair clothed and ornamented in the genuine productions of their own labour.
Providence,May 24. On the 7th inſt. 71 ladies met at the houſe of the Rev. Mr. Ellis, in Rehoboth,and lodged 187 ſkeins of good linen yarn, which they had ſpun for Mrs. Ellis; and others have ſince added 31. Solomon, in deſcribing a virtuous woman, ſays, "She ſeeketh wool and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.—She layeth her hands to the ſpindle, and her hands hold the diſtaff." Induſtry is certainly a virtue, which, while it adorns, enriches, ſociety; it baniſhes the languid hue from the countenances of the fair, and adds vigour and vivacity to the mind.—The ſpirited exertions that the daughters of Columbia are making, to manufacture our wool and flax, which are neceſſary for our conſumption, are praiſe-worthy, and demand the approbation and aſſiſtance of every true patriot. We flatter ourſelves with the pleaſing expectation of ſeeing the virtuous fair clothed and ornamented in the genuine productions of their own labour.
We hear from Glouceſter, that on Thurſday laſt nearly thirty young ladies, inſpired with the love of induſtry, aſſlembled at the houſe of Capt. Philemon Haſkell, for the praiſe-worthy purpoſe of a Federal Spinning Match, when, to their honour, their ſpirited exertion produced 99 ſkeins of excellent yarn—practically declaring, that they neither laboured in vain or ſpent their ſtrength for nought. The day thus induſtriouſly concluded, finiſhed not the harmony of their federaliſm; in the evening, to crown the pleaſure of the day, with additional company, they regaledwith an agreeable dance, and, at a modeſt hour, parted in love and friendſhip, with hearts convivial as they met, leaving others to admire their female patriotiſm, and to go and do likewiſe.In Scotland, the farmers knit as well as the women of their families; but they do this while they are watching their ſheep or cattle, or while they are ſitting by their evening fire in winter. Why cannot our American farmers and their ſons adopt this frugal practice? Time is the moſt precious thing in the world. Its very fragments ſhould be ſaved.
We hear from Glouceſter, that on Thurſday laſt nearly thirty young ladies, inſpired with the love of induſtry, aſſlembled at the houſe of Capt. Philemon Haſkell, for the praiſe-worthy purpoſe of a Federal Spinning Match, when, to their honour, their ſpirited exertion produced 99 ſkeins of excellent yarn—practically declaring, that they neither laboured in vain or ſpent their ſtrength for nought. The day thus induſtriouſly concluded, finiſhed not the harmony of their federaliſm; in the evening, to crown the pleaſure of the day, with additional company, they regaledwith an agreeable dance, and, at a modeſt hour, parted in love and friendſhip, with hearts convivial as they met, leaving others to admire their female patriotiſm, and to go and do likewiſe.
In Scotland, the farmers knit as well as the women of their families; but they do this while they are watching their ſheep or cattle, or while they are ſitting by their evening fire in winter. Why cannot our American farmers and their ſons adopt this frugal practice? Time is the moſt precious thing in the world. Its very fragments ſhould be ſaved.
Providence, May17. Monday laſt, eighteen young ladies aſſembled, with their ſpinning-wheels, at the houſe of Captain Jonathan Treadwell, and ſpun 40 ſkeins of good linen yarn.May22. A correſpondent deſires us to mention, that at Johnſton, a few days ſince, four induſtrious young ladies, by "laying their fingers to the ſpindle, and their hands to the diſtaff," completed, in one day, the ſpinning and reeling of 21 fifteen-knotted ſkeins of good linen yarn. Would to God, that the Gentlemen at the head of our political affairs in this State, were half ſo zealous in encouraging our own manufactures, as the fair ſex are; who, at preſent, deſervedly bear the palm, as friends to their country."Spinning Bee. On the 1st inſt. aſſembled at the houſe of the Rev. Samuel Deane of this town, more than one hundred of the fair ſex, married and ſingle ladies, moſt of whom, were ſkilled in the important art of ſpinning. An emulous induſtry was never more apparent than in this beautiful aſſembly. The majority of fair hands gave motion to not leſs than ſixty wheels. Many were occupied in preparing the materials, beſides thoſe who attended to the entertainment of the reſt,—proviſion for which was moſtly preſented by the gueſts themſelves, or ſent in by other generous promoters of the exhibition, as were alſo the materials for the work. Near the cloſe of the day Mrs. Deane was preſented by the company, with two hundred and thirty-ſix, ſeven-knotted ſkeins of excellent cotton and linen yarn, the work of the day, excepting about a dozen ſkeins, which ſome of the company brought in ready ſpun. Some had ſpun ſix and many not leſs than five ſkeins apiece. She takes this opportunity of returning thanks to each, which the hurry of the day rendered impracticable at the time. To conclude and crown the day, a numerous band of the beſt ſingers attended in the evening and performed an agreeable variety of excellent pieces in psalmody. "The price of a virtuous woman is far above rubies, * * * She layeth her hands to the ſpindle and her hands hold the diſtaff."Cumberland(Portland, Me.)Gazette, May 8, 1788, copied byEdw. H. Elwell, Esq., editor of theTranscript.
