A HISTORY of REHOBOTH
MASSACHUSETTS

Its History for 275 years
1643 - 1918.

In which is incorporated the vital parts of the
original history of the town, published in
1836, and written by Leonard Bliss, Jr.

By REV. GEORGE H. TILTON, A. M.
Founder of the Rehoboth Antiquarium Society
Minister in Rehoboth, 1877-1902 [last date blurry].

Boston, Mass.
Published by the author.
1918.

Biographies - HASKINS to PEIRCE

[Transcribed by Coralynn Brown]

CHARLES E. HASKINS Was born in Providence, R. I., April 14, 1833. His father was William Emerson Haskins, a relative of Ralph Waldo Emerson of Concord. His mother was Fannie Maria (Hodges) Haskins. Charles was educated in the public schools of his native city and was engaged for several years in the manufacture of jewelry in Providence. Removing to Rehoboth, he owned and operated the Joshua Miller farm on Providence Street. He was a successful farmer and market gardener, in which business he continued for more than forty years. He was an active member of the Congregational Church at Rehoboth Village, and for some years was superintendent of its Sunday school. He was also active in its District Branch at the Orleans Chapel. In town affairs he rendered faithful service in the supervision of schools and highways and did service as juryman. His integrity of purpose, generous hospitality, and his kind and genial spirit, won for him the sincere respect of the community. In 1858 he was married to Anna Frances Whitman of Providence, who died May 15, 1890, aged 55 years. In 1893 he married Anna E. Brenaman of Columbia, Pa., who survives him. Mr. Haskins died in Rehoboth, June 7, 1909, in his 77th year. CONSTANT SIMMONS HORTON Son of George H. and Arabella Horton of Rehoboth, was born on Annawan Street in Rehoboth, Jan. 7, 1848. He inherited a strong constitution which was invigorated by his life on the farm, and he was there unconsciously preparing for his special calling of police service in a large city. He received his education at the Annawan School and early learned the trade of a carpenter, at which he worked for several years. In 1877, at the age of 29, he was appointed on the police force of Providence, R. I., and assisted to the old Gaspee Street beat, the toughest in the city. His magnificent physique and great strength stood him in good stead. His unflinching courage, combined with good judgment and a gentle spirit, soon gained for him the respect and good-will of all classes. He handled successfully some hard cases, and on March 19, 1886, he was made sergeant; on Oct. 3, 1899, lieutenant; on Jan. 19, 1900, captain; on March 3, 1907, chief inspector, and on Nov. 16, 1911, he became deputy superintendant, which office he held at the time of his death, April 13, 1914. He was married, May 9, 1875, to Calista Willard Viall of East Providence, R. I., who survives him. Their son, Chester Shorey Horton, a young man of fine promise, has since died. Chief Horton was a man of varied talents. He was a lover of horses and for years bought all the horses for the department. He was a member of the Men's Club connected with the Union Baptist Church of Cranston, R. I. A fine trait of his character was his kindness to the poor. Yet his giving, like all his other acts, was without ostentation. Acting Mayor Vaughn paid him the following well deserved compliment: "I always knew him as a perfect gentleman and one of the best executives of the police department." His minister, Rev. Hugh Carpenter, said of him: "He was first of all a man, every inch a man. He was a proportionagte man, a man in every relationship." DANFORTH G. HORTON Son of Sylvanus and Hannah (Slade) Horton, was born in Rehoboth, March 21, 1813. He was an industrious and successful farmer, buying when a young man the farm at the corner of the Perryville and Carpenter roads, - a poor, sterile place, and after half a century leaving it one of the most fertile and highly cultivated farms in town. Mr. Horton was a good citizen, highly respected for his sterling qualities of mind and heart, and a prominent member of the Annawan Baptist Church. He had four children, but survived them all. He died Nov. 11, 1890, aged seventy-seven years. FRANK HATHAWAY HORTON Son of George Henry and Charlotte A. (Goff) Horton, was born in Rehoboth, July 15, 1874. His grandparents were George L. and Patience Bullock (Goff) Horton, only daughter of Richard Goff, who was born in the "Old Goff Inn." His maternal grandparents were Zenas Hathaway Goff and Cynthia Sophia Bliss, lineal descendant of Jonathan Bliss, one of the founders of Rehoboth. Mr. Horton was married to E. Amelia Viall of Rehoboth, Jan. 14, 1897. They have one son, Ralph H. Mr. Horton was assistant postmaster from January, 1897 to January 1902, and postmaster from 1902 to 1910. He runs a dairy farm with a herd of thirty partially registered Holstein cows; has been manager of a general grocery store for the past ninteen years. He is one of the selectmen and overseers of the poor, and has been one of the assessors since 1912. REV. GEORGE HIRAM HORTON Was born in Rehoboth, Jan. 29, 1862, the son of Gilbert M. and Sarah F. (Pierce) Horton. He attended the public schools of the town, working for his father on the farm at the same time. Having decided to enter the Gospel ministry, he applied himself to the study of theology under his grandfather, Rev. Waterman Pierce. He was ordained to the Christian ministry June 7, 1883. Soon after this the First Free Baptist Church in South Rehoboth was organized as the result of his ministry in that place, and a chapel was erected at a cost of about $1,400.00, Mr. Gilbert Horton, his father, being the leading spirit in the movement. He served as pastor of this church ten years, and also served, in conjunction with his work here, as associate pastor of the Barneyville Free Baptist Church five years, resigning to accept a call from the Hornbine Six Principle Baptist Church in Southeast Rehoboth. He remained with this church five years, during which period the church voted to become a Free Baptist Church and affiliated itself with the Rhode Island Association of Free Baptist Churches. He was then called to the Free Baptist Church, North Scituate, R. I., remaining three years with many accessions. He next became pastor of the Free Baptist Church in Blackstone, Mass., and enjoyed a very pleasant and prosperious pastorate of twelve years and six months. He resigned this charge much to the regret of the people to accept a call from the Bethany Free Baptist Church in Pawtucket, R. I., and is now on his sixth year in this delightful