A project to transcribe Revolutionary War-era town records

 Co-sponsored by the Westport Historical Society and the Dartmouth Historical and Arts Society

The late 1700s was an era of revolution for the American colonies. It was also a time of formation for Westport and other neighboring towns. In the decade following the Revolution, Westport separated from Dartmouth and, in 1787, was incorporated as a town, forging its own unique identity. In order to gain a deeper understanding of this region before, during, and after the Revolutionary War, we will undertake a project to transcribe town meeting records of Old Dartmouth from 1760 – 1790. During this time Old Dartmouth encompassed Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fairhaven, and Acushnet.

This project is complete.  Dartmouth Town Meeting records can be accessed here:

Dartmouth_town_meeting_1760_to_1796

Metadata

FromThePage export of Dartmouth_town_meeting_1760_to_1796 from In Our Own Words made on 2026-01-02 15:11:04 +0000.

Title: Dartmouth_town_meeting_1760_to_1796
Created On: 2025-10-28 18:47:29 UTC
In Scope: true
Uploaded Filename: Dartmouth_town_meeting_1760_to_1796

page_0001

{394} {May 20: 1760} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town House in Dartmouth ye 20th: Day of May — 1760 — Daniel Summerton Samuel Mendall John Potter (Aaron’s son and Seth Sherman were Chosen field Drivers –

Timothy Maxfield J^nr was Chosen Survey^re of Highways.

Henry Howland was excepted of the Town as Constable for the year 1760, In the room of Peleg Slocum & Job Russell who was Chosen & was excused by the Town in Consideration of Their Hiring Henry Howland to serve Constable &c. Nathaniel Toul J^nr was Chosen Constable in the Room of Tim: Tripp who was Last Chosen & refused to serve.

Isaac Pope was Chosen Constable In the Room of Joseph Samson who was Last Chosen for Accushnet Village & Refused to serve –

David Smith was Chosen fence Viewer in the Room of William Sanford who was Chosen at ye: Annual Town Meeting in March Last & could not serve. –

Leiut Hezikiah Winslow, Barnabas Masher, & Samuel Tisson was Chosen Survayrs of Timber & boards.

Jonathan Hussey was Chosen Tything man in the room of Elezear Perry who was Chosen & Could not Take his Place.

it was agreed by the Town, that there should be but one Schoolmaster for the Town for the year 1760, and that the Selectmen Procure sd. Schoolmaster.

The Town agree to Rais Two Hundred Pound by way of Tax for ye year 1760, agreable to the sixth Article in the worrant for the Annual Town meeting in March Last &c.

Then this meeting Adj^rd to y^e Seventh Day of June next.

{395} {June 7: 1760} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town House in Dartmouth on the seventh day June 1760.

Peleg Smith was Chosen Moderator in the Room of Humpry Smith who was Chosen Moderator at the Annual Town meeting in March last who could not attend this through Inability of Body agreed and Noted.

To allow Jonathan Taber J^nr. Reasonable allowance for the High that was laid out on part of said Taber’s Land in the year 1756. Provided George Cornell Robert Masher John Devel George Wood give their land to the Town that is laid out for the Highway. And Nathaniel Potter was excepted of as Constable by the Town for the year — 1760 — in the room of Timothy Tripp and Nathaniel Toul who was Chosen at the Annual meeting and were excused they paying their fines to said Potter the Returns of Highways accepted from the Countery Rhoad eastwardly on a Dividing line between several of the family of the Hathaways to the way that goes from William Peckcoms to Elkanah Mortons, eastward to the river part in the Dividing line between the land of Jonathan Hathaway Deceas^d. and the Land of Robert Wrightington Deceas^d. the returns of the above mentioned ways have been examined Consider ed accepted and ordered to goe to Record.

Peleg Smith Moderator

{July 19: 1760} { Stamp} Bristol SS. To the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to either of them Greeting:

You are hearby fourthwith required to Notifie and warn all the Freeholders and other Inhab itants of sd. Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meegtings, that they meet to gather at the Town House in sd. Town on the 30th Day of this Instant July at Two of Clock

page_0002

{396} in the afternoon on s^d. Day — Then & there (Persuant to a late Act of the General Court) to Receive a List from the Selectmen and to Proseed thereon in order for a Regulation of the Choise of Pettit Juriors —

And make Return of this Worrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of s^d. Town at or before the time of s^d. meeting. fail not. Given under Hands this 19th Day of July A.D. — 1760 —

Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Christpr. Cadman} Dartm^o.

Persuant to ye within worrant to me Directed I Have notified all the free holders and other Inhabitats that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings that they meet at time and place within mentioned — July y^e. 24: 1760

pr me Henry Howland Constable

{July 30: 1760} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d. and held at the Town House in Dartmouth the 30th Day of July A.D. — 1760 —

Capt. Christopher Cadman was Chosen Moderator for s^d. meeting and the Selectman of s^d. Town Presented to s^d. Town a List of the Persons Names to serve as Juriors agreable to a Late Law of this Province, and the Town at s^d. meeting selected out one Quarter part of s^d. persons. Returnd. by the select for Juriors and put them Into a seperate box to serve at the Superiour Court of Judicature — &c. and put the Remainder in another box to serve as Juriors in the Inferiour Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the peace.

Christopher Cadman Moderator.

{397} {Mch 4: 1761} Bristol ss: to the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to either of them Greeting : — { Stamp} In his Majesties Name you are hereby fourth with required to Notifie and worn all yr. Free holders and other Inhabitants of s^d. Town that are Quallified by law to Vote in Town meeting that they meet together at the Town House In said Town on the Twenty fourth Day of this Instant March at ten a Clock in y^e: forenoon on s^d. Day then and there to act on the perticulars hereafter mentioned.

Firstly. To Choose Town officers for the ensuing year as the Law Directs. &c.

2 ly To Conclude by a Vote what number of School masters there shall be procured for the ensuing year on the account of said Town and how they shall be procured.

3 ly To Choose a Comitte in Behalf of s^d. Town to Recieve & settle accounts with those that have Demands against s^d. Town as also with our Town Treasurer for the Last (viz) 1760.

4 ly To Receive the Returns of ways laid out or altered by the Selectmen and to except or Disexcept of them on order that they may be of Record.

5 ly To Chuse a County Treasurer

6 ly To Conclude by a Vote what sum of money there shall be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of said Town this Present year for the paying of schoolmasters and Defraying of other Charges arising within said Town.

7 ly To Act and do sumthing that may be thought Proper in Regard to putting y^e. work House in sum order for the accommodation of and setting to work those Idle persons that goes up & Down in said Town spending their time with out Doing anything or not much Labour

page_0003

{398} wharely they may be supported.

8ly Whareas it hath been a Custom for a number of years in this Town to Choose but three Selectmen in each year: and as the Town is large Notwithstanding their Care in Respect to persons Coming from other Towns to Reside in this and the Inhabitants for sum Reasons have neglected to give the Selectmen Notis hereof: they have Continued their Residence in s^d Town for sum time un known to the Selectmen: which hath been attended with a great Ilconvenency :

Now in order to Remedy in sum Degree y^e s^d Ilconvenency : for the Town to Choose at Least three Persons as Inspecters and Inform ers of such Persons that may Come into s^d Town in order to take up their Residence s^d to be made in Wrighting to the Selectmen of the person or persons with their name and time of Coming to Reside within s^d Town and by whome they was first entertained and y^e last place of their Legal settlement as near as they Can—

And make Returns of this Worrant with your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of s^d Town at or before the time of s^d meeting :

Given under our Hands & Seals this fourth Day of March A.D. 1761.

Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Christopher Cadman } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: Pursuant to this within written worrant from the Selectmen of Dartmouth to me Directed I have Notified and Warn^d the free holders and other Inhabitants that are Quallified to Vote in Town meetings to meet together at the time and place within mentioned.

pr me Henry Howland: Constable

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the third third day of May next.

{399} {Mch 24: 1761} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and Held at the Town House In Dartmouth on Tuesday y^e 24th of March–1761–

Humphry Smith was Chosen Moderator for s^d meeting.

Humphry Smith Water Spooner & Ezekiel Cornell was Chosen Select for the Current year. Benjⁿ Akin was Chosen Town Clerk for y^e year above s^d

Abraham Sherman Barth^o Taber and Jonathan Soule was Chosen Assessors:

Jabez Barker J^nr was Chosen Town Treasurer for the Currant year and agreed with for /6^d on y^e Pound.

Henry Brightman was Chosen Constable and was excused by the Town.

John Russell the 3^rd Hix Jenne Chosen Con stable for the ensuing year.

Joseph Soule was Chosen Constable. In the Room of Henry Brightman who was excused.

Hix Jenne was excused from serving Constable Thomas West Chosen Constable In the Room of Hix Jenne who was excused.

Jonathan Soul, George White, Jonathan Davil, Nathan Potter y^e 2^d, Jonathan Brownell, John

Soule, Thomas Cory, John Gifford, William Bowdash, Job Russell, William Sanford, Seth Sherman, John Maxfield, Elezear Smith, David Shepherd, William Anthony, Benjⁿ Cornell, Daniel Howland, William Wood, David Gifford, Elihu Bowen, Daniel Cornell, Job Gifford, Jonathan Taber, Jonathan Brownell, Nathaniel Spooner, Ebenezer Willis, Zaccheus Tobey was Chosen Survay^rs of Highways :

Jonathan Hussey Chosen Sealer of Weights.

Jonathan Brownell was Chosen Deer Reive.

Josiah Wood, Jonathan Tallman J^nr Daniel Hunt Jonathan Delano, Daniel Wood, and Christopher Gifford J^nr was Chosen Hog Constables.

page_0004

{400} John Palmer J^nr Perez Richmond Nicholas Lapham. Benj^a Sherman y^e: 2^nd Thomas Handy & Samuel Mendall was Chosen field Drivers.

John Palmer, Joshua Sherman & Joseph Spooner was chosen Tything men.

David Smith, John Potter (Arons Son) Jonathan Taber y^e: 2^nd Jonathan Winslow and Daniel Summerton Chosen fence Viewers.

Hezekiah Winslow Barnabas Mosher & Semuel Sisson was chosen Surveyers of Timber.

Benj^a Wing Elkanah Morton & William Rider was chosen Wardeans.

Voted that there shall be but one school master this year, and to be Provided by the Selectmen.

Humphry Smith Thomas Hathaway & Jonathan Soule was chosen a Committee agreable to y^e: third article in the worrant for Calling this meeting.

Nathaniel Potter y^e: 2^nd James Cushman J^nr & William Sherman Tanner was Chosen pound keepers.

{May: 1761} At a Town meeting Held by Adjournment at the Town House in Dartm^o the third third Day of May – 1761 –

Jonathan Soul was exscused by the Town from serving Assessor and Capt. Christopher Cadman was chosen Assessor In the room of Jonathan Soul.

Jabiz Sherman was chosen Constable In the room of John Russell y^e: 3^rd.

Zebulon Swift was Chosen Constable In the room of Thomas West.

Aaron Davis was chosen Constable In the room of Joseph Soul.

Jonathan Sherman chosen Survay^r of Highways

{401} In the room of William Anthony.

Daniel Wing was Chosen Survayr of Highways In the room of John Gifford.

William Smith Chosen Survayr of Highways In the room of Seth Sherman.

Benjⁿ Allen was Chosen Tythingman In the room of Joshua Sherman.

George Jenne was Chosen Hog reafe In the room of Daniel Hunt.

Voted that Two Hundred ^lb shall be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth this Present year for the Defray ing of the Necessary Charges arising within s^d Town and also

Voted that s^d Assessor assess the said sum of Two Hundred pound forth with upon said In habitants. also

Voted that the County Rate for this Present year be paid out of the Town Treasury.

Jabez Sherman was excused by a Vote of the Town from serving Constable this year, and William Heart was Chosen Contabel In his Room.

{June 27: 1761} Britol ss: To the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting:

{ Stamp} These are in his Majestys Name to Require you to warn all the free holders and other In habitants of Dartmouth that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather at the Town House in s^d Town on the eighteenth Day of July next at one of the Clock in y^e afternoon on s^d Day. Then and there to act on the Perticulars Hereafter Mentioned

page_0005

{402} 1ly To Chuse Town officers in the Rooms of them that were Chosen in the month of March at y^e Annual Meeting — and at the Adjournment of s^d meeting and Refuse to serve.

2ly For the Town to Vote the fines of those that have been Chosen Constable at y^e, above said meetings and Refuse to serve to them that shall serve in their Rooms or otherwise to act as s^d Town at s^d meet ing shall think Proper.

3ly Whereas there is one Elizabeth Cornell a Resident of said Town that goeth up & down s^d Town, without Doing much Labour whereby she may be supported & it appear eth that no Person is willing to entertain her, for her Labour, and if it be the mind of the Town that she should be taken under the Cear of s^d Town & put in a proper place with allowance for them to make it manifest by Vote or otherwide to act as they shall then and there think Proper.

And make Due return of the Worrant with your Doings thereon unto y^e Town Clerk of s^d Town at or Before the Time of s^d meeting hereof Fail not as you will answer the Contarary:

Given under our hands & seal in Dartmouth this 27^th Day of June In the first year of y^e Reign of George y^e third King of England &c A.D. 1761

Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Egekeil Cornel } Dartm^o

Pursuant to y^e within written warrant I Have Worned all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants Quallified as with mentioned to meet at time and Place therein set forth—

pr me William Hart Constable

{403} {July 18: 1761} At a Town Meeting Legally Worn^d and Held at y^e Town House in Dartmough y^e 18^th: Day of July: 1761

Jonathan Thurman was Chosen Moderator for s^d meeting:

Nathaniel Potter y^e 2^nd, was Chosen Constable. In the room of Aron Davis who was Last Chosen and also

Voted at y^e above s^d meeting that Joseph Soul and Aaron Davis^es fines for not serving Constable this present year be paid to Nath^el Potter y^e 2^nd for his serving Constable In their rooms.

Voted by the Town at the above^d meeting that Elizabeth Cornell be sent to the work House in s^d Town and put under the Care of Jamie Smith : who is appointed by s^d Town to take Care of all such Persons sent to s^d work House : &c:

this meeting is adjourn^d the Last Saturday of August next.

{Feb 27: 1762} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constable of the Town of Dartmouth or any or either of them. Greeting:

There are in his Majestys Name to require you or either of you fourthwith to Notifie and worn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the said Dartmouth that are Qualified by Law to Vote in Town meetings that they must together at the Town House in said Dartm^o on Tuesday the 23^rd Day of March next ensuing: at ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said Day:

Then & there to act on the particulars hereafter mentioned (viz)

1ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly To agree & Conclude by Vote what number of schoolmasters they will Improve for the

page_0006

{404} year ensuing at y^e Charge of said Town.

3ly to Receive Returns of Highways that are Laid out or altered and not approbated and to allow them or Disallow of them as they then and there shall think propr

4ly To Chuse a Committe to Receive Accompts against said Town & to allow or Disallow of them as they shall think proper. and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer for the year 1761.

5ly To Conclude by Vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of said Town for this present year for the paying of school master & Defray ing of other necessaryes Charges with said Town.

6ly To put the Work House in proper order according to Law, that the good & wholsome Laws of this Province may be put in ex ecution or otherwise to act on the premises as they then & there shall think proper

7ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

And make return of this warrant with your Doing thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at on or before the time of said meeting hereof fail not as you will answer the Contarary

Given under our hands & seals in s^d Dartmouth this Twenty seventh Day of February In the Second year of the Reign of George the Third &c: A.D. 1762.

Humphry Smith } Selectmen Walter Spooner } of Ezekell Cornell } Dartm^o

Bristol ss: I have Worned & Notified all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartm^o that are Quallified by Law to meet at Time & place persuant to the within written Warrant:

{405} Date at Dartmouth March y^e 20^th 1762:

pr me Nathaniel Potter Constable of Dartmouth

{Mch 23: 1762} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth on June day y^e: Twenty third Day of March A.D: 1762: Humphry Smith was chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Humphrey Smith Ezekell Cornell & Walter Spooner was chosen Selectmen for s^d Town of Dartmouth:

Benjⁿ Akin was Chosen Town Clerk for s^d Town of Dartm^o:

Abraham Sherman Bartholemew Taber & Ezekell Cornell was chose assessors to make all Rates & Taxes that shall be Requested

William Hart was chosen Town Treasurer for the year 1762 and agreed with by the Town To Receive in the Towns money and pay it out again for three pence upon the pound.

Henry Brightman Daniel Howland & John Ben net were Chosen Constables for the year ensuing

John Potter (Aron son) Cap^t Samuel Pope and Isaac Vincent Philip Allen Thomas Tripp & Jamie Wilkey was chosen Wardeans.

Samuel Haws Eliziar Smith & William Davel y^e 3^rd was Chosen Tything men.

Nathan Delano, Jonathan Brownell, Jonathan Taber, Nathaniel Delano, John Cran, Elnathan Hathaway, Co^l Sam^el Willis, Jonathan Tobey, Elnathan Tobey, Seth Pope, Jonathan Soul, Daniel Wing, David Milk, Ichabod Kirby, Weston Soul, Philip Taber, Jonathan Brownel, George Lawton, Judah Chase, William Mosher, Joshua Russell, Philip Davel, Giles Slocum, Nicholas Lapham, Deliverence Smith, John Sanford, John Tucker, William Bowdash, James Tucker

page_0007

{406}

John Badcock Benjⁿ Cornell & Job Gifford was Chosen Survey^rs of Highways

Voted that there be one school master for the Town this present year. Humphry Smith Ezekell Cornell & Thomas Hathaway was Chosen a Committee agreable to the fourth article in the warrant.

Voted That John Lawton Peleg Smith & William Sanford be a Committee to se the work House made sutible to Receive those persons which by law are Lyable to be sent there as also to finish s^d house.

Humphry Smith Ezekell Cornel Walter Spooner Benjⁿ Akin & Abraham Sherman was Chosen overseers of the Work House.

{May 20:1762} At a Town meeting held by adjourn ment at the Town House in Dartmouth the 20^th Day of May 1762:-

Jabez Sherman was Chosen Constable In the Room of Daniel Howland: and refused to serve and paid his fine to Daniel Howland and Daniel Howland agreed with Henry Howland to serve Constable and presented him to the Town and y^e Town excepted him & Chose him Constable.

Benjamin Terry was Chosen Constable in the Room of John Bennet.

Matthew Wing was Chosen Constable in the Room of Henry Brightman—who refused to serve:

The Survay^rs that was Chosen at the Last Annual Town meeting for Aponaganset Village and was not worned to Take their place was all Chosen again.

George White, James Cornell, William Sanford

{407} Benjamin Slocum, James Clark, Thomas Pope chosen fence Viewers:

William Wood (son of George Wood), Job Case & Thomas Pope Chosen Leather sealers:

James Cuishman J^nr Nathaniel Potter y^e 2^nd & Daniel Russell was Chosen pound keepers

Captin William Wood was Chosen Sealers of Weights.

Benjamin Tripp, Joseph Tripp, John Slocum Christopher Slocum, Daniel Summerton & Joseph Spooner was Chosen Field Drivers—

Isaac Spooner, Nathaniel Jenne, Walter Briggs, William Sherman the third, Timothy Maccum ber & Stephen Soul was Chosen Hog Reefs—

Agreed and Voted that there be Two Hundred & fifty pound Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartm^o for the Defraying the Necessaries Charges arising with in s^d town for the year 1762:

{Feb 2: 1763} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constables of the Town of Dartm^o or either of them: Greeting.

These are in his Majestys Name to Require you fourthwith to Notifie and warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the said Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather at the Town House in said Town on the twenty second Day of March next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said Day. Then and there to act on the Particulars Hereafter Mentioned.

1ly: To Chuse Town officers for the year ensu ing as the Law Directs.

2ly to Conclude by Vote what number of school masters they will Improve at the Charge of said Town for the year ensuing also to Improve some proper person to Procure said Schoolmasters

page_0008

{408} 3ly To Conclude by Vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of Tax on the Inhab itants of said Town for the year ensuing for the Defraying the Necessary Charges in said Town.

4ly To Receive Returns of Highways that have been Laid out or altered within s_d Town + to allow or Disallow them.

5ly To Chuse a Committe to exammine the Demands against said Town, and allow or Disallow, also to settle with the Town Treasurer.

6ly To put the Work house under such Direct ions as the Law Directs or otherwise to act as they think proper

7ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

8ly Whereas there is one Joseph Ladd Brought from Westerly by order of the Town Council to said Dartm^o Now for the Town to Do as they shall think proper in the affair. And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the Time of said meeting. fail not as you will answer the Contrary- Given under our hand & seal In said Dartm^o this second day of February In the Third year of his Majestys Reign A.D. 1763

Humphrey Smith } Selectmen Walter Spooner } of Ezekiel Cornell } Dartm^o

Bristol ss: Dartmouth March 15^th: 1763: Persuent to this within written warrant I have Notified and Worned all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants by setting up three Notifi cations one in each Village to meet at the Time and Place within Mentioned.

{409} pr me Henry Howland Constable.

{Mch 22: 1763} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartm^o on Tuesday y^e 22^d: Day of March A.D: 1763

Humphrey Smith was Chosen Moderator for the aforesaid meeting:

Humphrey Smith Ezekiel Cornell and Walter Spooner was Chosen Selectmen:

Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r was Chosen Town Clerk:

Henry Howland was Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with for three pence upon the pound for receiving in and paying out the Towns Money:

Abraham Shearman Bartho^w Taber & Ezekiel Cornell was Chosen Assessors:

Thomas Pope Seth Shearman & John Potter (son of Jos Potter) was Chosen Const^bls.

C^apt Samuel Willis Philip Cannon John Tabey Seth Pope Cornelius Jenne Nathaniel Delano, Isaac Pope, Jeremiah Bennet Jnr Caleb Church & Seth Morton was Chosen Survayrs of Highways: for Accushnet Village.

Ebenezer Allen the 2^d John Potter Job Howland James Griffith William Sanford David Barker David Shepherd.

{Feb 27: 1764} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constable of the Town of Dartm^o or either of them Greeting:

In his Majestys Name you are hereby required fourthwith to Notifie and worn all the Free hold ers and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified by law to Vote in Town meetings that they meet together at the Town House in said Town on the Twenteth Day of Mark next ensu ing at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said day then and there to Act on the particulars

page_0009

{410}

hereafter mentioned.

Firstly To Chuse Town officers for the ensuing year as y^e Law Directs &c:-

2ly To agree and Conclude by note what number of shoolmasters they will improve for the year ensuing at the Charge of said Town.

3ly To receive y^e, Returns of Highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen and except or Disexcept of them in order that they may be of Record.

4ly To Chuse a Committe to receive Accompts against said Town and to allow or Disallow as they shall think proper and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer for the 1763

5ly To Conclude by way of Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of said Town this present year for the paying of schoolmasters and Defraying of other necessary charges within said–

6ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the ensuing year.

7ly As there is a Rute Depending between said Town of Dartm^o Appa^lents and the Town of Westerly in the Collony of Rhodeisland &c: pp^elers Concerning one Joseph Ladd be herd & tried at the next Superiour Court to be held at South Kings Town in Kings County in s^d Collony. Now for said Town of Dartmouth to Act and Do as they shall think proper at said meeting in the affair.

And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto Clerk of said Town at an or before the time of said meeting: hereof fail not as you will answer the Conta rary

{411}

Given under our hands & seal in said Dartm^o this Twenty seventh Day of February and in the fourth year of his Majesty^s Reign A.D 1764 Humphry Smith } Selectmen Walter Spooner } of Ezekell Cornell } Dartm^o

Bristol ss: Dartm^o March ye: 7th 1764 Persuant to this within written warrant I Have notified and warned all the freeholders and other Inhaitants of said Town by setting up three Notifications, one in each village to meet at time and place within mentioned p^r me. Henry Howland Constable of Dartm^o

{Mch 20: 1764} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House In Dartm^o the Twentith Day of March A.D. 1764.

Capt Ezekell Cornel was Chosen Moderator for the afores^d meeting:

Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r was Chosen Town Clerk for the ensuing year

Humphry Smith Capt Ezekell Cornell & Walter Spooner was Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing

Capt Ezekell Cornel Bartholomew Taber & Samuel Smith was Chosen Assessors

Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r was Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with to receive in and pay out the Town money Gratis:

Capt Wiliam Wood, Seth Hathway and Jonathan Brownell was Chosen Constables for the year ensuing

Job Howland was Chosen Constable in the Room of Capt Will^m Wood who is execused:

Daniel Gifford was Chosen Constable in the Room of Jonathan Brownel who Refused to serve.

page_0010

{412}

Ebenezer Allen y^e 2^d Jonathan Taber y^e 2^d & Jireh Willis was chosen Wardeans:

Thomas Kempton, Zaccheus Tobey, John Tobey Nathaniel Delano, Cornelius Jenne, Abisha Delano, Sylvanus Hathaway, Capt. Hezekiah Winslow, Isaac Pope, Peleg Delano, Jacob Taber J^nr. and William White was Chosen Survayres of Highways for Accoushnit village

Benjamin Tripp, Samuel Manchester, Peleg Huddlestone, Daniel Wood, Edward Wing, Thomas Tripp, James Soul, Stephen Peckcoin, George Brownell & Jonathan Taber was chosen Survayrs of Highways for Acoaxset village;

Benjⁿ Howland y^e 2^d, David Russell John Potter, William Sandford, Job Howland William Wood J^nr., Timothy Maxfield. J^nr. Jonathan Sherman, William Bowdash William Rider, John Case, Seth Allen William Ricketson J^nr., Thomas Pell, Peleg Gifford and Archippas Hart were Chosen Survayrs of Highways for Apponagansitt.

Job Gifford, Philip Cannon & William Case was chosen Tything men.

William Mosher, Jonathan Taber, Stokes Potter was chosen Sealers of Leathers:

George Wood John Davel, John Potter Timothy Russell, Joseph Russell, Elnathan Tobey were chosen fence Viewers.

James Cuishman J^nr., Daniel Russell and and Nathaniel Potter (Johns son) was Chosen pound keepers.

Jonathan Davil, Jireh Swift and Abraham Shearman were chosen Survares of Timber plank & bords Hoop staves Shingals.

Humphry Smith, Ezekell Cornell & Thomas Hathaway was Chosen a Commitee Persuant to the fourth article in the warrant for calling this meeting

{413}

Voted that Humphry Smith, Capt Ezekell be Agent In Behalf of the Town of Dartm^o to prosecute a rute commenced by said Town who are appa^lts against the Town of Westerly who are appelees to final trial, also emedi ately to Draw a sufficient sum of money out of the Town Treasury for the Defraying the necessary Charges the said agents shall be at in the Premises and Render and accompt to said Town.

{May 22: 1764} Bristol ss: To the Constables of the Town of Dart mouth To any or either of them. Greeting:

In his Majesty’s name you are hereby fourthwith Required to Notifie all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Darmouth that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather at the Town house in said Town the nineteenth Day of June next then and there to Chuse Town officers in the Rooms and steeds of these that was Chosen at the Annual Town meeting in March Last past and neglect or Refuse to take their places. as the Law Directs, and also to Chuse a Select man in the Room of Ezekell Cornell who hath Removed out of Town into Rhode Island Govern ment, and als to Conclude on a Town Tax to be Laid on Said Town for the paying school masters and other Charges arising on said Town and also to pass a vote for Drawing the County Rate out of the Town Treasury.

And Make Return of this Warrant with your Doing thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the Time of said meeting. fail not Given under our hands and seals this 22^nd Day of May A.D. 1764.

page_0011

{414} Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Walter Spooner } Dartmo.

Bristol ss: Pursuant to the within warrant I have Notified all the Free holders and other Inhabitants by Posting up three Notifications one in each village according to the Common Custom

pr me Nathaniel Spooner Constable June 9th, 1764

{June 19, 1764} At a Town meeting Legally worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth the nineteenth day of June A.D. 1764

Humphry Smith Chosen Moderator for said meeting: –

Daniel Wood was Chosen Selectman in the Room of Capt. Ezekell Cornell who is moved out of said Town.

Daniel Wood was also Chosen Assessor.

Jonathan Davel was Chosen Constable In the Room of Daniel Gifford who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve the said Town at the above said meeting:

Voted: to the said Jonathan Davel. Jonathan Brownells and Daniel Giffords fines for not serving Constables for the year A.D. 1765 – Henry Howland was Chosen Constable in the Room of Seth Sherman who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve.

Job Howland & Seth Shearmans fines were voted at said meeting to Henry Howland for their not serving Constable when Chosen in the year A.D. 1764.

James Griffith & Peleg Cornel (Jonathan Son) and Abial Maccumber & Ephraim Potter was Chosen field Drivers

{415} Samuel Sisson was Chosen Survayor of Timber plank hoops staves & Shingals. Benjamin Allen y^e: second was Chosen Constable in the Room of Seth Hathaway who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve.

Jonathan Tallman & John Slocum was Chosen Hog Reaves:

Voted that the County Rate for the year 1764 A.D.: be paid out of the Town Rate.

Voted that there be two hundred and fifty pound be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartm^o. for the year ensuing: Nicholas Lapham was Chosen Survayre of Highways in the Room of David Russell.

{Feb 23: 1774} Dartmouth February 23^d Day annoque Domini 1774 then Abraham Russell (son of Joseph Russell) was Entred and Recorded Miller to said Josephs mill by said Joseph Russell Request and said Abraham’s Consent. Attest: Benjamin Russell Ju^nr. Town Clerk

Bristol ss To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to either of them – Greeting – In his Majestys Name you are hereby fourthwirth Required to Notifie and warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather at the Town House in sd. Town on the Twenty fifth Day of this Instant March at ten of the the Clock in the fournoon on sd. Day, then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

page_0012

{416}

1ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs

2ly To Chuse a Committee in Behalf of s^d Town to settle accompts with those that have Demands against s^d Town; also with the Town Treasurer for the year 1764.

3ly to Receive the Returns of Highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen and except or Disexcept of them in order that they may be of Record.

4ly To Conclude what Number of Schoolmasters there shall be procured for the use of said Town and how they shall be Procured.

5ly To Conclude what sum of money there shall be Rased by way of Tax within said Town for the paying of schoolmasters and other Contingent Charges arising within said Town.

6ly To Chuse a County Treasurer

7ly Whereas there is a vote Depending Between the Town of Dartmouth, appalants and The Town of Westerly appelees Now for said Town to vote act and do at said meeting what they may think proper Respecting the afair

8ly To put the Work House in such Reparation and Regulation as the town at said meeting may think proper the Reception and Imployment of those of said Town that neglects to put themselves into Imployent whereby to git an honest Livelyhood; as also those that are poor and Indigent; as it is very Dificult to git places for such at some times without great Disadvantage.

And make Return of this warrant and your Doings thereon at or before the time of s^d meeting to the Clark of said Town.

Given under our hands and seals this 4^th

{417}

Day of March In the fifth of the Reign of George the Third King of Great Brittain A.D. – 1765

Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Daniel Wood } Dartm^o

Bristol ss Dartmouth March y^e 18^th 1765

Persuant to this warrant I have Notified and warned all the freeholders and other Inhabi tants of said Town to meet togeather at the Time and place within mentioned.

pr me Henry Howland, Cons^tble of Dartm^o

{Mch 25: 1765} At a Town meeting Legally worned and held at the Town House in Dartmouth the Twenty fifth Day of March A.D. 1765 Benjamin Akin Esq^r was chosen Moderator for said meeting:

Humphry Smith, Walter Spooner & Daniel Wood was Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing:

Benjm Akin Esq^r was Chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing:

Bartholomew Taber, Samuel Smith & Daniel Wood was Chosen Assessors for the year ensuing:

David Smith was Chosen Town Treasurer for the year ensuing: to Receive in & and pay out the Town money for four pence on the pound.

Ichabod Edy, Jacob Taber J^nr & Joshua Russell were Chosen Constables for the year ensuing.

Joshua Russell being Present Refused to serve Constable, and Barnabas Masher was Chosen Constable in his Room.

Thomas West, William Tripp & William

page_0013

Barker were Chosen Wardeans for the year ensuing.

Humphry Smith, Thomas Hathaway & Daniel Wood were Chosen a Committe agreable to the second article in the warrant for calling this meeting.

Whereas there is a Case now Depending Between the Town of Dartmouth in the Bay Govern ment &c appalants and the Town of Westerly in the Colony of Rhodeisland &c: appelees.

Respecting one Joseph Ladd who was brought to said Dartmouth by order of the Town Council of said Westerly:

Voted the Humphry Smith & Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r. or either of them are Chosen Agents for and in Behalf of said Town of Dartmouth with full power to Prosecute the above said Case to a final end, and Determination either in a Course of Law or any other way as said agents or agent may Think proper:

Voted that Humphry Smith & Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r. Draw money out of the Town Treasury what they shall have ocation for: for the Prosecuting the action now Depending Between the Town of Dartmouth and the Town of Westerly Respecting one Joseph Ladd. they Rendering an accompt to said Town of their Disburstments of said money.

William Bowdash Jonathan Shearman Timothy Maxfield J^nr Richard Kirby Thomas Pell Abraham Shearman Daniel Russell Jonathan Tallman Jonathan Hussey Prince Allen Jedediah Allen Cornelius Jenne Abisha Delano Ephraim Kempton Samuel Haws Isaac Pope Samuel Pope Thomas Pope Samuel Cornish John Hathaway Edward Wing Peleg Huddlestone William Wood

{419}

James Soul, Jonathan Brownell and Philip Howland were Chosen Surveyors of Highways for the year ensuing.

Jabez Jenne & Thomas Jenne were Chosen fence viewers for Accoushnet village.

Benjⁿ Slocum and David Barker were chosen fence viewers for aponaganset.

William Gifford & Peleg Cornel were Chosen fence viewers for accoaxset village.

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the 21^st Day of May next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon.

{May 21: 1765} The Town meet according to Adjourn ment the 21^st Day of May A.D. 1765: and chose David Milk Daniel Wing Giles Slocum and Nathan Davis Surveyors of highways for the year ensuing: (the above was entred Rong: it should Have been entred at the adjournment on the 20^th of May 1765 – and it Doth not stand as matter of Record.

Benjⁿ Akin Town Clerc)

{May 21: 1765} At a Town meeting held by Adjornment the Third Tuesday in May being the Twenty first Day of said month: and

John Wady Jeremiah Wate Sylvanus Allen were Chosen Tything me for the year ensuing.

George Lawton was Chosen Wardeen in the Room of William Tripp who was excused by a vote of the Town for not serving Wardeen.

Thomas Dennis John Sisson Jacob Hathway Noah Allen J^un Philip Tripp and James Cornel were Chosen Hogreaves for the year ensuing:

Joshua Shearman Philip Sherman y^e: 2^d: Thomas Cory Philip Taber y^e: 2^d: Philip Cannon & Bartho^w West the second were Chosen field

page_0014

Drivers for the year ensuing:

Henry Howland was Chosen Constable in the Room of Barnabas Mosher

Joshua Russell & Barnabas Mosher are excused from their paying their fines for not serving Constables in Consideration of thier Hiring the aforesaid Henry Howland to serve Constables for the year 1765:

Thomas Cory was Chosen Constable in the Room of Ichabod Edy and the said Ichabod’s fine for not serving Constable was voted to Thomas Cory.

William Mithcell J^un was Chosen Constable in the Room of Jacob Taber J^un the Highway Laid out by Humphrey Smith and Daniel Wood Two of the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth for the year 1764 on the Ninteenth Day of March Last past from the northeast Corner of John Potter Homestead farm to the river and from thence to William Shearmans Land – Then as the Line of Said Shearmans Land Runs to the Road that Comes by the friends Meeting House, was put to vote and it past in the negative by a great majority.

the Highway Laid by the Selectmen of Dart mouth for the year 1764 and their order the 17th Day of March Last past from Abraham Russell to Shingle Island & from thence to the new saw mill was put to vote and it past in the Negative.

Henry Howland & William Smith was Chosen Surveyors of highways. Capt Hezekiah Winslow was Chosen Surveyor of Timber & Plank.

David Milk & Abraham Shearman was also Chosen Surveyors of Timber & plank for the year ensuing.

Stephen Pecksom, Jabez Shurman & Joseph Spooner were Chosen Surveyors of hoops staves and shingles & Clabbords for the year ensuing.

{421} {May 25: 1765} John Bennet Riley Gifford and Jonathan Davel was Chosen Deer Reaves for the year ensuing.

James Cushman J^un, Nathaniel Potter (John Son) and Daniel Russell were Chosen Pound keepers for the year ensuing.

the meeting was Adjourn^d to Saturday the Twenty fifth Day of May 1765 and the Town meet according to Adjournment and Giles Slocum, David Milk, Daniel Wing and Nathan Davis were Chosen Surveyors of high ways for the year ensuing.

Nathaniel Spooner was Chosen Constable in the room of William Mitchell Jr and the Town voted. Jacob Taber J^un and William Mitchel J^un fines for not serving Constable to Nathaniel Spooner for his serving Constable.

John Shepherd was Chosen Hog Reefe in the room of John Sisson who was not obliged to serve.

Voted that there should be but one school master upon the Town Charge for the year ensuing: and that the Selectmen for the Time being Procure said schoolmaster.

Voted that there shall be Two Hundred and fifty Pound be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartm^o for the year ensuing for the paying of schoolmasters and other necessary Charges arising within said Town.

Humphrey Smith, Walter Spooner, Daniel Wood Benjⁿ Slocum & William Sanford was Chosen Overseers of the Work House for the year ensuing.

page_0015

{422} {August 7: 1765} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth the seventh day of August 1765.

Thomas Cory was chosen Moderator for said Meeting:

Thomas Pell, Seth Pope & Wesson Soul was Chosen Grand Jurymen for the year ensuing.

{March 4: 1766} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greetings.

In his Majesty^s Name you are fourthwith Required To Notifie and worn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town Meetings that they assemble and meet Together at the Town House in said Town on the Twenty fourth Day of this Instant March at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said Day then and there to act on the Perticulars Hereafter mentioned.

1ly To Choose Town officers for the year ensu ing as the Law Directs.

