History of Foxcroft, Piscataquis Co, Maine v 5 page 50, SPRAGUE'S JOURNAL OF MAINE HISTORY page 49-59 The original proprietor of Township No. 5, Range 7 , North of Waldo Patent, now the town of Foxcroft, and so named in his honor. Born in New Gloucester, Maine, March 10, 1773, and died there September 1, 1852. (See Vol. 1 Pp. 150-156, for sketch of Col. Foxcroft.) CONTENTS 49 CONTENTS Page. Foxcroft's Centennial, vote of town, 19I7 51 Foxcroft's 100th Anniversary, introductory 52 Centennial Poem, Anna Boynton Averill 60 Historical Sketch of Foxcroft, Rev. George A. Merrill 62 Foxcroft in the Civil War, Wainright Cushing 81 Clergymen of Foxcroft, Liston P. Evans 90 Doctors of Foxcroft, Edgar T. Flint, Al. D 93 Foxcroft Academy, Willis E. Parsons 99 Schools and Schoolhouses, W. H. Sturtevant 112 Patriotic Societies, Sarah A. Martin 1I7 The Masonic Fraternity, John Francis Sprague I23 Dedication of Foxcroft Bridge, Willis E. Parsons 130 ILLUSTRATIONS. Page. Joseph Ellery Foxcroft 50 Centennial Parade, "100 years ago 53 Centennial Parade on Foxcroft Bridge 57 Anna Boynton Averill 6o Centennial Decorations, 71 Oldest House in Foxcroft 79 Congregational Church and Chapel 91 Foxcroft Academy and Soldiers' Monument 107 Foxcroft Village School 113 Monument Square and Foxcroft Bridge 12.5 Foxcroft Bridge-1854 I31 Foxcroft Bridge-i91 133 52 YEARS the Insurance Man of Somerset Co. Never a Failure ... Never a Law Suit --- What more do you want? CHARLES FOLSOM-JONES, SKOWHEGAN MAINE Sprague's Journal of Maine History Vol. V SEPTEMBER (Special Number) 1917 No. 2 Foxcroft Centennial When the centennial of the incorporation of the town of Fox- croft was celebrated in I912, there was no appropriation available to be used for publishing the proceedings of the day. At the annual meeting in 19I7 an appropriation was made for that purpose. as ']I appear from the following: TOWN RECORD. Art. 49. To see if the town will appropriate the sum of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) or such part thereof as may be neces- sary to publish in a special number of Sprague's journal of Maine History the Centennial proceedings of the town of Foxcroft, with appropriate cuts, similar to the number published by the Guilford Centennial, and appoint a committee with authority to arrange and contract therefor. Art. 49. Voted to raise the sum of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) and appropriate so much thereof as may he necessary to publish in a special number of Sprague's journal of Maine History, Centennial proceedings of the town of Foxcroft, with appro- priate cuts similar to the number published by the Guilford Cen- tennial, and that a committee be appointed by the Chair with authority to arrange and contract therefor. The Chair appointed C. "Al. Hayes, E. D. Merrill and E. C. Smith, Committee. true excerpt from the town record, 19I7, Attest, W. M, STEWARD, Clerk of Town of Foxcroft. _52 SPRAGUE'S JOURNAL OF MAINE HISTORY Foxcroft's 100th Anniversary Foxcroft celebrated the anniversary of its organization October 1st, I912. The anniversary was August 31st, but belated enthusiasm delayed the celebration until then. The affair had been planned in a short time and to some of the committees especially belongs a great deal of praise for the efficient. work. Tuesday was a cold, raw day and rain fell during the year morning and in the afternoon and evening. A heavy fall of rain made it impossible to hold the fireworks in the evening. During the passing of the trades parade the sun shone and this parade was the feature of the day. At six in the morning the festivities began. The ringing of bell., and the firing of bombs on Foxcroft bridge aroused the blood of every citizen and gave promise of a day of festival enjoyment, ill spite of lowering skies. A decorator had been at work for 10 davs on the buildings and the appearance of some of the residences and most of the business places, as well as of Foxcroft bridge, which was formally dedicated at noon, was one of gaiety and attractive- ness. It has been estimated by those who made a tour of the towns that there were about five thousand people on the streets during the day. At nine o'clock the parade of trade floats and antiquities started on Main street, Foxcroft, being formed on this and streets adjoin- ing. There were three bands in the parade and 65 teams, rigs. farming implements and floats. Some of the trade floats were very attractive creations. The first prize was awarded to Josef L. Brock- way, florist, who besides having a beautiful creation, carried out a unique idea. The float was drawn by white horses, the harness being trimmed in pink. The entire color scheme was pink white. The float represented a bridal party. At the front stood the clergyman, Josef L. Brockway, the "happy couple" were Bela Norton and Miss Ruth Day. They stood beneath an arch from which was suspended a wedding bell. The arch and bell were wound with smilax and decorated with pink roses. The rest of the float was occupied by four little flower girls, Rachel and Kith- leen Stoddard, Eleanor McNaughton and Mary Moran. The ring bearer was Clifford McNaughton. At the four corners were white posts on which were palms. Other palms, ferns and white doves were part of the dainty, beautiful and artistic piece of work. FOXCROFT CENTENNIAL 53 The second prize was given to Ober & Clark, dry and fancy goods dealers. The float was a creation of white trimmed with sweet peas. At each corner was a post upon which was an urn filled with asters. In the center was a birthday cake, three and a half feet in diameter