Providence, May17. Monday laſt, eighteen young ladies aſſembled, with their ſpinning-wheels, at the houſe of Captain Jonathan Treadwell, and ſpun 40 ſkeins of good linen yarn.
May22. A correſpondent deſires us to mention, that at Johnſton, a few days ſince, four induſtrious young ladies, by "laying their fingers to the ſpindle, and their hands to the diſtaff," completed, in one day, the ſpinning and reeling of 21 fifteen-knotted ſkeins of good linen yarn. Would to God, that the Gentlemen at the head of our political affairs in this State, were half ſo zealous in encouraging our own manufactures, as the fair ſex are; who, at preſent, deſervedly bear the palm, as friends to their country.
"Spinning Bee. On the 1st inſt. aſſembled at the houſe of the Rev. Samuel Deane of this town, more than one hundred of the fair ſex, married and ſingle ladies, moſt of whom, were ſkilled in the important art of ſpinning. An emulous induſtry was never more apparent than in this beautiful aſſembly. The majority of fair hands gave motion to not leſs than ſixty wheels. Many were occupied in preparing the materials, beſides thoſe who attended to the entertainment of the reſt,—proviſion for which was moſtly preſented by the gueſts themſelves, or ſent in by other generous promoters of the exhibition, as were alſo the materials for the work. Near the cloſe of the day Mrs. Deane was preſented by the company, with two hundred and thirty-ſix, ſeven-knotted ſkeins of excellent cotton and linen yarn, the work of the day, excepting about a dozen ſkeins, which ſome of the company brought in ready ſpun. Some had ſpun ſix and many not leſs than five ſkeins apiece. She takes this opportunity of returning thanks to each, which the hurry of the day rendered impracticable at the time. To conclude and crown the day, a numerous band of the beſt ſingers attended in the evening and performed an agreeable variety of excellent pieces in psalmody. "The price of a virtuous woman is far above rubies, * * * She layeth her hands to the ſpindle and her hands hold the diſtaff."
Cumberland(Portland, Me.)Gazette, May 8, 1788, copied byEdw. H. Elwell, Esq., editor of theTranscript.
When spinning-wheels ceased to be used altogether, we are not able to say. Probably they were not in use for any great length of time after the opening of the present century; but possibly in some country places they were used down to the time of the War of 1812, and even later. We are informed that in some remote places in Rhode Island and in Maine spinning-wheels are in use to this day; but these are exceptional cases.
The "Massachusetts Centinel," April 30, 1788, has this advertisement:—
WILLIAM SCOTT,At the Sign of the SPINNINGWHEEL,In MARLBOROUGH·STREET,(Reſolving to quit Trade in theFall)Willſell all his GOODS on hand at the STERLING COST and CHARGES. Among which are,Some elegantMerſaillesBed-Quilts,MerſaillesQuilting in pieces, Iriſh Linens, Gauzes, Shawls and Luſtrings of a ſuperiour quality, &c., &c.A large quantity of ſilk Gloves, Mitts and Fans☞CASH for POT-ASHES.
WILLIAM SCOTT,At the Sign of the SPINNINGWHEEL,In MARLBOROUGH·STREET,(Reſolving to quit Trade in theFall)
Willſell all his GOODS on hand at the STERLING COST and CHARGES. Among which are,
Some elegantMerſaillesBed-Quilts,MerſaillesQuilting in pieces, Iriſh Linens, Gauzes, Shawls and Luſtrings of a ſuperiour quality, &c., &c.