2ly To conclude by a Vote what number of schoolmasters there shall be procured for the year ensuing on the Charge of said Town.

3ly To Choose a Committee to Receive and settle accompts with those that Have Demands against said Town as also with the Town Treasurer for the year 1765.

4ly To receive Returns of the Highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen of said Town and allow or Disallow in order they may be of Record.

5ly to Conclude and Vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of Tax for the year ensuing for the payment of schoolmasters

{423} and other Contingent Charges arising within said Town.

6ly Whereas y^e Selectmen of Dartmouth and Freetown by their Perambulating the Line between said Towns find that the General Count in their annexing part of the Land Lately in the jurisdiction of Tivertown to said Town is attended with some Inconven ience; and it was thought by said selectmen it would be best that there be a Petition prepared to the General Court for an altera tion; now for the Town to act and Do what they at said meeting may think proper in the affair.

7ly To act and Do what they may think proper in Regard to the work House.

8ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

And make Return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clark of said Town at or before the time of said meeting:

Given under our hands and seal this fourth Day of March in the sixth year of his Majesty’s Reign A.D. 1766

Humphry Smith } Selectmen of Daniel Wood } Dartmouth

Bristol Dartmouth March 24^th 1766

Pursant to this within written warrant I have Notified and worned all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of said Town by setting up three Notifications one in each village to meet at the Time and place within mentioned

pr me Henry Howland Constable of Dartmouth

this meeting is Adjourned to the 26th Day of May next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon

page_0016

{424} {Mch 24: 1766} At a Town Meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth on Monday the 24^th Day of March A.D. 1766 Jabez Barker J^un was chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Walter Spooner Daniel Wood & Giles Slocum was chosen Selectmen. Benjamin Akin Esq^r was chosen Town Cler:

David Smith was chosen Town Treasurer for the year ensuing and agreed with for four pence on the pound for Receiving in the Towns money and Paying it out again.

Peleg Gifford Nicholas Davis and Timothy Tripp was Chosen Constables for the year ensuing.

Bartholomew Taber Daniel Wood and Samuel Smith were Chosen Assessors for the year ensu ing.

William Maccumber y^e 3^d Silvanus Hathaway and John Potter (Aron son) was Chosen Wardens for the year ensuing.

Peleg Slocum Philip Allen John Case William Wood Timothy Maxfield J^ur. William Mosher Thomas Pell Richard Collins William Barker Jamie Tucker William Bowdash John Wady Benjⁿ Howland Sadler Oliver Briggs and Cap^t John Sisson were chosen Surveyres of Highways for Aponagansett village for the year ensuing.

Jireh Willis Jireh Swift Abisha Dilans Jamie Clark Thomas West y^e. second Seth Hathaway Cap^t Ebenezer Akin Elnathan Hathaway & Joseph Wing were Chosen Surveyors of Highways for Accoshnet village for the year ensuing.

Edwing Wing Joshua Richmond James Soul Wesson Kirby Jonathan Taber Goerge Tibbets and Jonathan Davel was Chosen Surveyres of Highways for Acaoxset village for the year ensuing.

{425} Barnabas Earl William Case & John Jenne were Chosen Tithing men for the year ensuing.

Cap^t Hezekiah Winslow Thomas Pope David Milk Philip Howland William Sanford & Joseph Gifford were Chosen Fence viewers for the year ensuing.

Voted that there shall be but one school master upon the Town Charge for the ensuing:

Thomas Hathaway Jalez Barker J^ur and David Milk was Chosen a Committee Pursuant to Third Article in the warrant for calling this meeting.

{May 26: 1766} At a Town meeting held by Adjourn ment at the Town House in Dartmouth the 26 Day of May 1766.

Jabez Barker J^ur Moderator

John Ricketson David Milk & Samuel Warren was chosen Surveyors of Highways:

Philip Shearman Stephen Peckcom and Jireh Swift J^ur was chosen Clark of the market

Capt Hezekiah Winslow Abraham Sharman & Job Anthony was Chosen Surveyors of Timber Plant staves hoops Clabbords and Shingles.

Benjamin Taber the second was also Chosen Surveyor of Timber Plank staves Hoops Clabbords and shingles-

George Tripp Henry Wilbour & William Allen was Chosen field Drivers or Hay wards.

John Case Thomas Pope & William Wood (Georges son) was Chosen Leather sealers

William Hart William Bennet & Samuel Howland was chosen Deer Reves.

Jonathan Shearman was Chosen Constable in the Room of Peleg Gifford who Refused to serve

Joshua Cornel was Chosen Constable in the Room of Timothy Tripp who has paid his fines

page_0017

{426} John Hathaway was Chosen Constable in the Room of Nicholas Davis, who was Chosen and Refused to serve.

Jonathan Sherman was excused by a vote of the Town, from serving Constable.

Henry Howland was Chosen Constable in the Room of Jonathan Sherman who was excused by a vote of the Town, and agreed to serve Constable, for Peleg Giffords fine for not serving constable.

Jonathan Tallman Job Gifford Timothy Maccum- ber Wesson Soul John Blackwell & Benjamin Spooner was Chosen Hog Reeves.

Voted that there be a Committee Chosen agreable to the sixth article in the warrant for calling this meeting.

Humphry Smith Walter Spooner & Bartholomew Taber are Chosen a Committee, to Draw a plan of the Jurisdiction line of that part that formerly Belonged to Tiverton.

Now the Jurisdiction Line Between the Towns of Dartm^o and Freetown, and also Draw a Petition to Prefer to the General Court at Boston for an Altiration in said Jurisdiction Line Between said Towns, agreable to the Plan annexed to said Petition.

Voted that Peleg Cornel have five years from next March to Complet his fence to make an open Highway through his Land Down to Hickes Bridge (so called) Provided he shall keep and maintain, Good Gates & Barrs sufficient for Cart & hors to pass.

This meeting is adjourned to the Last TuesDay in June next at one of the Clock in the afternoon.

{427} At a Town meeting held by Adjourment at the Town House in Dartmouth the Twenty fourth Day of June 1766

Mr. Walter Spooner is Chosen Agent In behalf of said Town to move to the General Court now sitting at Boston for an altiration in the Jurisdic tion Line. Between the town of Dartm^o and the town of Freetown as was settled in the year 1747 by the General Court then; untill the further order of said Court.

Nathaniel Potter (John^s son) Daniel Russell and James Cuishman J^nr are Chosen Pound Keepers for the year ensuing.

Nathaniel Spooner was Chosen Constable in the Room of John Hathaway who was Last Chosen and paid his fine.

Also Voted Nathaniel Spooner Nicholas Davis fine and John Hathaways fine for their not serving Constables for said Nathaniel Spooners serving Constable.

Voted that there be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth for the year 1766 for the paying the necessary Charges arising within said Town: the sum of One Hundred and Fifty pounds Lawfull money.

Voted that Giles Slocum Walter Spooner Daniel Wood William Sanford & Benjamin Slocum be Overseers of the Work House for the year 1766

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the second Tuesday of August next.

Jabez Barker J^nr Moderator

page_0018

{428}

{Aug 12: 1766} The Town meet according to the aforesaid Adjournment the Twelfth Day of August, 1766. and Chose Jonathan Soul Constable in the Room of Joshua Cornel who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve, and the Town Voted: Timothy Tripp and Joshua Cornels fines for their not serving Constables when Chosen, to the aforesaid Jonathan Soul for his serving Constable for the year 1766.

Also voted, and Chose William Bowdash William Barker, James Tucker, William Mosher, William Wood the fifth, John Wady, John Sisson, Benjⁿ Howland Sadler Oliver Briggs Survayres of Highways who was Chosen at the Annual Meeting Last past.

Thomas Pell, Seth Pope & Wesson Soul was Chosen Grand jurymen for the year ensuing.

{Feb 25: 1767} { Stamp} Bristol ss To the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to any or either them Greeting:

These are in his Majestys name to Require you or either of you on sight hereof to Notifie and warn all the Freeholders and the other Inhabi tants of said Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings, that they meet and assemble Themselves togeather at the Town House in said Town of Dartmouth on the Twenty fourth Day of March next ensuing at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said Day then and there to act on the perticulars hereinafter mentioned. Viz

1ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly To Conclude by a Vote what Number of school masters shall be Improved for the year ensuing-

3ly To Receive Returns of highways that Laid out or altered by Selectmen and to allow or Disallow of them in order they may be record

{429}

4ly To Conclude by a vote what sum of money to Raise by way of Tax this present year. for paying schoolmaster and other necessary Charges arising within the said Town.

5ly To Chuse a Comitte to Receive and examine Accompts against said Town and to allow or Disallow of them as they shall think proper and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer for the year 1766.

6ly To put the Work House in such Regulation as they at said meeting shall Think proper.

7ly Whereas Robert Bently Request Liberty to erect an edifice upon the Towns Landing at the Head of Aponaganeset River: Now for said town to act on the said affair as they shall think proper.

8ly to Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing+

And make due Return of this Warrant with your Doings Thereon, unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this Twenty fifth Day of February in the seventh year of his Majestys Reign A.D. 1767

Walter Spooner } Selectmen Giles Slocum } of Daniel Wood } Dartmouth

Agreable to the within written I have Duly Notified and warned the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmuth to meet at time and place within mentioned By three several Notifications set up one in each vilage.

pr me Jonathan Soul, Constable

page_0019

430

{Mch. 24: 1767} At a Town Meeting Legally Warn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth on the Twenty fourth Day of March 1767.

Benjamin Akin Esqr. was Chosen Moderator for said meeting: the above said meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Day of April next.

{Apr. 1. 1767} April the first Day: 1767:

The Town met according to the above Adjourn ment; and it was put vote how many Selectmen there should be Chose for the year ensuing, and the Town voted three and chose Walter Spooner, Giles Slocum, & Daniel Wood Selectmen.

Benjamin Akin Esq^r was chosen Town clerk. Benjamin Slocum was Chosen Town Treasurer, and agreed with to Receive in and pay out the Towns money for four pence on the pound. Bartholomew Taber, Samuel Smith & Samuel Sisson was Chosen Assessors for the year ensuing:

Miles Parker, Joseph Tripp & Jonathan Shearman was Chosen Constables for the year ensuing: Jonathan Shearman was exscused from serving Constable by a vote of the Town.

Jireh Willis, Joseph Spooner, Thomas West Seth Hathaway, Gamaleal Hathaway, Thomas Taber, Joseph Wing, Joseph Samson, Daniel Eggrey, Cornelius Jenne was Chosen Survayres of Highways for Accoshnet village.

James Soul, Peleg Cornel, Jonathan Soul, Wesson Kirby, Thomas Tripp, Jonathan Davel, Joshua Richmond, Elijah Gifford & Samuel Warren was Chosen Surveyres of Highways for Acoaxcet vilage.

John Case, Henry Wilbour, Jonathan Tallman, John Chase, William Mosher, Thomas Pell

{431} David Russell 2^d Daniel Rogers J^ur, Thomas Russell, Joseph Gifford, Philip Shearman, David Barker, Benjamin Howland (the second) & Benjⁿ Shearman was Chosen Surveyres for Aponaganset vilage.

Jonathan Shearman, Abraham Reed, and John Maccumber was Chosen Tything men-

Samuel Spooner ye 2^d & Elnathan Spooner was Chosen feild Drivers-

Thomas Pope, Hezekiah Winslow, David Milk, Philip Howland, Peleg Slocum and Zebulon, was Chosen fence Viewers-

Jonathan Brownel, George Brownel, Isaac Russell & Nicholas Lapham was Chosen feild Drivers.

James Cuishman J^ur, Daniel Russell and Nathaniel Potter Chosen Pound keepers.

Lewin Pope, William Tripp & Nicholas Howland was Chosen Wardeens.

Paul Russell was Chosen Constable in the Room of Jonathan Shearman who was exscused by a vote of the Town for serving Constable.

Humphry Smith, Thomas Hathaway and David Milk was Chosen a Committe to receive and examine the accompts Brought against said Town and allow or Disallow of them and also to make up and settle with the Town Treasurer for the year 1766.

the Annual Town meeting for the year 1767 was Adjourn’d to Fryday the Twenty second Day of May next at Ten of the Clock in the Fournoon.

Benjamin Akin Moderator.

{May 22: 1767} At a town meeting held by Adjournment on Fryday the 22^d Day of May A.D. 1767.

William Mosher was chosen Survayre of highways.

Benjamin Howland was chosen Survayre of highways

page_0020

{432} Benjamin Shearman ye 2^d was Chosen Survayre of highways.

John Lawton was chosen Survayre of highways. & David Davil was chosen Survayres of highways. Job Case was exscused by a vote of the Town from serving Constable.

Nicholas Howland was exscused from serving Wardeen by a vote of the Town for this present year.

Robert Kirby was exscused by a voate of the Town from serving Constable for the present year:

Capt. William Wood was Chosen Sealer of Weights and Measures for the present year.

Timothy Russell was Chosen Wardeen for this present year in the Room of Nicholas Howland who was exscused.

The votes with Respect to exscusing Job Case & Robert Kirby from serving Constables for this present year were Reconsidered.

Voted to hire a Grammer Schoolmaster for the present year.

Voted to Raise one hundred pounds to Defray the Charges of said Town for the present year. Then the said meeting was Adjourn’d to the 4th Day of June next at Ten of the Clock in the four noon.

{June 23: 1767} Bristol ss. To the Constable of Constables of the Town of Dartmouth within said County or to either of them Greeting:

These are to Require you in his Majesty’s Name to Notifie and worn the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of this Town Duly Quallified to vote in Town meetings, That they meet together at the usial place on the eleventh Day of July

{433} next at Ten of the clock in the fournoon. Then & there to act as follows.

To Choose Town officers for the year ensuing in the Room of all those who were Chosen at the Annual Town meeting: for the Choice of Town officers Last past & Refused to serve. Hereof fail not and make Due Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Town Clerk of said Town on or before the Time of said meeting:

Given under our hands and seals this Twenty third day of June In the seventh year of his Magesty’s Reign A.D. 1767.

Giles Slocum } Selectmen of Daniel Wood } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: June ye 25^th 1767:

Persuant to the within written I Duly Notified & warned the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth that were Quallified accord ing to Law to vote in Town meetings:

Jonathan Soul, Constable.

{July 11: 1767} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth on Saturday the eleventh Day of July A.D. 1767.

Benjamin Akin Esq: was Chosen Moderator for said meeting:

Amaziah Taber was Chosen Constable in the Room of Elnathan Hathaway who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve.

William Bowdash was Chosen Constable in the Room of Joseph Smith who was Last Chosen & Refused to serve.

This meeting is adjourn^d to the Tenth day of August next.

page_0021

{434} {Aug. 10: 1767} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth on the Tenth day of August 1767:

Benjamin Akin Esq. was Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Thomas Pell, Seth Pope & Nathaniel Richmond, Chosen Standing Grandjurymen for the year ensuing: it was put to vote wheither William Bowdash should be exscused from serving Constable, by reason of his Loosing the sight of one of his eyes, and it past in the negative.

Ichabod Potter was Chosen Constable in the Room of Job Case who was Last Chosen, and the Selectmen thought proper not to convene him. Isaac Spooner was Chosen Constable in the Room of Amaziah Taber and Elnathan Hathaway and is agreed with to serve for their fines for not serving Constable.

{Aug. 31: 1770} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment the 31^st Day of August 1770.

the Town meet, and Chose Jonathan Soul Constable and for his Incouragement to serve Constable. the Town voted Robert Kirby fine, and Ichabod Potter fine.

Thomas Hicks was Chosen Constable in the Room of William Bowdash who was Last Chosen, and Joseph Smiths fine & William Bowdashs fine, was voted to him for his serving.

{Feb 29: 1768} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to any or either of them Greeting: These are therefore in his Majesty^s Name to Require you or either of you fourthwith to Notifie & warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified to vote in Town meetings that they meet and assemble themselves togeather at the Town House

{435} in said Town of Dartmouth on the Twenty second day of March next ensuing at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereinafter mentioned (viz)

1ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly To Conclude by a vote what member of school masters to be Improved for the ensuing year at the Charge of said Town

3ly To Receive the Return of highways that are Laid out or altered by the Selectmen and to allow or Disallow them in order that they may be of record.

4ly To Chuse a Committe to Receive & examine accompts against said Town & to allow or Disallow of them as they shall think proper: and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer for the year 1767.

5ly To Conclude by a vote what sum of money to Raise by way of Tax this present year, for paying schoolmasters & other necesssary charges ariseing with the said Town.

6ly To put the work house in such Regulation as they at said meeting shall think proper.

7ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

8ly To act or Do as they at said meeting shall Think proper Relating the Incouraging our own Manufacturies and

Make Return of this Worrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clark of said Town. at or before the Time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this Twenty ninth of February in the eight year of his Majestys Reign A.D. 1768

Giles Slocum } Selectmen of Daniel Wood } Dartm^o.

page_0022

{436} Bristol ss: March y^e, 22^d. 1768.

Pursuant to the within written warrant I have Duly Notified and warned the freeholders and other Inhabitants of the town of Dartmouth that are Quallified according to Law to vote in Town meetings that they meet at time and place by setting up Notifications In each Village.

pr me Jonathan Soul, Constable

{Mch. 22; 1768} At a Town Meeting Legally Wom^d and held at the Town house In Dartmouth the Twenty second day of March A.D. 1768.

Benjamin Akin Esq^r was chosen moderator for said meeting.

Walter Spooner, Giles Slocum & Daniel Wood Chosen Selectmen.

Benjamin Akin Esq^r Chosen Town Clerk Bartholomew Taber, Samuel Smith & Lamuel Smith Chosen Assessors.

Samuel Smith was exscused by a vote of the Town from serving an Assessor this present year.

Samuel Sisson was exscused by a vote of the Town from serving an Assessor, this present year.

Benjamin Akin Esq^r and Cap^t Job Almy was chosen Assessors in the room of Samuel Smith & Lemuel Sisson. John Lowden William Barker & James Sisson Chosen Constables.

Benjamin Slocum was Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with to serve for four pence upon the pound for Receiving in and paying out the Towns money.

John Bennet, John Tobey, George Brownell Gamaleal Hathaway, Gamaleal Church Cornelius Jenne, Seth Hathaway, Ebenezer Willis, Joseph Spooner & Samuel Cornish J^ur

{437} was Chosen Survayres of highways for Acoashnut Village.

Elijah Gifford, Joshua Richmond, Wesson Kirby, James Soul, Jonathan Davel, John Lawton, Jonathan Soul, Peleg Cornel was Chosen Survayres of highways for Acoaxset Village.

Joseph Allen J^ur, Giles Slocum, Nicholas Howland, Benjamin Howland, William Smith, John Sanford, Thomas Shearman, Jonathan Shearman, Job Russell, Caleb Hathaway, Daniel Rogers, Jonathan Allen, Joseph Allen, Adam Mott, Jacob Chase, Elisha Russell & Job Gifford was Chosen Survayres of high was ways

Samuel Jenne, Isreal Wood & Timothy Russell was Chosen Wardeens.

Humphry Smith, Thomas Hathaway & David Milk was Chosen a Committe to examine accompts and allow or Disallow them: and also to settle acc^ts with the Town Treasurer for y^e year 1767.

and then the meeting was Adjourned to the 17^th Day of May 1768.

{May 17: 1768} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth by Adjournment the seventeenth day of May 1768:

Abisha Delano, Philip Allen & Robert Gifford was Chosen Constables.

Nathaniel Spooner, Jireh Swift J^ur was Chosen fence Viewers.

John Wady, Jonathan Sherman, John Earl & Thomas Cory was Chosen fence Viewers

Stephen Peckcom, Lemuel Sisson, Abraham Shearman, Jabez Shearman, John Spooner & Benjamin Taber J^ur was Chosen Survayres of Timber Plank hoops staves shingels & clabbords

Shubard Haws Simeon Ormen, Isaac Cornel

page_0023

{438} Joseph Hicks, Job Gifford & Samuel Maccumber Jnr, Chosen Hog Reaves:

Thomas Pope, William Wood & William Shear man y^e 2^d: Chosen Leather sealers.

Cap^t. William Word Chosen Sealer of w^ts and Measures

William Allen, Samuel Spooner Jnr, Gideon Wood, Benjamin Brownel, Nicholas Lapham & Oliver Briggs was Chosen field Drivers.

Voted that there be but one schoolmaster. this year. for the town.

Voted that there be Raised by way of Tax this year on the Inhabitants of The town one Hundred & fifty pounds for the Defraying the necessary Charges ariseing in said Town. this meeting is Adjourned to the 21^st day of June next.

{June 21: 1768} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the Twenty first day of June 1768. by adjournment.

Thomas Hicks was Chosen Constable in the room of Philip Allen, and the Town Voted William Barker & Philip Allen fines for not serving Constables to Thomas Hicks for his serving constable

Robert Gifford was exscused by a vote from serving Constable for the year 1768. if he Produces a Certificate from under a Phycians hand, that he is an infirm man and not able of body to serve office of a Constable.

Abisha Delano was exscused by a vote of the Town from serving Constable. by Reason of Infirmity of Body. he Producing a Certificate from under the hand of a Phycian that he

{439} an infirm man and not able of body to serve in the office of Constable.

James Sisson was Chosen Constable in the Room of Robert Gifford.

William Tallman was Chosen Constable in the room of Abisha Delano.

Matthew Boomer was Chosen Survayre of highways. this meeting is Adjourned to the secondary of July next.

{Sept 19: 1768}

To Thomas Hicks one of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth within the County of Bristol &c

These are Therefore to Notifie and warn all the Freeholders & other Inhabitants of Aponaganset Village with said Town of Dartmouth that are Quallified to vote in Town meetings that they meet & assemble themsealves togeather at the Town House in said Town, on the Twenty first day of this Instant September at one of the Clock in the afternoon then and there to Choose one or more Committe men to Represent them at fanul hall in Boston on the 22^nd day of this Instant at the Convention of Committee Men Chosen from the several Towns in this Government; in order to Take into Consideration. such wise and prudent measures as they shall Think proper, to prevent the Distress and Misery that is Like to Come on us by Reason, of a Number of Regular Troops that are to be Quartered, in this Government; and make Return of this Warrant with thy Doing thereon unto the Town Clerk of s^d Town, on or before, the Time for said meeting:

Given under our hands in Dartmouth this

page_0024

{440} 19^th day of September A.D. 1768. Walter Spooner } Selectmen of Daniel Wood } Dartmo.

Bristol ss: Dartmouth September 21^st 1768 by Vertue of this request to me Directed. I have Notified as many of the Qualified Voters as I Could which I supposed in the Greater Part of them. pr me Thomas Hicks Constable.

{Sept. 19: 1768} At a Town Meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth the nineteenth day of September, A.D. 1768.

Walter Spooner was Chosen a Committeeman to appear at frenal Hall in Boston on the 22^nd Instant September and Joyn the Committee, Chosen in the several Towns in the Government to Consult on some wise and prudent Measures to prevent the Distress and Misery that is Like to Come on the said Government. by reason of a Number of Regular Tropps to be Quartered in s^d Government.

{July 2: 1768} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth by Adjournment the second day of July 1768.

it was put to Vote Wheither James Sisson who was Chosen Constable at the Last Town Meeting should be exscused from serving Constable this year. and it past in the Negative.

Ephraim Jenne Chosen Constable in the Room of William Tallman who was last Chosen.

William Tripp (Abial son) Chosen Constable

{441} {Apr 2: 1739} Know all men by these Presents that we Philip Macomber and Abial Macomber both of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol in New England has Devided fence to seperate our Lands and have set out each part as followeth. the said Abial Macomber – his heirs or assigns is to make and maintain the Esterly part of said fence Beginning at the highway and to go west Just half the way in the Line and the s^d Philip Macomber his heirs or assigns to make and Maintain the other part of s^d fence.

Signed this second Day of April by s^d Philip Macomber

in the presents of us } 1739 Josia Clossen } Philip Macomber Mary Macomber }

The above was Entred and Recor^d by me the 9^th Day of April anno. Domini 1773. Attest: Benj^a Russell, Town Clerk

{ Stamp} {Feb 15: 1769} Bristol ss. to the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting:

In his Majesty’s Name you are forthwith Re quired to Notifie and warn all the free hold ers and other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meet ings.Page to meet togeather at the Town house in said Town on the Twenty first day of March Next at Ten a Clock in the four noon on s^d day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly To choose Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly To Conclude by a Vote what number of schoolmasters there shall be Procured for the year ensuing at the Charge of said Town

page_0025

{442} 3ly To Choose a Committee to Receive and settle accompts with those that have Demands against s^d Town, as also with the Town Treasurer for the year 1768.

4ly To Receive Returns of the Highways Laid out or Altered by the Selectmen of ^sd Town, and Allow or Disallow in order they may be of Record or other Returns as may be offered.

5ly To Conclude and Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Tax for the year ensuing for the paying of school masters and other contingent Charges ariseing within said Town.

6ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

7ly To Act and Do what they think may think proper in regard to ye work house

8ly To Procure a book at the Charge of the Town for the Selectmen to Record all the Transient persons Names that Comes to Reside in said Town. or otherwise as they at s^d meeting think proper. also wheather they will Chuse a Committee to Petition the Board of Commissioners for a Custom House officer to Reside in this Town.

and make Return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clark of sd Town at or before the Time of s^d meeting.

Given under our hands & seals this fifteenth Day of February in the ninth year of his Majestys Reign, A.D. 1769

Giles Slocum } Selectmen Walter Spooner } of Daniel Wood } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth March y^e 21^st day 1769 by Vertue of the within Warrant to me Directed I have notified the Inhabitants of said Town

{443} according to the usial Custom agreable to the Direction of said Warrant

pr me Thomas Hicks Constable.

{Mch 21: 1769} As Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town House in Dartmouth on tuesday the Twenty first day of March 1769

Giles Slocum was Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Giles Slocum, Walter Spooner & Daniel Wood was Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing Benjamin Akin was Chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing.

Benjamin Slocum was Chosen Town Treas urer for the year ensuing and agreed with to Receive in and pay out the Town money for four pence per Pound.

Bartholomew Taber, Samuel Smith & Jonathan Soul was Chosen Assessors for the year ensuing.

John Lowden, Prince Allen & Joseph Tripp was Chosen Constables for the year ensuing. Joseph Tripp was exscused by a Vote of the Town from serving Constable by reason of a poor Idiote Brother of his that he has to Take Cear of & support.

Joseph Davis was Chosen Constable in the Room of Joseph Tripp.

Daniel Wing (at the Long Plain so called) Jonathan Slocum and David Davel was Chosen Constables in the Room of John Lowden.

Prince Allen & Joseph Davis who was Chosen & Refused to serve.

Jonathan Shearman, Philip Shearman John Potter Benj^a Howland Sadler Nicholas Lapham, Giles Slocum, Samuel Almy

page_0026

{444} Benjamin Russell the fourth, John Smith, Timothy Maxfeild ye 2^d, Jonathan Winslow, George Horskins, Sylvanus Allen, Daniel Rogers, Richard Collins & Ezekell Chace was Chosen Survayres of highways for Aponaganset Village for the year ensuing.

John Lowden, Stephen Taber, Hunniwell Hathaway, George Brownell, Gamaleal Hathaway, Gamaleal Church, Seth Hathaway, Cornelius Jenne, Samuel Spooner, Ebenezer Akin & John Bennet was Chosen Survayres for highways for Acashnent Village for the year ensuing.

James Sorel, Elijah Gifford, Peleg Cornell, Jonathan Sisson, Wesson Kirby, John Lawton, John Palmer, Jonathan Davel, Joshua Davel, Benjamin Brownell & William Maccumber, Joyner was Chosen Survayres of highways this meeting is Adjourn^d to the 26^th Day of April next 1769.

{Apr 26: 1769} The town meet according to Adjournment the 26^th day of April 1769:

and Isaac Spooner was excepted of by the town as Constable for Acushnet Village, in the room of Daniel Wing: and Chose said Isaac Spooner accordingly: and the Town Voted sd Isaac John Lowdens fine, for, said Johns not serving Constable.

Joseph Davis was exscused by a Vote of the Town from serving Constable, by reason of his Lame Legg;

David Davel was exscused from serveing Constable, by a vote of the Town, by reason of his being an infirm man.

Prince Allen was chosen Constable in the room of Jonathan Slocum, who was Chosen Constable, and exscused from serving: for his

{445} paying his fine to the Town, and the Town voted said Jonathan Slocums fine to Prince Allen. as an Incouragement to serve Constable. Elijah Gifford was Chosen Constable in the room of David Davel.

Jeremiah Gifford, Henry Howland, Benjamin Blossom, and William White Chosen Survayres of highways:

Edward Wing, Jonathan Potter and Joseph Spooner Chosen Tything men:

Wesson Soul, William Wood, Jethro Hathaway, Thomas Pope, John Ricketson, Josias Wood, was Chosen Viewers of fence.

William Shearman (Tanner) Thomas West and Robert Shearman, were Chosen Sealers of Leather.

John Wady Benjamin Taber Jnr and Lemuel Sisson were Chosen Survayres of shingles staves hoops & clabbords.

Jabez Shearman, Thubal Haws and Caleb Tripp were Chosen Survayres of Plank and Timber; John Maccumber, Daniel Allen, Jabez Barker J^ur, John Chace, Jabez Jenne & Jethro Jenne were Chosen field Drivers.

Joseph Hicks, Christopher Gifford, Lemuel Mendall, Simson Jenney, David Barker & George Sanford, were Chosen Hog reaves.

John Potter, Abraham Ried, & James Cornell, Choosen Wardens.

Voted. that there be but one schoolmaster upon the Charge of the Town for the year ensuing: and to be Procured by the Selectmen of said Town.

Humphry Smith, David Milk & Thomas Hathaway was chosen a Committee agreable to the third article in the Warrant for Calling this meeting:

page_0027

{446} This meeting is further Adjourn^dto the 22^nd day of May next:

{May 22: 1769} The Town meet according to Adjourn ment and Choose—

Stokes Tripp Constable, in the room of Elijah Gifford, who was Choosen and refused to serve.

Seth Pope Choosen Survayre of highways Benjamin Badcock Chosen Survayres of high ways, in the room of George Haskins, who was Choosen and neglected to Take his Place.

Voted that there be one Hundred and Twenty pounds Raised by a Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth, for the year 1769.

Voted that the County rate for the year 1769, be paid out of the Town Treasury:

Voted. that Benjamin Slocum, Town Treasurer Procure a book at the exspence of the Town, agreeable to the eight article:

This meeting is further Adjourn^d. to the first Tuseday in July next: it being the fourth day of said July 1769:

{July 4: 1769} The Town meet according to the Adjour ment, and

Stokes Tripp was exscused by a Vote of the Town from serving Constable. the vote for exscusing Stokes Tripp from serving Constable, was Reconsidered; and the former Choice to Remain good, it was put to Vote again, wheither, Stokes Tripp should be exscused from serving Constable and it passed in the Negative.

{447} Voted that the Selectmen of Dartmouth Give Thomas Hammond a Certificate to goe to Batemans Precincts in Duches County in New York Government.

Thomas Hicks Chosen Constable in the room of Stokes, Tripp, who was Last Chosen and Refused to serve, and the Town voted: Stokes Tripp and Elijah Giffords fines for not serving Constable to Thomas Hicks for his serving Constable.

Judidiah Cornell Daniel Maccumber, was Chosen Hog reaves in the Room of David Barker & George Sanford, who was Chosen and Refused to serve.

Thomas Hicks. Copper. was Chosen Warden in the Room of John Potter, who was Chosen, not obig^d to serve.

{August 18: 1770} Bristol ss. To one of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting.

in Observance of a Petition of more than Ten Freeholders of the Town, of Dartmouth, to us Directed, setting fourth. their having Taken into Consideration, the Noble and Partirotick Spirit which Actuated many of the Inhabitants of the Town of Boston to join in with the non Importation Agreement (as thought to be the most Likely means to save the Countery from Slavery & Ruin) by means of which. Togeather with the Impositions Imposed, on said Town of Boston, many of the Inhabitants are reduced to various Dificulties.

Therefore Request that you would call a meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth as soon as may be, to see if the s^d Town, will afford any Releife to those who

page_0028

{443} have Suffere^d in Consequence of the Reason above Resited and have Sacraficed their Interest for the Good of their Conterey.

These are Therefore in his Majestys Name to require you to Notifie and Warn all the Freholders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather at the Town house in said Dartmo. on the third day of September next at one of the Clock in the afternoon. then and there to act and Do what they shall appear to be the most Reasonable for said Town. to do in Consequence of the above Request:

And make return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town, at the time appointed for said meeting:

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this 18th day of August A.D. 1770

Walter Spooner } Selectman Giles Slocum & } of William Davis } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: Dartmouth September 3^rd day 1770 by Vertue of this Warrant to me Directed I have Notified and Warned all the free holders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth Qullified by Law to Vote in Town meetings to meet at the Town House in Dartmouth according to the within Directions of this Warrant

pr Isaac Spooner Constable.

{Sept 3^d 1770.} The Town meet the Third Day of September 1770- and after some Debate thought proper not to act at all on the above Warrant

{449} {Mch. 27: 1770} Bristol ss: To the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or to any or either Greeting.

These are Therefore in his Majestys Name to require you or either of you to Notifie and warn all the Inhabitants of the said Town that are Quallified to Vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather. at the Town House in said Town of Dartmouth on the Twentith Day of April next at three of the clock in the afternoon, on said day. Then and there to act on the Perticulars hereinafter mentioned (viz)

Whareas the Town of Dartmouth is Cited to appear at the next Court of quarter sessions to be holden at Taunton, within and for the County of Bristol, to shew Cause why they Do not Lay out a highway from Gershom Woddles to the House of Isreal Cornells, and also to a way that leads to Acuishnet River.

Now for those at said Meeting to act on the aforesaid affair as they shall think proper, and Make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town, at or before the Time of said meeting,

Given under our hands and seal this Twenty seventh Day of March. A. D. 1770.

Giles Slocum } Selectmen of the William Davis } Town of Dartmouth

{Apr. 20: 1770} At a Town Meeting Legally Warned and held at the Town House in Dartmouth on the 20^th day of April A.D. 1770:

Benjamin Akin Esq^r was Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Voted that the Selectmen of the Town of Dart mouth, make Answer at the Next General

page_0029

{450} Sessions of the peace to be holden at Taunton for the County of Bristol, the first Tuesday of May next to a Petition of Ignatius Perkins, and others of Freetown and Jeaneth Cowen and others of Dartmouth. Respecting a high way to be Laid out through part of said Dartmouth and Freetown.

Walter Spooner is Chosen Agent in behalf of said Town of Dartmouth. to make answer to the above Resited Petition.

Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting:

You are forthwith required in his Majestys Name to Notifie and ware all the Freeholders & other inhabitants of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings to meet togeather at the Town House in said Town, on the Twentyth day of March next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon then and there to act on the perticulars hereafter mentioned

1 ly To Choose Town officers for the ensuing year as the Law

2 ly To Choose a County Regester.

3 ly To Choose a County Treasurer for the ensuing year.

4 ly To Choose a Committee to Receive and settle accompts with those that have Demands against said Town; and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer, for the Year one Thousand Seven Hundred and sixty nine.

5 ly to Receive Return of highway, that are Laid out or altered, in order that such as are excepted, may be of Record.

6 ly to Conclude by a Vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of tax for the year ensuing for the paying of schoolmasters

{451} and other Contingent Charges ariseing within said Town.

7ly To act and Do what they may think proper in Regard to the work house, as it is appre hended that the poor & Idle persons are Greatly Increased in said Town.

8ly for the Town at said meeting to Take into Consideration the affair of the highway by Rogar Moshers, and Do something affect ual, thereon in order it may be kept open for the futer.

And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon to the Clerk of said Town, at or before the Time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this Twenty seventh day of February A.D. 1770.

Walter Spooner } Selectmen Daniel Wood and } of Giles Slocum } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: by Vertue of the Warrant to me Directed I have Notified all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of the town of Dart mouth to meet at Time and place within mentioned by posting up three Notifications one in each Village in said Town. according {x} to the usial Custom Dartmouth March 20^th day 1770.

pr me Thomas Hicks Constable

{Mch 20, 1770} At a Town meeting Legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on the 20^th Day of March A. D. 1770

Benjamin Akin Esq^r Choose Moderator :

Walter Spooner Giles Slocum & William Davis is Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing : Benjamin Akin Esqr Chose Town Clerk

Bartholomew Taber Samuel Smith Jonathan

page_0030

{452} Soul Chosen Assessors for the year ensuing:

Benjamin Slocum Chose Town Treasurer to Receive in and pay out the Towns money for four pence pr pound :

James Tucker Abisha Delano, & Thomas Howland J^ur Chosen Constable, for the ensuing year.

Isaac Spooner Seth Pope, Daniel Eggrey Seth Hathaway Gamaleal Hathaway, Joseph Spooner, George Brownell, Stephen Taber, Nicholas Davis, Caleb Russell, William Tallman, Job Cook Jonathan Winslow, Timothy Maxfield y^e, 2^d: Benjamin Smith, Thomas Mott, Jonathan Shearman, John Wady, Henry Howland, John Potter, Edward Wing, Peleg Slocum Josiah Wood, James Soul, Jeremiah Gifford, Peleg White, Jonathan Sisson, Wesson Kerby, John Lawton, Jonathan Davel, William Maccumber, Joyner, Jonathan Taber, Benjamin Brownell, ye 2^d. George Brownell. this meeting is Adjourn^d, to the Twentyth day of April next at Ten of the Clock in the four noon.

{May 24: 1770} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth the Twenty fourth day of May 1770 :

Daniel Briggs was Chosen Warden, in the room of John Potter who was Last Chosen, and not obliged to serve.

John Palmer Chosen Wardeen for aCoaxset Village.

John Lowden and Caleb Tripp Chosen Survares of Lumber as the Law Directs.

Samuel Spooner J^ur and Henry Wrighington, Chosen Hog reavses.

Voted. to Raise Two Hundred and Twenty pounds to Defray the Charges of the Town the present

{453} year; Isaac Spooner Chosen and excepted, Constable.