pastorate. He has filled important positions in his denomination, serving as president in 1913 and 1914 of the Roger Williams Association, and also has served on important committees. While a resident of Seekonk, Mass., he served a number of years on the school board. He married, March, 1885, Carrie E. Sisson of Seekonk, Mass., daughter of Shubael B. and Hannah B. Sission of that town. Two sons blessed the union: Oscar Everett and Irving Elmer. Irving E. died in 1912. Oscar E. Horton, the eldest son, is engaged in business in Boston, Mass. Mr. Horton has baptized 175 candidates, officiated at 296 funerals, and at 145 marriages. HENRY TAMERLINE HORTON Son of Tamerline Wheeler and Amanda (Walker) Horton, was born Dec. 11, 1845, in the house he now occupies, where his grandmother, Rebecca (Wheeler) Horton was born in 1780. He received his education in the district schools of the town. He owns the farm of about one hundred and thirty acres, one-half mile from Rehoboth Village, which has been in the family more than one hundred and fifty years, and but one deed has been given of the property during this time. He married Belle H. Bryant, daughter of William H. and Fannie Belle Horton, Feb. 5, 1890. They have one daughter, Fannie Belle Horton, born Dec. 30, 1890, a graduate of Wheaton College in 1911, and subsequently a teacher. Mr. Horton is a Republican in politics, having represented the First Bristol District in the State Legislature in 1899, served on the committee of town, March 7, 1877, served as chairman of the board of selectmen, assessors and overseers of the poor for twenty-two years, and retired at his own request and has since served as auditor. He is now (1918) moderator at the annual election. Mr. Horton is a charter member and past master of Annawan Grange, P. of H.; a member of Pioneer Lodge A. F. and A. M. of Somerset, Mass., vice-president and treasurer of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church, trustee of Church and Society, and is eligible to the Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. His great-grandfathers, Solomon Horton and William Walker, served in Capt. Elijah Walker's Company, Col. Pope's Bristol County Regiment, on the alarm at Rhode Island, Dec. 8, 1776. His Wheeler line of descent is as follows: John Wheeler (1), said to have been born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, sailed to America, March 24, 1633-34, in the ship "Mary and John" to Agawam (now Ipswich) Mass. The following year he moved to Salisbury and after 1641 was one of the original proprietors, held property and paid taxes as late as 1652. He died in Newbury, Aug. 28, 1670, aged fifty-two. Henry Wheeler (2), son, born, Jan. 4, 1639-40. James Wheeler (3), born May 27, 1667. James Wheeler (4), born at Rehoboth, March 27, 1697. Jeremiah Wheeler (5), born March 23, 1731. Jermiah Wheeler (6), born Sept. 28, 1753. Rebeckah Wheeler (7), born Feb. 28, 1781. Tamerine Wheeler Horton (8), born Sept. 17, 1805. Henry Tamerline Horton (9), born Dec. 11, 1845. Fannie Belle Horton (10), born Dec. 30, 1890. His Horton Genealogy is traced thus: Thomas Horton (1), born 1620. Thomas Horton (2), born Jan. 9, 1655. Solomon Horton (3), born Jan. 1, 1682. Solomon Horton (4), born 1712-15. Solomon Horton (5), born Jan. 15, 1742, Revolutionary soldier. Solomon Horton (6), born 1761, died 1833. Tamerline Horton (7), born Sept. 17, 1805. Henry T. Horton (8), born Dec. 11, 1845. His Walker line is as follows: Widow Walker (1), one of the original proprietors of Rehoboth. James Walker, born 1619. James Walker (3), born 1645. Nathan Walker (4), born 1677. William Walker (5), born Aug. 7, 1715. William Walker (6), born Dec. 14, 1743. William Walker (7), born March 24, 1770. Amanda Walker (8), married Tamerline Horton. Henry T. Horton (9). Fannie Belle Horton (10). His Mayflower descent is as follows: Thomas Rogers (1), came in the Mayflower and died in the general sickness in Dec., 1620. John Rogers (2), born in England. Abagail Rogers (3), born 1641, married John Richmond. Abagail Richmond (4), born Feb. 26, 1678, married Nathan Walker, born 1677. William Walker (5), born Aug. 7, 1715. William Walker (6), born Dec. 14, 1743, Revolutionary soldier. William Walker (7), born March 24, 1770. Amanda Walker (8), married Tamerline Horton. Henry T. Horton (9). Fannie Belle Horton (10). HORACE E. HORTON, PhD. Born in Rehoboth, Aug. 16, 1864, the son of Horace Le Baron Horton and Emeline Baker. Descended from Thomas Horton who lived in Rehoboth and Swanzey in the seventeenth century. Married to Alice R. Brigham of Shrewsbury, Mass., a descendant of the Fairbanks and Knowlton families. Three children: James E., Margaret W. and Horace, Jr. Mr. Horton had the unusual experience as a boy of living with grandparents who, born in the eighteenth century, retained all the customs, prejudices and animosities of an earlier generation. In the home and in the fields of the farm the conversations were of family deeds: men who fought Philip, participated in the expedition for the reduction of Canada, sailed the seas and later fought the detested British; of those other men also who from the pulpit fought Boston and Plymouth for religious freedom. Out of these early years came deep love for and pride in the old town. Mr. Horton was educated in Harvard College and the famous German University at Gottingen. He is a member of a number of learned societies in Europe and in this country. Has been professor in two Universities. Has taken an active part with a small group of men in Europe in the agricultural awakening in the country. His home is in Chicago, Ill. Now Agricultural Commissioner of the American Steel and Wire Co., Chicago. JEREMIAH W. HORTON Son of Tamerline Wheeler Horton, who was born in Dighton, Sept. 17, 1805, and died in Rehoboth, June 6, 1889. His mother [transcriber's note: must have meant 'wife'] was Amanda Walker of Dighton, born July 28, 1805, and died Oct. 2, 1865. They were married July 26, 1835. Jeremiah's grandfather was Solomon Horton of Dighton, who married Rebecca Wheeler of Rehoboth, May 23, 1802. Jeremiah was born in Rehoboth, April 8, 1844, one of six children. He obtained his education in the schools of Rehoboth, including several terms at the Bicknell High School. When a young man he became a citizen of Newport, R. I., and soon established himself in a successful mercantile business. His adopted city honored him by an election to its mayoralty in 1893. Mr. Horton has been colonel of the Newport Artillery and also representative to the General Assembly from that city. He was Police