A large quantity of ſilk Gloves, Mitts and Fans
☞CASH for POT-ASHES.
THE following very curious notice in the "Massachusetts Centinel" in reference to funerals shows what had been customary upon such occasions; the object of these "wholesome regulations" seemed to be to induce economy. Gloves and rings were given to mourners in Salem to within the last fifty or sixty years, and wines or liquors were also furnished.
TAKE NOTICE.Aneconomical plan of mourning was adopted, before the Revolution, and its ſalutary effects have been experienced by almoſt every family in this town; ſince which thoſe wholeſome regulations have been paſſed into a law: Notwithſtanding which, it has lately been broken in upon in ſeveral inſtances.—TheInſpectors of the Police—that no one may hereafter plead ignorance, have cauſed the law reſpecting the ſame to be publiſhed, and give notice, that any future breach of it, will be proſecuted without any favour or affection.Boſton, April 30, 1788.
TAKE NOTICE.
Aneconomical plan of mourning was adopted, before the Revolution, and its ſalutary effects have been experienced by almoſt every family in this town; ſince which thoſe wholeſome regulations have been paſſed into a law: Notwithſtanding which, it has lately been broken in upon in ſeveral inſtances.—TheInſpectors of the Police—that no one may hereafter plead ignorance, have cauſed the law reſpecting the ſame to be publiſhed, and give notice, that any future breach of it, will be proſecuted without any favour or affection.
Boſton, April 30, 1788.
To prevent exceſs and vain expenſe, in Mourning, &c.IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, That in future no scarfs, gloves or rings shall be given at any funeral in this town, nor shall any wine, rum, or other spirituous liquor, be allowed or given at, or immediately before or after, any funeral in thistown, under pain that the person or persons giving, allowing or ordering the same shall respectively forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillingsfor each offence.And it is further ordered, That whatever male person shall appear or walk in the procession of any funeral in this town with any new mourning or new black or other new mourning coat or waistcoat, or with any other new black apparel, save and except a black crape around one arm, or shall afterwards on account of the decease of any relation, or other person or persons, put on and wear any other mourning than such piece of black crape around one arm, shall forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillingsfor every day he shall put on and wear or appear in the same.AND no female, of whatsoever degree, shall put on, wear or appear at any funeral in this town, in any other mourning or new black clothes whatever, other than a black hat or bonnet, black gloves, black ribbons and a black fan, on pain to forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillings; and also forfeit and pay a like sum oftwenty shillingsfor every day she shall at any time at, or after such funeral, put on wear or appear in such new black clothes, as or for mourning, other than black hat, bonnet, black gloves, black ribbons, and a black fan as aforesaid.
To prevent exceſs and vain expenſe, in Mourning, &c.
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED, That in future no scarfs, gloves or rings shall be given at any funeral in this town, nor shall any wine, rum, or other spirituous liquor, be allowed or given at, or immediately before or after, any funeral in thistown, under pain that the person or persons giving, allowing or ordering the same shall respectively forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillingsfor each offence.
And it is further ordered, That whatever male person shall appear or walk in the procession of any funeral in this town with any new mourning or new black or other new mourning coat or waistcoat, or with any other new black apparel, save and except a black crape around one arm, or shall afterwards on account of the decease of any relation, or other person or persons, put on and wear any other mourning than such piece of black crape around one arm, shall forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillingsfor every day he shall put on and wear or appear in the same.
AND no female, of whatsoever degree, shall put on, wear or appear at any funeral in this town, in any other mourning or new black clothes whatever, other than a black hat or bonnet, black gloves, black ribbons and a black fan, on pain to forfeit and pay the sum oftwenty shillings; and also forfeit and pay a like sum oftwenty shillingsfor every day she shall at any time at, or after such funeral, put on wear or appear in such new black clothes, as or for mourning, other than black hat, bonnet, black gloves, black ribbons, and a black fan as aforesaid.