Abisha Delan^o and William Taber fines for not serving Constables. Voted to Isaac Spooner for his serving Constable.

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the Twenty fifth Day of June.

{Apr. 20: 1770} At a Town Meeting held by Adjournment the Twentyth Day of April 1770.

The Town meet according to adjournment and Thomas Hathaway John Wady & William Wood y^e third was a Committe agreable to the third article in the Warrant for Calling this Meeting.

Joseph Cornell was Chosen Constable in the room of James Tucker:

William Taber Chosen Constable in the room of Abisha Delano:

Benjamin Tripp Chosen Constable in the room of Thomas Howland.

Jonathan Winslow Job Anthony & Seth Russell & Shubal Haus Chosen Survayrs of Timber plank, staves, Clabbords, hoops & Shingles.

Cap^t William Wood Chosen Sealer of Weights & Measures.

David Russell Jireh Swift J^ur & Walter Cornell Chosen Thythingmen.

George Horskins, Samuel Wing Simeon Jenne, Simeon Ornan, William Maccumber the Third, & Stephen Soul Chosen Hogreaves.

Benjamin Tucker Andrew Shearman Isaac Cornell, Ebenezer Cornell, Daniel Summerton and Barthlomew West Chosen feild Drivers.

Abner Potter, Stokes Potter, John Ricketson, Timothy Russell, Jonathan Hathaway y^e, 2^d, & Nathaniel Spooner Chosen fence veiwers.

Elnathan Samson, Jonathan White & John

page_0031

{454} Potter, Arons son) Chosen Wardeens.

Stokes Potter, Nicholas Howland and, Thomas Pope, Chosen Sealers of Leather.

Benjamin Chace, Benjamin Brownell, Chosen Survayres of highways.

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the Twenty fourth day of May next.

{June 25 : 1770 } At a Town meeting held by Adjournment the Twenty fifth Day of June 1770:

Voted that there be one Gramer Schoolmaster, Provided for said Town by the Selectmen and by them placed & replaced as they shall Judge proper.

Henry Howland is Chosen Constable in the room of Joseph Cornell, and James Tuckers and Joseph Cornells fines are Voted to Henry Howland for his serving Constable. {x} Daniel Wing is Chosen Constable in the room of Benjamin Tripp and Thomas How lands & Benjamin Tripps fines for not serving Constables are Voted to Daniel Wing, to serve Constable, if the said Daniel Procures. suffi cient Bondsmen to the satisfaction of the Town Stephen Tripp Chosen Survayre of highways in the roome of Jonathan Taber.

At a Town Meeting Legally Warn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Monday the third day of September 1770.

Voted on the second article in the Warrant.

Walter Spooner Giles Slocum & Daniel Wood. are Chosen Agents in behalf of said Town, to Joye . with the Committe or Agents of the Town of Freetown. to settle the Jurisdiction Line between said Towns of Dartmouth and

{455} Freetown.

{Sept. 24 : 1770} At a Town Meeting Legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the Twenty fourth day of September 1770 :

Jonathan Winslow & Soul was Chosen Grand Jury men, for the Superior Court to be held at Taunton for the County of Bristol : the second Tuseday of October next.

Daniel Howland Thomas Cory and Nathaniel Spooner was Chosen Pettit Jury men, for the above said Court.

Whereas Elnathan Samson, of Dartmouth in the County of Bristol, & Province of the Massachusetts Bay New England Blacksmith did on the eight- Day of November A. D. 1769. at Publick Auction purchase- buy and became possessor of a Negro Man Slave Named Venter aged about Forty six Years as may appear by a Bill of sale of said Negro given to the said Elnathan Samson by Job Williams a Deputy Sheriff in said County of Bristol, who was then Taken & sold by Virtue of a Writ of execution wherein one Daniel Russell was Creditor and one Jeremiah Child. Debtor, as the proper estate of the said Jeremiah Childs before the said sale. And the said Elnathan Samson did afterwards reconvey one half of said Negro to John Chaffee of said Dartmouth Sperma cite Manufacturer, These are Therefore to certify Whom it May Concern, that we the said Elnathan Samson & John Chaffee for and in Consideration of the sum of Twenty one pounds six shillings & five pence. Lawfull money of s^d Province, to us in hand paid

page_0032

{456} by the said Negro Man Venture the recept whereof we hereby acknowlde have acquitted & renonced all Right Title or Interest whatever in, and to said Negro. & Do hereby set him at full Liberty to act his own Will from the day of the date hereof forever.

In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this Ninth day of July in the Tenth year of his Majestys Reign Anno Domini 1770.

Elnathan Samson John Chaffee

Signed & Sealed in presence of Edward Pope } Elisha Tabey } Bristol ss. July 9th 1770.

Personally appeared Elnathan Samson John Chaffee & acknowledged this Instrument to be their act & Deed, before me.

Elisha Tobey Justice of the Peace. Recorded by me this eighteenth Day of July 1770

Benjamin Akin Town Clerk

{Feb. 14: 1771} { Stamp} Bristol ss: to the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting.

in his Majestys Name you are fourthwith Required to Notifie and warn all the Free holders and other Inhabetents of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town Meetings to meet together at the Town House in s^d Town on the twelveth Day of March Next at Ten of the Clock in the forenoon on s^d Day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly to Choose Town officers for y^e year ensuing as y^e Law Directs.

2ly to Conclude by Vote what Number of school

{457} masters there shall be procured by y^e year ensuing at y^e Charge of s^d Town.

3ly to Choose a Committee to Receive & settle Accompts with those that have Demands against s^d Town as also with y^e Town Treasurer for y^e Year on Thousand seven hundred and seventy.

4ly to Receive Returns of highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen of s^d Town and allow or Disallow in order they may be of Record.

5ly to Conclude by Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Tax for ye Year ensuing for the paying of schoolmasters and other Contingent Charges arising within s^d Town.

6ly to Act and Do what they may think proper in Regard to the work house.

7ly to Choose a County Trasurer for y^e year ensuing.

8ly to Chose a Committe to Purchase a Convenant Place for to Bulde a Pest house on and also to Impower s^d Com mitte to Buld s^d house at y^e expence of s^d Town or otherways for s^d Town to Act and Do what they may think proper at s^d Meeting.

9ly for the Town at s^d meeting to act and Do what they shall think proper with Respect to Persons that belong to any of the Nigh bouring Goverments Coming into s^d Town to shute Sains to take fish in any of the harbours within s^d Town.

And make Return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of s^d Town at or before the time of s^d Meeting.

Given under our hands and Seal this 14^th Day of February A.D. 1771.

Walter Spooner } Selectmen of Giles Slocum } Darm^o.

page_0033

{458} Bristol ss. Dartmouth March the 11th Day 1771 by virtue of this warrant to me Directed by ye Selectmen of said Dartmouth I have Notified all the Freeholders and other Inhabi tants of the Town of Dartmouth Quallified by Law to Vote in Town Meetings to meet at Time and Place within Mentioned.

pr me Isaac Spooner Constable.

{Mch. 12: 1771} At a Town Meeting Legally Warned and held at y^e Town House in Dartmouth on Tuseday the Twelveth Day of March A. D. 1771 Jabez Barker Jur Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Watter Spooner Giles Slocum & William Davis Chosen Selectmen for y^e year ensuing,

Benjamin Russell y^e: fourth Chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing,

Benjamin Slocum was Chosen Town Treasurer for y^e year ensuing and Agreed with to Receve in and pay out y^e Towns money at four pence pr pound.

Isaac Vencent John Macumber and Jonathan Sherman Chosen Constables for y^e year ensuing

Bartholomew Taber Samuel Smith and Jonathan Sole are Chose Assesors for y^e year ensuing

The Town exscused John Macumber and Isrel White was Chosen Constable in his stead for aCoxet.

1. Earl Thomas Hathaway John Wady & William Wood 3^d. are Chosen as a Comitie to settle with those that have Demands aganst the Town as also with the Town treasurer for y^e year past.

John Smith (son of Joseph) Job Cook John Wady John Chase Benjamin Russell ye fourth Thomas Hix J^nr Joseph Almy Giles Slocum

{459} Maltier Hathaway, Daniel Rogers John Tucker Joseph Gifford Henry Howland Jonathan Tallman are Chosen Surveyers for Aponagan set Villiage.

Nicholas Howland y^e second Joseph Hix James Sowle Timothy Gifford J^nr Peleg White John Lawton Stephen Tripp Wesson Kerby Nathaniel Richmond George tippitts was Chosen Surveyers for acoxet Villiage

Isaac Spooner Daniel Egrey George Brownell Caleb Russell Benjamin Taber J^nr Jireah Willis Seth Pope Zackias Tobey J^nr Bartholomew West J^nr Daniel Sumerton Walter Spooner Hunnewell Hathaway was Chosen Surveyers of highways for Acushnet Villiage,

The 9^th article in y^e Warrant was Voted & Benj^a Akin Esquire is Desired to Prefer a Petition to the General Court at Boston in Consequence thereof.

This Meeting is Adjourned to the third Tues day of April next at ten of the Clock in y^e four Noon.

{April 16: 1771} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment on Tuesday the sixteenth Day of April A D. 1771 Nathaniel Potter Coper John Jenny and Jonathan Hussey was Chosen Wardens for y^e year ensuing.

Gideon Howland Gamail Briant and Nathaniel Tripp was Chosen tything men for y^e year ensuing.

Isaac Vincent was Chosen Constable for Accushnet village this meeting again, as he objected to the Legallity of his warning in Consequence of the former Choice.

Deliverance Smith Chosen Constable in the room of Jonathan Sherman.

page_0034

{460} Jonathan Sisson was Chosen Constable in the room of Israel White who refused to serve in that office.

David Smith David Barker Ephraim Kinton Thomas Kinton John Tripp and Samuel Manchester are Chosen fence Viewers for y^e year ensuing.

David Russell Nicholas Laphum Thomas Cory Wesson Sowle Samuel West & Henry Wrighington are Chosen Field Drivers for y^e year ensuing.

Gedon Wood George Wood J^nr Elisha Mosher Tyler Wilcox Joseph Kinton Davenport Brightman was Chosen Hog Reaves for y^e year ensuing.

James Sisson Benjamin Taber J^nr Barnabus Wing Shubel Haws Jabaz Thuman Barnabus Mosher was Chosen Surveyers of Bords. shin gles & Timber for y^e year ensuing.

The Town Chose to ad to Hog Reaves to them that is Chosen and Likewise Chose by Vote Benjamin Spooner Ca^p Elnathan Pope to be Hog Reaves for y^e year ensuing.

Caleb Tripp George Brownell y^e third David Shephard Abraham Sherman J^nr Danl Sherman was Chosen Surveyers of Hoops and staves.

Stoker Potter William Mosher Thomas Pope Chosen Leather sealers for y^e year ensuing.

Nathaniel Potter Daniel Russell James Cushman J^nr was Chosen Pound keepers for y^e year ensuing.

Cp^t. William Wood was Chosen Sealer of Weights and Measures for y^e year ensuing.

Gersham Smith Nathaniel Hathaway Survay ers of highways.

Job Gifford Chosen Surveyer of highways in Rome of Jonathan Tallman who was not obliged to serve.

{461} Joseph Almy Rechosen Surveyor of highways at this meeting as he was not warned when Chosen before.

Joshua Potter and Richard Collins Chosen Surveyers of Highways for y^e year ensuing.

Voted on the second Article that there be one Gramer Schoolmaster for y^e year ensuing.

Provided for said Town by the Selectman and by them Placed and Replaced as they shall Judge Proper.

8th Article Voted in the Negative (viz) that there be no Pest House Built at the Charge of the Town

This Meeting stands Adjourned to the 21st Day of May Next at ten of the Clock in Ye four Noon.

{May 21: 1771} At a Town Meeting held by Adjornment at the Town house in Dartmouth the 21st Day of May A D. 1771

Thomas Hathaway J^nr was Chosen Constable for Acqustnet Villiage in the Rome of Isaac Vinsent who Refused to serve.

Voted Israil Whites fine for not serving Con stable to Jonathan Sisson for his serving Constable.

Voted to raise Two hundred and Twenty Pounds to Defray the Charges of the Town this Present Year.

Voted to pas over the 6th article. This meeting is Adjorned to the second Tuesday of July next.

page_0035

{462} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting.

You are hereby Required in his Majesties Name forthwith to Cause the Free holders and other Inhabitants of Your Town that have an Estate of Freehold in land Within this Province or Terri tory of Forty shillings per Annum at the least or other Estate to the Value of forty Pound, ster ling to assemble at the Town house in Dart mouth on the Twenty first Day of May Instant at one of the Clock in the afternoon then and there to Elect & Depute one or more Persons (be ing Free holders and Residents in said Town) to serve and Represent them in a Great and General Court appointed to be Convened held and kept. for his Majesties service at Harvard College in Cambridge upon Wednesday the 29th Day of May Instant. —

2ly for said Town at said Meeting to take into Consideration an Act made & pased in the Last Session of the General Assem bly of his Province Intitled an Act to Impower the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth to Regelate the takeing of Fish within the harbours and Coves of the said Township of Dartmouth and Act and Do what they shall think proper thereon.

And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon at the time appointed for said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this 9^th Day of May A.D. 1771.

Giles Slocum } Selectmen of Walter Spooner } Dartmouth {x}

Bristol ss. May the 18^th 1771.

Persuant to this Warrant I have Notifyed and warned the Inhabitants of this Town by Posting up Notification at the Usual Places to Meet

{463} at time and Place Within Menshoned.

Pe^r me Isaac Spooner Constable.

{May 21: 1771} At a Town Meeting leagale warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tues Day the 21^st Day of May A D. 1771.

said Meeting was Regulated by the Selectmen Elisha Tobey Es^qr was Chosen was Chosen to Represent this Town in a Great and General Court appointed to be Convened held and kept for his Majesties service at Hervard College in Cambridge upon Wednes day the 29th Day of May Instant.

and then the Town though Proper to Act upon the second Article in the above Warrant and Chose Walter Spooner Moderator.

and Voted to lay a Duty of two shillings Lawfull money per Barrel on all fish sceined within the harbours or Coves of this Town this Present Year and the Dutys Rased there by to be paid to the Town Treasurer for the use of said Town.

and then Voted that Jireh Willis David Shephard Gamaliel Church Nathaniel Delano Henry Howland Cp^t Elihu Akin & Cp^t Thomas Hix be a Committe to In spect into the Taking of said fish with full power to Demand Security of any parson presuming to sceine said fish in said Town payable to the Treasurer of said Town & in Case of refusal to seize their fishing Craft or so much of their fish from time to time as shall be sufficient to answar for two shilling pr Barril for all that they shall take and Charges.

page_0036

{464} An agreement for Division of fence Between Daniel Russell & William Wood (Viz) the said William Wood is to make & maintain all the fence from the highway northward 37 Rods to a white oak tree standing near a Swamp hole. then the said Daniel Russell is to make & maintain 37 Rods to the end of the Dich. then the s^d Wood is to make eight Rod. then s^d Russell it to make 38 Rods, then s^d Wood is to make 30 Rods which is to s^d Woods North east Corner.

this is to be understood that William Wood is to maintain all Wall Round that Lot of Land he bought of s^d Russell.

Dartmouth January 20^th 1757.

Will^m Wood Daniel Russell

The above agreement entred with me and Recorded this 16^th Day of March A.D. 1772.

Attest:

Benjamin Russell Town Cler

{465} {July 9: 1771} At a Town meeting held by Adjornment at the Town house in Darmouth on the 9^th Day of July A.D. 1771

Jabaz Barker J^ur Moderator.

Voted Isaac Vensents fine for his not siarv ing Constable for Aqushnet Villiage to Thomas Hathaway J^ur as he was Chosen in the Rome of said Vinsent and undertook to serve on the above fine being granted or Voted to him for his serving Constable

Voted to except of Henry Howland to serve Constable in the Rome of Deliverance Smith Last Chosen for Aponaganset Villiage. who refused to serve in that ofice and then Voted

Jonathan Shermans & Deliverance Smiths fines for Not Serving as Constables This present year to the above said Henry Howland for his serving in said ofice of Constable and he taking his Place accordingly.

before Benjamin Akin Esq^r.

Whereas the Town at the Adjornment of the Annual Town meeting held on the 21^st Day of May 1771

Voted the sum of two hundred and twenty pounds Lawfull money to be Rased by way of tax which sum the Town are Since able will prove Insufficient to Dishcharge the Publick Debts of said Town for the Current year therefore voted

the sum of Eighty pounds Lawfull money more in Addiction to the aforesaid sum both said sums being three hundred pounds, Lawfull money.

and the Voted that this meeting be Dissolved.

page_0037

{466} {May 18: 1771} Persuant to A Vote of the Town we the Sub scribers have Receved and examined the accompts of such persons as have Demands on the town and find the amount of as many accompts as have Come to our hands to be the sum of £148=00=9 1/2

This Eighteenth Day of May A.D. 1771

We the Subscribers settled accompts with Benjamin Slocum Town Treasurer for the year 1770. and find by the books that he has paid out with his fees more than he has Received in the sum of £17=10= 9 1/2.

we also find out standing Debts Due to the Town in sundry Persons hands as followeth (viz) £231=18=11.

We are also of Opinnion by the best Light we Can get, that there is former orders exclusive of this present year near sufficient to sinck the whole if not all the out standing Debts

Due to said Town. Thomas Hathaway } William Wood } Committe John Wady }

{Sept 2: 1771} At a Town Meeting Leagally Warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the Second Day of September A.D. 1771.

Giles Slocum was Chosen Moderator for s^d meeting.

Seth Pope. Thomas Shearman and Jonathan Davil was Chosen Grand jurymen for this Present year 1771.

{467} {Sept 24: 1771} At a Town meeting Leagally Warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the twenty fourth Day of September A.D. 1771.

Walter Spooner Esq^r was Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Cp^t Ebeneser Willis and William Hix was Chosen Grand Jury men for the Superiour Court of Judicature Court of Assige and Genaral gail Delivery to be holden at Taunton for the County of Bristol the second Tuesday of October Next.

{Nov. 2: 1771} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. you are hereby Requested in his Maje^s Name to Cause the free holders and other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings to asemble and meet together at the Town house in Dartmouth on the Nineteenth Day of this Instant at ten of the Clock in the forenoon then and there to act and Do what they shall think proper on the Following articles

1ly To Choose a Committee to settle the Controversy between the Proprietors and Purchasers Relative to John Butts & Abigail his wifes Law suit and all other Controversys.

2ly To Choose Agents to Represent the Case in Case a Committee should be Chosen for s^d Cause or otherways as the Town at s^d meeting thinks Proper. And make Return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of s^d Town at or before the time of s^d meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this second day of November 1771

Walter Spooner} Selectmen of Giles Slocum} Dart^m

page_0038

{468} {Nov. 19: 1771} Bristol ss: Dartmouth November ye Nineteenth 1771

Persuant to this Warrent I have Notifyed and warned all the free holders & other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Qualifyed to vote in Town meetings to meet at the time and place above mentioned.

pr me Henry Howland Constable.

{Nov. 19: 1771} At a Town meeting Leagall warned & held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 19th Day of November Anno Dom. 1771

Jabaz Barker Jur Chosen Moderator for s^d meeting.

A Vote was put to the Town at s^d meeting whether they would Chose a Committee or Not agreable to the 1^t article in the above Warrant & Voted in the Negative that there be no Committee Chosen, and then Voted to Dissolve the above said meeting

{Feb. 10: 1772} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth, You are hereby Required in his Majestys Name to notify & ware all the Free holders and other Inhabitants Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings to meet togeather at the Town House in Dartmouth on the seventeenth Day of March next at ten O’Clock in the forenoon then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly To Chose Town officers for the ensuing year as the Law Directs.

2ly Now for said Town meeting to Chose a Committee & Impower them to make sale

{469} of the present Work house and some of the Land that belongs to said Town. where s^d house now stands for the most it will. fetch, and the money ariseing by sd sale to be laid out for the benefit of said Town by said, Committee in Purchaseing a piece of Land & building a proper & convenient Work house thereon, in some more Conven ient place in s^d Town. for the Reception of Poor Idle and Vagrant persons, otherways to act & do any other matter or thing that shall appear most necessary on the said second article.

3ly To Chose a Committee to Receive & examine the accompts against said Town, and allow or disallow, as they shall think fit also to settle accompts with the present Town Treasurer:

4ly Vote what sum of money they shall think fit for the paying a Town school master & all other necessary charges that shall accrue to said Town.

5ly To Receive Returns of highways and approve or Disapprove of them as they shall think proper:

6ly To Chose a County Treasurer for the insuing Year.

7ly For said Town to make by way of Vote such Rules and Orders, as they shall think fit in order for the Regulating the scaining of fish in, said, agreeable to a Late Law of this Province made for that purpose.

8ly To Vote that the Clerk shall Procure Two Books at the Charge of said Town to New Draft the Records of said Town in also Chuse a Committee to New Draft s^d Records or otherwise as the Town at s^d meeting shall think proper.

and make Return of this Warrant to the

page_0039

{470} Clerk of said Town with your Doings thereon at the Time appointed for said meeting.

Given under our hands and seals at Dart mouth this Tenth Day of February Anno Domini 1772.

Walter Spooner } Selectmen Giles Slocum } of William Davis } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth March y^e Seventeenth day A.D. 1772.

by Virtue of this within warrant I have Notified and warned all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are quallified to vote in Town Meetings to meet at the Time and place within mentioned by Posting up three Notifications, one in each Village.

pr me Henry Howland Constable.

{Mch. 17 1772} At a Town meeting Legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 17th day of March 1772.

Jireh Willis Chosen Moderator for said meeting;

William Davis John Wady and Seth Russell was Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing:

John Wady. Refused to serve Selectman; Giles Slocum was Chosen Selectman, in the Room of John Wady; and Giles Slocum Refused to serve Selectman, & Jabez Barker J^ur. was Chosen Selectman in the Room of Giles Slocum.

Benjamin Akin Esqr was Chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing.

Benjamin Slocum was Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with, to Receive in and pay out the Town money. for four pence upon the pound.

{471} Bartholomew Taber, Jonathan Soul & John Smith J^ur. was Chosen Assessors.

Barnabas Wing, Peter Allen & Christopher Slocum, was Chosen Constables.

Joseph Severance, Peleg Brownell & John Potter Arons son, was Chosen Wardeens;

George Tibbits, Thomas Brownell, Philip Tripp, Joseph Davis, Joseph Hicks, Lemnuel Manches ter, Nathaniel Richmond, Silas Kirby, Culbut Willcox, James Sisson, Chosen Survayors for Acoaxet Village for the year ensuing .

Timothy Ingraham, Ephraim Kempton, Jireh Swift J^ur., George Brownell, Isaac Spooner, Seth Hathawy Isaac Peirce. Samuel Jenne. Gamaleal Hathaway. Daniel Summerton, Obed Hathaway, & Joseph Taber, was Chosen Survayrs of highways for the year ensuing for Acuish net Village.

William Bowdash, Joseph Barker, Prince Shearman, John Chace, Thomas Russell, Thomas Mott, Josiah Wood, Nicholas Lapham, Henry Howland, William Barker, Benjamin Winslow and Edward Wing was Chosen Survayrs of highways for Aponaganset Village for the year Insuing.

Thomas Hathaway, William Wood y^e. 2 and John Wady are Chosen a Comittee agreable to the third article in the Warrant for Calling this meeting.

Caleb Russell, David Shepherd, William Davis John Wady, & Benjamin Akin are Chosen a Committee agreable to the second article in the Warrant for Calling this meeting. the vote was reconsidered.

Barnabas Wings being Chosen Constable, and David Shepherd was Chosen Constable in the room of Barnabas Wing: and William Mitchel was Constable in the room of David Shepherd.

page_0040

{472} Voted that the Two Books Purchased by Order of the Selectmen for the year 1771 by the Town Clerk for said year be Dilivered to the Present Town Clerk and that Benjamin Russell the 4^th Draw his pay for said books out of the Town Treasury.

this meeting is adjourned to the Third Third Day of May next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon.

{May 1772} The Town meet according to adjournment on the Third Tuesday of May 1772.

and Chose William Mosher Constable in the room of Christopher Slocum, who was Chosen at the Annual Town meeting in March Last, and Refused to serve.

James Soul was Chosen Constable in the room of Peter Allen, who Refused to serve.

Samuel Pope was Chosen Constable in the room of William Mitchel, who had served before, or paid his fine for not serving.

David Wilbour, Joseph Allen, Taylor, Job Cook Peleg Shearman, William Heart Edward Winslow Philip Shearman, Henry Wilbour, and John Mosher (son of Constant) was Chosen Survayres of highways, Cyrius Tallman, Timothy Maxfield y^e. 2^d. Philip Shearman & Job Case was Chosen Tything men.

John Wady was Chosen Survayre of Plank Timber Boards shingles hoops stave & clabboards. Joshua Russell & William Wood y^e. 4^th. was Chosen fence Veiwers.

Philip Trafford & Jonathon Shearman y^e. 2^d. was Chosen Hog reaves.

Benjamin Russell Carpenter and John Ricketson was Chosen feild Driver or Haywards.

Abraham Briggs was Chosen Sealer of Leather.

{473}

Capt William Wood Chosen Sealer of W^ts and Measures.

John Maxfield Chosen Survayre of Plank Timber Boards shingles staves hoops and Clabboards :

Prince Peckcom, Isaac Spooner, George Brown ell, Seth Hathaway, Daniel Summerton, Isaac Drew, Joseph Taber, Seth Jenne, Chosen Survayres of Highways.

John Chaffe, Benjamin Bysbee Bartho^w West J^ur and Joseph Demmons Chosen Tything men.

Joshua Loreing & Shubal Haws Chosen Sur vayres of Timber plank Boards hoops & staves shingles & Clabbords.

Israel Wood & Daniel Wood Chosen Tything men.

John Lawton Chosen Survayre of highways, Jonathan Hathaway and William Mitchel Chosen fence Viewers.

John Garrish & Benjamin Spooner Chosen Hog reaves.

Thomas Kempton and Samuel West was Chosen field Drivers or haywards.

Charles Church & Stokes Potter was Chosen Sealers of Leather.

James Cuishman and Nathaniel Potter was Chosen Pound keepers.

Wesson Soul and Isaac Wood Chosen field Drivers.

William Cornell & Thomas Tripp J^ur was Chosen Hog reaves.

This meeting is Adjourn^d. to the Last Monday of June next, at one of the Clock in the after noon.

Valid at the Adjournment in May 19^th 1772 (and omitted) that there be but one School master on the Town Charge for the present year.

page_0041

{474} Also Voted that Jireh Willis David Shepherd Gamaleal Church Elihu Akin Thomas Hicks Christopher Gifford & Stephen Davis be a Committee and they are Invested with the same power, as the Committee had Last and are to observe the same Directions as sd. Committe then had with respect to seining fish.

{June : 1772} At a Town Meeting held by Adjourment at the Town house in Dartmouth on the Last Monday in June 1772.

the Town meet and Choose Nathaniel Potter Constable, and agreed with him to serve, for James Souls and Peter Allens fines, for not serving;

Daniel Summerton, was Chosen Constable, in the Room of them that was Last Chosen for Accoshnit Village.

Benjamin Howland Saddler was Chosen Survayr of highways in the Room of David Wilbour, who was excused by a vote of the from serving: the sum of three hundred and seventy one pound was put to Vote for Defraying. Town Charges for the Currant year and it past in the Nega tive : and then eighty four pound, was Taken out, which sum, was for Compleating the Work House ; and the Town

Voted the sum of Two Hundred, seventy one pound one shilling & nine pence. for the De fraying the aforesaid Town Charges.

this meeting is Adjourn^d. to the Second Monday in July next, at a Seven o’Clock in the four noon ;

{475} {July 13 : 1772} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town House in Dartmouth on Monday the Thirteenth day of July 1772 :

and exscused Benjamin Winslow from serving Survayre of highways . and Jonathan Winslow was Chosen Survayre of highways in his room.

Isreal Cornell Chosen Survayre of highways. Henry Howland Chosen Constable and agreed with to serve . for Christopher Slocum & William Moshers fine. for their not serving

Samuel Haws Chosen Constable in the Room of Samuel Pope : and David Shepherd : and the Town Voted : to Samuel Haws the said Popes & Shepherds fines for not serving Constables, upon Conditions the said Haws & Jabez Shearman, Give Bonds to the Town Treasurer of said Dartmouth, and his successor in said office to pay the money he shall Collect, into the Province County and Treasuryes, according to his Warrants ; and then, the Moderator Declared , the meeting was Dissolved.

{Aug 21 : 1772} { Stamp} Bristol ss : To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting : –

you are hereby Required in his Majestys Name to Notifie and Warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants Quallified according to law. to vote in Town meetings to meet at the Town House in Dartmouth, on Monday the 31^st day of August. Instant at three of the Clock in the afternoon, then and there to Choose an agent, or agents as the Town at said meeting shall think most proper. to appear at the next Court of General Sessions of the peace to be holden at Taunton, within and for the County of Bristol, on the second ^Tuesday

page_0042

{476} of September, next then & there to give the Reasons that the Town of Dartmouth, should not be at the exspence of Laying out a highway agreable to a scitation from the Court of the General Sessions of the peace which scitation was the Request, of George Borden of Freetown and others.

Given under our hand & seal at Dartmouth this 21st Day of August. 1772

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker J^ur } of Seth Russell } Dartmouth

Persuant to the within written Warrant. I have notified the Town to meet a Time & place within Named.

pr me Nathaniel Potter Cos^ble

{Aug. 31. 1772} At a Town Meeting Legally assembled at the Town House in Dartmouth on the thirty first day of August 1772.

William Davis was Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

his Honor. Walter Spooner Esq^r was Chosen Agent in Behalf of said Town, to make answer to a scitation sent from the General Sessions of the peace for the County of Bristol.

To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth the Humble Petition of Docters Gelston and Randall. Praying that a Warrant may be Granted, to summons this Town, to meet to Geather to Declare their approbation, in regard of said Docters erecting a Hospital for Inoqulation on Anjalaca Island, if obtainable or else where as they shall think meet and we as in Duty Bound shall ever pray

{477}

Samuel Gilston } Annanias Randall }

To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth we whose names are under written being Ten Freeholders or more Request that you Call a Town meeting fourthwith, and Insert the above Petition signed by the Docters Samuel Gilston and Annanias Randall in the Warrant for Calling said meeting:

September 5th: 1772.

Barnabas Russell Caleb Russell Daniel Ricketson Jethro Hathaway William Tallman Job Winslow David Shepherd Benjamin Slocum John Lowden Elnathan Samson & Benjamin Akin Daniel Smith

{Sept. 8 : 1772} { Stamp} Bristol. To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County or to either of them. Greeting.

agreable to the Request hereunto annexed These are to Require or to Require you or either of you In His Majestys name. forthwith to Notifie & warn all the Free holders & other Inhabitants of said Town, that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather, at the Town House in said Dartmouth, on Saturday ; the 26^th: day of this Instant September, at 12 of the Clock on said day; then are there if said Town sees fit to Vote to Gilston & Randall, the Liberty & Priveledge to erect a Hospital on Anjalaco Island or in some other part of said Town as said Town shall at s^d. meeting think Best, on the following Conditions (viz) {x} first that the said Docters, shall be at the whole expense Relative to the Premises 2^ndly that there be a Committee Chosen by the

page_0043

{480} Town to Inspect all who shall Inoculated by said Docters and that no Person so Inoculated shall at any Time Leave or be Conveyed from said Hospital, into any part of the Town without this Committee being Notified thereof and appointing such place as they think fit for their Inspection, and Receiving a sutible Consideration from said Docters, for their trouble:

3ly that no nurse or any other person employed by said Docters shall at any time Leave the Hospital without being shifted, & Cleard and Receiving a Certificate from said Docters.

4y that if any person shall Receive the Infection from said Docters their Patients Nurses or Horspital, that he she or they shall be Received into the Horspital, & there Receive Due attendance togeather with every other Necessasry at sd Docters exspence, and if any person shall by Accident take the Infection, & fall into this Town, they shall Likewise be Received into said Hospi tal, & be Duly attended, without any futher exspence to the Town.

5ly that in Case the aforesaid Previledge be Voted to said Docters, on the aforesaid Conditions & voted to Continue for the space of Ten years, the said Docters to pay the sum of fifty pound Annually to said Town, or otherwise to Act and Do as said Town at said meeting; shall Judge best with Respect to the aforesaid perticulars.

Hereof fail not as you will answer your Default and make Returns of this Warrant with your Doings thereon to us or either of us the under written at or before the 26^th of this Instant:

Given under our hands & seals at Dartmouth this

{481}

8th day of September in the Twelfth year of his Majestys Reign A. D. 1772.

Seth Russell } Selectmen of Jabez Barker } Dartm^o

Bristol ss. Dartmouth September 26^th 1772 persuant to this warrant I have Notified and warned all the freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town, to meet at the Time place within Named.

pr me Henry Howland Constable.

{Sept. 26: 1772.} At a Town Meeting Legally assembled at the Town House in Dartmouth on the 26^th Day of September 1772.

Benjamin Akin Esq^r was Chosen Moderator for said meeting.-

The Town Voted that they would not act on anything Contained in said Warrant for Calling said meeting. –

{ Stamp} Bristol ss: To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting

In his Majesty Name you are forthwith Required to Notifie and Warn all the free hold ers and other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Qualified by Law to Vote in town Meetings to meet together at the town house in s^d Dartmouth on Tuesday the twenty third day of March next at ten o’clock in the forenoon on s^d Day then and there to Act on the Particulars hereafter mentioned.

1^stly to Chuse town officers for the ensuing year as the Law Directs.

2^dly to Conclude by Vote what number of

page_0044

[left margin label: MISSING PAGES] 76 of September, next then & there to give the Reasons that the Town of Dartmouth, should not be at the exspence of Laying out a highway agreable to a scitation from the Court of the General Sessions of the peace Which scitation was the Request of George Borden of Freetown and others.

Given under our hands & seal at Dartmouth this 21st Day of August, 1772

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker Jur } of Seth Russell } Dartmouth

Persuant to the within written Warrant. I have notified the Town to meet a Time & place within Named.

pr me, Nathaniel Potter Cosble

[left margin] Aug. 31: 1772 At a Town Meeting Legally Assembled at the Town House in Dartmouth on the thirty first day of August 1772.

Wiliam Davis was Chosen Moderator for said meeting. his Honor Walter Spooner Esqr was Chosen Agent in Behalf of said Town, to make answer to a scitation sent from the General Sessions of the peace for the County of Bristol.

To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth the Humble Petition of Docters Gelston and Randall. Praying that a Warrant may be Granted, to summons this Town, to meet toGeather to Declare their Approbation , in regard of said Docters erecting a Hospital for Inoqulation on Anjalaca Island, if obtainable or else where as they shall think meet. and we as in Duty Bound shall ever pray

[right page] 479 Samuel Gilston } Annanias Randall }

To the Selectment of the Town of Dartmouth we whose names are under written being Ten Freeholders or more Request that you Call a Town Meeting fourthwith and Insert the above Petition signed by the Docters Samuel Gilston & Annanias Randall in the Warrant for Calling said meeting : Sepember 5th 1772.

[left column] Barnabus Russell Daniel Ricketson William Tallman David Shepherd John Lowden Benjamin Akin

[right column] Caleb Russell Jethro Hathaway Job Winslow Benjamin Slocum Elnathan Samson & Daniel Smith

[right margin] Sept. 8: 1772 (Seal) Bristol. To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County or to either of them Greeting.

Agreable to the Request hereunto Annexed These are to Require or to Require you or either of you In His Majesty’s name forthwith to Notifie & warn all the Free holders & other Inhabitants of said Town, that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings that they meet togeather, at the Town House in said Dartmouth, on Saterday; the 26th day of this Instant September, at 12 of the Clock on said day; then and there if said Town sees fit to Vote to Gilston & Randall, the Liberty & Priveledge to ercet a Hospital on Anjalaco Island or in some other part of said Town as said Town shall at sd meeting think Best, on the following Condition (viz) first that the said Docters, shall be at the whole expense Relative to the Premises

2ndly that there be a Committee Chosen by the

page_0045

duplicate of page _0043.

page_0046

{482} schoolmaster there shall be procured for the Ensuing year at the Charge of said Town.

3^dly to Chuse a Committee to Receive and settle acco^ts with those that have Demands againts s^d Town as also with the Town Treasuor for the year one thousand seven hundred & seventy two.

4^thly for s^d Town to Conclude by way of Vote whether the highways within s^d Town shall be Amended and kept in Repair for the ensuing year by way of Rate or tax or otherways for s^d Town at s^d meeting to Act and Do what they shall think most proper.

5^ly to Conclude by Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of tax the ensu ing year for paying of school masters and other Charges arising with said town.

6^thly to Receive Returns of Highways Laid out or Altred by the Selectmen of said town and allow or Disallow in order they may of Record.

7^thly for s^d Town at said meeting to Act and Do what they shall think most propper in Respect to the fishery in s^d Town.

8^thly for said Town at s^d meeting to take into Consideration and Act upon the Circular Letter from Boston to the Selectmen of this Town & if the town think propper to Chuse a Committee to Consider the Prem ices and make Report of their Sentemints at s^d Town for their approbation at the next adjurnment of said meeting and also for said Town to Chuse a Committe of Correspondince if thought propper.

9^ly for said Town at s^d meeting to Act & Do what they shall think best Concerning the old & new Work houses in said town or either of them.

{483} 10^ly to Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

and make Return of this Warrent and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and seals at Dart mouth this 24^th Day of February A. D. 1773

William Davis } Selectmen Seth Russell } of Jabez Barker Jr } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: Dartmouth March the 23^d 1773. by Vertue of this Warrant I have Notified and warned the Inhabitants of said Town to meet at time and place within Mentioned by posting up Notifications according to Law.

pr me Samuel Haws } Constable of Dartm^o

{Mch. 23: 1773} At a Town Meeting Legally Assembled at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuesday the twenty third Day of March A. D. 1773. Jabez Barker J^ur Chosen Moderator Jabez Barker J^ur William Davis and William Tallman Chosen Selectmen.