Commissioner in 1906. A man of fine qualities and a public-spirited citizen, his "character and attainments reflect honor upon his family and native town." NATHANIEL B. HORTON Son of Aaron and Bethany (Baker) Horton of Dighton, was born in Rehoboth, July 25, 1820. With but a meager education, he learned the mason's trade, at which he worked for twenty years. Trained to industry and economy, and gifted with large business ability, he acquired a handsome property, and by his upright dealings won universal respect. During the Civil War he was agent for the town in filling its quota for military service. He owned a large farm of 250 acres which he and his two sons brought into a high state of cultivation. Mr. Horton represented his town in the General Cout in 1862-3; was town treasurer and tax collector for several years, and was a large mill owner and director. He settled many estates and was a local banker for loaning money. Mr. Horton married, Jan. 11, 1844, Mary M. Eddy of Swansea. They had four children. The two sons, Adin B. and Arthur E., both thrify farmers, carry on the ancestral farm together. Mr. Horton died Jan. 4, 1900, in his 80th year. WELCOME F. HORTON Youngest of the five sons of Gilbert M. and Sarah F. (Pierce) Horton, was born in Rehoboth, May 20, 1865. His father, Gilbert M., was born in Rehoboth in 1827, son of Arial B. and Freelove (Pierce) Horton. His mother, Sarah F. Pierce, was born in Rehoboth in 1826, daughter of Rev. Waterman and Betsey (Baker) Pierce. His father, Gilber M., carried on the wholesale meat business and farming together for most of his life, going to the Brighton cattle market almost weekly for many years. Welcome F., subject of this sketch, attended the public schools of his native town until, at the age of seventeen, he began the retail meat business which he carried on successfully for nineteen years, when he sold out and took a much needed vacation. He then accepted a government position which he still retains. When Mr. Horton became of age, he felt a keen interest in the political affairs of his town. At the age of twenty-nine he was elected a member of the boards of selectmen and assessors and overseers of the poor, which offices he filled successfully for eleven years, when, having taken a government position, he was obliged to decline further service in town affairs. As a town official Mr. Horton worked to secure various improvements - a state highway, an electric street railway, and the free delivery of mail. He had the pleasure of riding on the first electric car from Taunton through Rehoboth to the state line. In 1902 he was a candidate for the Massachusetts Legislature, but was defeated by a small margin. Mr. Horton is a member of Annawan Grange, Rehoboth, and Pioneer Lodge of A.F. and A.M., Somerset, Mass. He married April 7, 1887, Henrietta E. Barney, daughter of Henry W. and Eliza A. Barney, a teacher in the public schools of Rehoboth and Swansea. PETER BROWN HUNT, ESQ. Was born in Rehoboth (now Seekonk) Feb. 1, 1794; graduated at Brown University in 1816; was admitted to the Massachusetts and Rhode Island bars; commenced practice in Seekonk in 1819, and died April 28, 1831. He was the son of Peter (5) and Sarah (Ide), of John (4) and Rachel (Carpenter), of John (3) and Susannah Sweeting, of Ephraim (2) and Rebecca ____, of Peter (1) and Elizabeth (Smith). WILLIAM A. KING Was descended from the Kings of Raynham, a family distinguished for its honesty and piety. His great-grandfather, Robert King, purchased a farm in Rehoboth, which remained in possession of the family for several generations, though in some instances the family moved out of town for a time and afterward returned. The son of Robert was Robert King Jr., grandfather of William. He was born Aug. 17, 1750, and married, March 8, 1779, Freelove Harvey, who was born Sept. 17, 1750. They both died at Rehoboth of a kind of typhus fever called the "cold plague," which prevailed and was very fatal in the vicinity during the cold summer of 1816. In Attleborough one hundred inhabitants died within the space of ninety days. Rev. Otis Thompson, in a note appended to his sermon preached at the funeral of Mrs. Freelove King, pays the following tribute to Mr. King: "Mr. King was not long left to lament the loss of his virtuous and estimable consort. In less than two months he followed her to the house of rest and glory. He died of typhus fever, June 13, 1816, in the sixty-seventh year of his age. Mr. King was universally esteemed as a man of piety and worth. In the year 1800 he united with the Church of Christ, and ever after adorned his profession by a circumspect and exemplary conversation." They had seven children, of whom the youngest was Elisha A., the father of the subject of this sketch. He was born Dec. 6, 1795. He married, in 1820, Mary A. C. Short of Rehoboth. After living for some years in Taunton, they returned to Rehoboth in 1835. Mr. King was deacon of the Congregational Church in the Village. In 1847 he moved to Providence, R. I. He had four children, one of whom, Mary A., married Philip C. Gray of Little Compton. William A., the eldest son, was born in Rehoboth in 1822. He married Mary (Luther) Peck of Rehoboth, and resided there many years, moving to Attleborough in 1885. Mr. King was a member of the school board of Rehoboth for about fourteen years, and represented the fifth Bristol District in the Massachusetts House of Representative in 1868. He was a man of sound judgment, upright character, and genial disposition. He was greatly interested in the welfar of his native town, particularly in the schools. He died in Attleborough, July 11, 1891. He had four children, as follows: (1) Benjamin Peck, born in Warren, R. I., Dec. 16, 1847, now a resident of Attleborough, a tool-maker, has been a member of the Attleborough school board for eighteen years, of which he is now chairman, also a member of the board of overseers of the poor for many years, and a prominent Mason. (2) Rufina M. E., born at Warren, R. I., March 17, 1850; she was married in 1870 to Stephen F. Munroe; they had five sons, three of whom are living; she died Feb. 17, 1908. (3) Mary H., born Nov. 14, 1857; married June 19, 1883, to William H. Easterbrooks. They had one child, Alice M., born July 2, 1884, who married Harold K. Richardson, June 24, 1908, and is now living in Attleborough. They have two children: Roger King, born Aug. 14, 1909, and Marian L., born April 18, 1912. (4) William Lincoln, born Nov. 4, 1860; married June 25, 1890, to Annie E. Gilmore of Attleborough; member of the firm of E. D. Gilmore & Co. Mr. King is a successful business man and is prominent in town affairs and various orders. HIRAM LAKE, M.D. Was born in Rehoboth, Mass., Aug. 25, 1820, the second son of Joseph and Eleanor (Williams) Lake. His paternal ancestry is traced back through the Lakes to a very early period; his Ellis line to Lieut.