In 1790 the town of Salem published in the papers some regulations about funerals; among the fees fixed were these:—
"For each Tolling of the Bell 8d.""The ſextons are deſired to toll the Bells only four ſtrokes in a minute.""The undertakers service in borrowing chairs, waiting upon the Pall-holders and warning the Relations &c. to attend 8/.""B. Daland and B. Brown are appointed by the Selectmen to ſee that Free Paſſages in the ſtreets are kept open." (This was before carriages were used at funerals.)
"For each Tolling of the Bell 8d."
"The ſextons are deſired to toll the Bells only four ſtrokes in a minute."
"The undertakers service in borrowing chairs, waiting upon the Pall-holders and warning the Relations &c. to attend 8/."
"B. Daland and B. Brown are appointed by the Selectmen to ſee that Free Paſſages in the ſtreets are kept open." (This was before carriages were used at funerals.)
Extracts from Mr. Colman's Agricultural Address.MANUFACTORIES AND THE SPINNING WHEEL."The establishment of extensive manufactories, and the introduction of power-looms and spinning-jennies, has nearly destroyed the usual household manufactures, and put our other Jennies out of employment. Our ears are seldom greeted now a days in the farmer's cottage with the flying of the shuttle, or the deep base of the spinning wheel. We confess that we have looked upon their departure with a strong feeling of regret; and deem it no small abatement of the advantages, which the establishment of extensive manufactures has obviously yielded to the country, that it removes the daughter from the shelter and security of the paternal roof, and places her in a situation, which certainly furnishes no means of qualifying her for the proper department of woman; to preside over our domestic establishments; to perform her part in the joint labors of the household; and to know how and when and where to use, prepare, and to apply tothe best advantage within doors, the products of man's labor without doors. Many occupations of female industry, strictly domestic however, of a healthy and agreeable nature, are constantly presenting themselves, so that there is little danger that the race of industrious women, and accomplished wives, at least among the country girls, will soon be extinct; and the silk culture, fast gaining ground among us, promises to furnish an unexhausted resource and a profitable employment of female labor."Salem Observer, 1834.
Extracts from Mr. Colman's Agricultural Address.
MANUFACTORIES AND THE SPINNING WHEEL.
"The establishment of extensive manufactories, and the introduction of power-looms and spinning-jennies, has nearly destroyed the usual household manufactures, and put our other Jennies out of employment. Our ears are seldom greeted now a days in the farmer's cottage with the flying of the shuttle, or the deep base of the spinning wheel. We confess that we have looked upon their departure with a strong feeling of regret; and deem it no small abatement of the advantages, which the establishment of extensive manufactures has obviously yielded to the country, that it removes the daughter from the shelter and security of the paternal roof, and places her in a situation, which certainly furnishes no means of qualifying her for the proper department of woman; to preside over our domestic establishments; to perform her part in the joint labors of the household; and to know how and when and where to use, prepare, and to apply tothe best advantage within doors, the products of man's labor without doors. Many occupations of female industry, strictly domestic however, of a healthy and agreeable nature, are constantly presenting themselves, so that there is little danger that the race of industrious women, and accomplished wives, at least among the country girls, will soon be extinct; and the silk culture, fast gaining ground among us, promises to furnish an unexhausted resource and a profitable employment of female labor."
Salem Observer, 1834.
In one of the numbers of the London "Spectator" for 1884 is an interesting account of an attempt to revive the spinning-wheel industry in England, through the kind offices of Mr. Albert Flemming, for the purpose of helping poor women too old or blind to leave their homes for other work. After considerable difficulty, a wheel was discovered among a store of ancient articles; but no one at first knew how to use it. Spinning was one of the lost arts, apparently. At length, however, an old woman of eighty-four was found who understood the use of the wheel. She taught Mr. Flemming how to spin. A few more oldwheels were found, and some new ones constructed. Then it was some time before a loom could be discovered. Eventually this was accomplished, and the art of weaving taught. The account says that twenty women who were unable otherwise to obtain a living, are now busily at work, happy in being able to provide for their families. They make, it may be added, a good strong, honest linen, specimens of which have been presented to Mr. Ruskin. This account is substantially from the "Living Age," Nov. 1, 1884.
University Press: John Wilson & Son, Cambridge.
Transcriber's note:These are mainly excerpts from Newspapers. Original spelling was not corrected.
Transcriber's note:
These are mainly excerpts from Newspapers. Original spelling was not corrected.