Benjamin Russell the third Chosen Town Clerk.

Jonathan Sowle – Samuel Smith and Bartholomew Taber Chosen Assessers.

John Smith the second Chosen Town Treasurer for the Insuing year and agreed with to serve in that office for four pence on the pound for takeing in the Towns money and paying it out again.

Daniel Wood Jonathan Hussey and George Brownell J^r was Chosen Constable for Coaxet in the Rome of Daniel Wood excused. after he was Chosen by said Town.

page_0047

{484} Thomas Hathaway Glashear, John Wady {Glazier} Will^m Wood the 3^d Chosen a committee agreable to the 3^d Article.

Voted on the second article in the warrant for Calling this meeting.

that the highways be mended and kept in Repair as ushal heretofore.

Israel Wood was Chosen Constable for Coaxet in the Lew of Benjamin Sowle excused.

Voted on the eight article that there be no com mittee Chosen by said Town of Dartmouth, Francis Rotch was Chosen Constable for Aqushnet Viliage in the Lew of George Brownell J^ur excused.

Caleb Russell Jirah Willis John Hathaway Jirah Sweft J^ur Daniel Sumerton Stephen Hathaway Seth Hathaway son of Benj^a Isaac Pope Nicholas Davis Isaac Spooner Nathaniel Jenne Daniel Egrey and Stephen West Chosen Survayors of highways for Aqushnet Villiage.

Jonathan Sowle Daniel Wing Benjamin Brownell the second George Tibets Philip Taber Joshua Cornell Pardon Brownell Joseph Davis Stokes Potter Wesson Kerby Chosen Surveyours of highways for Acoakset Villiage

Garsham Smith Increse Smith Thomas Hix y^e 2^d Joseph Allen John Ricketson Philip Sherman, James Tucker William Barker William Hart J^ur Jonathan Winslow John Moshear Job Cook Henry Wilbour Israel Cornell Holder Slocum Chosen Surveyors of highways for Aponagansit Vilage.

and then Voted to Adjurne the Meeting to the third Tuesday of May next at ten of the Clock in the forenoon.

{485} {May 18: 1773} At a Town Meeting held by Adjurnment at the town house in Dartmouth on Tuesday the 18^th Day of May 1773.

Jabez Barker J^ur Moderator

William White Chosen Constable in the Rome of Francis Rotch who Refused to serve.

Barzillai Tucker Chosen Constable in the Leu of Jonathan Hussey who Refused to serve.

John Macumber Chosen Constable in the Rome of Israel Wood who Refused to serve

Voted to excuse Will^m White from serving Constable.

Voted to excuse Barzillai Tucker from serving Constable.

Voted to excuse Francis Rotch from serving Constable.

Nathaniel Delano Chosen Constable in Rome Will^m White.

Daniel Briggs was Chosen Constable in the Rome of Barzillai Tucker excused.

Nathaniel Delano was excused from serving Constable by a Vote of the Town and Isaac Howland J^ur was Chosen Constable in his sted. and Refused to serve in that office.

Isaiah Peccom was Constable in the Rome of Isaac Howland J^ur. and then excused by Vote s^d Peccom from serving Constable.

Seth Morton was Chosen Constable in Lew of Isaiah Peccom, Gershom Smith Gedeon Howland Thomas Hix the second Joseph Allen J^ur John Ricketson Philip Sherman James Tucker Will^m Barker Paul Pratt Benj^a Badcok Will^m Hart J^ur Jonathan Winslow Gedeon Gifford John Mosher Job Cook Henry Wilbour Holder

page_0048

{486} Slocum Chosen Surveyers of high ways at this Meeting as those as was Chosen the Last Meeting was not warned.

Philip Howland Jonathan Sowle. Daniel Wing George Tibbets Philip Taber. James Sowle Will^m. Earl John Earl Joseph Davis Stokes Potter Wesson Kirby Benjamin Brownell 2^d. Chosen Surveyors of highways for Acokeset Vilage at this Meeting as those that was Chosen Last March was not Warned.

William Taber Lewen Pope Benjamin Church Chosen Surveyors of highways for Aqushnet Village.

Davis Russell Joseph Demmons Nathaniel Tripp Chosen Wardens for the ensuing year

Elijah Norton John Perkins Elezer Spooner Nathaniel Fance Henry Smith Edward Hutton Esra Winslow Daniel Allen Ephram Potter Ezekiel Chase and Seth Allen Chosen tything men for the ensuing year.

Daniel Howland John Chase Justice Kerby and Jeremiah Wate Chosen field Drivers.

William Michel Lemuel Pope Benjamin Brownell the second William Hix Henry Howland and Ebenezer Allen the second Chosen fence Viewers for the ensuing year.

George Smith Chosen fence Viewer in Leu of Henry Howland Who Refused to serve.

Josiah Hathaway Henry Wrightington Jedediah Shearman Elisha Mosher Daniel Davel and Jidediah Tallman Chosen Hog Reives.

Prince Howland Jonathan Tripp Chosen Surveyers of Hoops and staves.

James Sisson Stephen Davis Chosen Surveyers of Lumber.

Nathaniel Potter James Cushman J^ur. Giles Russell Chosen pound keepers

Shubil Haws Gamiel Brient Joseph Loring Surveyers of Timber

{487} John Maxfield and John Akin Chosen Surveyers of hoops and staves and other Lumber.

Cpt. Willm. Wood Sealer of Waits and Meashuers. Stokes Potter Philip Sherman and Charls Church Chosen Leather sealers.

Voted. that there be one schoolmaster on the Towns Charge this Present Year.

Voted on the Ninth Artical in the Warrant that the Worke house in the Town of Dartmouth be Properly endowed with sutable Utentials for said house and to be Regelated according to Law.

Voted to Rase by way of tax the sum of eighty seven pounds eight shillings and four pence. Lawfull money to Defray the Charges accrued to said town by Bulding the new work house in Bedford in Dartmouth.

Voted the sum of three pounds Lawfull money to be paid to David Shepard for his Buld ing the work house Larger and more Conven ant then he agreed with the Committee to buld said house.

Voted to Rase the sum of two hundred pounds Lawfull money for Defraying the Towns Charges for the Currant year exclusive of the above said sums and then

Voted to Adjurne the Meeting to the third Tues day of June next at ten of the Clock in the forenoon.

{June 15: 1773} June the 15 Day 1773 the Town met according to Adjournment and excused Seth Morton from serving Constable by Reason of Infermaty of Body and then Chose Nathaniel Jenne Constable in the Rome of Seth Morton. Nathaniel Potter Chosen

page_0049

{488} Constable in the Rome of Israel Wood and John Macomber Prince Allen was Chosen Con stable in Rome of Jonathan Hussey & Daniel Briggs and Voted Prince Allen for his serving in said office.

Jonathan Husseys and Daniel Briggs fines

Voted to excuse Nathaniel Jenne from serving Constable and Chose Samuel West Constable the Rome of Natha^l Jenne.

Caleb Russell Joseph Russell Isaac Howland J^ur William Tallman and Benjamin Taber J^ur are Chosen Oversears of the Work house to Regulate the said house agreeable to Law.

Voted that the Selectmen gave Ebenezer Tripp and Ebenezer Tripp J^ur a Certificate to goe to tiverton

Voted a Return of a way in Slocums Neck as p^r Return Dated the 18^th & 19^th of the 3 mon 1773. that Christopher Slocum Holder Slocum Giles Slocum and Jonathan Slocum shall have five years to fence out the said way where it goes throe their Land.

Voted that the fishery be Continued as Last year and the same Committee are Chosen as was Chosen Last year.

Voted that if any person for the futer shall catch fish of any kind by or with Scains shall pay to the use of the Town the sum of forty shillings for each offence or that shall make use of any Netts (except scoop Netts) with Mashes Less than one and half Inches square in any part of Acoakset harber so called shall pay for the use of this town the sum of eighteen pence L: M: per Doz^en.

{489} Voted that Peleg Wite Christopher Gifford William Gifford John Wood and Isaac Tripp be a Committe and Impowered or the majer part of them to Demand said Duties and in Case of Refusal to make seisure of so many fish that shall be taken as aforesaid or scians or of the Netts Not agreeing with the aforesaid Demensions.

Voted to adjourn this Meeting to the first second day of July next at two of the Clock in the afternoon.

{July 5: 1773} At a town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth by adjournment the 5^th Day of July 1773:

Seth Russell was Chosen Moderator for the Day as Jabaz Barker J^ur was absent

John Dillingham was Chosen Constable in the Rome of Samuel West who Refused to serve.

Voted to Adjourn to the third Tuesday of this Instant July at two of the Clock in the After Noon.

{July 20: 1773} At a Town Meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the 20^th Day of July 1773:

Jabaz Barker J^ur Moderator present

Voted to Adjourn to the 27^th Day of this Instant July 1773 at 3 of the Clock in the After Noon.

page_0050

{490} {July 27: 1773 } The Town meet according to Adjournment the 27^th Day of July 1773:

and Chose by Vote Samuel Haws Constable for Aqusnet Villiage in Rome of Isaac Howland

J^ur Samuel West and John Dillingham provided said Haws gave bonds with Jabaz Sherman Henry Wrightington and Lemuel Mendel to the Town Treasusher and his succescer in that office for one Thousand pounds Lawfull money for to pay to the province County and Town treas hur the several sums alotted to him to gegair and pay for this present year.

and then Voted said Haws Isaac Howland Jur Samuel West and John Dillingham fines for their not serving Constables to said Samuel Haws for his serving in said office.

Obed Hathaway was Chosen Serveyer of high ways in Rome of Nicholas Davis who Refused to serve.

and Voted to Dissolve this Meeting.

{August 30: 1773} At a town Meeting held at the town house in Dart^o the 30^th Day of August 1773.

William Davis was Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Lemuel Pope Lemuel Milk and Philip Shear man were Chosen to serve on the grand Jury for the ensuing year.

{Oct. 4: 1773} At a town Meeting held in the Town house in Dartmouth the 4^th Day of October 1773

Jabez Barker J^ur was chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Major Ebenezer Willis and Peleg White was Chosen Grand Jury men for the Next Superior

{491} Court of Judaciture and Genral gail Deliverly to be holden at Taunton for the County of Bristol.

{Feb. 26: 1774} { Stamp} Bristol ss: to the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting.

In his Majestys Name you are forthwith Requir ed to Notify and Warn all the Free holders & other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in town Meetings to meet together at the town house in Dartmouth on the twenty second Day of March Next at ten of the Clock In the fore Noon on s^d day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter Mentioned

1ly to Chuse town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly to Conclude by Vote what Number of School masters there shall be Procured for the year Ensuing at the Charge of said Town.

3ly to Chuse a Committee to Receive and settle accompts with those that have Demands against said town as also with the Town Treasurer for the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy three.

4ly to Conclude by Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Tax the ensu ing year for Paying of School masters and other Charges arising within said Town.

5ly to Receive Returns of Highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen of s^d Town and allow or Disallow in order the may be of Record.

6ly for s^d town at sd meeting to Act and Do what they think Proper Relative to Repair ing the Town house.

page_0051

{492} 7ly for s^d town at sd Meeting to act and do what they shall think most proper In Respect to the fishing in s^d town.

8ly for s^dsd town at s^d meeting to act and do what they think proper Relative to fensing the present Work house Lot,

9ly to Chuse a County Treasurer for the year Ensuing.

10ly for the town at s^d Meeting to Act and Do what they thing proper to New Drafting the town Records.

11ly for the Town at s^d Meeting to Act and Do what they shall think proper Relative to Repairing the town Landing and make Returns of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and Seal this 26^th Day of February A. D. 1774

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker J^ur } of William Tallman } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth March the 4^th 1774. Agreable to the within Warrant I have Noti fied and Warned the Inhabitants to meet at time and Place within mentioned.

Pr Me. Prince Allen Constable.

{Mch. 22: 1774} At a Town meeting Leagally Warned and held at the town house in Dartmouth on the 22^d day of March 1774.

Jabez Barker J^ur was Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

William Davis Jabez Barker J^ur and William Tallman was Chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing.

Benjamin Russell J^ur was Chosen Town Clerk

{493} for the year ensuing and tuck his place before Walter Spooner Esq^r.

John Smith the second was Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with for four pence per pound for taking in the towns money and paying it out again for the year ensuing.

Jonathan Sowle John Smith 2^d and Bartholomew Taber was Chosen Asseser for the year ensuing.

Nathaniel Jenne Benjamin Howland J^ur and David Davil was Chosen Constables.

Joseph Tripp was Chosen Constable In the Room of David Davil who was Chosen and Refused to serve.

John Wady William Wood and Thomas Hathaway was Chosen a Committee agreeable to the third article in the warrant for calling this meeting.

John Allden William Barker and Peleg Brownell was Chosen Wardens.

Voted on the 8^th article in the Warrant that the former Committee to Regulate the work house be and are hereby Impowered to fence the present work house Lot at the Charge of said Town

Voted on the 10^th article that William Davis William Tallman and Benjamin Russell J^ur. be a Committee to over hall the town Records and Make Report to the town at the Adjourn ment of this meeting, what part of said Record, stands in Nead of New Drafting and if they should think None, to make Report.

James Sowle Wesson Kerby Daniel Wing Philip Howland Abner Potter Thomas Shearman Silas Kerby John Lawton Job Anthony William Hix Nathaniel Richmon and William Earl was Chosen Surveyors of highways for Acokset Villiage,

John Smith William Russell (Abrahams son)

page_0052

{494} Benjamin Tucker. Edmond Maxfield Benjamin Slocum James Howland Deliverance Smith David Smith Abraham Howland and Prince Allen Holder Slocum William Mosher Philip Allen Esariah Eddy John Chase John Mosher David Gifford and Jonathan Collens was Chosen Surveyers of highways for Aponaganset Villiage.

Seth Russell Thomas Kimpton Silas Swift Joseph Severance Isaac Vincent Stephen Hathaway Zerviah Wood Edmond Pope Jehaziel Jene Nathaniel Delino Samuell Cornich Jur. Cephas Wing Moses Washburn Jur. and Isaac Pope was Chosen Surveyers of highways for Aqushnet Villiage.

Voted to Adjourn this Meeting to the 21^st Day of May Next at ten of the Clock in the fore noon.

{May 14: 1774} { Stamp} Bristol ss. To the Constable or Consta bles of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting.

In his Majestys Name you are forthwith Required to Notify and Warn all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Qualified by Law to Vote in town Meetings to meet together at the town house in said Dartmouth on Saterday {x} the twenty first Day of this Instant May at Nine of the Clock in the fore Noon on said day then and there to Act on the Pertic ulars hereafter Mentioned.

1ly for the town at s^d Meeting to act and Do what they think Proper Relative to Chusing an Agent or Agents to shew Case at the Court of General Sissions of the peace to be holdin at Taunton within and

{495} for our said County of Bristol on the second Tuesday of June Next why the said town hath Not Laid out two highways as Re quested the one by Joseph Smith and others and Likewise the other by Jireh Swift and others as appears by two sita tions from the Clerk of our said Court

And make Return of this Warrant and Your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said town at or before the time of said Meeting. Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this 14^th Day of May A.D. 1774.

William Davis } Selectmen William Tallman } of Jabez Barker J^ur } Dartmouth

Dartmouth May the 17^th Day 1774. persuant within Righten I have Notified the town to Meet at time and place

by me Nathaniel Potter Constable

{May 21 : 1774} At a town Meeting held at the town house in Dartmouth on Saterday the 21^st Day of May A.D. 1774

Jabez Barker Jur was Chosen Moderator for said meeting

Jabez Barker Jur and William Tallman was Chosen Agents by Vote to Represent the Town of Dartmouth for to Do what they shall think best for the Town at the Next Court of Generil Sissions of the peace to be holden at Taunton for the County of Bristol on the second Tuesday of June Next Relateing to two sita tions from the Clerk of said Court Consirn ing two pitisons the one from Joseph Smith and others and the other from Jirah Swift and others Relateing to two highways

page_0053

{496} {May 21: 1774} May the 21^st. A.D. 1774

The Town Meet according to Adjournment it was put to Vote Whether Benjamin Howland Ju^r. should be excused or not from serving Constable and it past for not excusing him

Joseph Tripp was excused by Vote from serving Constable this year by Reason of his being obliged to help mentain his half brother

Nathaniel Jene was excused from serving Constable by Reason of sickness.

Zebulon Allen was Chosen Constable in the Rome of Benjamin Howland Jur. Who Refused to serve in that office.

Benjamin Sowle was Chosen Constable in Rome of David Davil who Refused to serve in that office.

Mathew Howard was excused from serving Constable.

William White was Chosen Constable and ex cused by Vote.

Seth Hammond was Chosen Constable and ex cused by Vote.

Seth Morton was Chosen Constable for Aqushnet Villiage.

Voted to excuse William Barker from serving Warden.

William Shearman J^ur. was Chosen Warden in Rome of William Barker excused.

Ruben Sherman was Chosen Surveyer of high ways.

Hananiah Corish was Chosen Surveyer of high ways in Rome of Cepes Wing

Philip Sherman was Chosen Surveyer of high was in Rome of James Howland excused.

Nathaniel Potter Giles Russell and James Cush man J^ur. was Chosen Pound Keepers.

William Case Robert Shearman and Philip Sisson was Chosen tything men for Acoakset Villiage

{497} Isaac Drew John Eastland Charles Church Bartholomew West J^ur. and Peleg Huddlestone J^ur. was Chosen tything men for aqushnet Villiage

Peleg Gifford Increse Smith and Elisha Sanford was Chosen tything men for Aponaganset Villiage

James Tucker and Joseph Tucker J^ur. was Chosen fence Vewers for Apanaganset Villiage

Samuel Spooner Jur and } Fence Viewers for Elnathan Spooner } Aqushnet Village

James Sowle } Chosen { fence Viewers for Joshua Cornell } { Acoaskset Village

Seth Eaton and Caleb Jene Chosen field Drivers

George Sanford and John Sanford Chosen field Drivers

Jonathan White & David Kerby Chosen field Drivers.

Nathaniel Spooner and Wesson Tallman was Chosen Surveyers of highways.

Cp^t. William Wood was Chosen Sealler of Waits and Measuars.

Nicholas Laphum and Daniel Smith the 3^d. Chosen hog Reives for Aponaganset Villiage Joseph Hix and Job Davis Chosen hog Reives for Acokset Village

Elkaniah Mitchell Pardon Taber Micah Parker and Seth Hathaway was Chosen hog Reives for Aqushnet Villiage

Stephen Merihew James Smith Joseph Drew Edmund Maxfield and Paul Sherman was Chosen Cullers of hoops and staves.

Stephen Davis Car^der Job Anthony and Jonathan Taber Jur. Chosen Surveyers of Lum ber for Acoakset Village.

John Maxfield John Wood (son of Daniel) Shubal Haws Joseph Kimpton and Joshua Loring Chosen Surveyers of Lumber.

Stephen Davis Chosen Corder of Wood for Acoakset Village

Timothy Ingraham and Benjamin Church Chosen Sealers of Wood for Aquashnet Village {x} Elisha Parker and Price Shearman Chosen wood

page_0054

{498} sealers Stoakes Potter Choson sealer of Leather

Voted on the 4^th article in the Warrant for Calling this Meeting that there be Raised by way of tax this present year the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds Lawfull money for paying of school masters and others Charges arising within said town of Dartmouth.

the Committee to overhaul the town Records made Report as followeth

To the Annual March Meeting of Dartmouth to be held at the Town house in Dartmouth on the 21^st day of May A.D. 1774 by Adjourn ment.

We whose names are underwritten having been appointed a Committee at Last March

Meeting to overhaul the town Records and make Report to said adjournment of said Meeting what part of said Record stands in Need of new drafting Do adjudge that all Returns of highways and all Ear Marks on Record aught to be New Drafted the town book on which they stand being so worn and to peaces and the Leaves so Defaced that the Record stands in Danger of being almost wholly Lost or Obleterated all which is sub mitted by

William Davis William Tallman Benjamin Russell Jur

Dartmouth May 20^th A.D. 1774.

Voted to except of the above Report Attest: Benjⁿ Russell Jur Town Clerk.

The Foregoing Report being Read before this Meeting it was accepted and thereupon it was

{499} Voted that Benjamin Akin Esq^r and Benjamin Russell J^ur be a Committee to new draft the said Records at the expence of the Town and that they be sworn to the faithfull Discharge of their trust and make Report to this Town in Legal meeting assembled of their doings therein as soon as may be.

Voted that a Duty be and hereby is Laid of two shillings per Barrel on all fish that shall be sceined within the bounds and Limits of said town this present year and that these Duties when Collected be appropriated to the use of s^d Town.

Voted Jirah Willis Timothy Ingraham Gamalial Church for Accushnet Villiage

Elihu Akin Thomas Hix for Aponagansit Villiage

Christopher Gifford and Stephen Davis for Accoaxit Village in said town be a Committee in the Respective Villiages to which they Belong to Inspect into the scaining of fish in said town therein with full power to Demand Security for said Duties of any person or persons presumeing to sceine fish within said Limits payable to the treasurer of said town and his successors in said office and in Case any person or persons shall Refuse to give such security when Demanded as aforesaid then to make Seisour of their fishing Craft or so much of their fish from time to time as shall be sufficiant to pay said Duties and Charges Necis siraly arising attending such seiseure {x}

page_0055

{500} {May 11th 1774} Thomas Hathaway William Wood and John Wady, being appointed by a Vote of the Town a Commitey to Recive and Exammin the Accompts of Debts Brought against s^d Town and also to settle Accompts with the town treasurer for the year past

Report as followeth that the hole of the Dimands Brought against said town that are Come to hand amounts to the sum of In Lawfull money £ 186 – 7 – 0 1/4

We also find by outstanding orders 197 0 – 0 or about £ 383 7 – 0 1/4

We also find the Ball^c } Dew to the town from } John Smith to Be } £ 1 = 17 = 1 = 1/2 In Matthew Wings hands 1 = 5 = 5 = 0 In Thomas Dennises hands 4 = 3 = 6 = 1/2 In Isaac Spooners hands 4 = 9 = 0 = 1/2 In Samuel Haws hands 118 = 4 = 0 = 0 In Prince Allens hands 76 = 9 = 4 = 0 In Nathall Potters hands 80 = 15 = 0 = 0 In William Tallmans hands 27 = 11 = 1 = 0 £ 314 = 14 = 16 = 1/2

May 10^th 1774 Town in Debt 383 = 7 = 0 = 1/2 Towns Credit 314 = 14 = 6 = 1/2 £ 68 = 12 = 6 = 0

1773 Terries Accompt 30 = 0 = 0 = 0 Crans oder 0 = 0 = 0 = 0 ol^d before £ } 98 = 12 = 6 Town of Dartmouth in Debt } May the 11^th 1774 }

Voted to adjourn the Annual March Meeting for Dartmouth held by Adjournment May 21^st 1774 to the first second day of June next to begin at ten of the Clock in the fore noon on sd Day.

{501} {June 6: 1774} June the 6^th Day A.D. 1774.

The Town Meet according to adjournment.

James Greffeth was Chosen Constable in the Rome of David Davil and Benj^a Sowle Last Chosen for Acoakeset Villiage in Dartmouth said Davil and Sowel being excused for their hiring said Griffeth to serve in their Rome

Seth Morton was excused by Vote from serving Constable by Reason of Infermaty of body.

Stephen West was Chosen Constable in Rome of Seth Morton excused.

Caleb Russell Joseph Russell William Tallman Benjamin Taber Jur and John Williams was Chosen Oversears of the Work house for the year ensuing.

Voted to Repair the Town house in said Dart mouth at the Charge of said town.

Voted that William Davis Jabez Barker Jur and William Tallman be a Committee and they are hereby Impowered to Repair the town house in Dartmouth at the Charge of said town in such maner as they shall think most proper and Conveant for said Town.

Voted that William Davis Jabez Barker J^ur and William Tallman be a Committee and they are hereby Impowered to New Run the lines Round the towns landings in Dartmouth and make new bounds if they should think it is of Nesisaty and for the publick good of said town and Repair as many of them as they shall Judge aut to be Repaired and Mended at the Charge of the town.

William Hart Jun^r and James Davis was Chosen Leather Sealers

Benjamin Taber Jun^r was Chosen Surveyer of Lumber.

page_0056

{502} Seth Morton was Chosen fence Vewer in the Room of Caleb Jene

Voted to adjourn this Meeting to the third Tuesday of this Instant June.

{June 21: 1774 } June the 21^st Day A.D. 1774

the Town Meet according to adjournment. Jabez Barker Jun^r Moderator present

Benjamin Howland the second was Chosen Con stable again this Day as said Howland was Chosen Last March and has not paid his fine. Nor did Not apear at this Meeting to gave the town sadisfaction.

Stephen West was Chosen Constable this Day as he the said West was Chosen at the Last adjournment and has not paid his fine Nor Did apear at this Meeting to make the town sadisfaction.

Voted to adjourn this Meeeting to the 25^th Day fo this Instant June at three of the Clock in the affter Noon on said Day.

{June 25: 1774} June the 25^th Day A. D. 1774. the Town Meet according to Adjournment the Moderator being presen.

George Brownell the second was Chosen Constable in the Room of Stiphen West who refused to serve in said office.

Voted Zebulon Allens fine for Not serving Constable to Benjamin Howland the second for and In Consideration of the said Howland serving Consta ble this presend year.

Increse Smith was Chosen thuthing man as he {tything} was not warned the Last time he was Chosen

{503} according to Law.

Voted to adjourn to 3 of the Clock in the after Noon the 9^th Day of July Next

{July 9: 1774} July the 9^th Day A. D. 1774.

The Town meet according to adjournment. it was put to Vote

whether George Brownell 2^d should be excused from serving Constable or Not and it past in the Negative.

then the said George Brownell offered to serve Constable provided the Town would Vote William Whites and Stephen Wests fines for their Not serving Constables.

after a Mature Consideration Voted said Wites and Wests fines for Not serving Constable to the said George Brownell the second for his serving Constable

Benjamin Brownell (Thomas son) was Chosen Surveyour of highways in Room of John Lawton Desed.{deceased}

Israel Cornel was Chosen Surveyour of high ways for the year ensuing.

Voted to Disslove this Meeting.

To Messrs Wiliam Davis Jabez Barker and William Tallman Selectmen of Dartmouth Genⁿ. takeing into the most mature & serious Consideration the Molloncholly and Distresing scituation of the Public affairs of this Province and as it appears to us to be our Duty to adopt and persue all those Rational

page_0057

{504} and Justifiable methods which by the Blessing of heaven attending our Endeavours will have the Greatest tendences to Remove from us and our fellow sufferers those troubles wee feal and fear under the present frowns of the British Administration therefore

we Request you to Call a Town Meeting on the 18^th Day of July next at Nine of the Clock in the fore noon to Cunsult and act on the following particulars (viz)

1ly for said Town at said Meeting to Consult and act what they think best Relative to a mutual Agreement Respecting the purchasing or Not purchasing New England Rum, English and India goods afther such a time and such a manner as s^d Town shall see fit

2ly for sd Town at s^d Meeting to act what they think proper Relative a mutual Agreement Respecting the Not purchasing any goods of Pedlars for the futur.

3ly for s^d Town at sd Meeting to Chuse such a Committee of Correspondence as s^d town shall think best

4ly for s^d Town at s^d Meeting to adopt such methods as they shall think best to prevent the use of Bohea Tea in s^d Town for the future.

5ly for s^d Town as sd Meeting to Vote in such way and manner as they think best to Rase their propotion of five hundred pounds to pay the Committee of Congress Chosen by the general assembly of this province.

6ly for s^d town if they see fit to Vote some part of the work house in s^d town to be Improved as a house of Correction

{505} and as in Duty bound shall ever Pray

Silas Swift Walley Adams Thomas Taber Jireh Swift Natha^l Spooner Jethro Hathaway Ebenezer Willis John M^cPperson Jireh Willis Thomas Crandon And^w Ritchie Jireh Swift Jun^r Jonathan Hathaway Jun^r Manasseh Kempton Thomas Kempton

Dartmouth June the 25^th 1774

{ Stamp} Bristol ss

to the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting

agreeable to the Request of ten or more of the free holders of Our s^d town of Dartmouth in his majesty Name you are Forthwith Required to Notify and Warn All of the free holders and other Inhabitants of s^d town that are Qualified By Law To Vote in town Meetings to meet together at the Town House in s^d Town on Monday the 18^th Day of this Instant July at ten of the Clock in the fore Noon on s^d Day Then and There to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly for s^d town to act and Do what they think Proper Relative to putting a stop to the Traveling of Pedlars agreeable

page_0058

{506} to a Law of this Province

2ly for the Town to Act and Do what they Think Proper Relative to Purchase ing or Not Purchasing New england Rum English and India Goods after such a time as s^d Town shall agree upon.

3ly for s^d town to Act and Do What is thought Proper at sd meeting Relative to Chuseing a Committee of Correspondence

4ly for s^d Town at s^d meeting to adopt such methods as they shall think Best to prevent the uce of Bohea tea in s^d town for the future.

5ly for s^d town at sd meeting to vote in such way & Manner as they think Best to Raise their Proportion of five hundred pounds to pay the Committee of Congress Chosen by the General Assembly of this Province

6ly for s^d Town if they see fit to Vote some part of the Work house in s^d Town to be Improved as a House of Correction and Likewise if thought proper to protection to the General Sessions of the peace to appoint a master for s^d House.

And make Return of this Warrent and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of s^d town at or before the time of s^d meeting

Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this 1st Day of July A.D. 1774

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker } of Wiliam Tallman } Dartmouth

{507} Bristol ss July ye 5^th 1774 agreeable to the within Directions I have Notifyed the Inhabitants meet at Time and Place agreable to the within Rit

pr Me Prince Allen Cons^te

{July 18 1774} At a Town meeting legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 18^th Day of July A.D. 1774

The Hon^ble Walter Spooner Esq chosen Moderator for sd meeting.

Voted to act on the Warrant for calling this meeting.

Voted that the Hon^ble Walter Spooner Esqr Benjamin Akin Esqr Will^m Davis. William Tallman. Major Ebenezer Willis Jirah Willis Seth Pope Seth Hathaway and Hannaniah Cornish be a Committee to purpare and Draw up what they shall think most proper Relateing to s^d Warrant and make report to this meeting for the Towns Consideration as soon as they convenantly can.

Voted to adjourn to (there)of the Clock this After Noon

July 18th three Clock After Noon. The Town met according to adjournment.

The above Committee agreeable to order made the following Report which was — Voted by the Town. Voted that we are Grie – ___ng necessitaed to act a part which at first appears unfriend ly to our manufactureing Brethren and friends in Great Britain & Ireland.

But we trust we shall readily be excused by them when they consider that this part of our Conduct is wholly Designed & in our Judment will have the greatest tendency of any thing in our power to save both them and us from

page_0059

{508} Bondage and Slavery. for upon mature consid eration we judge the several late unconstitutional Acts of the British Parliament have a direct tendency to distroy the harmony which has subsisted among all the British subjects and to entirely abolish the English Constitution and form of Government and therefore as the most probable means to prevent those destructive purposes, we unite with our American Brethren And Resolve that we will not purchase any Goods manufactured in Great Britain and Ireland which shall be imported from thence. After this day. that we will not purchase any goods, of any hawker or pedler that we will not purchase any foreign teas whatever that we will not export any flaxseed to any foreign markit. that we do acquiesce in the need and necessity of raising our proportion of money to pay the Congress and to raise the sum by (subscription) and that these resolves do remain in force so long as the present grievous acts of the British parliament remain unrepealed or until this Town shall see fit to alter or the said Resolves and that the Town Clerk transcribe — copy of these proceedings for the Com(mittee of Cor) respondence this chosen in publication Also,

Voted that (Benjamin) Akin Esqr Messrs Jireh Willis William Davis William Tallman Seth Pope Hannanah Cornish and Jireh Swift Ju^r. be a Committee of Correspondence with the other Committees of Correspondence in America.

Attest: Benjamin Russell. Town Clerk.

1. B. Immediately after the above resolves were passed the towns proportion of the money to pay the Committee of Congress was advanced.

{508-2} {Sept. 15″ 1774} Bristol To the Constable or Constables of the {L. S.} Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting:

Agreeable to a request to us directed Signed by ten or more of the freeholders of our sd Town. In his Majesties Name you are forthwith required to notifie and warn all the freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are qualified by Law to vote in town meetings to meet together at the Town house in said Dartmouth the 22 Day of this Instant at ten o’clock in the fore noon of said day then and there to act on the Particulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly. for the town to act and Do what they think proper relative to chusing somaney persons as said town shall see fit as Delegates to sit in a County Congress to be standen at taunton on the 28 Day of this Instant to devise and act on such Measure as the exegencies of the time requires.

2ly. For the town to Act and Do what is thought most proper relative to chuseing two or more persons as Committee of Correspondence in the room of those that hath resined

3ly. For the Town to Act and Do what is thought Proper. relative to impouring said Committee of Correspondance for calling town meetings and make return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon unto the Clerk of said town at or before the time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth the 15″ Day of September. A.D. 1774.

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker } of William Tallman } Dartmouth

Dartmouth ye 19^th 9^th 1774. Pursuant to the within written warrant I have warned the inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth to meet at time and place within mentioned by posting up notifications in the most publick

page_0060

{508-3} places in the several villages of said Town.

Per me Benj^a Howland Constable

{Sept: 23. 1774} At a town meeting warned and held at the town house in Dartmouth the 23 Day of Septem ber A. D. 1774.

Benjamin Akin Esq was chosen Moderator

Voted to choose three men as a Committee of Delegates to meet the several Committee of Dele gates of the several towns in the County of Bristol at taunton the 28 Day of this instant September A. D. 1774.

Voted that Benj Akin Esq. William Davis and William Tallman be of said Committee and

Voted that the sd. Delegates be impowred only to advise and consult upon such mesures, as the magastrates of the County Congress shall judge expedient and make report to said Town as soon as convenient.

{Dec. 23: 1774} { Stamp} Bristol ss. To the Town Clerk of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting.

Agreeable to the advice of the Continental Congress held in the City of Philadelphia the 5 Day of September 1774.

In his Majestys Name you are forthwith required to notify and warn all the freeholders and others Inhabitants of said Town that are qualified by law to Vote in Town meetings to meet together at the Town house in said Dart mouth on Tuesday the seventeenth day of January next at two OC Clock in the forenoon on said Day then and there to act on the Particulers heareafter mentioned

{508-4} 1 ly. To Chuse a Committee agreeable to the advice of said Congress.

2ly For said Town to chuse a suitable person or persons to receive all donations that may be offered for the relief of the Poor of the Towns of Boston and Charlestown now suffering on account of the Boston port Bill so called.

3ly. For the Town to act and do what is thought most proper relative to the publick monies of said Town.

And make return of this Warrant and your doings thereon unto the Selectmen of said Town at or before the time of said meeting Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this 23rd day of December A. D. 1774.

Jabez Barker } Selectmen of William Tallman } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth January 17^th Day 1775. Agreeable to the within warrant I have notified and warned the freeholders and other inhabitants to meet at time and place within mentioned.

Per me Benj Russell Town Clerk

{Jan. 7″ 1776⁵} At a town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 7 Day of January A.D. 1776. Jirah Willias chosen Moderater.

Voted that there be twenty one persons chosen as a Committee agreeable to the 1^st article in the Warrent for calling this meeting.

Voted that Benjamin Akin Esqr. Cpt. Philip Taber. De^t Samuel Perry. James Akin, Natha^iel Richmond. Richard Kerby. George Brownell. Fortinatus Sherman. Seth Pope John Perkins John Smith 3^d. Thomas Crandon

page_0061

{509} Gamaliel Brient. Abraham Smith. John Chase Griffeth Barney John Alden Daniel Eggery Nathan Delino William Wood 2^d. and Philip Sherman be of said Committee and that they be continued in said servse untill the Acts or parts of Acts mentioned in the Continental Congress Association Agreement be repealed.

Voted that David Shephard. Isaac Pope. William Wood 2^d. Stephen Peckcom. John Smith 3^d. and Benjamin Russell Ju^nr be a Committee to receive all the donations for the poor of Boston and Charlestown now suffering by reson of the Boston port Bill so called that may be offered by the inhabitants of this Town and make remitance of said donations as son may be to the oversears of the poor of Boston.

Voted that the Constables pay the money that belongs to the Province to Henry Garner Esq of Stow they taking proper recepts for the same.

Voted that this Town will indemnify them the said Constables for ther so doing,

Voted that the Assesser Commiting their Last Bills to the Constables which shall discharge them without returning them to Harrison Gray Esqr.

Voted that the last money raised by tax to be paid as the former.

{509-2} {Feb. 24. 1775} Bristol ss. To the Constabel or Constabels of the { Stamp} Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting

in his Majesties Name you are forthwith required to notifie and warn all the freeholders and other inhabitants of said Town that are quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet together att the Town House in said Town on the Twenty first Day of March next at ten of the clock in the forenoon on said day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned

1ly To choose Town officer for the ensuing year as the law directs.

2ly to conclude by vote what number of school masters there shall be procured for the year ensuing at the charge of said Town.

3ly To choose a Committee to receive and – settle accompts with those that have demands againts said Town as also with the Town Treasurer for the yeare one thousand seven Hundred and seventy four.

4ly to Receive Returns of Highways and Town Landings laid out or altered by the Selectmen of said Town to allow or disallow of the same in order that they may be of record.

5ly To conclude by vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of tax for the year ensuing to defray the necessary charges ariseing within said Town.

6ly To choose a County Treasurer as the law directs

7ly To choose a County Register agreeable to the law of this Province.

8ly For the Town at said meeting to act and do what they shall think most proper resept ing purchising a Town stock of ammu nition for said Town agreeable to law.

And make return of this Warrant with your doing thereon unto the Clerk of said Town on or before the time appointed for said Meeting.

page_0062

{509-3} Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this 24^th Day of February Anno Domi 1775.