-Gov. John Ellis and Elizabeth Freeman; his Goff line to Anthony and Sarah (Polly) Goff in this country; his Thurber line to John and Priscilla Thurber; his Chency line to "Mr." William and Margaret Cheney; his Thurston to Ensign (Dea.) John Thurston and Margaret; his Burgess, to Thomas Burgess, member of Parliament from Truto (1602-23), and wife, Elizabeth Pye, whom he married March 21, 1598; his Warden to Pter; his Toogood to Nathaniel; his Bullock to Stephen; his Moulton to Capt. (Dea.) James Sr.; his Bliss through Thomas and Dorothy (Wheatley) Bliss, Rehoboth's famous settler, who was born in Deventry, England, 1582. His maternal ancestry is also distinguished; here through the Williams and Makepeace lines, he goes back to the Mayflower Pilgrim Thomas Rogers; to John Johnson, the first surveyor-general and first commander of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. His Waldron line to William Walderns, Alcester, England, and wife Joan (he was buried there Jan. 13, 1590); his Briggs to the time of Edward III and 1272; his Macomber to Thomas and wife Thomasine of Exeter, Eng.; his Hilton to William who came in the Fortune, 1621; his Woodman to Richard Woodman who was burnt at the stake in front of Star Inn, Lewis, Sussex Co., Eng., June 22, 1557; his Greenleaf through Edmund Greenleaf to France, 1066; his Dole also to France, but family were in England after 1066; his Bryant to Stephen; his Shaw to Abraham; his Phillips to Dea. Nicholas. Dr. Lake's father was a prosperous farmer and horse-breeder, and his early life was not unlike that of most boys reared in the country. He enjoyed such advanatages as the district school of those days afforded, worked on the farm, grew strong in body, varied in resources and sound in character. He attended the academy and a boys' school in Providence, R.I., fitting for Brown University; but his father objected, and he entered a drugstore in Providence as clerk and began the study of anatomy and medicine with Dr. Busker. Later he studied with Dr. Bowker of New York, afterwards entering the Cincinnati Medical College, receiving his M.D. in 1846. In that year he married Olive Fuller Shorey of Seekonk and settled in Holliston, Mass., where, and in the towns in the vicinity, he was in active practice for forty-two years. As a physician he was unusually successful and greatly beloved by old and young. He was a veteran Odd Fellow and also a treasurer of Holliston Savings Bank. He organized the first Board of Health of Holliston, and was for many years its president and secretary. He was a Republican in politics, active in temperance work and the Y.M.C.A. when that organization flourished in Holliston. He united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in April, 1859, and was an active member and a trusted official of the church. He was interested in starting and maintaining religious services in outlying districts of the town and also in Sherborn, and contributed liberally of his time and means for their support. The pastors who served the church in the days of his activity will remember him as an earnest, faithful member, always ready to second their efforts and support them in all departments of their work. He was greatly beloved by the whole community for his friendly sympathy, his cheery words, and his ever-ready "helping hand." Hiram Lake, M.D., died in Holliston, Mass., Feb. 16, 1898. Mrs. Olive Fuller Lake died March 6, 1909. Both lie buried in the Village Cemetery, Rehoboth, Mass. A daughter, Miss Gertrude Lake, survives. WILLIAM H. LUTHER Was the son of Rodolphus Luther of Swansea and Lephe (Goff) Luther of Rehoboth. He was born in Rehoboth May 5, 1840; married Dec. 25, 1867, Abbie J. Goff, daughter of Enoch and Keziah (Luther) Goff of Rehoboth. They had two children: (1) William K., born Oct. 29, 1868; married Lillian B. Carpenter of Rehoboth, daughter of Thomas W. and Mary (Seagraves) Carpenter, Jan. 30, 1889. They had issue: Ella Blanche, born August, 1889; married Edward B. Roberts; Bessie May, born Sept. 23, 1892; Edwin Newton, born April 24, 1905; and two deceased. (2) George Henry, born Jan. 4, 1871; married Marianne Frances Bishop, June 10, 1895; one son, George Bishop, born Nov. 27, 1897. Mr. Luther attended the district schools and High School at Rehoboth, and also studied at the Thetford Academy, Vt., in 1858. During the War of the Rebellion he entered the Union service in Co. H, 3d Mass. Infantry, Sept. 23, 1862, and was mustered out with the regiment June 26, 1863. By two re-enlistments in the 18th Unattached Mass. Co., he continued in the army until May 12, 1864, successfully as private, corporal and sergeant. He was commander of Bucklin Post, No. 20, Dept. R.I., G.A.R., in 1901, 1911 and 1912. After the war he resided in Rehoboth till 1893, when he removed to East Providence, R. I., and was book-keeper for the East Providence Ice Company for nine years, and for the Citizens' Ice Company at Pawtucket for eight years. While at Rehoboth he was town clerk for many years, and also served on the school board for six years. HON. SIMEON MARTIN Was born in Rehoboth, Oct. 20, 1754. He was the son of Silvanus Martin, Esq., and Martha (Wheeler) Martin, a descendant of John Martin who emigrted from England in 1665. Not less than five successive generations were born and lived in Rehoboth: John (1) emigrant ancestor, married Marcye Billington, June 27, 1681. John (2), born June 10, 1682; married Hannah Darling, Dec. 25, 1701. Ephraim (3), born _____; married Thankful Bullock, Dec. 6, 1699; died June 25, 1733-4. Edward (4), born Oct. 22, 1700; married Rebecca Peck, Nov. 8, 1722; died June 2, 1745. Silvanus (5), born July 1, 1727; married Martha Wheeler, Feb. 20, 1745-6; died Aug. 13, 1782. Simeon (6), born Oct. 20, 1754; died Sept. 3, 1819. While in his youth Simeon removed to Providence, R. I., and was one of the first to enlist in the War of the Revolution. He was in Col. Crane's artillery company at Roxbury with Washington in 1775. Was captain in Col. Lippitt's regiment, and was in the battle of Trenton under Washington in 1776. He was in the expedition on Rhode Island under Gen. Sullivan in 1778. On the evacuation of Newport by the British in 1779 he removed to that place and for several years was chosen to represent