William Davis } Selectmen Jabez Barker Jur } of William Tallman } Dartmouth

Dartmouth the 11^th of the 3^d mo 1775

Persuent to the within I have warned the inhab itants of said Town to meet at time and place within mentioned by posting up notifications in three several villages of said Town.

Per me Benjamin Howland Constable.

{March 21: 1775} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 21^st Day of March A D. 1775 Jabez Barker Jun^r chosen moderator for said meeting.

William Davis. Jabez Barker Jun^r. and William Tallman was chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing Benjamin Russell Jun^r was chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing.

Jonathan Sowle. Bartholomew Taber. and Benj^a Russell Jun^r chosen assesors for the year ensuing

Jabez Barker Jun^r chosen Town Treshuer and agreed with to serve for four pence per pound for receiving in and paying out the towns money.

John Wady Will^m Wood cordwinder and Thomas Hathaway was chosen a Committee to settle with those persons that have demands against the town and with the Town Treshurer for the year 1774.

Isaac Vincent William Macomber ship joiner and David Smith was chosen constables for the year ensuing.

Barzillai Tucker chosen Constable in the room of David Smith who refused to serve

Barnabus Russell. Wesson Tallman Jethro Hathaway Joseph Samson William Kimpton. Peleg Dalino Zerviah Wood. Benja Blossom. Nathan Dalino Seth Morton and Seth Hathaway son of Benjamin

{509-4} Joseph Demons. Silas Swift Nathaniel Spooner and Joseph Russell Juner Surveyers

Joseph Tucker Jun. Giles Slocum. Philip Sherman John Tucker Humphrey Smith Jun^r. John Chase David Chase. Icabod Gifford David Gifford Luthan Wood William Russell. Dinah’s son. Will^m Hart Jun^r. David Russell Ruben Sherman and Edmond Maxfield was chosen Surveyers of highways.

William Earl James Sowle Pardon Brownell Stokes Potter Stephen Potter Reuben Sherman Wesson Kerby Thomas Cornell. George Brownell son of Tho^s Desesed. Philip Taber Robart Brownell. James Sowle Jun^r. and Richard Kerby was chosen Surveyers of highways.

Voted to adjourn this meeting to the third Tuesday of May next at ten of the Clock in the forenoon.

{May 16: 1775} At a town meeting held by adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the 16^th Day of May A. D. 1775.

Lemuel Sisson chosen Constable in the room of William Macomber.

Barnabus Wing chosen Constable in the rome of Isaac Vincent.

Natha^ll Jenne chosen Constable in the rome of Barnabus Wing who pays his fine.

Voted that David Smith receive Barzillai Tuck ers fine for serving in said office.

John Proctor John Ricketson and Philip Macomber chosen Wardens.

Manasseh Kempton David Mitchell Will^m Allen Isaac. Tripp & Jonathan Sherman 2^d. choosing Tithing men.

James Davis Stokes Potter and Will^m Hart Junr Sealers of Leather.

page_0063

{509-5} Voted that there be one schoolmaster percured at the charge of the town by the selectmen for the year ensuing

Voted to raise by way of Tax Two hundred and fifty pounds for defraying the charges of said Town.

Voted that the Selectmen Purcure a town stock of ammunishon agreeable to law and draw the money out of the town treashery.

Luthan Wood and Timothy Howland field Drivers.

Jabez Jenne Tucker Jenne & John Hathaway field Drivers.

Robart Kerby Eber Davis James Griffeth field Drivers

Natha^ll Spooner Joseph Kimpton and Joseph Samson fence viewers.

John Potter and David Russell fence Viewers Benj^a Brownell son of Thos and Thomas Tripp mason fence Viewers.

Nathaniel Potter James Cushman and Giles Russell chosen pound keepers.

William Wood Sealler of weights and measuers. Benj^a Taber Jun^r. Shubal Haws James — Barnabus Wing and Stephen Meriho chosen Surveyers of Lumber.

Job Anthony Stephen Davis & Peleg Taber choosen Surveyers of Lumber.

John Wood and Maxfield chosen Surveyers of Lumber.

Timothy Ingraham Samuel Allen Seallers of wood.

Philip Shearman chosen Sealor of Wood Stephen Davis Job Anthony Sealors of Wood Job Davis Joseph Hix Thomas Russell Tho^s. Potter. Jonathan Hathaway 2d. Henry Wrightington and Joseph Drew Hog Reaves.

{509-6} Voted to adjourn to the 25^th day of this instant May at ten of the clock in the forenoon.

{May 25; 1775} May the 25^th 1775.

The Town meet according to adjournment.

Voted to excuse Nath^ell Jenne from serving Constable.

John Howland Choosen Constable in the rome of Nath^ell Jenne.

Voted to adjourn to the 20^th of June next at two of the in the afternoon.

{June 20: 1775} June 20^th 1775

Meet and choose Joseph Russell Will^m Tallman and Caleb Greene oversears of the Workhouse this present year.

Obed Nye was chosen Constable in the room of John Howland who refused to serve.

Voted to adjourn to the 1^st day of August next at one of the clock afternoon.

{Aug 1: 1775} August the first 1775

Meet and adjourned to 3^d Tuesday of this instant 3 Clock afternoon.

{Aug – 1775} third Tuesday of August

Meet and Voted Barnabus Wing John Howland & Obed Nye’s fines for not serving constables to Gamaliel Bryant for his serving constable as it is to be understude that the said Bryant is not excused by the town from serving Constable.

Voted William Macomber & Lemuel Sissons fines for not serving Constables to George Brownell son of Thomas desesed for his serving in said office and it is understude that the 2^d Sisson is not excused from his turne when the Town shall think it just.

Voted to dissolve this meeting.

page_0064

{509-7} {Mch 1: 1776} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 1^st day of March 1776 Jabez Barker Jun^r chosen Moderator.

Jonathan Winslow. Thomas Tripp Mason and Lemuel Pope were chosen Grand Jurymen for the three next terms to be holden at Taunton for the Court of Bristol.

{Feb. 21: 1776} { Stamp} To the Constables of the Town of Dart mouth or either of them. Greeting:

In his Majesties Name you are fourthwith required to notifie and warn all the free holders and other inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth that are quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet together at the Town house in said Town on the eight day of March next at ten of ‘Clock in the fournoon on said day. then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly. To chuce Town officers for the ensuing year as the law directs.

2ly. To conclude what number of school masters there shall be provided for the year ensuing at the charge of said Town.

3ly. To choose a Committee to receive & settle accounts with those that have demands against said Town as also with the Town Treasurer for the year One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Five

4ly. To receive Returns of Highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen of said Town to allow or disallow the same in order that they may be of Record.

5ly. To conclude by vote what sum of money should be raised by way of tax for the year ensuing to defray the necessary arising within said Town.

6ly. To choose a County Treasurer as the law directs

{509-8} 7ly That the Town choses a Committee of Corespondance. Inspection & Safety according to a Resolve of the General Court of this Colony. past 13^th of February instant.

8ly. To act & do what is thought proper relative to paying Benjamin Akin Esq. for his serving as Delegate for said Town.

And make return of this Warrant with your doings theron unto the Clerk of said Town on or before the time appointed for said meeting Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this 21^st day of February 1776.

William Davis. } Selectmen Jabez Barker Jur. } of William Talman } Dartm^o.

To any or either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth

Bristol ss. February the 25^th A.D. 1776. Persuant to this Warrant I have notified and warned the inhabitants of town by post ing up notifications at the usual places to meet at time & place within mentioned.

Per me David Smith Con^ble

{Mch 8: 1776} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the eight day of March 1776.

Jabez Barker Jur. chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Voted. that there be three selectmen for the year ensuing.

William Davis Jabez Barker Jur. & William Tallman chosen Selectmen for the year ensuing

Benjamin Akin Esq. chosen Town Clerk for the year ensuing.

Fortinatus Shearman. Abraham Smith & Richard Kerby chosen Assessors for the year 1776.

page_0065

{510} Jabez Barker Jur. chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with to receive in and pay out the Towns money at four pence pr. pound.

Benjamin Terry William Anthony and Peleg White chosen Constables.

Peleg White present and refused to serve and Philip Tripp was chosen Constable in the room of Peleg White who had refused to serve.

David Smith Jethro Hathaway and Christopher Gifford was choosen a Committee to settle accounts with all persons that have demands against sd Town and also, to settle accounts with the Town Treasurer for the year 1775.

Philip Shearman Butler Shearman John Smith Nathaniel Fance Richard Collins John Maxfield William Hart Jur. Thomas Allen ye 2^d. Benj^a Smith J^ur Thomas Hicks ye 2^d. Josiah Wood Giles Slocum. Joseph Allen Ebenezer Androus Paul Pratt. Bial Gifford Joseph Russell Jur Barnabas Russell. Wesson Tallman Nathaniel Spooner Isaac Pope Ignatius Dillingham Peleg Delano. Seth Morten James Kempton Luen Pope. Benj^a. Blossom. John Tinkcom Gamaliel Church & Joseph Pope Samuel Manchester James Soul Wesson Kerby William Earl, Stokes Potter, Pardon Brownell Elijah Gifford Thomas Cornell Job Anthony Stephen Potter & Ruben Sherman chosen Surveyors of highways.

Voted that Jabez Barker Jur Town Treasurer hire the sum of Forty two pound seventeen shillings & eight pence on the credit of the Town to and for the use of Benj^a Akin Esq in full for his services and attendance heretofore, given as a member of several Congresses heretofore held for the publick safety he being chosen for and authorized by said Town for that purpose. then the meeting adjourned to the third Tues- day of May next at ten of the clock in the fournoon.

{510-2} {May 20, 1776} At a Town meeting held by adjornment at the Town house in Darmouth the third Tuesday of May being the twenty^th day of the month 1776 and chose Lemuel Mosher Survayre of highways. Seth Morten Gamalial Church John Tinkcom Joseph Pope, Benj^a Blossom Barnabas Russell Joseph Russell Jur. Silas Swift Seth Hathaway ye 2^d. & Stephen Taber chosen Survayrs of high ways.

choose Robert Shearman Jeremiah Wate Tything men.

chose Jonathan Hathaway ye 2^d. & Isaac Drew Tything men. and

choose John Wood & Timothy Howland Tythingmen.

Jonathan Taber William Wood John Shepherd & William Sanford Silvanus Allen Jur. & Ephraim Kempton fence Viewers.

William Case. Daniel Allen. Jonathan Shearman ye 2^d. David Russell, Joseph Kempton Abner Howard field Drivers.

Peleg Shearman ye 2^d. Josiah Hathaway Samuel Allen Joseph Hicks & Job Davis Hog reaves.

Nathaniel Potter Giles Russell James Cushman Pound keepers.

Capt William Wod Sealers of Waits and Measures.

Stephen Davis Job Anthony Jonathan Taber ye 2^d. Joshua Lowrain John Akin ye 2^d. & John Max field Survayres of all sorts of Lumber.

Stephen Davis Benjamin Church & Timothy Ingraham Sealers of Cord wood.

Gamalial Church Seth Pope Abraham Shearman Abisha Delano, Griffin Barney Benj^a. akin Fortinatus Shearman Philip Shearman James Soul Nathaniel Richmon Philip Taber Pardon Brownell. & William Wood was chosen a Committee of Correspondance & Safty.

page_0066

{510-3} {Feb. 16: 1779.} Bristol ss To the Constable or Constables of { Stamp} the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting:

In the Name of the Government & people of the state of the Massachusetts Bay, you are fourthwith required to notifie and warn all the freeholders & other inhabitants of s^d Town that are quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet togeather at the Town house in said Town, on Thusday the fourth day of March next at ten of the clock in the fournoon on sd day. then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the directs.

2ly To conclude by vote what number of school masters there shall be procured for the year ensuing at the charge of said Town.

3ly To chuse a Committee to receive and settle accompts with those that have demands against said Town as also with the Town Treasurer for the Year One thousand seven hundred seventy eight.

4ly to receive Returns of highways laid out or altered by the Selectmen of sd. Town & allow or disallow in order they may be of Record.

5ly to conclude by vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of tax the ensuing year for paying of schoolmasters and other charges ariseing within said Town.

6ly for said Town at said meeting to act & do what they shall think most proper, in respect to the firishery in said Town.

7ly to chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

8ly to conclude by vote wheather the highways in said Town shall be kept in repair by way or Tax or as usial.

9ly To chuse a Committeeof Safty. Correspondance and Inspection.

{510-4} 10ly Whereas there is a difficulty now subsisting and concerning the raising men for the Road Island exspedition last summer and the men at the fort in Acoshnet. Now for said Town to choose a Committee and impower them to settle sd difficulty or other ways & do what they think proper.

And make return of this Warrant and your doings thereon unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the time of sd meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this sixteenth day of February A. D. 1779.

Aulden Spooner } Selectmen Thomas Kempton } of Benj^a Russell Jur. } Dartmouth Job Almy }

Dartmouth February 22^d day 1779. by vertue of this warrant to me directed and by order of the Selectmen have notified and warned all the freeholders and other inhabi tants of this Town by posting up notifications in several places to meet at the time & place within mentioned.

Richard Collins – Constable of Dartmouth

{Mch 4: 1779.} At a legal Town meeting of the freeholders & other inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth assembled assembled at the Town house the fourth day of March 1779:

Benj^a Akin Esq chosen Moderator for said meeting.

William Davis Richard Kerby Benj^a Russell Jur Maletiah Hathaway Thomas Kempton Aulden Spooner and Benj^a Church Chosen Selectmen for said year.

page_0067

{510-5} Caleb Russell William Tallman & Barnabas Russell chosen Overseers of the Poor.

Benj^a Akin Esq^r. chosen Town Clerk.

Benj^a Russell Jur. Richard Kerby Christopher Gifford John Smith Hananiah Cornish Aulden Spooner & Abraham Smith chosen Assessors for the Year ensuing.

Benj^a Akin Esq^r chosen Town Treasurer. and agreed with to receive and pay out the Towns money for three pence on the pound.

Job Almy Christopher Gifford & Seth Spooner Jur chosen a Committee to examine the accounts of all persons that have demands against said Town and to allow what they judge reasonable and also to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer for the Year 1778.

Jonathan Taber Benj^a Brownell Robert Earl Jireh Willis Gamaleal Bryant Obed Ney John Taber Paul Ingraham Elihu Gifford Benj^a Badcock & Elisha Russell be a committee of Safty Correspondance & Inspection for the Year ensuing.

This meeting is adjourned to the first Tuseday of April next at ten of the clock in the forurnoon

{Apr. 6: 1779} At a Town meeting held by adjournment the sixth day of April A.D. 1779. and chose Nathaniel Richmond in the Committee of Safty &c. in the room of Benj^a Brownell who refused to serve and also added to said Committee Henry Soul. & Stephen Davis.

John Chaffee Richard Collens & John Earl Jr : chosen Constables and agreed with to collect all the rates for the Year 1779. for four pr cent.

Voted that there shall be Seven thousand pound raised on the inhabitants of sd Town by a tax for the paying of schoolmasters and other necessary charges of sd Town for the Year one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine.

{510-6} Voted that there shall be one grammer schoolmaster provided for the Town by the selectmen.

Survayors of highways for Acoshnet village are Obed Hathaway Abraham Shearman Seth Jenne George Brownell Stephen Taber Lemuel Mendall John Williams Caleb Russell Jireh Willis Jehaziel Jenne Lemuel Pope Benja Blossom Noah Allen Jr. Nathaniel Jenne Obed Nye Bartholomew Taber Peleg Huddlestone Stephen Bennet John Hathaway field drivers. Isaac Vincent & Jabez Jenne Hogreaves.

James Cuishman Pound keeper. Shubal Haws Joshua Lorain & Benja Taber Surveyres of all sorts of Lumber James Davis Leather sealer. Survayors of highways of Acoaxset villaige for the Year 1779. are William Earl Job Davis. Wesson Kerby Lemuel Manchester Stokes Potter. George Lawton George Tibbets Ruben Shearman Job Almy Thomas Cornell Job Anthony Nathaniel Richmond Wanton Case & Robert Shearman chosen Tything men. William Maccumber & Joshua Cornell chosen fence Viewers.

Thomas Tripp & John Mosher Feild Drivers.

Nathaniel Potter Pound keeper.

Stephen Davis & Job Anthony chosen Survayres of all sorts of Lumber.

Stokes Potter chosen Leather Sealer.

Caleb Earl & Constant Maccumber chosen Hog reaves.

Survayors of highways for Aponaganset Vilaige are Nicholas Lapham Benj^a Howland (sadler) Thomas Russell Peleg Gifford John Chace. Isaac Lawrance Giles Slocum Abraham Allen Constant Mosher Edward Winslow William Hart Job Cook. John Maxfield. Tything man . Barnabas Mosher & William Wood Field Drivers

page_0068

{510-7} James Tucker & Benj^a. Tucker Fence Viewers.

John Smith Philip Shearman Survayres of all sorts of Lumber.

Capt William Wood Sealer of Wts & Measures

William Hart Leather Sealer

William Mosher & Benj^a. Allen Jur. Hog Reeves. Giles Russell chosen Pound keeper.

{May 18: 1779} At a Town meeting held by adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuesday the eighteenth day of May 1779. it being the adjournment of the annual Town meeting in March last. the Town meet: and chose Caleb Earl & Constant Maccumber Hog reaves in the room of William Wilcox & Prince Wing who was chosen at the adjournment before and not warned to take their places. Avery Parker chosen one of the committee of Safty &c in the room of Paul Ingraham who refused to serve. and then the Town dissolved said meeting.

{Apr. 17: 1779} Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting:

In the name of the Government and People of the Massachusetts Bay you are hereby required to notifie and warn the free holders and other in habitants of the Town of Dartmouth quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet togeather at the Town house in said Town on the eighteenth day of May at ten of the clock in the fournoon on said day then and there to act on the Pertic ulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly Agreeable to a Resolve of the General Court wheither they chuse at this time to have a new Constitution or form of Government made

{510-8} 2ly Wheither they will impower their Represent atives for the next year, to vote for calling a State Convention for the sole purpose of forming a New Constitution

3ly For the Town at said meeting to vote wheather or not they will raise at the Towns exspence men for the defence of this State, or any of the United States if called for. by lawfull authority this presant year; and to choose one or more persons to here said men on as reasonable Terms as they can agreeable to a petition of ten or more of the freeholders of said Town.

And make Return of this Warrant & your doings thereon to the Clark of sd Town at or before the time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this seventeenth day of April Anno Dom. 1779

Richard Kerby } Selectmen Aulden Spooner } of William Davis} Dartmouth Benj^a. Russell Jur }

Dartmouth May 17th. day 1779. by vertue of this Warrant to me directed I have notified and warned all the free holders and other inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet at time and place within mentioned

Pr me John Earl. Constable of Dartmouth.

page_0069

{510-9} {May 18: 1779} At a town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuesday the eighteenth day of May 1779.

Benj^a Akin Esq^r chosen Moderator.

The Town Voted on the first article in the Warrant for calling this meeting that this Town at this time dont chuse to have a new Consti tution or Form of Government the numbers of voters present. was seventy and all voted in the affirmative.

Voted on the third article in the Warrant for calling this meeting: that all the men in this Town who shall be called for the defence of this state or any of the United States for the present year, shall be raised at the exspence or charge of said Town that shall be raised in consequence of order or orders from the General Court or Council of this State; and

Robert Earl Elihu Gifford or John Chaffe are chosen a Committee when any men are sent for or required to be raised as aforesd they are impowered. to procure said men. at the exspence of said Town in the best way and manner they can; and said Committee are to be reasonably paid for their service.

{511} State of the Massachusetts (Bay.)

In the Year of our Lord one Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy (Seven)

An Act

To prevent Monopoly and Oppression.

Whereas the avaritious conduct of many per sons by dayly adding to the now exorbi tant prices of every necessary and convenient articles of life; and increasing price of labour in general, unless a speedy and efec tual stop be put thereto will be attended with the most fatal and pernicious consequen ces as it not only disheartens and disaffects the Soldiers, who have nobly entred into the ser vice of theire Countrey for the support of the best of causes, and disstreses the poorer part of the Community, by obligeing them to give an unreasonable price for those things that are absolutely necessary to their very existence, but will be also very injurious to the State in general.- And, whereas the Committee impower ed by this State to proseed to Providence in Rhode Island and in behalf of this State there to meet with Committees for the other New England States; and among other things to confer upon Measures necessary to prevent Monopoly and the high price of goods, and the necessaries of life. and for regulation of vandues; have in conjunction with said Committee recommended that rates and prices be settled and affixed by an Act of this State, to the ar ticle hereinafter enumerated.

Be it therefore enacted by the Council and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, that from and after the Twenty Eight day of January One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy –

page_0070

{512} Seven, the price of farming labour in the sum mer season shall not exceed 3^s/ by the day and found as usial, and so in usial pro portion at other seasons of the year, and the labour Mechanics and tradesman and other labour beside, what is herein hereafter especial ly enumerated, in proportion there unto accord ing to the usages and customs which have heretofore been adopted, and practiced in this State, when compared with farming labour. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid that the following articles shall not be sold for a higher price then is here in after settled and affixed to them respectively, viz: Wheat, good marchantable wheat at 7s. 6d. per bushel. Rye, good marchantable Rye Rye meal at 5s a bushel.

Indian meal good indian meal or corn at 4s. a bushel.

Sheeps wool good marchantable sheeps wool 2 s lb.

Pork fresh pork well fatted and of a good quallity at 4d 1/2 a lb and Salt pork in usial proportion according to the price of salt.

Beef good well fatted grass fed beef at 3d. a lb, and stall fed beef well fatted at 4d. a lb. and beef of an inferiour quallity in equal proportion.

Hids raw hids at (8d.) a lb. Raw Calf skins at 6d. a lb.

Salt good marchantable imported salt at 10s a bushel.

Salt manufactured from sea water within this state at 12s. a bushel.

Rum good marchantable West India rum at 6., 8d. a gallon by the hogshead includ ing the cask and 6s.10d by the barrell, exclu sive of the barrel, and 7s 8d. by the single

{513} gallon, and 2s by the quart and in propor tion for a less quantity according to the former custom and usages in retailing smaller quan tities and saving an allowance of one penny a (quart) for every ten miles the same shall be carried by land carriage from the (place) of delivery.

(New England) rum 3s. 10d. a gallon by the hogshead or barrel exclusive 13s for the hogshead or 4s for the barrel, and 4s 6d by the gallon at the Town where the same is disstilled and so in like proportion for smaller quantities accord ing to the old and approved customs for re tailing smaller quantities allowing one penny each ten miles for every gallon that has been or shall be trasported by land from the place of disstillery.

Shugar best muscovado shugar 54s a hun dred by the hogshead, and ₤ 3. by the sin gle hundred and 8d a lb by the single pound, at the place where it is first landed and allowing 9d., for the transporting of every cwt ten miles by land carriage and shugars of an inferiour quallity in the usial proportion

Molasses of the best quallity at 3s 4d, a gallon by the hogshead, including the cask, and 3s and 8d. by the barrel exclusive of 3s for the barrel 4s by the singl gallon, at the place where it is first landed from the West Indies ;- and so in proportion in the countrey or from the place where it is so landed.

Cocoa, best cocoa, at ₤ 6 10s a cwt, American manufactured chocolate 1s 8d per pound,

Chees manifactured in America 6 per lb.

Butter at 10d a lb by the single lb and 9d by the firkin ;

Peas 8s a bushel. Beans 6s a bushel.

Potatoes. Potatoes commonly called Spanish potatoes of the best quallity 1s. 4d. a bushel in

page_0071

{514} the fall of the year; and not more than 2. s. in any other season, and other potatoes in usial proportion.

Stockings, mens best yarn Stockings at 6s. a pair and in that proportion for an inferiour quallity.

Shoes, mens shoes made of neats leather of the best common sort, 8s. a pair and for others the like price according to their size and quallity.

Salted pork by the barrel 220 lb in a barrel £ 4 lb 12s.

Beef. beef by the barrel 40 lb in a barrel £ 3 lb 14s. 6d.

Cotten. cotton 3s a lb the bag and-s and 3s 8d and 3s 8d by the single lb at the port where it is first landed from the West Indies and the like allowance for transportation as for other articles.

Oats. oats 2s a bushel.

Flax good well dressed marchantable flax, 13 a lb.

Coffee. good coffee 1s 4d a lb by the single lb

Good Tryed Tallow ‘/d 1/2 a lb and rough tallow 5d lb.

Tow cloth good yard wide tow cloth 2s 3d a yard and other tow cloth in proportion accord in to is width and quallity, and the price of course linens to be computed after the same rate.

Flannel good yard wide striped flannel 3s 6d a yard and other flannels in proportion ac cording to their widths and quallities; and other, woolen cloth, manufactured in America according to their widths and quallities.

Wood green oak wood brought from the country and delivered at the door of the byer in Boston 28s. Good walnut wood so delivered 30s a cord Good walnut wood brought from the south shore and delivered at a wharf in Boston 28s.

{515} Good oak wood brought from the South shore and so delivered, 24s.

Eastern wood in consideration of the risque in bringing the same, 22s delivered at the wharfs in Boston.

Charcoal. good charcoal 1s a basket.

Tanned. Tanned hids at 1s 3d a lb and cur ried leather in usial proportion.

Homespun yard wide cotten and linnen cloth of the common sort 3s 6d and other widths and quallities of cotten and linnen in like proportion.

Mutton Lamb and Veal, at 4d a lb.

Flower imported from the southern states, at 30s cwt. Flower manufactured in this state 25s.

Horse keeping in Boston for a night or twen ty four howers with english hay, 2s and in other place in proportion.

For keeping one yoke of oxen the same as a horse.

Teaming work 1s 6d for every ton weight for a mile excepting from North Hampton to the Northern Army for same 2s a mile for each ton weight.

Turkeys. turkeys fowls & ducks to be sold only by the pound, at 5d a lb.

Gees at 4d a lb. Milk at 9d 1/2 a quart

Good refined iron at 50s cwt. Bloomery iron at 30s cwt at the place of manufacturing and the same allowance to be made for transport ation of iron by land as is allowed for other articles.

Liver oyle by the barrel 4s a gallon.

Blubber refined, 30s a barrel.

English hay of the best quallity at 5s cwt and so in proportion for a meaner quallity or sort of hay.

Good marchantable white pine boards not

page_0072

{516} to exceed 48s a thousand in Boston and other lumber in proportion and the price in other parts of the state to be in proportion thereto according to antient custom and usage.

And it be enacted by the authority aforesaid that the prices of all the articles produced in America here in before numerated, excepting those to which the prices of transportation are affixed shall be taken and deemed to be the prices of such goods and articles in the Town of Boston and that the Selectmen and Committees of the several Towns in this state, shall be and hereby are impowered to affix and settle in their respective Towns, what such arti cles and goods shall be sold for in their Towns respectively according to the proportion. the price such goods have borne in such Towns, with the price they have been at in the Town of Boston. according to the antient usage and cus tom of such Towns, – and the Selectmen and Com mittees are in like manner impowered and di rected to set and establish the prices of goods herein not enumerated according to the propor tion the price of them have usialy borne in their respective Towns, to those herein enumerated and the said said Selectmen and committees are also required to make out a fair list of all the articles to which they shall affix prices and to post the same with their with the prices by them so affixed up in some publick place or places in the Town where they live and also to return a list of such prices, to the Clerk of such Town there to remain on record and such prices by them affixed persuant to the date herein enjoined and power hereby given them shall be taken and deemed to be the price set and affixed by this act in such Town.

And be it also enacted that in plantation & where there are no selectmen the committee shall have

{517} such power, and required to performe the same duties as Selectmen and Committees within their Towns respectively.

And be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid, that the price of all Europen and East India, goods and merchandise of all kinds which have been, or shall be imported into this State, as also of all such goods which have been, or shall be brought into this State in any prize Vessels shall not exceed the follow ing rates, viz Woolen Goods Course Linens Duck Cordage Ticklenburge Osenburge shall not be sold by wholesale at a higher rate than in the proportion £ 275 sterling for what usially cost £ 100 in that part of Europe. from whence they were imported; and any other goods, wares or marchandise excepting hemp, war like and military stores imported from thence or brought or which shall be brought into any Port, in this State (in) any prize vessell, shall not be sold at a higher rate from the primary cost, as aforesaid, than in proportion of £ 250 sterling for what cost £ 100 sterling in Europe; and the seller by whole sale shall make out a bill of parcles, at the sterling of the articles sold with his ad vance thereupon and deliver the same to the barer under penalty of the sum at which such articles are so sold by him; and the retailers of such goods wares and marchandise shall not sell them at a higher advance than 20 per cent. upon the wholesale price and if re quested by the byer give a bill or pariles with the sterling cost, and the advance.

And be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid, that if any person having any article or articles necessary for the use of the American Army or Navy shall withhold or refuse to sell the same for a reasonable reward in such case

page_0073

{518 } upon complaint thereof made upon oath to the Council or Board of War, of this State, or they knowing or suspecting the same or either of them are hereby authorized and impowered to issue their warrant to any Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff or Constable to impress the same, and for that purpose in the daytime between sun rise and sunset to break and enter any ware house stores or other places where such goods are deposited or suspected to be deposited and to take and apply the same to the use aforesaid, the owner, the owner thereof being paid the price at which such goods are fixed in this act, and in case the price of the goods so taken is not herein setled and fixed the owner the owner shall be paid for the same at a reasona ble appraisement to be made of such goods by three indiferent judicius men under oath for that purpose appointed one of them by those who issued the said warrant and one by the owner of the said goods and one by the officer directed to execute and warrant, but if the owner shall decline to make such appointment Two of the said appraizers shall be appointed the persons who shall execute such warrant and the sum at which the said goods shall be ap praized shall be immediately paid as aforesaid And be it further enacted by the Authority afore said, that if any vendue master, or any one for or under him shall at any vendue or publick sale sell any article for a greater or higher price then by this Act is limitted he shall forfet a sum equal to that for which such article shall be sold and is hereby disquallified from acting at any time as an auctioneer or vandue master and in case he, or anyone in his behalf, should pre sume to act in that capacity he shall forfet the sum of £50 for every offence.

And be it further enacted by the authority

{519} aforesaid that every person who shall sell any of the articles above mentioned at a greater price then is here in setled and fixed for the same or others not enumerated, in a manifest disproportion thereto, upon conviction shall be fined, for every article so sold of the price of twenty shillings or under the sum of twen ty shillings for every article of a price above twenty shillings equal to that for which such article shall be sold. {x}

And every person who shall take or receive for his service and labour a greater sum of money then is setled and fixed for the same in and by this Act shall forfit and pay a like sum of money to that which he shall take and receive for such service and labour.

And be it further enacted, that whoever shall sell any goods wares or merchandize or shall do any service of labour at a greater price then is setled and fixed thereto, in and by this Act upon credit, shall not have, or maintain any action for the recovery thereof but shall be barred therefrom, and the person against whome any action shall be brought for the recovery of such money may plead the general issue thereto and give the special matter in evidence to the Jury.

And be it further enacted by the author ity aforesaid that all the fines and forfitures mentioned in this Act shall and one be recov ered in any Court proper to try the same with in the County, in which the offence shall have been committed by Action, Presentments, Indict ments one half thereof to the use of this State and the residue to the prosecutor togeather with the costs of prosecution and all grand juriors, are hereby strictly enjoined to take cognizance of and to make due presentments, of all offences, against this Act which shall come

page_0074

{520} to their knowledge, or whereof they shall receive due information.

And be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid if any person shall engross, or have in his possession by purchase or otherwise more of any article in this Act, enumerated, or any other necessary of life than is necessa ry for the consumption of his own family and emediate dependants and which he holds with an apparent design in the judgment of the major part of the Selectmen of the Town where he lives, or where such articles shall be to sell, trade upon, and not for his own Consumption, as aforesaid, and shall refuse to sell and dispose of the same for the Com mon currency of this State or the United States of America, and at the prices af fixed and setled by this Act or by the Selectmen and Committies in persuance of it, and complaint being thereof made to the major part of said Selectmen, by or in the behalf of any person who is in want of such article, or articles for his own imme diate support, the support of his family or immediate dependants; and the said select men or the major part of them believing the same to be true, shall demand of said person so refusing to sell such article or articles for such price as is affixed by this Act or by the Selectmen and Committee in persuance of it; and if such persons shall refuse to comply therewith or cannot be found to have such demand of him the major part of said Selectmen shall apply to some justice of the peace within the same County for a Warrant to open any store, warehouse or granary in which such article or articles may be or otherwise to take possession of the same; and the justice shall without delay make out his warrant directed

{521} to some some Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff or Con stable in form following:

Suffolk ss. To ___ Greeting

{ Stamp} Whereas complaint this day made to me by A. B. C. D. and E a major part of the Selectmen of L in the said County of S that I. K. of said S (addition) hath now in his possession ___ with define to sell and trade upon the same and which is not by him designed for the consuption of his family or immediate dependants; and that the sd I. K. does though requested thereto by the Selectmen, refuse to sell thereof to N. O. of R. within this State, who is in part necessity there (for the support of his family and immediate dependants) for the price, sell and affixed by a law of this State intitled, the Act to prevent Monopoly and Oppes sion you are therefore hereby required in the name of the Government and People of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, takeing with you, taking with you the major part of the Selectmen of said Town the day time be tween the rising and setting of the Sun to open the Store of the said I. K. or in the case may be to take possession of the said and the same to deliver to the said Selectmen to the intent that the Selectmen may sell and deliver to the said N. O. the aforesaid or so much of the article as the said N. O. has absolute necessity for:

And you are to make true return of this Warrant to me as soon as may be with your doings therein.

Given under my hand & Seal this day of ___ in the Year of Our Lord 1777.

and the said Selectmen or the major part of them having possession of such article or articles in manner aforesaid shall sell and deliver to such necessitous persons Named in such Warrant

page_0075

TO BE CONTINUED

page_0076

ROLL NO. MSSC 4 102

page_0077

ROLL NO. MSSC 4 103

page_0078

BRISTOL COUNTY MASS

MICROFILMED FOR THE GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH

BY

REPRODUCTIONS SYTEMS, INC. DIVISION OF INTRADE LTD.

AT CITY HALL NEW BEDFORD, MASS.

EXP: 68 RED: 16 DATE FEB 1969 PHOTOGRAPHER Roy Holton

RECORDS OF DARTMOUTH

DATED 1674 1787

page_0079

CONTINUED

page_0080

{Duplicate of page before the Break}

page_0081

{522} so much of the article therein mentioned, as he stands in need of, for the support of his family and imediate dependants, at the prices affixed as aforesaid. and after deducting out of the mon ey received therefor the pay for their own ser vis at the rate of four shillings a day, the officers fees, and two shillings for the Justices Warrant, shall pay the overplus if any there be to the person who owned or possessed such goods. Provided nevertheless that the said Selectmen shall not be obliged or impow ered in persuance of this Act to supply any person as aforesaid who has by him to their knowledge any of the Articles in this Act enu merated, or any other necessary of life men tioned he stands in need of for his own con sumption, and refuses to dispose them to sale for the prices set and affixed in this Act or shall neglect or refuse to bring them to mar ket according to his usial custom.

And be it further enacted, that when any action shall be brought against any officer who has a duty assigned him by this Act he may plead the general issue, and give the special matter in evidence for his justification. {x}

Feb. 22: 1777 Whereas by an Act of the State of the Massachusetts Bay in New England made In the Year of our Lord A. D. 1777 for preventing Monopoly and Oppression and by the power and authority therein to us given. We the Selectmen and Committee of safty of the Town of Dartmouth persuant to said Act have affixed the several prices on the follow ing articles (viz)

Good marchantable imported wheat at 7^s/6 pr bushel, good marchantable Rye at 4/6 per bushel,

Good & clean Corn at 4/ pr bushel.

Good fresh pork well fatted at 4 1/2 a lb and

{523} other pork in proportion to its gooness;

Good well fatted grass fed Beaf, 3^d pr lb. Good well fatted stall fed Beaf at, /4^d pr lb and Beaf of an inferiour quallity in proportion.

Good Barrel^d Pork 220 w^t to a bb at 4 £ 12s pr barrel.

Good barrel^d Beaf 240 w^t to a bb at 3 £ 14s 6d pr barrel.

Salted pork the best pices, in the summer & fall at /7^d pr pound & good sweet hogs fatt 9/ pr lb and other fatt in at /6 pr lb.

Good taned leather 1/3 pr lb. Curried leather in proportion.

Good bark bark for the Tanner in usial pro portion to the price of leather.

For curring a common side of leather in the best manner 3^s/.

Tanning and Curring a calf skin 3^s/.

No Tanner shall have more then /5^d p^ce for curring or one third of the leather as he and his customers shall agree.

Mens best shoes made of good neats leather at 8 / pr pair and for others the like prices according to their size and quallity.

Womens leather shoes at 6^s/ pr pair and smaller shoes in proportion to mens and wom ens shoes.

Making mens & womens shoes 2^s/8 pr pair at the Shops. Soleing mens shoes, in proportion

Good shoe boots proportion to shoes.

Making mens and womens shoes at the house of the imployer 1/8 pr pair and other shoes in proportion.

Good marchantable imported salt at 10^s/ pr bushel.

Good marchantable salt manufactured from sea water at 12^s/ pr bushel.

Good full draft West Indian Rum at 6/8^d pr gallon by the hogshead including the hogs head and 6/10^d by the barrel, exclusive of

page_0082

[duplicate of previous scan]

page_0083

{524}

the barrel, allowing 4^s/ per barrel, and 7/8^d by the single gallon, and 2^s/ by the the quart, and so in proportion for a smaller quantity, saving and allowance of one penny pr gallon for every ten miles land carriage the same shall be carried by land from the first port of delivery.

Good New England rum at 3^s/10^d pr gallon; by the hogshead, or barrell. exclusive of 13/4^d for the hogshead, or 4^s/ for the barrel, and 4/6^d by the single gallon, and in a like proportion for a smaller quantity, allowing one penny pr gallon for every ten miles the same shall be carried from the place of distillery.

Best Muscavado sugar at 54^s/ pr C by the hogshead and 60^s/ by the single C, and /8^d by the single pound, at the place where it is first landed allowing nine pence per C for every ten miles the same shall be trans ported by land, and shugars at an inferior quallity, in usials proportion.

Molasses of the best quality 3/4^d pr gallon by the hogshead, including the cask and 3/8 by the barrel inclusive of 3^s/ for the BB, and 4^s/ by the single gallon, at the place of landing from the West Indies, with allow ance for one penny pr gallon for every ten miles land carriage the same shall be car ried by land.

Cocoa, best quality at 6 £ 10^s pr C.

American manufactured chocolate at 2^s/ lb. Good Cotten wool at 3^s/ pr lb by the bag and, 3^s/8^d by the single lb. at the port first landed, from the West Indies, allowing /9^d pr lb for every ten miles the same shall be transported by land carriage.

Coffee of the best quality 1/4 pr lb. Best Soke tea at 4^s/6^d pr lb.

Good Barley 3^s/ per bushel.

{525}

Good clean Oats 2^s/ pr bushel.

The best of Chees manufactured in America at /6^d pr lb.

Good Bullin manufactured in America at 1^s/ pr single lb and /10^d pr lb by the firkin.

Milk in Beford from the first of November to the first of May /3^d pr quart, and the remain ing part: part of the year /2 1/2^d in said Bed ford, in the last part of the Town at /2^d pr quart.

Good English Hay of the best quality deliv ered in Bedford, at 4 £ 10^s pr Ton, and in the stack in the farms where it grows at 3 £ 6^s pr ton and in cock in the meadows 3 £ per ton.

Salt Hay of the best quality in the stack or on the farm of the seller 2 £ 8^d pr ton.

Horse keeping pr night or 24 hours with good english hay 2^s/ at Bedford.

A yoak of Exen 2^s/6 pr night or 24 houers, and at other places in the Town, a horse 1^s/6^d and a yoak of oxen 2^s/ pr night or 24 houers.

Diet at publick houses, for a dinner of boild and roasted meats, and sauce aquivalents 1/4. A Common Dinner 1^s/ Common supper and breakfast /10^d each, a nights lodging /4^d

West India & Cherry Rum /4^d pr jill and other spirits in the same proportion.

Flip & Toddy 1^s/ pr mug and a Pattle of Oats at /4^d

Good Flour from the Southern States at 30/ pr C including the cask, and Flour manufactured in this State 25^s/ including the cask.

Good marchantable Rice by the cask 30 pr C. including the cask.

Good refin^d Iron at 50^s pr C and Bloomery Iron at 30^s pr C with the same with the same allowance for transportation

page_0084

{Duplicate of previous page}

page_0085

{526} by land, as is allowed for transportation for other articles.

Naile rods in proportion to other iron exclu sive of splitting at the place where it is wrought. Blacksmithing for shoeing a horse. plane 4/6 ^d for steel corks, all round, 6^s/ For a common hoe, 4/6 For a Common Ax 10/6. For a Scyth 10^s/. For shoeing a pair of Oxen 10/6^d—

For pound work /11^d pr lb. and all hand work in proportion.

For making /10^d Nails 18/pr ^M. 18^d do 14^s/pr ^M /6^d Do 11^s/pr ^M. 14^d Do at 8^s pr ^M

Good marchantable Sheeps wool at 2/ pr lb and other wool in proportion according to its quallity.

Mens best yarn stockings at 6^s/ pr pair and those of an inferior quality in proportion.

Mens best coulered worsted stocking 10^s/ pr pair, Rib^d 12^s a pair.

The best broad cloth manufactured in this Town 14^s/ pr yd. Second Do 11^s/ pr yd Third Do 8^s pr yd and to be 1/8^th wide and other course fulled cloath in proportion.

Good yard wide streped Flannel at 3^s/6^d pr yd and other flannels in proportion to their widths and quality.

Good well dressed Flax 1^s/ pr lb.

Best checkt home made linnen at 5^s/ pr yd. and good yard wide Toe cloath manufactured in Town at 2/6 pr yd and other Toe cloath and other Toe cloath in proportion according to its width & quality and other course linnen in proportion.

Homespun yard wide plain cotton & linnen cloath at 3/6 pr yd. and other widths and quallities in proportion.

Weaving the best Broadcloath ell wide at 7^d 1/2 pr yd other thick cloaths of equal width in proportion. Weaving Duroy /7^d pr yd. {x}

{527} Weaving plane Woosted /6^d pr yd.

Sagathee wove in the best manner /8^d 1/2 pr yd

Weaving plane cotten and linnen /3 1/2 pr yd. and weaving all other cotten and linnen in proportion according to their quallity.

Weaving plane flannel and Toe cloath /5^d pr yd.

Weaving Bedticking of the best quallity /9^d pr yd and all other ticking in proportion.

Weaving Coverlids of the best quallity 6^s/ a pice and all other weaving in proportion to the above

Women for doing a weeks work 3^s/.

Spinning taken home as followth:

For spinning linnen /3^d pr skein.

For do common woosted /4^d a skein and other spinning in proportion.

Approved men Taylors 2/6 pr day at the house of the imployer and other Taylors in proportion.

Taylors for taking work home, for making a coat of the best quallity & full trimed 10^s/6^d. Coats made of superior cloath half trimed 9^s/. Waisticoat of same quallity 5^s/. Broad Cloath Britches 5^s/. For making leather britches in the best manner 9^s/ and all other Tayloring in proportion to the above.

Womans Tayloring at peoples houses. 1^s/ pr day. Taking taking home a pair of stays 13^s/ for making, and making a gown at home 2/8 and in common bonnet. 1/4^d and all other wom ans tayloring in proportion to the above.

Clossies for dressing cloaths in the best man ner. for dying common colour. Shearing three times and pressing 1^s/3^d pr yd. for coulering and fulling only 18^d pr yd. fulling and tentering only /5^d pr yd. for dressing bareskin /6^d pr yd. for dressing only /4^d pr yd. fulling shearing and pressing /9^d pr yd. dressing blanketing /8^d pr yd.

page_0086

{528} Beaver hatts at 42^s/ pr hat, best castor hats at 24^s/ pr hat, best felt hats at 7^s/ pr hat and all other matters in proportion.

Farming labour as followeth Moing and Reaping 3/6 pr day and other labour from the 25th of March to the last of September at 2/8 pr day and the other seasons of the year 2/2^d pr day and found as usial.

Teaming Good Good full grown oxen sutible to do a days work 2/8 pr day. and other ox en in proportion and the use of a cart at 1/4^d pr day. and the use of a plow 1/4 pr day.

Horse ride at /4^d pr mile out.

Best mutton Lamb and Veal at /4^d pr lb and that of an inferiour quallity in proportion.

Good Turkeys Dugyhill Fowls & Ducks at /5^d pr lb and to be sold by the pound only when dressed and fit for a market.

Good fatted gees at /4^d pr lb.

Boarding and lodging at private houses 10/ pr week and 2^d pr single day.

Peas at 8^s/ pr bushel and Beans at 6^d/ Do.

Best Spanish potatoes at 1/4^d pr bushel in the fall of the year, and 2^s/ in the Spring.

Good marchantable Codfish 28^s/ pr quintal.

Menhaden fish well pickled 25^s/ pr barrel.

Liver oyle 4^s/ pr gallon by the barrell and refined gurry 30^s/ pr barrell.

Good marchantable Pitch and white pine boards at 3.£ pr thousand. at sawford at Puchac kuck Point in Acoaxet, 3 £ and 2 £ 14^s at the head of Acoshnet River and other points of the Town in proportion. for brewing Pich pine & oak bords 10^s/ pr thousand for sawing white pine bords and cedar Twelve shillings pr thous and Good Cedar shingles laying & enokes at 24^s/ pr ^M at different publick landings in this Town.

Good marchantable Ceder rails six score to

{529} the hundred at 32^s/ pr hundred at the pub lick landings.

Good set sunk Ceder Washing tub containing two bushel at 6/4^d.

Good water pale of the common size 1/8.

Milk do in proportion and other Ceder cooper ing in proportion.

A Good white oak H hd. 13/4. Best white oak barrell 4^s/ light. Red oak hhd. 9^s/ Shook do 5^s/. Marchantable white oak staves and heading for hhds our own produce 6 £ pr thousand. Imported do 7 £ 10/ pr ^M

Red oak hhd staves 3 £ 12/ pr ^M

Good white oak barrel staves & hedding 3 £ 12/ pr ^M Red oak do. 40^s/ pr ^M. Red oak barrels [unclear] pr B.B.

Good Marchantable H hd hoops 5 £ pr ^M.

Barrel hoops fit for oyl casks 30/ pr ^M.

Hoop poles for oyl cask 75/pr ^M.

Hoop poles for fish barrels 2 £ 15 pr ^M.

Coppers for finishing and setting hhd hoops 3^d 1/2 pr hoop.

For setting bb hoops & finding do /2^d pr hoop.

Best linen foot wheals at 14^s/.

Best woolen wheals with whirls and spind les at 11/6^d pr piece.

Clock reals of the best quallity. 6^s/.

Best Clover hay seed at 1^s/ pr lb.

Best herds grass & burden grass seed at 1^s/3^d pr quart.

Tobacco of the best quallity at /6^d pr lb

Good marchantable oak wood on the wharf at Pachucket point 13^s, pr coard and at the doors on said point 14^s/ and other wood in proportion. Best oak wood at Tripps wharf 12^s/ pr cord and other wood in proportion there and in all other places in Accoaxset Village.

Good oak wood at the head of Slocums river 9^s/ pr coard. at the Warrors in said

page_0087

{530} river 10^s/ pr cord. and other wood in proportion.

Good oak wood at the head of Aponaganset river 10^s/ pr coard. and at the harbour below 11^s/ pr cord.

Good oak wood at Clarks Cove as 10^s/ pr cord. and other wood in proportion.

Good oak wood in the wharffs at Bedford and Fairhaven at 18^s/ pr cord. and at their doors 20^s/ pr cord.

Good oak wood at the upper town called Oxford 17^s/ pr cord on the wharffs and 19^s/ pr cord at the doors in said Town.

Good oak wood at the head of Acoshnet River at 13^s/ pr coard and other wood in proportion in said village.

Good swamp wood Charcole at /4^d 1/2 pr bushel deliverd at the Smiths shoops.

Pine cole at /4^s/2 pr bushel. D.D. as above

Timber for block makers work, 3^s/ pr cord D D in Bedford.

Good Blocks by the foot 2/6^d pr foot and Pumps 1^s/10^d pr foot.

Pump boxes 1^s/4^d hand spikes 1/4 a pr piece and all other block makers work in proportion.

Common Bannester back cheers 30^s/ pr half dozen. 4 back fram^d, bottomed chears 25^s/ pr ¹/₂ dozen. 3 back do 22^s/ do the above to be well bottomed. Great cheer well bottomed 9^s/. Bottoming old cheers ¹/₂ pr cheer.

Combing common woasted /9^d pr lb. Combing dy^d woosted /9/2^d pr lb at the house of the comber.

Tryed trallow 7^d 1/2 pr lb.

Gun smiths work as followeth

Full trimed stocks at 10/6. Plain do at 6/6^d.

Brick piece 6/4 a guard, 4^s/ pin plate 1/10^d

Gun sock 21^s/ a cock for a gun 3/4^d. Gun ham mer 2/4. A main spring 2/3 and other Gun smithing in proportion.

{531} Mens best hunting saddles with housings 3 £ 6^s. Womens saddles wash leather seats – 5 £ 8^s.

Best saddle baggs at 20^s/. well made pillions at 10^s/.

Good Bridles at 6^s/ and all other sadling in like proportion.

Ship carpenters work 6^s/ pr day on old work and five shillings pr day on new work and found their board found as usal . Masons work at 3/6 pr day and found as usal.

House carpenters work at 3/6 pr day and found as usal.

Sailmaking 11/6 pr bolt for making sloops & schooners sails & 14^s/ pr bolt for making ships Snocs & Briggs sails middle stich ing /4^d 1/2 pr yd and all other sail making in the same proportion.

Under the afore resited act there is part of one parragraf rees thus

And the prices by them affixed persuant to the duty herein enjoined and power hereby given them shall be taken and deamed to be the prices set and affixed in this act in such Town. # and every person is subject to the same penalties as in the afore resited act. Dartmouth Dartmouth February ye 22^d 1777.

William Davis } Selectmen William Tallman } of Jabez Barker Jr } Dartmouth

Recorded by Benj^a Akin. Town Clark.

Signed by order of the Committee

Fortunatus Shearman. Chairman.

The prises annexed to the articles hereafter mentioned is the price in the room of that affixed to those of the same denomination in the above statements.

page_0088

{532} {Meat} Fresh Pork /5^d pr lb.

{Shomaking} Mens best shoes made of neats leath er at Bedford Farehaven & Oxford 9^s/ other parts of the Town 8^s/

Mens best Calf skin shoes at Bedford Farehaven and Oxford 12^s/ all other parts of the Town 10^s/

Womens shoes 6^s/

Making mens shoes at the shops of the workman at Bedford Farehaven & Oxford 4^s/ all other parts of the Town 3^s/ and at the house of the imployer shoes of a full size 2^s/

Womens cloath shoes 8^s. Smaller shoes in proportion to mens & womens shoes. & all other shomaking in the usial pro portion for mending

{West India Rhum} Good full proof wes India Rum by the hh. 8^s/ pr gallon including the h h. 8^s/2^d per gallon by the B.B. exclu sive of the B.B. & 9^s/ by the single gall Smaller quantities in proportion.

New England Rum. Good full proof 4/2 pr gallon by the HH^d and B.B. exclusive of 13^s/4^d for ye h. h. 11^s/4 for the bb & 4/10^d single gallon.

For distilling New England Rum /6^d a gallon.

{Molasses.} Molasses of the best quality 3^s/8^d pr gallⁿ by the h h including the Hogs^d. 4^s/ by b b 4^s/4 by the single gallⁿ –

{Shugar} Best muscovado sugar 66s pr C. by the H. H. ‘/2s/ by the single C & /10^d single lb.

{Choco} Choco Best quallity ‘/? pr C. Chocolate ‘/2^d pr lb.

{Cotten} Good cotten wool 3/6 pr lb. by the bag and 4^s/ pr single pound,

{Coffe} Good coffe ‘/4 pr lb by whole sale & 1/8^d pr lb by retail.

{533} {Taverns} West India and Cherry Rum /6^d pr gill flip & toddy 1/2 pr mug or bole

Flower from the Southwarn Stats 36^s/pr C.

Rice by the single hundred 36^s/

{Iron} Good refin^d barr iron. 60^s/ pr C.

Nail rods & nails not stated

{Horse sheoing} Horse shoeing in Bedford & Fair Haven 5/6^d other parts of the Town 4/9^d

{Hoes} Hoes of the best quallity stealed up the corners 5^s/.

Smiths ground work 1^s/ pr lb.

{Taylors} Making a half trimed coat at Bedford & Fairhaven 13^s/. Jacoat 5/6 Britches 6/6^d and others taylering in proportion, and other parts of the Town half trimed coats 11/. Jacoats 0/6. Britches 5^s/6^d.

Approved man taylors at the house of the imployer 3/ pr day and found as usial.

{Farmen Work} Moing and Reaping 4/ pr day

Common labour in the summer season 3/ pr day.

All womens work & combing not stated

{Sadlers} Men best hunting saddles with hous ing 80^s/ Saddle baggs best sort 24^s/ well made pillions 12^s/ Good bridles with bits 8^s/ without bits 5/4-

{Carpenters Work} House. carpenters work 4/ pr day

Masons work 4/6 and found as usial.

{Weaving} Bedtick /9^d pr yd. For toe cloath and plain flannel /6^d pr yd and all other weaving in the like proportion.

This done by the Selectmen & Committie of Safty.

A true copy attest: Fortunatees Shearman Sub Committee

Recorded by Benjⁿ Akin Town Clark

page_0089

{534} {May 20: 1778} May 20 day A. D. 1778.

Then Holder Slocum took the oath of allieagance and fidility before me.

Bejamin Akin Justice of the Peace.

May A.D. 1778.

Jonathan Slocum and Jonas Slocum took the affirmation of allieagance & fidility before me Benj^a Akin Justice of the Peace.

{June 17: 1778} June 17th day 1778.

Samuel Wilcox took the oath of Allegiance & fidility before me.

Benj^a Akin. Just of the Peace.

June 17th day 1778. Timothy Cornell took the affirmation of Allegiance & fidility to the State of the Massa chusetts Bay: as did all the above named persons before me.

Benj^a Akin Justice of the Peace

{July 4: 1778} July 4th day 1778.

Then Isaac Vinton took the oath of Allegiance & fidility before me.

Benj^a Akin Justice of the Peace. {x}

{Mch 11: 1780} Bristol ss. To the Constable or Constables (of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting.)

In the name of the Governor and People of the State of the Massachusetts Bay you are fourth with required to notifie and warn all the freeholders and other inhabitants of said Town that are quallified by law to vote in Town meeting to meet togeather at the Town house in said Town Tuseday the twenty eight day of this instant March at ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said day then and there to act on the perticulars hereafter mentioned

{535} 1ly To chuse Town Officers for the year en suing as the law directs.

2ly To conclude by vote what number of school masters there shall be provided the for the year ensuing at the charge of said Town.

3ly To chuse a Committee to receive and settle accompts with all those that have demands against said Town as also with the Town Treasurer for the year One thousand seven hundred and seventy nine.

4ly To receive Returns of highways laid out or altered by the Selectmen of said Town and allow or disallow in order that they may be of record.

5ly To conclude by vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of Tax for the ensuing year for paying of school masters and other charges ariseing within said Town and likewise for said Town pro portion of County Tax.

6ly For said Town at said meeting to act and do what they shall think most proper in respect to the fishery in said Town.

7ly To chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

8ly To chuse a Committie of Safty Correspon dance an Inspection.

9ly To chuse a Committie to supply the fam ilies of the Soldiers that are gone in the armey for said Town.

And make return of this Warrant, and your doings theron unto the Clark of said Town at or before the time of said meeting. Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this eleventh day of March A. D. 1780 Benj^a Russell Thomas Kempton Benj^a Church Melatiah Hathway William Davis Selectmen

page_0090

{536} of Dartmouth.

Bristol SS. Dartmouth March 28th. 1780.

I have warned the meeting of the time and place by posting up notifications.

John Chaffee Constable of Dartmouth.

{Mch 28: 1780} At a Town meeting legally worn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth March 28th day 1780:

Abraham Smith chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Voted that there be seven Selectmen this year:

Richard Kirby Benj^a Russel, Alden Spooner William Davis Thomas Kempton Melatiah Hathway & Calvin (Delano) are chose Selectmen for the incoming year.

Benjamin Akin Esqr chosen Town Clark

Voted that there be seven assers for this year

Alden Spooner Nathan Delano Abraham Smith Benjn Russell John Smith Christopher Gifford and Richard Kerby are chosen assessors for the ensuing year.

Seth Spooner John Smith and Christopher Gifford are chosen a Committee to settle accompts with all those that have demands against said Town and acompt with the Town Treasurer for the year 1779.

Voted that the County Tax of three hundred and fifty four pound eighteen shillings & four pense be paid out of the Town Treas ury by the Town Treasurer.

(Samuel) Smith, Paul Shearman, Nicholas Lapham Thomas Russell James Tucker (Gamaleal) Hathaway, John Chace, John Sanford, John Tucker John Hull John Handy (Charles) Slocum, Prince Potter

{537} Elisha Russell, Daniel Rogers, Paul Pratt Job Cook, Adam Mott chosen Survayors of highways for Aponaganset Village

Gamaleal Hathaway, Isaac Spoonr, Seth Hathaway, Zurviah Wood, Nathaniel Delano Samueal Jenne Noah Allen Sen^er Nicholas Davis, Abraham Shearman Simeon Omen, Seth Hathaway the second Nathaniel Spooner, Sth Russell, John Williams, Caleb Russell J^ur, Seth Jenne. Ebenezer Keen J^ur chosen Survayors of highways for Acouchnet Village.

(Elisha) Russell Seanor & Roland Bennet Seaner Fence Viewers.

Edward Samson & John Hathaway Field Drivers.

Jabez Hammond & Robert Bennet J^ur Hogreeves.

Williams Hart and Thomas Smith Field Drivers

Butler Shearman & Prince Sherman Hogreeves

Edward Winslow & James Hathaway Field Drivers.

This meeting is Adj^d to the fourth Tues day in April next at 10 ‘clock in the fournoon being the 25th day of sd month.

{Apr. 25: 1780} The Town meet according to adjourn ment and chose. Job Almy Survayor of Highways Silas Swift & Eleazer Hathaway chosen Tything men.

Elicha Sandford Caleb Hatahaway chose Tything men.

David Russell & James Soule chosen Tything men.

Jireh Willis William Allen Hilyard

page_0091

{538} Mayhew, Icabod Potter, William Shearman Jethro Badcock chosen Wardeens.

Capt. William Wood chosen Sealer of W^ts and measures.

Nathaniel Potter Giles Russell & James Cuishman chosen Pound keepers.

(Simeon) Nash Shubel Haws Job Anthony & Stephen Davis chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

John Akin ye 2^d & John Smith chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Charles Church William Hart Stokis Potter chosen Sealers of Leather.

John Chaffee Richard Collens & Robert Earl chosen Constables and agreed with to collect all the rates and taxes for the year 1780 at four pr cent for collecting say^d taxes and paying in the money according to the direction of the Warrants, and if either of all of them should happen to take any counterfit money, and will take oath he or they took said counterfit money for rates, and that they inspected into it as much as if they had took it for their own use, then the Town is to bare the loss;

This meeting is further adjourned to the tenth day of May next at 2 of Clock in the afternoon.

{May 10: 1780} The Town meet according to adjournment and chose Robert Bennet ye 2^d William White Jireh Swift J^ur Thomas Kempton & Thoms ___ a Committee to supply the soldiers families the year ensuing. The town agrees to hire one one grammer schoolmaster and the Selectmen to procure him.

Caleb Russell William Tallman and Barnabas

{539} Russell chosen Overseers of the Poor for the ensuing year. This meeting is adjourn^d to three of the clock in the afternoon.

The Town meet and agreed and Voted, to raise twenty one thousand eight hun dred & thirty pounds, for a Town Tax for the defraying the nessarey charges of said Town and to pay the County tax for the year 1779.

Ebenezer Cain is chosen in the room of William White to supply the soldiers fam ilies.

This meeting is further adjourn^d to the ninth day of August next.

{Aug. 9: 1780} The town met and adjourn^d to the 4th Tuseday of sd August. and

{Aug : 1780} The Town met on s^d day and voted to raise sixteen thousand pound in ad dition to what hath already been voted to defray Town charges for the year 1780 {x}

{Apr. 25: 1780} Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth Greeting

{ Stamp} In the name of the Government and People of the State of the Massachusetts Bay.

You are fourthwith required to notifie and warn all the free holders and all other inhabitants that are twenty one years old and free to meet at the Town house in said Town on Wednesday the tenth day of May next at ten of the clock in the forenoon. on said day then and there to act on the following articles firstly.

To take into consideration the form of Govern ment, and act & do what they think proper

page_0092

{540} relitive to the same.

2ly To appoint a Committee to examine and settle the Town accompst once in three months during the year.

and make return of this Warrant with your doings thereon at or before the time of said meeting.

Given under our hands & seal this 25th day of April in the year A. D. 1780.

Alden Spooner William Davis Richard Kerby Melatiah Hathaway Thomas Kempton Selectmen of Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth May 10^th day 1780.

By virtue of this Warrant I have notified the inhabitants of said Town to meet at time and place by posting up notifica tions as usial.

pr me John Earl Constable.

{May 10: 1780} At a Town meeting legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the tenth day of May 1780

Abraham Smith chosen Moderator for s^d meeting.

The Town took into consideration the form of Government and after reading it & debating thereon chose.

Edward Pope Esq^r John Chaffee William Tallman John Smith. Benj^a Russell Job Almy & Jonathan Taber a committee to take into consideration the form of Govern ment and make report to the adjournment of this meeting.

John Smith Christopher Gifford & Seth Spooner ye 2^d chose a committee to settle the Town accompts one in three mon this year.

This meeting is adjourn^d to the 22^d day of

{541} this instant May at 12 of the clock on sd day.

{May 22: 1780} The Town met according to adjornment and the gentlemen of the committee being called upon made the following report (viz.)

Dartmouth May 22. 1780:

Your committee who were chosen to take under consideration, the Constitution or form of Government & report to the Town what alterations (if any) ought to be made: have with due attention attended that buis ness, and report as follows:

That ye deligates who shall be chosen to meet in convention be instructed & directed to (examine) of s^d Constitution or form of Government, with the Amendments hereafter pointed out. & that they be injoined to use their indeavours in convention that the same be obtained:

And as it was recommended to the several Towns in this State by the last convention to impower their delegates at the next session of Convention, to fix upon a time when this form of Government shall take place.

The Wisdom and Prudence of Convention can best judge what time it will be best. therefore we would advise that that matter be wholy left to them.

The Amendments proposed with our reasons, agreeable to the request of Convention are those following, viz:

That in the 3rd Article in the Declaration of Rights there be this addition:

That any subject or subjects possessing and attending publick worship & who are willing to support it be exemted from being obliged to pay or make provision to any minister or teacher not of his or their profession: For the

page_0093

{542} following reasons.

It appears doubtfull in sd Article whether the rights of conscience are sufficiently secured or not to those who are really desirous to, and do attend publick worship and who are not limitied to any perticular outward Teacher or such as have a legal support for we have reasons to fear according to the tenor of that Article that is subject or subjects professing such principles will be obliged to support a publick minister or Teacher which will be directly opposite to his or their regligious principles. for in this case we humbly conceive it entirely out of the power of the legislature to establish a way of wor ship that shall be agreeable to the conceptions & convictions of the minds of individuals.

It is a matter that solely relates to & stands between God & the soul before whose tribu nal all must account each one for himself.

That in the 4^th Article on the 25^th page the words sui juris & that pays a poll tax except such who from their respective offices and ages are exempted by law be added after the words every male person & to expunge the following claus in sd Arti cle. viz:

having a freehold estate within the same Town of the annual income of three pounds or any estate of the value of sixty pounds.

For the following reasons:

Such qualifiations appears to your committee to be inconsistant with the liberty we are contending for so long especially as any sub ject who is not a qualified voter is obliged to pay a poll tax.

That the word defend in the proviso made in the 46 page omitting certain words in the oath required to be taken by any judicial

{543} executive military, or other office in room thereof as the Convention shall think proper that are not inconsistant with the religious principles of that denomination of People called Quakers as that word is exceptionable to them.

That the whole of the last claus in the 3^d article Page 48 be erased. viz: and it shall be in the power of the Ligis lature from line to line to increase such quallifications as to property of the persons to be elected to office as the circumstances of the Commonwealth shall require.

For the following reasons.

That it will be in the power of the Legis lature to increase the quallifications of persons to be elected to offices as to property in such a manner as may be dangerous to the liberties of the People.

We would further recommend that the Delegtes be required & instructed to use their influence in Convention that the same alterations take place in the 16th article of the Declaration of Rights and the article that respects the Writ of Habeas Corpus as are proposed in the instructions given to the delegates of the Town of Boston for the same reasons as published in the Boston newspapers. pr order of the Committee Edw Pope Chairman

Exepted by a unanimous vote of one hun red & fifty persons. Passed unanimously. The Rev. Samuel West and the Honourable Walter Spooner Esq^r are chosen Delegates for the Town of Dartmouth represent them in Convention convened to meet at Boston the first Wednesday in June next.

The foregoing report of the Committe was

page_0094

{Duplicate of previous page}

page_0095

{544}

excepted by a unanimouse vote of one hundred and fifty two persons present. {x}

{July 10, 1780} Bristol ss. To the Constable or Constables of the Town of Dartmouth or either of them Greeting.

In the name of the Government and people of the State of the Massachusetts Bay. You are fourthwith required to notifie and warn all the free holders and other inhabitants of sd Town that are quallfied by law to vote in Town meetings to meet togeather at the house of Major Ebenezer Willises Inholder in said Town on Wednesday next at ten of the clock in the fournoon on said day, then and there on the the perticulars hereafter mentioned.

Firstly for the Town at said meeting to conclude and agree on some speedy and effectual measure for filling up our Cola {(quota)} of the Army as ordered by the Court and by request of ten or more free holders of s^d Town for the Town to vote at said meeting such a sum of money as shall be thought sufficient precure said men, to be raised by way of tax (on the inhabitants) as soon as may be.

And make return of this Warrant and your doings thereon unto the Town Clark of sd Town at or before the time of said meeting.

Hereof fail not, as you will answer the penal ty of the Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this tenth day of July A.D. 1780.

Benja Russell } Melatiah Hathaway } Selectmen Tho^s Kempton } of Calvin Delano } Dartmouth

Bristoll ss. Dartmouth July 11th 1780. of time and place. John Chaffee Constable of Dartmouth.

{545} {July 12: 1780} At a Town meeting held at Major Ebenezer Willises Inholder in Dartmouth the 12th day of July 1780.

Richard Kerby chosen Moderator.

Voted that every abel bodied man that shall inlist into the Contenental servic agreable to a resolve of this State, of the fifth of June last, shall be intitled to receive from this Town, One hundred silver dollars, or the value thereof in produce or the exchainge in cur rant money, at the time of his receiving it.

Voted that all the men that shall inlist for the three months service shall have half to bounty, as the six months men have in like manner.

Voted that every commissonated officer in the Town of Dartmouth that shall goe into said service and inlist his full Cola of men, shall be intitled to a bounty from said Town in proportion to his wages.

Voted that the commanding officers in each company that shall inlist men, be impow ered to give them their note for said bounty in behalf of sd Town; this meeting is ad journed to Wednsday next at ten of the clock in the fournoon.

{July 19: 1780} The Town met according to adjt and Voted in addition and explanation already past that whareas the Town voted one hundred silver dollars. or the value thereof in produce or the exchaing in the current money; Voted that it shall be at the option of of the sol dier that shall inlist to take which he chuses, or part of either, at the current price when he receives it.

Also Voted that all the men that shall inlist for the three months service, shall be equally intitled in their Bounty as the six months

page_0096

{546} men are, as to their pay.

This meeting is adjourn^d to the 22^d day of August next being the fourth Tuseday of said August and.

Voted to raise the sum of thirteen hundred & sixty pound in silver money or good equiva lent for the paying the six months & the three months soldiers their Bounty for the year 1780.

{Oct 14: 1780} In a Town meeting notified by the Select man the 14th day of October 1780,

Alden Spooner chosen Moderator.

Voted that one thousand fifty seven pounds and sixteen shillings silver money be raised by way of tax on the inhabitants of said Town, by the 25^th day of December next to be paid to the Committee who shall be chosen for purchaseing the Towns proportion of Beaf. sent for by the General Court to sup ply the Contenental Army & the overpluse of said sum (if any) when said Beaf is paid for to be paid into the Town Treasury.

William Davis Esq^r Benjⁿ Russell and Alden Spooner are chosen a Committee to purchase said Beaf, upon the terms above prescribed. {x}

{Aug. 9: 1780} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County Greeting.

In the name of the Government and People of the State of the Massachusetts Bay. You are forthwith required to notifie and warn all the free holders and other inhabitants of said Town quallified by the late Convention of said State for the purpose of electing a Govenour. Leiutenant Governour and three persons for Councelors and Senators, to meet at the Town

{547} house in said Town, on the first Monday of September next at ten of the clock in the four noon on said day.

Hereof Fail not and make returns of your doings, unto the Town Clark at or before the time of said meeting. Given under our hands & seal at Dartmouth this ninth day of August A.D. 1780.

Benj^a Russell } Selectmen Alden Spooner } of Richard Kerby } Dartmouth Thos Kempton }

Bristol ss. Dartmouth August 9^th 1780.

By vertue of this Warrant to me directed and by order of the Selectmen. I have notified and warned all the free holders and other inhab itants in said Town by posting up notifica tions in several places to meet at the time and place within mentioned.

pr me Richard Collens Constable

{Sept. 4: 1780} At a meeting legally warned & held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Monday the 4th day of Sep^r 1780:

The Town meet & the Hon^r John Hancock Esq^r had seventy nine votes for Governour, Thomas Cushing Esq^r fifty four votes for Lieut Gov. Hon^able Walter Spooner & Tho^s Durfie Esq^r had cast 66 Votes for Councellers & Senators Hon^ab George Leonard Esq^r had sixty two votes and William Baylis had one.

{Dec. 1788.} At a Town meeting legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth December ye day 1788 for the choice of a Representative for to go to Congress:

Phanuel Bishop eight votes

George Leonard had six votes

page_0097

{548} Also at said meeting choose Electors (viz) Holder Slocum had nine. Phanuel Bishop nine votes. David Cobb had three votes. Walter Spooner had three votes. William ___ had two votes.

Recorded by Benjamin Akin Town Clerk.

{Mch. 12: 1781} Bristol ss. Agreable to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts Bay These are to notifie and warn all the inhabi tants of the Town of Dartmouth, that are twenty one years old and upwards, having a Free hold estate within the Commonwealth of the annual income of three pounds or any estate of the value of sixty pounds, to meet togeather at the Town house in said Town on Monday the second day of April next at ten o’clock in the forenoon, then and there to act on the perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly To bring in their votes for a Governour, Leuitenant Governour, and three Councellers or Senators for the year ensuing, as said Constitution or Frame of Government directs.

2ly For said Town to act and do what they think proper concerning the demands made by the Town of Little Compton, respecting one Ann Worgan.

3ly For said Town to grant liberty to Gamaleal Bryant to set up a house or shoop on the Towns land near the Bridge at the head of Accoshnet River if they see cause.

Given under our hands at Dartmouth this twelfth day of March in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty one 1781.

{549} William David } Selectmen Benj^a Russell } of Pardon Cook } Dartmouth

{April 1781} At a Town meeting legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the first Monday of April A.D. 1781:

for the choice of Governour, Leiutenant Governour, Councellers and Senators, agrea ble to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts Bay lately established and here followeth the names of the several persons voted for and the office which the were chosen, with the number of votes against each persons name

John Hancock Esq^r Gov^r number of votes is 55 Thomas Cuishing Esq^r Leiut. Gov^r number of votes is 40 Walter Spooner Esq^r chosen Counceller or Senator had 50 votes Tho^s Durfee was chosen Counceller or Senator had 47 votes Ephrain Starkweather chosen Councellor or Senator had 50 votes {x}

{Dec. 22: 1780} Briston ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in Said County Greeting:

{ Stamp} In the Name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts you are Required to Notify and Warn all the free holders and other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Qualified by Law to Vote in town Meetings to meet at the Town house in s^d Dartmouth on Monday the first Day of January Next at ten O^f the Clock fore Noon of s^d Day then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter Mentioned.

page_0098

{550} 1ly to Act and do What is Nessary Relative to chusing a Town Clerk Pro. tem. as the present one is absent.

2ly to Act and do What is thought proper at s^d meeting Relative to Rasing seventy six men to serve in the Continental Aarmy for three years or During the War agree able to a Late Resolve of the Court of Massachusetts.

3ly to Act and Do What is thought Proper Relative to a Resolve of said Court of December 2^d Day 1780 for Raising this towns purportion of beef

4ly for the town to Vote a Sum of money as Shall be thought Nessary to Defray the town Charges.

And make Return of this Warrant and your doings thareon unto Us or the Town Clerk at or before the time of s^d Meeting

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this twenty second Day of December A. D. 1780

Benjⁿ Russell } Selectmen William Davis } of Richard Kerby } Dartmouth Thomas Kempton }

Persuant to the Within Written Warrant I have Notifyed and Warned all the free holders and other Inhabitants in said town to meet at time and place by posting up Notifications in each Villiage.

per me Robart Earl Constable of Dart^o

{551} {Jan. 1: 1781} At a Town Meeting Legally Warned & held at the Town house in Dartmouth the first day of January A. D. 1781:

Capt Job Almy was Chosen Moderator for said Meeting, and Benjamin Russell J^ur was Chosen Town Clark in the absence of Benjamin Akin Esq^r Town Clark.

Voted on the second article in the Warrant that the several Capt of the Militia in said Town Call their Companys togeather and make enquire who will inlist and how many and make report at the Adjournments of this meeting.

Voted that the sum of sixteen Thousand five Hundred pounds be raised by Way of Tax on the Inhabitants of this Town for Defraying the Necessary Charges ariseing within said Town.

Voted. that William Davis Esq^r Benjamin Russell J^ur and Alden Spooner bee a Com ittee to Enquire where any beef may be purchased, and how much can be procured for the use of the army and make report at the next Adjournment of this meeting,

Voted to Adjourn this Meeting to Fryday the 12^th Day of this Instant at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon.

Benj^a Russell Pro. tem.

{Jan. 12: 1781} The Town met according to Adjournment on the 12^th Day of said January 1781— and

Voted that each soldier that shall Inlist for three years shall have a Bounty of Two hundred Silver Dollars. Fifty of said Dollars to be paid at his passing muster. the remainder to be at Interest untill paid.

page_0099

{552} by the Committie appointed to Inlist said men, or some other person as said soldiers shall chuse,

Voted that Cap^t. Henry Jenne Cap^t. George Claghorn, Cap^t. Benjamin Wilcox, Cap^t. William Hicks, Elihu Gifford & John Akin y^e 2^d be a Committie to Inlist the soldiers and to pay Down said money, and to Give their securities to said soldiers or procure some person or persons to Give security as said soldiers shall Like and said Committie are also Impow ered to hire the Whole of said money on the Credit of said Town, and said are accountable to the said Committie for all the money they shall pay or hire for Inlisting s^d soldiers. with the Interest.

This meeting is further Adjourn^d to the fourth Monday of this instant January at 10^o clock in the fournoon.

{Jan. 22: 1781} The Town met according to the Adjournment on the fourth Monday, and Adjourn^d to the first Monday of February next at 2^o Clock in the afternoon.