the town in the General Assembly. He was first Adjutant-General, then Major-General of the State Militia, and for a number of years was elected Governor until he declined a re-election in 1816. At the time of his death he was a member of the corporation of Brown University. As a merchant he was highly respected for his honesty. It is said of him, "He was a dutiful son, a kind brother, a tender husband, an affectionate father and a good neighbor. He died in full belief of obtaining salvation in and through the merits of Christ the Son of God." He is buried in the old yard at Burial Place Hill in South Rehoboth. PROF. FREDERICK WILLIAM MARVEL Was born in Rehoboth, Dec. 25, 1869, the son of William H. and Harriet (Bowen) Marvel. His grandparents on both sides were leading citizens of the town. On account of his mother's early death he was brought up by his grandparents at the Marvel homestead in Rehoboth Village. The home atmosphere of kindly service in which the boy grew up gave tone to his whole life. As a schoolboy he was a leader in the athletic and social activities of his neighborhood. From the Rehoboth schools, including the private school at the Goff Memorial Hall, he went to Worcester Academy. Here he soon won a position for himself by his manly charcter and by his physical accomplishments. He won the medal as all-round gymnast, was captain of the track team and a member of the board of monitors. On entering Brown University in 1890 he immediately took a prominent part in college affairs. He was a member of the athletic team for four years and captain for two. During this time he established four Brown records and one New England intercollegiate record. He was president of the Reading-Room Associaton, and a member of the Cammarian Club, the honorary Senior society. He became a member of Zeta Psi Fraternity, of which he is now a director. After graduation, Mr. Marvel for two years acted as instructor in mechanical drawing and in physical training in Brown University. From this work he was called to the directorship of the gymnasium at Wesleyan University, Middletown, Conn. Here he also acted as coach to the track team. In 1901 Mr. Marvel returned to Providence and engaged in business for one year, during which time he had charge of the physical training at the Moses Brown Preparatory School. On June 2, 1902, he was married to Elizabeth Stanton Knowles, daughter of Edwin and Dorcas (Clark) Knowles of Provicence, R. I. After another year at Wesleyan he was called, in 1903-4, to Brown to act as instructor in physical training. The following year his rank was raised to that of full professor of physical training, and in 1906 he was also made Supervisor of Athletics, which position he still holds (1918). As every student is obliged to take the required work in the gymnasium under the direction of Prof. Marvel, no man on the Brown faculty has a larger acquaintance among the Brown alumni. "He has always believed," writes President Faunce, "in 'a sound mind in a sound body,' and has made physical development a real help to scholarship and character." Prof. Marvel is a member of The American Physical Education Society, the Society of College Gymnasium Directors, also the University Club of Providence, R. I., and the Brown Club of New York City. Prof. John F. Greene, his colleague and friend, presents the following appreciation: "He has been chiefly responsible for the financial soundness and the sportsmanly conduct of Brown athletics. His work is thoroughly appreciated at Brown and elsewhere in the country for the sense he has of the proportion of athletic to other college interests; for the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship which he imparts to all associated with him, and for his success in holding students up to the standards of responsibility and honesty even when they are assailed by an overpowering desire to win." JOHN COTTON MARVEL Was born in Westport, Mass., July 31, 1817. His boyhood until the age of twelve was passed in that part of Swansea called "Swansea Factory," where his father, William Marvel 2d, was superintendent of the cotton mill. In 1829 the family moved to Rehoboth Village and his father became agent for the Union Manufacturing Co., which position he filled for about six years. In the meantime young Marvel studied for a time in Minister Thompson's school and was busy helping in the Company's store and working on the land. Later he kept the Village store for many years, and also carried on his farm near the Village. He was appointed postmaster May 11, 1843, and held the office until Feb. 15, 1897, - a period of nearly fifty-four years. Politically he was a Whig of the old school, but later he became a steadfast Republican; was justice of the peace, and for three years town treasurer and collector. He served in the Massachusetts Legislature in 1859 and was an honored member and liberal supporter of the Congregational Church. About the year 1845, Mr. Marvel moved to South Rehoboth and took charge of the store of the Orleans Manufacturing Co. for two years. Mr. Marvel married for his first wife, Ruth Wheeler Peck of South Rehoboth, Feb. 20, 1842. They had one son, William Henry, born Jan. 31, 1843, the mother dying ten days later. William Henry married Harriet A. Bowen, June 25, 1865; he died May 20, 1909, leaving one son, Frederic W. (see sketch). His second wife was Frances A. Peck, sister of Ruth W., whom he married Dec. 2, 1849. They had four children: (1) Ruth A., born July 18, 1851; died Oct. 6, 1871. (2) Jonathan Irvin, born Jan. 24, 1900, in New York City. (3) Clarence Church, born Aug. 26, 1901, in New York City. JOHN F. MARVEL Son of the former, is of the sixth generation from _ Thomas (1), born Sept. 15, 1709; married Sept. 15, 1730, Ruth Kempton, daughter of Stephen (4), Ephraim (3), Ephraim (2), Ephraim (1). Stephen (2), born Aug. 4, 1737. Married Ann LeMoine. Benanuel (3), born Jan. 25, 1765; married Jan. 7, 1788, Sarah Mason, daughter of Amos (5), Caleb (4), Isaac (3), Isaac (2), Samson (1) who married Mary Ann Butterworth. William (4), born Nov. 23, 1789; married (1) Betsey Pettis; (2) Sally Pettis (sisters), who were descended on their maternal side form Francis Cook of the Mayflower. John Cotton (5), born July 31, 1817; married Ruth W. Peck and Frances A. Peck. John F. (6), the subject of our sketch, was born in Rehoboth Village, June 18, 1857; married Nov. 28, 1899, Abbie (Wilmarth) Chace. One daughter, Ruth W., was born July 24, 1902. Mr. Marvel was graduated at the East Greenwich Academy in 1878. In 1879 he made his first trip to the Azores in the bark "Veronica," which carried supplies to whalers and returned with Portugese emigrants. In 1882 he visited Madeira and other islands of the Atlantic. He afterwards assisted his father in the store and post-office. In 1888 he traveled in Germany, spending some months at Bremen and Munich, and in the Tyrol, Verona, Venice and Trieste. In 1889 he returned to Germany, sojourning for some time in Berlin. On returning home he continued to assist his father in business, and became fond of athletics, excelling particularly in base-ball. He belonged to several local teams and played first base. In politics he is a Republican, and while interested in town affairs has declinde to hold office. For many years he has pursued the double calling of carpenter and painter. In 1884 he joined the Pioneer lodge of Masons in Somerset. Mr. Marvel is an active worker in the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, and is highly esteemed for his many sterling qualities. CALEB MILLER, M.D. Son of Philip and Rhoba, was born in Rehoboth, June 23, 1785; married Mary Ann Bucklin of Seekonk, Aug. 14, 1816; settled in Bristol, R.I., where he died Nov. 13, 1826, in his forty-second year; buried beside his wife nd two children at "Burial Place Hill," South Rehoboth. An inscription on his stone reads: "In all the relations of life he was a man." CAPT. JOSHUA MILLER Son of Philip and Rhoba, and brother of Dr. Caleb Miller, and brother of Dr. Caleb Miller, was born in Rehoboth, Jan. 18, 1789. Married Lydia Wheeler of Rehoboth, Sept. 2, 1810; died Feb. 24, 1850, and is buried beside his brother at "Burial Place Hill." He owned and conducted a factory for the tanning of morocco leather at Palmer's River, near his residence. Was commissioned captain in the Rehoboth Militia, March 1, 1817. Like his brothers he had an aptitude for the healing art and was often called to prescribe for the sick and to give first aid in cases of injury. His daughter, Electa Ann, who married Dea. G.A. Reed of Rehoboth, was a gifted nurse. NATHANIEL MILLER, M.D. Son of Philip and Rhoba, born in Swansea, Mass., April 23. 1771, but soon afterwards his parents removed to Rehoboth where he was brought up. He graduated from Bowdoin College in 1814, studied medicine with Dr. Louis Leprilete of Norton, and took his degree in 1817 at both Brunswick and Harvard. He settled in Franklin, where he built for his practice a large private hospital which, having stood for a century, was burned in 1913. He also built a small tread-mill near his residence and employed Col. Willard Boyd as manager. Dr. Miller was an influential citizen, active in public affairs and generous in charity. He married, Jan. 1, 1797, Hannah Boyd of Franklin. She died April 29, 1840. He died June 10, 1850, both at Franklin. Two of Dr. Miller's sons were distinguished physicians and surgeons: Lewis Leprilete, who practiecd medicine in Providence, R. I., from 1827 to 1867. Erasmus D., who settled in Dorchester, Mass., where his distinguished son, Dr. Winthop Miller, was born. The genealogy of this branch of the Miller family is as follows _ bearing in mind that Miller and Millerd are two forms of the same name: John Millerd (1), a proprietor of Rehoboth in 1643, cousin and heir of Thomas Millerd of Boston, who owned a larage part of what is now Boston Common. Robert (2), born in 1640; married Elizabeth ____. Their children were born in Rehoboth. Nathaniel (3), born in Rehoboth, March 31, 1672; married (1) March 30, 1694, Susannah Gladding, and (2) May 30, 1728, Rebecca Taylor of Taunton. He died March 16, 1740-1. Nathaniel (4), born in Rehoboth, Oct. 7, 1696; married Ruth Chase of Newbury, Mass. Nathaniel (5), born in Rehoboth, Jan. 23, 1725-6; married May 15, 1748, Mary Wheeler. Philip (6), born in Rehoboth, May 6, 1750; married Rhoba ____. Lived for a time in Swansea. Was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Nine children. Nathaniel, M.D. (7), born in Swansea, April 23, 1771; spent his boyhood in Rehoboth; settled in Franklin, etc. Lewis Leprilete, M.D. (8), born at Franklin, Mass., Jan. 6, 1798; graduated from Brown University in 1817; M.D. at Harvard. Married, Dec., 1822, Electa Smith of Bristol; practiced medicine in Providence from 1827 to 1867. Died in Providence, March 8, 1870. Nathaniel, M.D. (9), born at Providence, Dec. 20, 1824, where he resided and practiced until his death, May 5, 1866. Both he and his father were eminent in their profession. From the above we see that the Miller or Millerd family of Rehoboth gave to the world no less than six honored physicians, all of whom were distinguished in surgery. HON. ADDISON P. MUNROE Son of Philip A. and Delana (Pierce) Munroe, was born in Providence, R. I., Jan. 2, 1862. As a small lad he attended the Harris School in Rehoboth, but completed his education in the public schools of his native city, after which he engaged in the grocery business in Providence, following that until 1909 when he retired. Mr. Munroe has taken a prominent part in public affairs and ranks among the foremost Democrats of his city and state. He was a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives from Providence in 1903, serving on the committee on accounts and claims. From 1911 to 1914 inclusive he served as state senator from the City of Providence, being a member of the judiciary and other important committees. He was a Democratic leader in the Senate and took an active part in legislation, introducing many important measures and participating in all important debates. In 1898, 1899 and 1900, he was president of the Young Men's Democratic Club, at that time the largest political organization in the state. In 1913 he was his party's candidate for United States Senator, receiving the full party vote in both branches of the General Assembly. In 1916 he was nominated for Governor by the Democratic State Convention, but as a result of the Republican tidal wave that swept Rhode Island in that year, he was defeated. He is a member of the state commission having in charge the armonry for mounted commands of the state militia. He is greatly interested in historical and genealogical matters, and is a member of the Rhode Island Society of Mayflower Descendants, and served as governor of that society in 1911, 1912 and 1913. In 1912 he was elected deputy-governor-general of the National Society of Mayflower Descendants, and still holds that office. He is also a member of the Society of Colonial Wars, Sons of the American Revolution, and of the Rhode Island Historical Society. Addison P. Munroe married, Dec. 22, 