{Feb. 5: 1781} The Town met the first Monday of February according to Adjournment and Chose Benjamin Russell Moderator, in the Room of Job Almy who was absent, and Adjourn^d said Meeting to the third Monday of said February at 12^o Clock and there being Buisness of Great Consequence to be Transacted, at said meeting, the Selectmen gave Directions to the Town Clark to Notifie the Inhabitants of said journment, which was Accordingly Done.

{553} {Feb. 19: 1781} The Town met the third Monday according to Adjournment 1781 and

Voted to Raise by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of said Town for the year 1781— the sum of Two Thousand Five Hundred & Fifty pound in money of the New Emition, for the paying their purportion of Beaf required of them by a Late Resolve of the General Court, and for paying their County Tax agreed on in January Last.

{Feb. 20: 1781} Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County Greeting

{ Stamp} You are in the Name of the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts hereby required to Notify all the Free holders & other Inhabi tants that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings for the Choice of Town officers to meet Togeather at the Town house in Dartmouth on Thusday the eight Day of March Next at ^o clock in the fournoon then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly to Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly to Chuse a Committie to settle accounts With the Town Treasurer for the year 1780 and all other Accounts that may be Brought Against the Town Every Quarter.

3ly for the Town to Vote What Number of Schoolmasters shall be imployed by by the Selectmen at the Exspence of the Town for the year ensuing.

4ly To Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

5ly to Receive Returns of highways Laid out

page_0100

{554} as altered in said Town.

6ly to Chuse an Agent or Agents to Defend an Action against John & Paul Cuff at the next Courts, to be holden at Taunton.

7ly to Chuse a Committee to Look up the Undivided Land in said Town in order the same may be Taxed.

8ly To Vote a sum of Money as shall be thought sufficient to Defray the Charges ariseing in said Town.

And make returns of this Warrant and Your Doings thereon unto the Town Clerk at or before the Time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this twentith day of February, Anno Dom : one Thousand Seven Hundred, and eighty one.

Benj^a. Russsell } Milatiah Hathaway } Selectmen of Alden Spooner } Dartmouth Tho^s Kempton }

Bristol ss. Dartmouth February 20^th. 1781. by virtue of this Warrant to me Directed and by order of the Selectmen I have notified and warned all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants by Posting up Notifications in several Places in said Town to meet at time and place within named.

pr me Richard Collins Constable

{Mch 8 : 1781} At a Town Meeting Legally warned and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the eight day of March 1781.

Jabez Barker chosen Moderator for said meeting. Benjamin Russell Pardon Cook & Stephen Peckcom Selectmen:

Stephen Peckcom refused to serve & William Davis Esq. was chosen Selectman in his room

{555} Benjamin Akin Esq. was Chosen Town Clark Richard Kerby Eleazer Hathaway & Benjamin Russell were Chosen Assessors.

John Smith were chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with to receive in and pay out the Towns money for three pence on the pound.

John West John Earl and Milatiah Hathaway chosen a Committee to settle accompts with the Town Treasurer and all other accounts against said Town and to set once a quarter to receive and pass said accompts.

The Honourable Walter Spooner Esq^r chosen Agent in Behalf of the Town to make answer to John & Paul Cuff at the next Inferiour Court to be held at Taunton.

This meeting is Adjoun^d. to the first Monday in April next.

{Apr: 2 : 1781} At a Town Meeting held by Adjourn ment at the Town house in Dartmouth on Monday the second Day of April 1781.— George Brownell Job Davis Joseph Hicks Benjamin Brownell. Weston Kerby Stephen Potter. Jonathan Tripp Abial Davis J^ur. Edward Wing. Govet Cornell & Thomas Brownell chosen Survayras of Highways for Acoaxset Vilage.

Jabez Barker Samuel Smith Nicholas Lepham Peleg Cornell Timothy Russell, Philip Shearman James Hathaway Barnabas Mosher Samuel Joy, William Gifford (Adams son) William Russell (Dinahs son) Edward Thurber David Gifford and Peleg Gifford chosen Survayres of highways for a Ponaganset Village and Prince Shearman Peleg Gifford Joseph Samson Nathan Nye Jonathan Tobey J^ur. Jireh Swift J^ur. Isaac Spooner Seth Jenne. Samuel Allen. William Tallman, Thomas Kempton, Caleb Russell

page_0101

{556} Seth Hathaway, Turviah Wood, Nathaniel Delano. & Obed Nye Chosen Survayrs for Acoshnet Village.

John Chaffee, John Earl & Christopher Almy Chosen Constables, and agreed with for collecting and paying in their several Collections four per C^t.

William Maccumber Joyner & Joshua Cornell chosen fence Viewers.

Luthan Howland & William Hart chosen fence Viewers.

Joseph Russell and John Alden chosen fence Viewers.

Daniel Ricketson & William Sanford J^ur field Drivers.

Joshua Shearman J^ur. & John Hathaway field Drivers.

Paul Shearman and Barker Little chosen Tything men and Robert Shearman Robert Wood Tything men.

Jirech Swift J^ur. & Ephraim Kempton chosen Tything men.

David Wilcox and Elijah Allen chosen field Drivers

John Wate and Ebenezer Wilbour chosen Hog reeves.

Thomas Handy J^ur & Isaac Drew Hog reeves.

John Potter George Handy Leather sealers.

Cap^t. William Wood Sealer of W^ts. & Measures.

Nathaniel Potter and Giles Russell Pound keepers.

John Maxfield & John Wood Survayores of Lumber.

Gamaleal Bryant & Simeon Nash Survayors of Lumber.

James Cuishman pound Keeper.

Stephen Davis & Job Anthony Survayors of Lumber.

Voted. that there be but one school master this year at the exspence of the Town.

{557} Voted. to Raise by way of Tax on the Inhabi tants of the Town this year for the Defray ing the necessaries charges of said Town the Sum of Six Hundred Pound Lawful Silver money or other money to be aquivelent, when paid at the Common Exchange. Benjamin Allen & Jethro Russell chosen Hog reeves. This meeting is Adjourn^d. to the seventh day of May next at Ten of Clock in the fournoon.

{May 7 : 1781} The Town met accordingly and chose Nathaniel Jnne Ephraim Kempton Jonathan Collins & Benjamin Blossom Survayrs of highways.

It was put to Vote Wheither the Town Would Choose a Committee to Look up the Undivided Land in said Town, and it past in the negative.

Voted on the third article in the Warrant for the Choice of Gov^t. on April y^e. 2^nd. Day 1781.

that Gamaleal Bryant have Liberty to set a shoop on the Towns Land where one formerly stood, near the Bridge at the Head of Acoshnet River.

{Mch 9 : 1781} Bristol. ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County Greeting.

{ Stamp} In the name of the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts you are fourthwith required to Notifie and warn all the Free holders & other Inhabitants that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings to meet Togeather at the Town house in said Town Monday the Twelfth day of this Instant

page_0102

{558} March. at Ten o’ the clock in the fournoon, then and there to act on the perticulars here after mentioned

1ly Agreable to a Petition to us Directed signed by Ten or more Free holders of said Town, to call said meeting, and for the Town at said meeting to act and do what said Town shall think most proper. Relative to Raising this Town proportion of men, called for by order of the General Court to goe to Rhde. Island, for forty Days if not sooner Discharged.

2ly for the Town to act and Do what shall be thought for the best, if there should be more men sent for this year by order of said Court, where or no they shall be raised at the Charge of the Town or not.

And make return of this Warrant and your Doings thereon to the Town Clark at or be for the Time of said meeting

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this ninth day of March A. D. 1781

Benj^a. Russell } Selectmen of Pandon Cook } Dartmouth

Bristol : ss: I have warned the meeting within mentioned at Time & place by pasting up Notification at the usial place.

John Chafee Constable of Dartmouth.

{Mch 12: 1781} At a Town Meeting Worn^d. and held at the Town house in Dartmouth the Twelfth day of March 1781.

Jabez Barker chosen Moderator. The Town chose Obed Nye Jacob Hathway Job Almy Silas Kerby John Sanford & Elihu Gifford to be Joyned by the Selectmen of said Town to be a Committee, to consider and to

{559} make Report to said meeting of the best way and manner, to Rais this Town Proportion of men sent for by the General Court, to goe to Rhode Island.

Adjourned.

Then the meeting Adjourn^d. for one Hour for said Committee to set and to make report to said meeting which report of said Com mittee is as followeth (viz.)

That every Soldier that shall Inlist himself to go on to Rhod Island for the forty Days or less service, shall be Intitled to sixteen Dollars & one Quarter of a Dollar or other money aquivelent to be paid by said Town, in three months after their passing muster for said service for one month, and in that proportion for a Longer or shorter Time. Each Soldier Relinquishing, his right, to whatever the General Court may grant said Soldier for said service, to said Town:

Signed by said Committee and Selectmen. The Town also Voted on the second aricle in the Warrant for the calling this meeting, that in case the General Court should send, or Require, any more men this year: the afore mentioned Committee & Selectmen are Impowered to Rais said men in the best way and Manner they Can, for the Benefit of said Town.

{July 2 : 1781} Bristol ss: Agreable to a Resolve of the General Court of this Commonwealth Passed the Twenty Second Day of June last These are to Notifie and Warn all the Legal Voters in the Town of Dartmouth, To Meet togeather at the Town house in said Town on Monday the Ninth Day of July

page_0103

{560} Instant at ten o’ Clock in the fournoon, Then and there to act and Do what they may think Proper Respecting a Quantity of Beef Called for, in said Resolve.

Given under our hands at Dartmouth this Second Day of July in the year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty one, 1781.

William Davis } Selectmen Benj^a Russell } of Pardon Cook } Dartmouth

{July 9: 1781} At a Town meeting Legally Warned and held at the Town House in Dartmouth the ninth Day of July 1781.

Benj^a Akin Esq^r Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Voted to Raise said Towns Proportion of Beef agreable to a Resolve of the General Court of the Twenty second of June Last for Supplying the Army to the Tenth Day of December next

Voted that there be Seven Hundred & fifty Pounds Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth to pay for their propor tion of Beef sent for by the General Court to the Tenth Day of December next said sum of Seven Hundred and fifty Pound, to be Raised by the first of November next.

Voted that William Davis Esq^r. Aulden Spooner and John Sanford be a Committee to purchase said Beef in the best way and Manner they Can for the Interest of said Town, the Money when Raised to be paid into the hands of the Committee and they to account with the

{561} Town for the same, and to give their Securities in Behaf of said Town for said Beef.

{Oct. 1: 1781} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the first day of October 1781.

Benj^a Akin Chosen Moderator.

Wesson Soule chosen Grand Juryman for the Superiour Court, to be held at Taunton in said October:

Voted to chuse a Committee to purchase & Deliver to the Superintendent such a Quantity of Beef as the sum voted by the Town for that pur pose it will purchase and that the Constables Receive of the Inhabitants one Silver Dollar in the stead of three new emition.

Wiliam Davis Esq^r Alden Spooner & John Sanford are chosen a Committee to purchase said Beaf in the best way and manner they can for the Interest of said Town, the Money they Receive to purchase said Beaf with to account with the Town for the Same, and to give their securities in Behalf of said Town for said Beaf.

{Dec. 10: 1781} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in sd County Greeting

In the Name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are fourthwith Required to Notifie and Warn all the Freeholders and other inhabitants of sd Town Quallified to vote in Town meetings to meet Togeather at the Town House in said Town on Monday the seven teenth day of this instant, at ten o’clock in the fournoon, on said Day, then and there to act on the article hereafter mentioned for said Town to Raise by way of Tax a sum of

page_0104

{562} money that shall be Judg^d sufficient to Defray the Just Demands against said Town and make Return of this Warrant unto the Town Clerk at or before the Time of said meeting.

Given under our hands & Seals at Dartmouth this Seventh Day of December A.D. 1781.

Benj^a Russell } Selectmen William Davis } of Pardon Cook } Dartmouth

Bristol Dartmouth 10^th December 1781.

I have Notified the Inhabitants of the Time & place of the meeting as within ordered

John Chaffee Const —

{Dec. 17: 1781} At a Town Meeting Legall held at the Town House, in Dartmouth on Monday the Seventeenth Day of December 1781 —

Benj^a Akin Esq^r Chosen Moderator.

Voted to Rais by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth for the Defraying the Necessary charges ariseing in said Town this present year. the sum of six Hundred pound

{Feb. 21: 1782} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in sd County – Greeting. In the Name of the Common Wealth of Massa chusetts.

{ Stamp} You are hereby fourthwith Required to Notifie and Warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town Meetings to Meet Togeather at the Town House in said Town on Tuseday the Nineteenth Day of March Next att Ten o’ clock in the fournoon on said Day, then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter

{563} Mentioned.

1ly To Choose Town officers for the year ensu ing as the Law Directs.

2ly To Choose a Committee to settle with the Town Treasurer for the year One Thousand Seven Hundred and eighty one and all Persons having Demands against the sd Town and to Meet Quarterly for the year ensuing.

3ly for the Town to Vote what Number of Schoolmasters shall be Procured by the Selectmen, for the year ensuing at the charge of said Town.

4ly to Choose a County Treasurer.

5ly to Receive Returns of highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen in order they may be of Record.

6ly to Vote a sum of Money by way of Tax as shall be thought Necessary to Defray the Charges arising in said Town, for the year ensuing

7ly to Choose a Committee to Petition the General Court for Redress of Greavences in said Town in being Taxed more then said Towns Proportion.

And make Return of this Warrant, with Your Doings thereon unto the Town Clark at or Before the Time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dart mouth this twenty first Day of February Anno Dom. 1782.

Benj^a Russell } Selectmen William Davis } of Pardon Cook } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: Dartmouth March 19^th: 1782.

Persuant to the within warrant I have Notified and Worned the Quallified Voters of said Town to Meet at Time and place Within Mentioned, by Posting up Notifications in the three Villages

page_0105

{564} agreable to Law pr me Christopher Almy. Constable

{Mch. 19: 1782:} At a Town Meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuseday the Nineteenth Day of March one Thousand Seven Hundred and eighty Two.

Edward Pope Esq^r was Chose Moderator for said Meeting:

Benj^a Akin Esq^r was Chosen Town Clark.

Edward Pope Esq^r Jabez Barker & Stephen Peckcom was Chosen Selectmen:

Benj^a Russell Esq^r Eleazer Hathaway & John Anthony was Chosen Assessors.

Benj^a Russell Esq^r Refused to serve Assessor and the Town Chose John Smith in his room.

John Smith was Choose Town Treasurer. and agreed with, to Receive in and pay out the Towns money for three pence on the pound.

John West Job Anthony and Melatiah Hath way was Choose a Committee To Settle accounts with the Town Treasurer for year 1781, and all other accounts against sd Town.

The Vote was Reconsidered: Respecting the Choice of Job Anthony, and Choose Christopher Gifford a Committy man in his Room.

The Town made Choice of the Honor^ble Walter Spooner Esq^r Edward Pope Esq^r and Benj^a Russell Esq^r to prefer a Petition to the General Court setting fourth the Grievences of said Town in being Taxed More than their proportion.

Said Committee are Requestd by said Town, to Lay before sd Town the Draft of said Petition at the Adjourment of this Meeting.

This Meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday of April. next at Ten o’Clock in the four Noon

{565} {Apr. 1: 1782} The Town Meet, according to Adjournment the first Monday of April, 1782.

the Committee appointed to Draw up a Petition of the Town Greivences Respecting their being Taxed more than their proportion, with other Towns, in the Commonwealth, Read the same & Laid it on the Table, and after a Debate thereon it was Read parragraft by parragraft, and then Recommitted to said Committee, for some Amendments, and to Lay the same before said Town again at their Adjournment, of this Meeting, for the Towns Concurrance.

David Wilcox Chosen Assessor, in the Room of John Anthony.

Elihu Gifford Chosen Assessor in the Room of John Smith who Refused to serve.

Caleb Russell Ephraim Kempton Samuel West Jonathan Hathaway, Noah Allen Jr. Bartholomew Akin Nathaniel Jenne Isaac Spooner, John Chadwick Robert Bennett, Blacksmith Jireh Swift Obed Ney Seth Hathaway, son of Seth Hathaway, and William Andrews, Survayors of highways for Cashnet Village –

Philip Shearman, John Tucker, Benj^a Badcock Thomas Mott John Chace Humphrey Sherman Samuel Smith, Cyrias Taber, David Briggs Benj^a Winslow, Allen Russell, Edward Thurber. Thomas Reed, Richard Collens and Simeon Chace Choose Survayors of highway for Ponagansett Village,

George Tibbets, George Lawton, Thomas Cornell, Job Anthony Benj^a Wilcox, Stokes Potter, John Earl (son of W^m Earl) Lovet Jiresh Job Davis, Benj^a Brownell, & Benj^a Brownell Taylor, Chosen Survayors of highway fox Coaxsett Vilage.

Benj^a Brownell Taylor Chosen Pound keeper.

John Tripp and Lemuel Manchester Chose Fence Viewers.

Seth Cornell & Charles Cornell Choose Hog Reaves.

page_0106

[duplicate of previous image]

page_0107

{566} Job Anthony & Stephen Davis Choose Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Stokes Potter, Choose Sealer of Leather. Paul Shearman and Isaac Lawrence Choose Tything men.

Jonathan Shearman y^e 2^d Choose Hog reave.

Thomas Russell and Peleg Shearman Choose field Driver or Haywards.

George Handy Choose Leather sealer.

John Maxfield & John Wood Choose Survayors of Lumber.

Capt. William Wood Choose Sealer of W^ts & Measures.

Simeon Nash and Elishu Cuishman Choose Tythingmen.

Simeon Spooner & David Devol Choose Hog Reeves.

John Hathaway & John Aulden Choose field Drivers.

Timothy Davis & James Davis Choose Sealers of Leather

James Cuishman Choose Pound keeper.

Benj^a Dillingham & Simeon Nash Choose Survay ors of Lumber.

William Tallman & Seth Pope fence Viewers.

This meeting is further Adjourn^d to Wednesday the eight day of May next at Ten of ‘ Clock in the four Noon.

{May 8: 1782} At a Town Meeting held by a Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth May Eight Day 1782

All the officers Chosen at the first Adjournment of the Annual Town Meeting for this Year, and not Warn^d by the Constables are Now Choose again.

John Clarke and Elijah Allen Chosen Constables. and agreed with to collect all the Rates in this Town this year for four p^r Cent and to

{567} Procure sufficient Bondsmen to the Satisfaction of the Selectmen of said Town. for their faith full performance of their Duty in said offices.

Voted that there be Raised by way of Tax on the Inhabitants of the Town this year the sum of Five Hundred pound for the Defraying the necessary charges, of said Town this year.

Nathaniel Spooner and Gedeon Cornell was Choose Survayors of highways, and then the Annual Meeting was Dissolv^d and the Vote was Reconsidered. for Dissolving the said Annual Meeting. and further Adjourn^d to the Twenty fifth of this Instant May at Two of the Clock in the afternoon

{Mch. 3: 1783} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To Gamaleal Bryant Constable of the Town of Dartmouth, you are hereby Required in the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachusetts to Notifie and warn all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth Qualli fied by Law to Vote in Town Meetings to meet Togeather at the Town house in said Town on Tuseday the Twenty fifth day of this Instant March at Ten of the Clock in the forenoon, on said Day then and there to act on the Pertic ulars hereinafter mentioned; —

1ly To Choose Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law directs.

2ly to Chuse a Committee to Receive and allow or disallow all accompts Brought against said Town and to meet Quarterly and also to settle accompts with our Town Treasurer for the year One Thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty Two.

3ly for the Town to agree & Vote how many Shool masters there shall be Procured by the Selectmen at the Charge of the Town

page_0108

{568} this Present year.

4ly for the Town and said Meeting to Take into Consideration a Request signed by a number of Freeholders to mend and Repair the Highways in said Town agreable to a plan to be Laid before said Town at said Meeting, or in any other way as they shall agree to.

5ly for the Town to agree and vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Rates or tax on the Inhabitants of said Town for the present year for the paying of school masters and necessary charges ariseing within said Town.

6ly for the Town to allow or Disallow all Returns of Highways Laid out by the Select men or their orders or ways altered.

7ly For the Town at said meeting to Chuse Two Discreet persons in Bedford, and Im power them in Behalf of said Town to Take Cear of all persons Comming into said {care} Town with the Small Pox or other Conta gious Diceases, and Provide for them for the safety of said Town.

8ly Where as the monthly, meeting of Friends by their Committee have Desired that there may be no More Publications. set up at their meeting house &c.

and Make Return of this Warrant with your Doings therein unto the Town Clerk at or before the Time of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this third day of March A.D. 1783.

Jabez Barker } Selectmen of Stephen (Peckcom) } Dartmouth {omitted}

Bristol ss: Dartmouth March y^e: 7^th: day 1783

agreable to the within written warrant I have Notified a Town Meeting, by posting up Notifications in the Three Villages for the

{569} people to meet at the time & place within mentioned.

1. me Gamaleal Bryant Constable

{Mch. 25: 1783} At a Town meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuseday the 25^th day of March A.D. 1783 —

Jabez Barker Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.—

Benj^a Akin Esq^r Chosen Town Clark,—

Ebenezer WIllis Stephen Peckcom and Jabez Barker Chosen Selectmen,—

John Smith Choose Town Treasurer and agreed with, to Receive in the Towns money and pay it ought again for three pence on the pound.

John Smith Elisha Cuishman & David Wilcox Chosen Assessors.

{resigned} and the Moderator, Resind, and Left the meeting. and the Town proseeded, and Choose Benj^a Russell, Esq^r Moderator, in Jabez Barkers steed. and opened the meeting at the Beginning Read the Warrant, &c and Chose William Davis Selectman for Acoaxset Village.

Ebenezer Willis was chosen Selectman for aCuishnet Vilage.

Benj^a Russell Esq^r Chosen Selectman for Ponaganset Vilage.

John Smith Chosen Assessor for ponagenset Vilage.

Elisha Cushman Chosen Assessor for Cuishnent Vilage, and

Benja. Akin Chosen Town Clark.

David Wilcox Chosen Assessor for Coaxset Village.

John Smith Chosen Town Treasurer. and agree with as above.

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday in April at one of the Clock in the afternoon.

page_0109

{570} {May 12: 1783} At the Annual Town Meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the 12^th day of May 1783:

the Town met according to Adjournment and Choose Pardon Brownell, Joshua Cornell, William Almy, Wesson Kerby, Jonathan Davis Thomas Tripp Mason, George Lawton, Job Anthony, Abraham Cornell, Cornelius Brownell, Philip Sanford, George Tibbetts & Phineas Wodel Chosen Survayors of highways for Acoaxset Vilage

Philip Shearman, Thomas Russell, Joseph Wilbour Peleg Gifford J^ur Benjamin Badcock, Abraham Allen, David Gifford, Benjamin Winslow, John Mosher, Allen Russell Adam Mott, Abner Devol, John Devol, Edward Slade, Simeon Chace, James Tucker and Thomas Hicks Chosen Survayors of highways for Aponaganset Vilage.

Walter Spooner Esq^r Mica Spooner, William Tobey (son of Jonathan Tobey) Ephraim Kempton Edmond Pope, David Mitchel, Benjamin Blossom, Bartho^w Akin, John Alden, Obed Nye, Griffen Barney and John Chaffe Chosen Survayors of highways for Acoshnet Vilage.

Lemuel Manchester and Benjamin Brownell Taylor was chosen fence Viewers.

Lovet Tripp & Stephen Cornell : chosen field Drivers.

Ichabod Potter Chosen Hog reave. —

Job Anthony and Jonathan Taber Jur. Chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Nathaniel Kerby Choose Pound keeper.

Hyllard Mayhew Chosen Wardeen.

Cap^t William Wood Chosen Sealer of wt^s and Measures.

Giles Russell Choose Pound keeper.

Peleg Cornell & Jedadiah Shearman Chosen fence Viewers.

Elisha Sanford & George Sanford Chosen field Drivers.

{571} William Hart Chosen Leather Sealer.

Job Almy & Josiah Russell Choosen Tything men.

Nicholas Lapham Choosen Wardeen.

John Potter ye 2^d and Peleg Shearman choosen Hog reaves.

John Wood & Timothy Howland Choose Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Simeon Nash and Joseph Kempton Choosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

James Cuishman Chosen Pound Keeper.

John Hathaway and Wesson Tallman Chosen fieldrivers.

Bartholomew West & William Allen Chosen field Drivers.

John Blackwell & Josiah Drew Chosen hog reeves.

Simeon Nash & Silas Swift Chosen Tything men.

Joseph Deamons & Isaac Shearman Chosen Wardeens.

Voted. that there be Three Hundred Pound Raised in said Town for the sole purpose of supporting the poor of said Town. also

Voted. Three Hundred for the Defraying the necessary Charges arising in said Town for the Current year.

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday in June next at one of the Clock in the after noon.

{June : 1783} At the Anual Town meeting held by Adjournment, the first Monday in June 1783.— the Town met according to adjournment, and Caleb Russell Eleazer Hathaway Jireh Swift Nathaniel Jenne, & John Nye Survayors of highways

This meeting is further Adjourn^d to the second Mon day in July next at one of the clock in the afternoon.

page_0110

{575} {July 1783} At the Annuel Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth on the second Monday of July 1783.

the Town met, and Received, the monthly meetings Reasons for having no more Publi cations set up at their meeting houses, and

Voted that they be Entred in the Town Book of Records; also

Voted that there be for the futer a post or tree, prepared, and erected in the Road, near or against said meeting house, for the purpose of setting up all kind of Publications, as may be thought best.

Benjⁿ Tucker Chosen Survayor of highways in the Room of Peleg Gifford Jur who is excused by a vote of the Town.

Isaac Spooner, Nathan Nye, and Joseph Demons Chosen Surayors of highwas for Acuishnet Vilage.

Major Ebenezer Willis & William Tallman Choosen over seers of the poor for the ensuing year. and then this meeting Adjourn^d to the first Monday in August next.

Benjamin Russell Esq^r Moderator. {x Begin Hon^ble Walter Spooner [unclear]} (Turn over to the next leaf)

{June 2: 1783} Whereas the Monthly Meeting in Apongansett Village in Dartmouth some Time past signified by a Committee Chosen by said meeting to one of the Selectmen and Town Clark of said Dart mouth their Desire that no more Publications be posted up at their meeting Houses:

the Precent Selectmen and Town Clark are at a loss to know, the Reasons for such a Request, when they apprehend the meeting houses are the only proper places to give a General Notis of all things by Law Required Publickly to be

{573} made known in order, that every Individal May be Informed of his Right as well as Duty to act in all affairs of a Publick Nature, in the Town. Wherof the Laws gives every Indivial under Certain Circumstances equal right to act for the good of the whole Town — a Doubt, hath arissen wheither the posting up Notifica tions in any other places in the Town, will be Look^d upon Consistant with the Laws and Common usage as heretofore in said Town.

Therefore we Desire the afores^d Monthley meeting to Inform the Town at their Adjourment of their Annual Town meeting, which stands Adjourn^d, to the Second Monday of July next, at one of the Clock in the afternoon, their Reasons for having no more Publications, set up at their meeting houses, and now they Chuse to be Con sidered by the Town Wheither as Independants on Government, or Wheither they mean to be Subject to our Common Wealth and the Laws thereof, and to Take an active part, in the Prudential affairs of the Town or not, as the Town is Very Desirious to know, how the People of the afors^d Meeting Chuse to be Considered by the other Inhabitants, being willing that all should enjoye full Liberty of Conscience, agreable to our Constitution. the above

Voted by the Town at the Adjourment of their Annual Town meeting the second day of June A.D. 1783.

And the Town gave order to the Town Clark to send an Attested Coppy of the above Request to the Clark of the afores^d meeting : to be by him Laid before their next monthley meeting for their Consideration thereon.

William Davis } Selectmen Benjⁿ Russell } of Ebenz^r Willis } Dartmouth

page_0111

{574} {June 4: 1783} From a Monthly meeting of the People called Quakers, held in Dartmouth by adjournment the 4^th day of Jun^e 1783. —

To the Selectmen Town Clark and others concern^d in the Annual Town meeting of Dartmouth.

Friends. We having received a vote from you expressing a desire that we would at your next meeting, give our reasons of our request to have no more Publications set up at our meeting houses, &c and having taken the same under consideration, do return the follow ing answer thereto viz^t. —

Our Quarterly and Yearly meetings, to which we are in subordination, recommend to us to Inform those that sign and set up Publica tions at our meeting houses of the disagreable ness thereof: which recommendation, met our solid attention and approbation for the same reasons which induced them thereto, and which no Doubt are Justly Grounded, for although there is a variety of Publications commonly set up many of which (we believe) the far greater part that our Religious principals enjoins us (as is well known) to have no Concern with: and as our Meeting houses are our own Property if we assent to and Countenance those Publications being set up there, we act Counter to our professed principals, perticularly, those Respecting military matters, as well as those of Marriages, which of Marriages, we are not to countenance nor Join with, as by Express words of Our Discipline may appear; and as the manner of our Whorship, Demands the most inward and awful attention of mind, to which recollection is a necessary prepra tive, all kinds of Notifications set up at our doors, are found by experience to disturb our meetings. —

{575} yet it is with sorrow we express it that we should be thought to be a means of Discom moding the buisness of the Town, and have as long Defer’d to request as we could with safty, But we do not apprehend that this our Just and reasonable request gives any ground for a suspition, that we mean to be Indepen dent of the Govarnment, we live under, our known principals, long ago Published by several well approved authors of our Society manifest our duty in ^being peaceable subjects, either active or passive under Government from which we hope not to depart in our lives and practices.

Signed in and on behalf of said mo meeting by William Anthony J^ur Clerk.

{July: 1783} Hon^ble Walter Spooner Esq^r Benjⁿ Russell Esq^r and Stephen Peckcom Chosen a Committee to Inspect into the Class Rates, and prefer a petition to the General Court for Redress of Greavience in the Late Tax act. made at the General Court.

the following paragraft was acted at the Ad journment of the Annual Town meeting. the first Monday in April, 1783.

the Town met and Reconsidered their Vote Respecting the Choice of Selectmen, and agreed to Chuse Two more, so as to have five in the Town and made Choice of Stephen Peckcom & Jabez or Barker, for Selectmen for sd year Peleg White Thomas Allen & John West are Chosen a Committee and to meet Quarterly. in order to settle and allow or Disallow, all Accompts brought against said Town.

{Aug. 4: 1783} the Annual Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the fourth day of August 1783.

page_0112

{576} the Town met and further Adjourn^d to the 29^th day of said August.

{Aug 29: 1783} Then met and Choose Gamaleal Bryant Constable and the Town Voted him four pr Cent. for all the moneys he Collects and pays into the several Treasurers according to the Directions of his Warrants, and also Choose Robert Earl Constable to serve under the Like Conditions as the said Bryant is agreed with and then Adjourn^d to the first Saturday of September next at one of the clock in the afternoon.

{Sept. 1783} The Town met according to Adjourment the first Saterday of September, and further Adjourn^d to the last Monday in November next, at Ten of the Clock in the forenoon.

{Nov: 1783} the Town met accordingly, the Last Monday of November, 1783.

and Choose Cap^t Robert Earl, Constable for the year 1782 to Collect all Rates and Taxes made for that year, except the Rate already Committed to the Sheriff of the County of Bristol, and the Town agrees that the said Robert Earl shall have four pr Cent. for Collecting said Rates, —

and adjourn^d said meeting to the 22 day of December next, to ten of the Clock in the fournoon, and

{Dec. 22: 1783} then met and Choose Benjamin Akin Esq^r Collector for the year 1783. to Collect all Rates and Taxes except the Rate already Committed to the Sheriff of the County of Bristol and agreed with to Collect said Rates for four pr Cent. and also Choose Barnabas Mosher & William Gifford, Son of Adam Gifford Tything men.

Chose Thomas Wilcox Wardeen.

Chose Stephen Davis Isaac Shearman, Silas Swift & Simeon Nash Tything men. and then

{577} Adjourn^d the meeting to the 20^th day of January 1784.

{Jan. 20: 1784} The Town met on the 20^th day of said January 1784. and was put to Vote Wheither the Town would accept of Daniel Howland Jur Constable, and it past in the negative; then it was put to Vote, Wheither the Town would except of Philip Shearman Constable and it past in the Negative. then the Town made Choice of Daniel Howland J^ur Constable, and Choose him on Con ditions he would Procure Sufficient Bondmens for his faithfull performance, and upon the above Conditons the Town agreed &

Voted that the said Daniel Howland, J^ur should be allowed and paid out of the Town Treasury four pr cent: for Collecting in all the Taxes for the year 1782 and 1783. Except the Tax already Committed to the Sheriff of the County of Bristol he paying all the Money into the Treasurys accord ing to the Directions of his Warrants

Robert Earl Chosen Constable for the year 1783. and to have 4 pr Cent for Collecting said Taxes and pay it into the Treasuryes agreable to his Warrants.

Survayors of all sorts of Lumber for the year 1783. are Anthony Wilbour Cap^t Benjamin Dilling ham Cap^t Benjⁿ Church. John Smith Butler Shearman Job Anthony & Stephen Davis.

{July 17: 1783} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To Gamaleal Bryant. one of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in the said County of Bristol — Greeting:

You are hereby Required in the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachusetts. to notifie and Warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants

page_0113

{578} of said Town, that are Quallified by Law to Vote in Town Meetings. to meet Togeather at the Town house in said Town on Monday the fourth day of August next at 10 o’ clock in the four noon. then and there to act on the perticulars hereafter mentioned. (viz.)

Whereas there is a Warrant, Come to the Assessors of s^d Town to make a County Tax Which is so small a sum, that it is thought to be a saving, to the Town, for said Tax to be made and Collected with the present Town Rate, and for the Town Treasurer of said Town, to pay the Money to the County Treasurer, as said meeting may vote and order.

2ly for to Chuse a Committee to Petition to the General Court for to give the said Town, power, to Chuse Collectors. for the Year A.D 1782. for Aponaganset and Acoxset Vilages or to act and do What they shall be Judged, most for the Advantage of the Town Relative to there being none Chosen in and said Year.

3ly Whereas there is no person to take the office of Constable or Collector for Taxes for the present year. for the Town at said meeting to act and do. what shall be thought but for the Town in regard to Choosing of Constables or Collectors.

And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Town Clerk of said Town at or before the Time of said meeting:

Given under our hands & seal at Dartmouth, this nineteenth day of July A.D. 1783.

William Davis } Selectmen Ebenezer Willis } of Benjamin Russell } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth July y^e 27^th 1783.

I have Warned a Town Meeting by posting up Notifications in the several vilages as usial.

pr me Gamaleal Bryant Constable.

{579} {Aug. 4: 1783} At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 4^th day of August: 1783.

Voted that the Assessors add the County Tax sent for to the Town Tax for the present year, and when Collected and paid, into the Town Treasury; also

Voted, that the Town Treasurer, pay the County Treasurer, said sum sent for to be Taxed, on said Town for the year 1783:

the Town Voted that there should be a Committee to Petition to the General Court, (if need be) to prefer a Petition to the General Court, for the Town to be enabled to Choose Constables or Collectors for Aponganset and Acoaxset Vilages, for the year, 1782.

Walter Spooner & Benjamin Russell Esquirs, are Chosen for the above purpose.

this meeting is adjourn^d to the 29^th day of this Instant August 1783.

{Aug: 1783} The Town met, and Adjourn^d to the first Saterday of September next at one of ‘ Clock in the afternoon.

{Sept: 1783} The Town met according to the Adjournment and Adjourn^d to the Last Monday of said September, met and Adjourn^d to the Last Monday in November next.

{Nov: 1783} The Town met according to the Adjournment in November 1783.

and Choose Capt Robert Earl Constable and Collector for the year 1782. to Collect all Rates and Taxes Made for the year 1782, except the Rate already Committed to the Sheriff of the County of Bristol. and the Town agrees that the said Robert Earl shall have four pr Cent for Col lecting said Rates.

page_0114

{580} This meeting is Adjourn^d to the 22^d day of December next.

{Feb 24: 1784} { Stamp} Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth in said County. Greeting:

in the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachu setts, you are hereby fourthwith Required to Notifie and Warn all the Free holders and other Inhabi tants of said Town Quallified by Law to Vote in Town meetings to meet togeather, at the Town house in said Town on Monday the Twenty second day of March next at ten Oc Clock in the forenoon, on said day then and there to act on the perticu lars hereafter mentioned. —

1ly To Chuse Town Officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly to Chuse a Committee to settle with the Town Treasurer for the year One Thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty three and all persons having Demands against said Town, and to meet for that purpose Quarterly in the year ensu ing if the Town shall Vote the same or other wise to Vote what shall be thought proper. Relative to said Committee.

3ly for to Town to Vote what number of Town School masters shall be Procured by the Selectmen, for the year ensuing, at the Charge of said Town, —

4ly to Choose a County Treasurer.

5ly to Receive Returns of highways Laid out or altered by the Selectmen in order that they may be Record.

6ly to Vote a sum of money to be Raised by way of Tax as shall be thought Necessary to Defray the Charges ariseing in said Town for the year ensuing.

7ly Whereas David Shepherd hath an accompt against the Town that was allowed by the Committee, with an order, by the Selectmen which been due

{581} a number of years. then for the Town to Vote what he the said Shepherd should be allowed Interest on the same or not.

8ly for the Town, by Vote, to give such orders. Relative to the priviledges of the several Town Landings as shall be thought proper.

And make Return of this Warrant with your Doings thereon unto the Town Clerk of said Town at or be fore the time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and seals in Dartmouth, this Twenty fourth day of February. A.D. 1784.

William Davis } Selectmen Ebenezer Willis } of Benjⁿ Russell } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: Dartmouth February the 28^th 1784: by Vertue of this Warrant I have Warned the Town by posting up Notifications in several public places in said Town.

pr me Daniel Howland J^ur Constable.

{Mch. 22: 1784} At a Town meeting Legally Warned and held a the Town house in Dartmouth on Monday the 22^nd day of March A.D. 1784

Jabez Barker Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Benjamin Akin Choosen Town Clerk.

Ebenezer Willis – Stephen Peckcom & Jabez Barker Choosen Selectmen: Eleazer Hathaway Prince Shearman & David Wilcox Chosen Assessors:

the Town Voted John Akin Liberty to build a Vessell at Aponaganset Landing and also

Voted Benjamin Davis Liberty to build a Vessell at pachachuck Landing. he allowing the people to Land their wood on his wharf without cost.

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday in April next at ten off Clock in the fournoon.

page_0115

[duplicate of previous scan]

page_0116

{582} {April: 1784} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the first Monday in April 1784.

the Town meet and Choose William Tallman Ephraim Tripp & George Lawton a Committee to settle accompts with our Town Treasurer for the year 1783. also to settle accompts with all persons that have Demands against said Town and to meet Quarterly.

Survayors of highways Choosen for Aponaganset Village are Ruben Wale. Benjamin Cummins. Benjamin Babcock. Barnabas Mosher. J^ur: Stephen Bufferton. John Akin. Michel Russell John Devol Samuel Smith, James Tucker. Nathaniel Fance Amos Cornell. William Sanford J^ur. Peleg Shearman. Joseph Almy. Peleg Slocum. Josias Wood David Gifford. John Mosher. William Hart. Thomas Reed J^ur & Adam Mott:

Survayors for Acoshnet Vilage Chose, Isaac Spooner. William Tobey (son of Jonathan Tobey) Obed Nye. Joseph Demons. Edmond Pope. John Alden Nathaniel Jenne Edward Pope Esq^r. William Tallman David Mitchell Nathan Nye Micah Spooner John Chaffee, William Gorden, William West. William Allen. and Noah Allen J^ur & Obed Hathaway —

Survayors for Acoaxet Vilage Chose Job Davis. Jonathan Davis Justice Kerby. William White Benjamin Brownell George Tibbetts, Phenias Wodle, Lemuel Milk Abraham Cornell, Elijah Gifford. Will^m Almy, Pardon Brownell & George Lawton. Benjamin Dillingham Anthony Wilbour. Joshua Lowrain, Elihu Gifford. John Smith. Job Anthony. & Stephen Davis Chosen Surayors of all sorts of Lumber.

James Cushman Nathaniel Kerby and Benjamin Howland the third Choosen Pound keepers.

George Handy Charles Church & William Wood

{583} Choosen, Sealers of Leather.

John Hathway Wesson Tallman. Thomas Tripp. Stokes Tripp John Shepherd & Judediah Shearman Choosen fence Viewers.

Silas Sweet Elisha Parker, Moses Greenel George Brownell. John Cornell, John Davis y^e 2^d Jethro Badcock and Elisha Sanford. Choose Tythingmen.

William Robeson, Benjamin Spooner, Robert Crocker George Potter, Josias Russell, & Philip Shearman, Choosen Hog reeves

Bartholomew West Samuel Thrasher John Palter, Thomas Russell, Eber Dais. & Daniel Allen. Choose. field Drivers or haywards, —

John Smith Chosen Town Treasurer, and agreed with to Receive in and pay out the Town Money for three pence on the pound :

Voted. that Capt Thomas Crandon have Liberty to Joyne a Dam on the Landing at the head of Acoshnet River, if in the Judgement of David, = Shepherd Ebenezer Willis & Jireh Swift it will not Discommode the people in Laying their Lumber on said Landing, and Takeing it off again.

Voted that David Shepherd, have Interest allowed him for Thirty five pound Eighteen Shillings. being a Ballance due to him in the year 1774.

Voted that the Selectmen Procure a Grammer Schoolmaster for said Town. at s^d Towns exspence this year.

this meeting in Adjourn^d to the 14th : day of May next at ten of the Clock in the fournoon.

page_0117

{584} {May 14 : 1784} At a Town meeting held by Adjourment at the Town house in Dartmouth May the 14^th : day 1784.

Silas Swift, Silas Sweet & Elisha Parker : Chosen Tything men.

Benjamin Dillingham & Obed Hathaway Chosen Suvayors of highways.

Capt. William Wood Chosen Sealer or Weights and Measures.

Isaac Shearman Chosen Survayor of highways.

Voted that there be Four Hundred Pound Raised by way Tax on the Inhabitants for the year 1784. for the Defraying the Necessary Charges arising within said Town for said year.

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday in June next at on of the Clock in the afternoon.

{June: 1784} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the first Monday in June . and Choose Philip Spooner. Tything man and Jonathan Hathaway Wardeen, and Bartholomew Akin Survayor of highwarys.

Caleb Barker was Chosen Survayor of highways in the Room of Stephen Buffenton.

Maletiah Hathaway Chosen Survayor of highways in the Room of Benjamin Badcock, —

Thomas Wilcox Chosen Wardeen, — This meeting is Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of July next at Two of the Clock in the afternoon.

{July: 1784} At a Town Meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartmouth the fourth Tuseday of July 1784.

The Town met and further Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of August next at Two of ‘ Clock in the afternoon on s^d day.

{585} {August: 1784} At a Town meeting held by Adjournment at the Town house in Dartm^o the fourth Tuseday of August, being the Adjourment of the Annual Town meeting met and Choose Gamalial Bryant Constable for Acoshnet Vilage for the year 1784, — and agreed to give him four pr cent for Collecting and paying in all the Money he shall Collect into the Treasuryes ac cording to the Directions of his Warrants.

Paul Slocum Chosen Constable for Aponaganet Vilage and to have four pr Cent for Collecting in the Money he shall Collect, and paying it into the Treasurys according to his Warrants. Providing the said Paul Procures sufficient Bonds to the satisfaction of the Town.

Robert Earl Chosen Constable for Acoaxset Vilage and to have the same allowance as Paul Slocum on the same Conditions:

Noah Allen J^ur Chosen Survayor of higways

Benajmin Akin Chosen Moderator.

Obed Nye Chosen Grand Juryman.

Nathaniel Richmond Chosen Grand Juryman.

Peleg Gifford J^ur Chosen Grand Juryman.

Timothy Howland Cordwiner Chosen Wardeen in the Room of Thomas Wilcox who was Chosen and not oblig^d to serve : —

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the third Tuseday of September next at Two of the Clock in the afternoon.

{Sept: 1784} The Town met and Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of October next at Two of the Clock in the afternoon.

{Oct: 1784} The Town met, and accepted of Paul Slocum for a Constable and Collector, and he and his father Benjⁿ Slocum gave Bond for his faith full performance, and to secure the Town in case of mal Administration the Moderator being unable

page_0118

{586} to attend said meeting. the Town Choose Cap^t Elihu Gifford Moderator Pro tempore.

Jonathan Shearman was Chosen Survayor, in the room of James Tucker Deceast.

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of November next at Two of the Clock in the afternoon.

Elihu Gifford Moderator

{Feb : 24 1784} { Stamp} Bristol ss : To either the Constables of the Town of Darmouth in said County . you are hereby Required in the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachusetts to Notify and warn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Dartmouth that are Quallified by Law to Note Town Meetings for the Choice of Town Officers To meet togeather at the Town house in said Town of Dartmouth, on Tuseday the Fifteenth day of March next at ten of the Clock in the forenoon then and there to act on the Perticu lars here after Mentioned.

1ly to Choose Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2ly to Choose a Committee to settle with the Town Treasurer, for the year A.D. 1784. and all othet Accompts that may be Brought against the Town, and to meet Quarterly or half yearly as the Town at said Meeting shall think proper at said Meeting.

3ly for the Town to Vote what number of school masters shall be Imployed by the Selectmen at the expense of the Town for the year ensuing.

4ly to Choose a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

5ly to Receive Returns of highways Laid out or altered in said Town.

{587} 6ly to Vote a sum or money as shall be thought sufficient to be Raised by way of Tax, to Defray the Charges ariseing in said Town.

7ly for the Town to Chuse Constables for the year ensuing, and on their Refusial to pay their fines, or to agree with them, and then make Choice of them as hath Been of Late years, or for the Town to act as they think proper.

8ly for the Town at said meeting to allow or Disallow Benjamin Dillingham to build a Platform in order to sett a Coopers Shoop on at the head of Acoshnet River, on the Towns Landing.

And make Return of this Warrant : and your Doings thereon at or before the time of said Meeting.

Given under our hands and seal at Dartmouth this Twenty fourth day of February Anno Domini 1784.

Stephen Peckcom } Selectmen Jabez Barker } of Ebenezer Willis } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. By Virtue the Within Warrant to me Directed I have put up Notifications in each Vilage as the Law Direcs to Call the Town togeather.

pr me Paul Slocum Constable.

{Mch 15 : 1785} At the Annual Town Meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Tuseday the Fifteenth day of March A.D. 1785. Benjamin Russell Esq^r was Chosen Moderator for said Meeting:

Agreable to a Resolve of the General Court, Impowering the Town of Darmouth at their Annual Town meeting in March 1785 to Chuse

page_0119

{588} Collectors for the year past where they was Deficient, the Town Proseeded and made Choice of William Almy Collector for part of Acoaxset Vilage that is to say all that part of said Village to the Southward of the Contrey Road (so called) and also chose Matthew Boomer Collecter for all to the Northward of said Contrey Road in said Vilage. and the Town agreed to give the s^d Almy and Boomer four pr Cent for Collecting in all Rates or Taxes that should be Committed to them and paying the same into the several Treasuries according to their Warrants.

Ebenezer Willis Jabez Barker Stephen Peckcom was chosen Selectmen,

Benjamin Akin Chosen Town Clerk.

Elezear Hathaway David Wilcox & Ephraim Tripp was Chosen Assessors.

William Tallman Ephraim Tripp & George Lawton was Chosen a Committee in Behalf of said Town to Examine and allow or Disallow all accompts brought against sd Town.

John Smith was chosen Town Treasurer, and agreed with to Receive in and pay out the Towne money at three pr Cent.

and then Adjourned said meeting to the first Monday in April next at one of ‘Clock in the afternoon.

{April 4: 1785} At the Annual Town Meeting held by Adjournment on Wednesdy the fourth day of April 1785.

The Town met accordingly : and Choose Survayors of highways for aponaganset Vilage, Gideon Cornell, Thomas Allen (Prince Son), Eleazer Smith Nicholas Lapham, Humphry Russell, Stephen Gifford, Caleb Howland, Wing Howland, Holder Slocum Peleg Gifford J^ur.

{589} Gideon Howland, George Horskins, Jethro Russell, William Gifford, (Adams Son) John Devol, Allen Russell, David Chace, Jiry Worshburn, Amos Cornell, Thomas Woodmancy, and Prince Potter.

Survayors of highways for Acoaxset Vilage are Isajah Burden, Philip Sanford, George Tibbets, George Lawton, John Tripp, (son of George Tripp) Jonathan Davis, Daniel Allen, Nathaniel Richmond, Elijah Gifford, Job Anthony, Abner Wilcox, John Earl & Thomas Tripp.

Survayors for Accoshnet Village are, Obed Hathaway, William White J^ur. Lemuel Tobey, Henry Jenne, William Spooner, Philip Spooner, Michel Spooner, Benjamin Church, Stephen Hathaway, Samuel Hathaway, David Spooner, Ladock Maxfield, Stephen Nye, Joseph Demons, Seth Jenne, William Allen, and John Tobey.

Tything men for Acoshnet Vilag are Samuel Procter & Paul Ingraham. Jethro Allen Benjamin Dillingham & Avary Parker Chosen Surveyors of Lumber.

Benjamin Church & Benjamin Mosher Chosen Survayors of Staves and hoops.

James Cushman Chosen Pound keeper.

Jonathan Hathaway and Wesson Tallman, Chosen fence Viewers,

Willian Spooner & Elijah Allen Chosen feild Drivers.

Joseph Austen and Josiah Drew Choosen Hogreeves Charles Church Chosen Leather sealer

Paul Swift Chosen Wardeen

John Smith and Philip Sherman Chosen Survayors of Lumber.

Elisha Russell and Michel Russell Choose fence Viewers.

Benjamin Shearman and William Shearman, Choosen Hog. reeves.

George Handy & Cyrus Taber Chosen Leather Sealers.

page_0120

{590} John Wood & John Maxfield Choosen Tything men Cap^t William Wood Choosen Sealer of lots and measures. Benjamin Howland (son of Benjⁿ Howland) Choosen Pound keeper. Josiah Wood Chosen Wardeen

{May 12 : 1785} At a Town Meeting held by Adjournment at the Townhouse in Dartmouth the 15^th day of May 1785.

and Choose overseers for the work house & Alms house (viz) Isaac Howland, Joseph Austin, Seth Russell, William Claghorn & William Russell. Barnabas Russell chosen Survayor of highways in the Room of David Shepherd. John Aulden Chosen Survayor of highways . John Maxfield exscused by the Town from serving Tything man.

Barnabas Mosher J^nr Choosen Tything man. this meeting is Adjournd to the third Tuseday in June next.

{June : 1785}} The Town meet according to Adjournment. and agree^d and Voted to Rais Four hundred Pound to Defray the Current Charges of the Present year.

Voted that the Selectmen Procure a Schoolmaster or master as the Law Directs at the Charge of the Town.

William Almy Chosen Constable for Acoaxset Vilage. and to Collect all the Taxes to the southward of the Countrey Road, and to have four per Cent for Receiving in and paying out the Money. and also agreed with to Collect all above the s^d Country Road if there was no other Chosen.

{591} and then this meeting was Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of July next a Two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

{July: 1785}} And the Town meet according to the Journ ment and Choose Gamalial Briant Survayor of highways, in the Roome of Samuel Tobey.

Daniel Smith Choosen Pound keeper for the Pound in Bedford.

Cap^t Joseph Demons Choosen Constable for Acushnet Village, and agreed with to Collect all the Rates for said year and pay our the money again for four per cent.

This meeting is further Adjourn^d to the fourth Tuseday of August next and

{August: 1785>} then Met and Chose Daniel Howland J^nr Constable for Aponaganset Vilage and to Collect all the taxes for the present year for four per cent for Receiveing in and pay out the Money and Choose Isaac Drew Cullar of Fish. and then the Annual Town meeting was Disolved.

{Torn off} {—19: 1770} We the Subscribers being Committees appointed by the Towns of Dartmouth (and Freetown) to settle the Boundary Lines Between said Towns have this nineteeth day of — A.D. 1770, met and settled the same as Followeth (viz) we began, at a heap of (^stones) for a Corner, where the Colony Line Crosses Between said Towns from thence easterly — southerly line of said Freetown by a range of marked trees, untill it Came to a heap of stones the Southeast Corner of old Freetown. from thence we agree to Run south Twenty three Degrees and a half East till

page_0121

{592} it Comes to Dartmouth Line, (that leads to the Peked Rock) where we we erected a heap of stones, and so on said Line, where it hath been Pream bulated, untill it come to sd Peaked Rock, which is the easterly bound Between said Dartmouth & Freetown. In Confirmation where of we have here unto set our hands the day and Date above said—

Walter Spooner, Giles Slocum, Daniel Wood Dartmouth.

Thomas Gilbert, Thomas Durfee, Jale Hathaway, Freetown.

Recorded by me – Benjⁿ Akin, Town Clerk.

{Feb. 27 : 1786} Bristol ss : To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting: —

In the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachusetts : You are Fourthwith Required to Notifie and Warn all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings, to meet Togeather at the Town house in sd Town on Thursday the Twenty first day of March next. at Ten of the Clock in the noon on said Day. then and there to act on the Perticulars hereafter mentioned.

1ly. To Chuse all the Town officers for the ensuing year as the Law Directs.

2ly. To Conclude by a Vote what number of School masters there shall be provided for the year ensuing at the Charge of sd Town.

3ly. To Choose a Committee to Receive and settle accompts, with those that have Demands against said Town also to settle with the Town Treasurer for the year One Thousand Seven hundred + eighty five.

4ly. to Receive Returns of highways and Town Landing Laid out or altered by the Selectmen for said Town. to Allow or Disallow, in order

{593} they may be of record.

5ly. to Conclude by a Vote what sum of money shall be Raised by way of Tax for the ensuing year with said Town.

6ly. to Choose a County Treasurer as the Law Directs.

7ly. to see if the Town Will vote to mend and keep in Repair the Publick Rhods in sd Town by way of Tax for the year ensuing : it being a Request of a number of the Free holders in said Town.

8ly. for the Town to do what they think proper, with Respect of Raising a Town stock of Ammunition for said Town as the Law Directs.

And make returns of this Warrant with your doings thereon, unto the Town Clerk of said Town, on or before the time appointed for said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal this Twenty Seventh day of February A.D. 1786.

Stephen Peckcom } Selectmen Jabez Barker + } of Ebenezer Willis } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. March y^e 20^th : day 1786. by Virtue of the within Precept I have Warn^d the Inhabitants by Posting up Notifications In the several Destricts

pr me Daniel Howland J^nr Constable

{Mch 21 : 1786} At a Town Meeting Legally Worn^d and held at the Town house in Dartmouth on Thursday the 21st day of March 1786. Benjamin Russell Esq^r Chosen Moderator for said Meeting.

Benjⁿ Akin Esq^r. Chosen Town Clerk. Ebenezer Willis Henry Smith and William

page_0122

{594} Almy Chosen Selectman.

Elisha Cuishman, Ephraim Tripp and David Wilcox Chosen Assessors.

John Smith Chosen Town Treasurer and agreed with to Receive in and pay out the Towns money for three pence on the pound. William Tallman, George Lawton and Samuel Smith, was Chosen a Committee to examine and allow or Disallow all Accompts Brought against said Town.

This meeting is Adjourn^d to the first Monday of April next at one o’clock in the afternoon.

{April : 1786} The Town met according to the Adjourn ment and Chose Benjamin Howland, ye 2^d; David Russell, Peleg Shearman, Paul Slocum, John Howland, Holder Slocum, Joshua Howland, Timothy Howland, Stephen Gifford, Giles Slocum, Edward Wing, Benjamin Badcock, Jethro Russell, Benjⁿ Cummins, Ebenezer Baker, Adam Mott, William Russell, Benjⁿ Rider and Peleg Gifford Survayors of highways for Aponaganset Vilage.

Humphrey Russell Chosen Tything man. John Smith, John Akin, Cyrus Taber and Richard Collins Chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Benjⁿ Howland y^e 3^rd : Chosen Pound keeper. Cap^t William Chosen Sealer of Wt^s and Measures.

William Hart Chosen Leather Sealer.

Cyrus Taber Chosen Corder of Wood.

Philip Shearman Chosen Culler of Fish and Survayor of Flaxseed.

John Chase & Abner Nelson Chosen Viewers of fence.

Benjamin Shearman and Barnabas Shaw Chosen Hog reeves.

Benjamin Shearman & John Sanford and William Sanford y^e 2^d Chosen field Driver or haywards.

{595} Survayors of highways for Cuishnet Vilage are Barnabas Russell, Abraham Russell, Micah Spooner, Philip Spooner, Seth Hathaway, John Summerton, Obed Hathaway, Henry Jenne, Joseph Demons, Samuel Hathaway, Richard Delano, Bartholomew Akin, Stephen Hathaway, Benjamin Delingham, William Tallman and Amos Bennett.

Daniel Smith & Samuel Spooner Chosen Hogreaves.

James Cuishman Chosen Pound keeper.

Jonathan Hathaway and John Hathaway Chos en Viewers of Fence.

William Spooner and Bartholomew West Chosen Feild Drivers or haywards.

Isaac Drew Chosen Wardeen,

Benjamin Dillingham, Benjⁿ Church Chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber; and Culler of Staves.

George East Chosen Tything man.

Benjamin Mosher Chosen Culler of Staves.

Survayors of highways for Acoaxset Vilage, are, as followeth, (viz)

Chosen Silvester Brownell, Job Almy, Job Anthony, John Davis, Israel Brightman, Jonathan Davis, Aaron Davis, Obed White, George Lawton Benjamin Brownell, Phineas Wodel & George Tibbetts James Soul Chose Wardeen.

Caleb Earl & Stephen Cornill Chose Tything men

Job Anthony & Stephen Davis Chosen Survayors of all sorts of Lumber.

Nathaniel Kirby Chose Pound keeper.

William Wood Sealer of Leather.

Stephen Davis and Job Anthony Chosen Corders of Wood.

Thomas Tripp and Stephen Cornell Chosen fence viewers. Field Drivers John Potter and Ichabod Potter was Chosen.

William Maccumber (son of Timoth Maccumber)

page_0123

{596} and Thomas Brightman Chosen Hogreeves. this meeting is Adjourn^d to the 18th day of May next at Towe Clock in the afternoon.

{May 18 : 1786} At a Town Meeting held by Adjournment the Eighteenth day of May 1786. being the Adjournment of the Last Annual Meeting. then met and

Voted the sum of Five Hundred Pound to be Raised by way of a Tax on the Inhabitants of said Town, for the Defraying of the necessary Charges for the Currant year.

and Chose Benjⁿ Howland y^e 2^d David Russell, Peleg Shearman, Paul Slocum, John Howland, Holder Slocum, John Devol, Joshua Howland, Timothy Howland, Stephen Gifford, Giles Slocum, Edward Wing, Benjamin Badcock, Jethro Russell, William Gifford, Adam Mott, William Russell, Benjamin Rider, and Peleg Gifford. Choosen Survayors of highways.

Humprey Russell, Chosen Wardeen. Elishu Russell Chosen Tything man.

John Smith, John Akin, & Cyrus Taber Chosen Survayors of Lumber.

Benjamin Howland Pound keeper Cap^t William Wood Chosen Sealer of wts and Measures.

William Hart Chosen Leather Sealer.

Cyrus Taber, Chosen Corder of wood.

Philip Shearman Chosen Culler of fish.

John Chace & Abner Nelson, Choosen fence viewers. Benjⁿ Shearman & Barnabas Shearman Chosen Hog Reeves. Job Anthony. Silvester Brownell, Israel Brightman, Aron Davis, Jonathan Davis, Oleed White, John Howland Benjamin Brownell, Stephen Potter, Phinias Wodel, Abraham Cornell, Benjⁿ Davis, was Chosen

{597} Survayors of highways.

Stephen Davis Choosen Survayor of Lumber and Corder of wood.

James Soul Chosen Wardeen.

Abiel Maccumber & Stephen Potter Chosen Tything man.

Thomas Tripp & Stephen Cornell Chosen fence viewers.

Nathaniel Kirby Choose pound keeper.

John Potter & Ichabod Potter Choosen field Drivers

William Maccumber, son of Tim^o Maccumber, & Thomas Brightman, Chosen Hogreeves.

William Wood Chosen Leather Sealer.

Peleg Huddlestone & Simeon Nash was Chosen Survayors of Lumber for Acuishnet vilage.

Joseph Samson Chosen fence viewer.

Seth Morten Chosen Survayor of highway in the Room of Henry Jenne, who was Chosen and Refused to serve.

Isaac Drew was Choosen Culler of Fish.

William Robeson was Choosen Corder of wood.

this meeting is Adjourn^d to the Last Monday in June next at Two of the Clock in the after noon.

{May 3 : 1786} Common Wealth of Massachusetts.

Bristol ss. To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting.

You are required to Notify and Warn all the Free holders and other Inhabitants of said Town of Dartmouth that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings to meet Togeather at the Town house in said Town on Thursday the eighteenth day of May Instant, at a Eleven of the O Clock in the fore noon on said day to act on a Request of a number of free holders of said Town, if said Town thinks proper, Which request, is a followeth (viz)

page_0124

{598} Whereas Jonathan Tucker, being Confined in Goal for non payment of his Taxes and as his Laying there will not pay them; it is proposed for the Town to Choose such a Committee, as they may confide in, to Consider of the premises and release said Tucker from Imprisonment on that account, Provided, he will, first Impower them to take what estate can be found. Belonging to him into their Custody, and pay & Discharge said Taxes if sufficency can be found for that Purpose ; Provided also that the said Tucker become bound, under the Penalty of being Recommitted to Prison, again at the Request the will and Pleasure of said Committee if he shall use any fraud, and Deceit in discovering to them the whole of his Estate, to their satis faction and after that he shall return to his Family and take prudent Cear of them under the like penalty, aforesaid.

And make return of this Warrant with your doings thereon, unto the Town Clerk, of said Town, on or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands and seals at Dartmouth this third day of May A.D. 1786.

Ebenezer Willis } Selectmen William Henry and } of Henry Smith } Dartmouth

Bristol ss: May y^e 17^th: A.D. 1786.

by virtue of this Warrant I have notified the Town of Dartmouth to appear at the time and place Within mentioned by Posting up Notifications in the several Destricts.

pr me Daniel Howland Constable of Dartmouth

{599} {May 28: 1786} At a Town meeting Legally held at the Town house in Dartmouth May Twenty eight day 1786.

William Davis Esq^r Chosen Moderator for said Meeting, and after a full Enquire, into the foregoing Request Relating to Jonathan Tucker Releasement from Prison, it was agreed it was unjust and unreasonable, and it would make a bad Presi dent.

Therefore it was put to vote, and past in the negative.

{June 26: 1786} At an Adjournment of the Annual Town Meeting held on the Last monday in June, being the 26^th day 1786.

Voted that there be one Gramer schoolmaster for the Town this present year, and to be procured by the Selectmen of said Town.

William Tallman, Benjamin Taber, Joseph Austen, Abrahan Smith and Abraham Russell Chosen over seers of the work house.

This meeting is Adjourn^d. to the Last Monday in August next at two ‘ Clock in the afternoon.

ommitted. John Shearman Chosen Survayor of Wood.

Matthew Howland Chosen Survayor of Lumber, and Eastland Badcock Chosen Survayor of Lumber.

{Aug. 28: 1786} The Town meet the last Monday of August being the 28^th of s^d month 1786.

and Choose Simeon Chace Benjⁿ Badcock & Edward Slade Survayors of high was and then Adjourn^d to the Second Monday of October next.

page_0125

{600} {Oct : 1786} The Town meet on the second Monday of October 1786. and further Adjour^d to the last Monday in November, and in the Town meet according to Adjourment.

{May 2, 1786} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting.

In the Name of the Common Wealth of Massachu setts. You are Required to Notify and worn all the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Qualified by Law to vote in Town meetings to meet Togeather at the Town house in said Town, on Thursday the Eighteenth Day of May, next at ten of the Clock in the fournoon, to act on a request of a number of the Inhabitants of said Town which is as follows, (viz) to see if said Town will instruct their Representative to use his Influance in the General Court to get an emission of Paper money, or adopt some method, to ease the Peoples, that may be thought, best, in their distress, and make return of this warrant with your doings thereon unto the Town Clerk of said Town on or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands + seal at Dartmouth this second of May A.D. 1786.

Ebenezer Willis } Selectmen Henry Smith } of William Almy } Dartmouth

Bristol ss. Dartmouth. May the 18^th : day 1786. by Vertue of this Warrant to me Directed

I have Notifyed the Town as the Law Directs pr me Joseph Demon Constable.

{601} To the Selectmen of the Town of Dartmouth, Gentleman :

We the subscribers. Freeholders in said Town Do hereby Request that you would Grant a Warrany for Calling the Town of Dartmouth Togeather as soon as Conveniently may be to know wheither said Town, will vote off Accuishnet Village to be Incorporated into a seperate Town. Dartmouth Sep^tr 27^th 1786.

John Chaffee Jirech Willis Manasseth Kempton. Elisha Cuishman, Willian Claghorn, Jireh Swift, Jonathan Hathaway, Calvin Delano, Gamaleal Bryant, John Garrish + Joseph Kempton. Requesters.

{Sept 27 : 1786} { Stamp} Bristol ss : Common Wealth of Massachusetts Dartmouth y^e 27th: A.D. 1786.

To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth: These are to Require you in the name of said Common Wealth, that you Notify and warn all the freeholders and other Inhabitants that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings : to meet and assemble togeather, at the Town house in said Dartmouth on the ninth day of October next at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said day.

1 ly to act and Do what said meeting may think proper: Respecting a Request to us directed for the Inlargement of Jonathan Tucker who is now Confined in Prison for Taxes.

2 ly. to know wheather said Town will vote off Accuishnet Village to be Incorporated into a seperate town.

And make return of this warrant, with your Doings to the Clerk of said Town, at or before the day of said meeting.

Given under our hands and seal in Dartmouth, this Twenty seventh day of September A.D. 1786.

page_0126

{602} Ebenezer Willis Henry Smith Selectmen of Dartmouth

Bristol ss : October y^e 7^th A.D. 1786. by virtue of this warrant I have warned the Town by posting Notifications In the several Districts.

pr me Daniel Howland J^nr. Constable.

{Oct 9 : 1786} At a Town meeting held at the Town House in Dartmouth on the ninth day of October 1786. Jabez Barker Chosen Moderator for said meeting then took into Consideration the first article in the Warrant Respecting Jonathan Tucker. Lebiration and after a full Debate they Voted against his being Liberated. The Town took into Consideration the second Article in the Warrant for Calling this meeting, and after a Large Debate thereon it was put to Vote and there was one Hundred + eighty one voted against Dividing said Town, without any Contridiction.

{Oct 17 : 1786} { Stamp} Bristol ss : Commonwealth of Massachusetts: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dart mouth. These are to require you in the name of the Common Wealth to notify and Warn all the freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town meetings. that they meet and assemble togeather at the Town house in said Dartmouth on the Twenty seventh day of October Instant, at ten of the Clock in the fournoon on said day, then, and there to act and Do what said Town may think proper Relative to an order of the General Court Respecting of Accuishnet Village being

{603} Incorporated into a seperate Town. And make Returns of this Warrant with your Doings unto the Clerk of said Town at or before the day of said meeting.

Given under our hands + seal at Dartmouth this seventeenth day of October A.D. 1786.

Ebenezer Willis } Selectmen of Henry Smith } Dartmouth.

Bristol ss : by Vertue of the Warrant I have Worned the Town by Posting Notifications in the several Destricts.

pr one Daniel Howland Constable October y^e 26th A.D. 1786

{Oct 27 : 1786} At a legal Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth on the 27^th day of October A.D. 1786.

Jabez Barker Chosen Moderator for said meeting the Town made Choice of Jethro Hathaway Stephen Peckcom William Tallman Holder Slocum & Benjⁿ Akin to Draw up an Answer to the Petition preferred to the General Court by a number of the Inhabitants of Accuishnet Village Praying to be set off into a seperate Town, who Reported an answer by way of Petition which was Read and amended and ordered to be Drawn into a fair Draft and be preferred to the General Court by agents Chosen at said meeting.

Jethro Hathaway and Samuel Sprague Esqr. are Chosen agents in Behalf of said Town to prefer the Petition of said Town, in Answer to the Petition the Town is sighted by the General Court to make answer to.

page_0127

{604} {May 2: 1786} Briston ss. to either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting.

in the name of the Common Wealth of Massachu setts, you are required to Notify and warn all the freeholders and other Inhabitants of said Town Quallified by Law to vote, in Town meet ings to meet togeath at the Town house in said Town on Thursday the eighteenth day of May next at ten of the clock in the forenoon, to act on a request of a number of the Inhab itants of said Town. which is as follows (viz) to see if said Town will Instruct their Rep resentative to use his influence in the General Court to get an emition of paper money or adopt some other method to ease the people, that may be thought best in their present Disstress, and make return of this warrant with your doings thereon unto the Town Clerk of said Town on or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands + seal at Dartmouth the second day of May A.D. 1786.

Ebenezer Willis } Selectmen Henry Smith + } of William Almy } Dartmouth.

Bristol ss: Dartmouth May 18^th, day 1786. by Vertue of this warrant to me Directed I have notified the Town as the law Directs.

pr me Joseph Demons Constable.

To the Selectmen of Dartmouth. Gentlemen— We, the subscribers beign apprized of the unhappy commotions that have taken place in our Common Wealth, and decisions to contribute as much as in us lies towards the Restoration of peace and good order: and prevent the effection of human blood, for these and many

{605} other reason, appertaining on our minds we do hereby request that a Town meeting may be called as soon as may be, to see if said Towns will prepare and forward a petition to the General Court praying —

for such things as s^d Town may think most condusive to the Publick good + for the general peace, good order + tranquility of the Town, + of the people of this Common Wealth.

Dartm^o February 20^th : 1787

Isaac Pope Job Jenne Isaac Vincent Silas Sweet Edward Bennett Chillingsworth Forster John Shepherd John Sanford Humphrey Russell Peleg Sanford David Smith Paul Slocum + Holder Slocum Requesters.

{Aug 11: 1786} { Stamp} Bristol ss, Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Dartmouth August 11^th A.D. 1786

to either of the Constables of the Town of Dart mouth, these are to Require you in the name of the Commonwealth, that you notify and warn all the freeholders and other Inhabi tants that are Quallified by law to vote in Town meetings to meet and assemble togeather at the Town house in said Dartsmouth on the Twenty eight day of this Instant. August at Two at the Clock in the afternoon. Then and there to act and do at said meeting on a request to us directed signed by ten or more sufficient freeholders of said town respecting the report of the Towns Committee, that was to Joyn the County Committees held at Taunton the Eighteenth day of July last, and Make return of this warrant with your doings to the Clerk of s^d Town at or before the day of said meeting.

page_0128

{606} Given under our hands and seal, in Dartmouth this seventh day of August. A.D. 1786.

Ebenezer Willis } Selectmen Henry Smith } of William Almy } Dartmouth

Bristol August 25^th A.D. 1786. by virtue of the within warrant I have worned the Town by posting up notifications in the several Districts.

pr me Daniel Howland Constble

{Aug 28 : 1786} At a Legal Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth the 28th: day of August 1786.

To the Honourable Town of Dartmouth in the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts.

the Petition of us the subscribers and Inhabitants in Acoaxset Village in the town of Westport. Humbly sheweth that whereas Acoaxset village is incorporated into a Town by the name of Westport, and in that Bill all the Inhabitants are holden to pay their proportion of the rears of back taxes and as we have a mind to belong to the Town of Dartmouth we humbly pray, that you will Call your Town togeather and see if they will vote that we may be Clear of your back rears of Taxes and also not to call upon us to mend your highways as it is a large Distance for many of us to Come, and if that vote is obtained we shall Come numiriously and your petioners in duty bound shall ever pray.

John Cornell, Elijah Allen, Benjⁿ Wilcox, David Wing, Prince Wing, Joseph Wing, Edward Wing, Robert Wood, Ebenezer Allen, Henry Howland, Prince Howland, Thomas Cornell,

{607} Abner Wilcox, Beriah Howland, George Tibbets. Jonathan Sisson, Henry Tibbits, Samuel Sisson, Job Sisson, Samuel Howland, William Sisson, Walter Davis, Wesson Howland, John Davies, Senr. George Sisson, Richard Sisson, Edward Wing J^nr Johnathan Tallman, x his mark. William Willcox, Timothy Gifford, Nathaniel Gifford, Daniel Gifford Williams Allen, Thomas Brownell, Joshua Earl, Jethro Soul, Job Davis ye 2d, John Davis, Phillip Sisson, James Sisson, Daniel Sisson, Philip Howland, Isaac Tripp, Isaac Howland, Charles Cornell, John Cuff, John Cornell.

{Sept 15 : 1787 } At a Town meeting held at the Town house in Dartmouth September the fifteenth day 1787.

Holder Slocum Chosen Moderator for said meeting.

Voted. that the Prayer of the Petition of a num ber of the Inhabitants of Westport, be granted. x

{March 6: 1787} { Stamp} Bristol ss: To either of the Constables of the Town of Dartmouth. Greeting.

In the Name of the Common Wealth of Massa chusetts. You are Required to Notify and Warn all the free holders and other Inhabitants of s^d Town that are Quallified by Law to vote in Town Meetings to meet Togeather at the Town house in s^d on Tuseday the Twentieth day of this Instant at Ten of the Clock in the fournoon on s^d Day. then and there to act on the pertic ulars Hereafter mentioned.

1 ly To Chuse Town officers for the year ensuing as the Law Directs.

2 ly to conclude by vote what number of school masters there shall be Provided for the years ensuing and the Charge of s^d Town.

page_0129

{608} 3ly to Chuse a Committee to Receive and settle Accompts with those that have Demands on against sd Town. Also to settle with the town treasurer for the year one Thousand Seven Hundred Eight six.

4ly to Receive Returns of highways and Town Landings Laid out or altered by the Select men for the Town to allow or disallow, in Order that they may be of Record

5ly to Conclude by vote what sum of money shall be raised by way of Tax for the ensuing year, within said Town.

6 ly to see if said Town will vote to mend and keep in repair the public roads in sd Town by way of Tax, or any other way, as said Town shall think proper

7ly for the Town to Consider and vote that part of Acoaxset village that is not provi ded with a Collector shall draw their pro portion out of the Town Treasury for Collecting.

8ly to Chuse a Committee to Joyn the Committee of New Bedford to settle the affairs of said Towns, agreable to the Act of the General Court incorporating of said Town.

9 ly to Chuse a County Treasurer for the year ensuing.

And make return of this Warrant and your doings unto the Clark of said Town, at or before the day of said meeting. Given under our hands at Dartmouth this sixth day of March A.D. 1787.

William Almy } Selectmen of Henry Smith ] Dartmouth

Bristol ss: March 20^th day 1787.

by Virtue of this Warrant I have Notified the Town as usial by posting up Notifications in several parts of said Town.

pr me Benjamin Howland Constable.

This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people:

Daniel Thombs, Diane M. Gilbert, Carol Fink, Ken Hawkins, Amanda Keeling, Sally Aldrich, Ann Hopkinson, Patricia M Capps, Adisababa, likethesnowdrop, Pari, Meilan Kay, Joni Wilson, Westport Historical Society, Hailey, Joanne DeMarco, Penny Williams, Lynette McLachlan, Betty Slade, Audrey Brandt, Swaroop Rao, MaryV, Jenny Oneill, Susan E Flory, Marilyn, Kay Oss, Shalini V, Joanne Seymour, Weriver6, Leandro Sulvita, vadem165, Emily, Myrto Paliakasi, Leslie Klug, Mary Blanchard, Jasmine Jones, Caitlyn Haley and Seth Lindstrom