1885, Annie Burnside Hopkins, daughter of Nelson and Emily Greene (Bateman) Hopkins; she is descended from a line of distinguished colonial ancestors, and is a member of the Colonial Dames of America, and of Gaspee Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. She was born in Cranston, R. I., Aug. 12, 1861. The children of Addison P. and Annie (Hopkins) Munroe are: (1) Chester Pierce, born in Providence, Sept 1, 1889; married (1) June 24, 1912, Gladys Avis Rich; (2) June 3, 1917, Mary Doris Davenport. He is chief clerk at the Grove Park Inn, Asheville, N.C. (2) Harold Bateman, born in Providence, Sept. 11, 1891; married Esther Louise Whipple, June 4, 1913. He is a deputy sheriff of Providence County, State of Rhode Island. BENJAMIN F. MUNROE Is the fifth generation in direct line from John Munroe: John (1), Benjamin (2), Benjamin (3), John (4), Benjamin (5). He was the son of John N. and Lousina J. (Knapp) Munroe, and was born in Rehoboth, March 20, 1866. Married, Jan. 30, 1895, Grace Marian Appleby of Providence, R. I. Seven children have been born to them: (1) Marion F., born Jan. 7, 1896. (2) Clarence C., born Sept. 1, 1897. (3) Benjamin C., born Oct. 25, 1899. (4) Hope A., born Feb. 7, 1902. (5) Chester M., born March 31, 1904. (6) Clara F., born Feb. 12, 1908. (7) Ralph G., born Sept. 24, 1915. Mr. Munroe purchased the ancestral homestead in 1908, where he now resides. He is prominent in the affairs of his native town, having been chosen selectmen and one of the board of assessors continuoulsy since 1911. He is also the town Forest Warden. CLARENCE M. MUNROE Born in Rehoboth, Mass., Feb. 19, 1855; son of John N. and Lousina J. Munroe. Left home at the age of eighteen; two years later located in Providence, and in 1881 engaged in the hay and grain business which is still continued under the name of C. M. Munroe & Son, 8 to 18 Bath Street. On May 3, 1882, he married Honora Isabelle Kase, daughter of Joseph H. and Matilda Kase of Rushtown, Northumberland County, Pa. One son, John K. Munroe, born June 15, 1883; he married Zanna M. Miner of East Providence, R.I., June 15, 1909. PHILIP ALLEN MUNROE Son of Burden and Lydia (Baker) Munroe, was born in Swansea, Mass., Nov. 27, 1821. He was descended from a long line of illustrious ancestors, the Munoe family being of Scotch (Scottish) descent, traced back to the eleventh century. Through the marriage of his great-grandfather, John Munro, to Hannah Rosbotham, he was descended from Richard Warren who came to America in the Mayflower in 1620, his line of descent from the Mayflower being: Richard Warren (1), Elizabeth Warren (2), Col. Benjamin Church (3), Elizabeth Church (4), Hannah Rosbotham (5), who married John Munro, Stephen Munro (6), Burden Munroe (7), Philip Allen Munroe (8). Although he never became a member, he was eligible to membeship in the Society of Mayflower Descendants and the Society of Colonial Wars. When he was five years of age his parents removed to Warren, R. I., where they resided for two or three years, after which his father purchased a farm in Rehoboth, where the family permanently settled. Philip obtained his education, which was limited, in the little old school-house near his father's farm, the course of study being restricted to the "three Rs." With this meager schooling he commenced a career of wide usefulness and substantial success, startin empty-handed and by indomitable perseverance and industry acquired a handsome competence. He was in every respect a self-made man, of unimpeachable integrity, and became one of the most prominent business men of the City of Providence. After leaving school he learned the mason's trade which he followed for about a year in Pawtucket, R. I. He then became a clerk in the grocery store of his brother-in-law, Lyman Pierce, on Canal Street in Providence, which was the beginning of his successful business career. After about a year he became a partner in the business, and so little capital did he have that he was obliged to give his not in payment for his interest, which note he paid in a little over a year. This partnership continued for sixteen years, Mr. Pierce retiring from the firm at the end of that period. Mr. Munroe continued in business at the old stand, and later took his brother Burden into partnership; the business, which had now grown to immense proportions, being conducted under the firm name of P. A. Munroe & Co., and was continued until 1876, when the firm was dissolved and both partners retired from active business. Mr. Munroe had been connected with the business for about thirty years and his retirement was well earned. He had previously settled in East Providence, where he had built a fine residence, and after his retirement he devoted his attention to looking after his large real estate interests; in addition to which he served as executor and trustee for several estates. He spent winters in Florida, and his life, after retirement from business, was one of ease and comfort. He remained loyal to Rehoboth, the scene of his boyhood days, and always spoke of the town in the highest terms. While never holding any public office, he generally voted for the men and measures of the Democratic party. In religion he was a lifelong Universalist, being quite prominent in that demonination. He died in East Providence, Sept. 18, 1908, in the eighty-seventh year of his age. On Dec. 29, 1844, Mr. Munroe married Delana Pierce, who was also descended from a long line of illustrious ancestors. She was a descendant of Capt. Michael Pierce, the famous Indian fighter; an original Daughter of the American Revolution, her father having fought in the Continental Army, and she was a member of Gaspee Chapter, D.A.R. of Providence. Delana Pierce was born in Rehoboth, July 13, 1823, daughter of Isaac and Polly (Bowen) Pierce, and died in Barrington, R.I., June 19, 1909, in the eighty-sixth year of her age. She contributed much toward the success of her husband, by her thoughtful co-operation and valuable assistance. As a young woman she was a regular attendant at the old Horbine Meeting-House in Rehoboth, and she always showed a loving loyalty to the town of her birth, to the old church of her girlhood days, and to her kindred. The children of Philip A. and Delana Munroe were: (1) Sophronia Jane, born in Providence, Jan. 5, 1847; married Thomas W. Richmond, Nov. 21, 1866; died April 29, 1869. (2) Lyman Francis, born in Providence, June 14, 1848; married (1) Camilla C. Munroe, Dec. 25, 1873; (2) Jannie McDearmid, April 3, 1882. (3) Delana Jenoe, born in Providence, Jan. 9, 1850; died March 20, 1856. (4) Lena Augusta, born in Providence, Dec. 30, 1850; died Aug. 28, 1851. (5) Philip Allen Jr., born in Providence, June 26, 1852; married Henrietta Packard, Jan. 2, 1877. (6) Josephine, born in Providence, April 9, 1854; died Nov. 30, 1854. (7) Oliver Buchanan, born in Providence, May 22, 1856; married (1) Mrs. Annie S. Jeffery, Dec. 11, 1883; (2) Ethel B. Crosse, March 6, 1889. (8) Addison Pierce, born in Providence, Jan. 2, 1862; married Annie B. Hopkins, Dec. 22, 1885. (9) Nellie Frances, born in Rehoboth, May 4, 1868; married Clarence A. Brouwer, Dec. 15, 1892. DANFORTH BLISS NICHOLS, D.D. Son of James and Lydia (Bliss) Nichols, was born Oct. 8, 1816, in a house owned by Samuel Baker at Oak Swamp, Rehoboth. At the age of ten he was sent to the Sunday-school at the "Old Yellow Meeting-House" on the hill. Dea. Asahel Bliss was superintendent, and Samuel I. Remington taught the class of boys who recited the verses of Scripture they had learned through the week. In a letter written many years later he speaks of "The old meeting-house with the high-perched pulpit, the sounding-board above it, the fourscore pews, the high gallery with a higher gallery in the two corners in the rear of the singers' seats -- the highest pews of all, where the colored men and women had their sittings in God's house." Mr. Nichols graduated at Oberlin College in 1839, and afterwards took the degree of M.D., but preferring the ministry, he was ordained at Bentonsport, Ia., Jan. 29, 1850. He was superintendent of the Chicago Reform School from 1856 to 1860, and during the Civil War was superintendent of contrabands at Washington, D.C., and for several years was connected with Howard University. He afterwards did missionary work in several states, Iowa, Michigan, Florida, Ohio, and Dakota. Through his efforts the Congregational Church at Bon Homme, Dak., was built in 1885, and later the church at La Grange. Mr. Nichols was twice married: (1) Sarah A. Chesman of Cincinnati, Ohio, Feb. 27, 1840. (2) Elizabeth Booth of Madison, Iowa, Dec. 14, 1843. He died at Whilson, Or., Dec. 8, 1906, at the age of ninety years. BENJAMIN PECK Was born in Swansea, Mass., June 3, 1790. His father, Peleg Peck, who was born in 1736, was a leading man in the town in his day. Being in the prime of life on the opening of the Revolution, he early took an interest in military affairs. He received a commission in the Swansea company. He married for his first wie, Phebe Mason of Swansea, by whom he had fourteen children. His wife dying in 1778, he subsequently married Mary Thornton, a widow with three children. There were five children by this marriage, of whom Benjamin was the youngest, therefore he had twenty-one brothers or half-brothers and sisters. His early life was passed upon the farm, and at a proper age he was apprenticed to Caleb Easterbrooks of Swansea to learn the trade of wheelwright. After completing his trde, he in 1813 built the waterwheels for the old "Whitge" and "Troy" Mills in Fall River, the first to operate cottom machinery in that city. In 1815 he married Mary Luther, daughter of Martin Luther of Warren, R. I. In 1816 he was at Waltham, where he saw the first power-loom in operation. In 1819 he entered the service of the old Phenix Foundry Co. in Providence as a pattern-maker, and in 1821 became superintendent for Philip Allen at his mill in Smithfield, R.I. His wife died in 1825, leaving him with two small children, one other having died young. In 1826 he came to Rehoboth and became associated with the Wilkinsons of Pawtucket at the Orleans Mill. The Wilkinsons failing in 1829, a new company was formed and he continued to own a half-interest with different partners until 1865, when he retired from business. In 1820, while residing in Providence, he made a profession of religion and united with the First Baptist Church, then under the pastoratge of Dr. Stephen Gano. On coming to Rehoboth he for a few years worshipped with the Congregational Church at the Village. Subsequently he became a member and a deacon in the First Baptist Church of North Swansea, where his grandfather was deacon one hundred years before. Here he was very influential, giving liberally of his time and money for the welfare of the church. He was fond of music, and for years either sang in the choir or played the bass-viol. He was accustomed to say that he did not receive in his youth the amount of schooling equal to one year; but he was well informed on all subjects, an excellent mathematician, and understood surveying, trionometry, manufacturing and civil engineering. He died at Rehoboth Oct. 29, 1882, in his 93d year, retaining his faculties until with a few hours of his death. Mr. Peck was a man of large capacity, combining rare mechanical skill with remarkable executive ability. For forty years his mind was the dominent force in the Orleans Manufacturing Co. His daughter, Mary Luther Peck, married William A. King, Feb. 21, 1847. They had four children. (See sketch under "Wm. A. King.") SAMUEL LUTHER PEIRCE Born in Rehoboth, April 13, 1828, was the son of Samuel and Jane (Case) Peirce of Rehoboth. He was descended from Capt. Michael Peirce of Indian War fame, as follows: Capt. Michael (1), Ephraim (2), Azrikam (3), Samuel (4), Azrikam (5), Squier (6), Samuel (7), Samuel Luther (8). His father died when he was eleven years old. During his early life he was a carpenter, and later he was engaged in the wholesale meat business with Nathan Earle of Rehoboth. Retiring from that, he conducted a wholesale milk business, along with general farming, being the first mail-carrier from the South Rehoboth postoffice, with a record at the central office in Providence unsurpassed for promptness and efficiency. Mr. Peirce was a "self-made" man who by the conditions of his boyhood had learned self-reliance and industry. Whatever he did was well done. He carried with him an air of thrift and neatness which appeared in his buildings, lands, teams and all his equipments. He was thoroughly trustworthy in every relation in life. For several years he was with his family a regular attendant at the Congregational Church in the Village. Of him it can be truthfully said, "He was an honest and faithful citizen." He married, Aug. 10, 1851, Ann Eliza Carpenter Horton, daughter of James and Sophia (Wheaton) Horton of Rehoboth, and at the time of his death, Aug. 31, 1911, they had lived together over 60 year. She died Oct. 5, 1911. A daughter (their only child), Nellie Luther Holden, wife of George W. Holden, and one grandson, William Luther Holden, survive him.