bearing candles. The float bore a banner, "Our one hundredth birthday." Geo. H. Hoxie, taxidermist, was awarded the third prize. His float was very striking. A small forest of green, with the head of a bull moose protruding through the front. In the body of the float was an Indian wigwam with children in costume. Other specimens Centennial Parade. -"l00 years ago"- of taxidermy added to the scheme. Following the float was Peter Bearce in the guise of an old trapper with his gun and coon skins his hound in leash ahead of him. The American Woolen company with its four teams added much to the parade. Beginning with a float, attractively trimmed, in which was a sheep in the front and wool in the rear, they slowed the in- dustry to the finished product worn by a party of young ladies seated in a neatly trimmed outfit. The Dover and Foxcroft Light and Heat company had an at- tractive float. One half showed a fire-place, an old-time hearth- stone, with the candles on the mantel. The other side had all the 54 SPRAGUE'S JOURNAL OF MAINE HISTORY modern electrical devices for lighting, heating and cooking. The First was presided over by an old time madam and the latter by modern housewife. The trimmings and signs were pleasing to the eye. The telephone operatives had one of the daintiest rigs of the day. It was of blue and white and a bower and arch were very attractively arranged. Some of the girls occupied positions on the float, dressed in attractive gowns. This last float got special men- tion from the committee we understand. There were many other of the floats which deserve special mention. S. G. Sanford had three outfits showing his complete line of fine horses and carriages which were a great addition to the show. S. A. Annis' livery outfit carriage also attracted much favorable comment. The list of floats and other features in their order is as follows: Division one: Taylor'$ band; Company F, G. A. R. (2); Boy Scouts; Mayo & Son, woolen mills, (3) ; Dyer Brothers, grocers, (2) ; Elmer Nickerson, druggist; E. D. Eldridge, painter; V. L Warren, hardware and farming implements, (2) ; W. J. Eldridge, dry goods; C. F. Dearth, cider mill; Smith Bros., gasoline lights; C. A. Brockway, milk; A. A. McClure, milk. Division two: Monson band;. Modern Woodmen; D. & F. Light and Heat company; A. W . Gilman & Co., grain, (2) ; Ober & Clark, dry goods; E. H. Chase, furniture; E. W. Judkins, grocer, (2) ; E. E. Cole, druggist; S. G. Sanford, livery 'and sales stable, (3); Lillian Harvey, dry and fancy goods; W. Cushing & Co., coke; Ober, Clark & Thayer, lumber; Will Williams, (driving horse with sleigh 125 years old attached) ; S. A. Annis, livery stable. Division three: Guilford band; Eldorado Encampment, 1. 0. 0. F., American Woolen company, (4); N. E. T. & T. Co.; Josef L. Brockway, florist; P. E. Ward & Co., furniture; 0. H. Brag & Co., $2-trousers for $2,; five exhibits placed by the committee. es & Son, pianos; J. G. Sawyer. oxen and farming implements; Hugh lumber, Wm. Buck & Co., druggists. Division four: Drum corps; Union Hose Co.; Tiger Hose Co.; Book & Ladder Co., hand tub; Curtis & Robinson, harness, trunks and bags; Dow & Boyle, clothiers-, Lyford & Buck, grocers-, J. J. Folsom, lumber; H. W. Thayer, shoes; Mrs. F. E. Gellerson, millinery; Standard Oil Co.; C. A. Harmon, ox team; F. D. Bar rows, printer; George Hoxie, taxidermist; A. N. Merrill, Sta theatre. FOXCROFT CENTENNIAL 55 One of the features of the parade which attracted the attention of the reporter was the advertising car of the Voight Milling Co., driven by V. M. Boothby, eastern agent, who made a special trip from Portland to join the parade, which was very much appreciated by F. W. Judkins, sole agent for Voight's celebrated Royal flour. Following the parade was a ball game at the Central Driving park between Henderson and Newport, the game being won by the latter 6 to 0. In the afternoon the winners were defeated by D. & F. 7 to 2. Band concerts were given in the various squares at 10-30 by the three bands already mentioned and by the Milo band which arrived on the forenoon train. The work of these organizations has been highly complimented. The Monson band, made up of men from their town only, was deserving of especial mention. The new Foxcroft concrete bridge was dedicated at noon. The exercises consisted of an address by Hon. W. E. Parsons, music by the band and the display of day fireworks. The automobile parade at one o'clock was a disappointment, only two or three cars bearing any decorations. W. G. Parker had his Nil& attractively trimmed. There was a good display of cars but no finely trimmed ones besides this one. There was a football game at the park in the afternoon following- the baseball game, between Higgins and Foxcroft academy which was easily won by Higgins, 38 to 0. The historical program carried out in the Congregational church during the afternoon was as follows: Prcsident of the Day, Prayer, An Original Poem, Historical Address, Foxcroft in the Civil War, Clergynien of Foxcroft, Doctors of Foxcroft, Foxcroft Academy, Schools and Schoolhouses, Prcsident of the Day, A. W. Gilman Prayer, Rev. E. L. Gates An Original Poem, Anna Boynton Averill Historical Address, Rev. G. A. Merrill Foxcroft in the Civil War, Hon. Wainwright Cushing Clergyman of Foxcroft, Liston P. Evans Doctors of Foxcroft, Dr. Edgar T. Flint Foxcroft Academy, Hon. W. E. Parsons Schools and Schoolhouses, Supt. W. H. Sturtevant Custer Command and Ladies of the G. A. R., Mrs. S. A. Martin The Masonic Fraternity, Hon. J. F. Sprague OF MAINE HISTORY 56 SPRAGUE'S JOURNAL. OF MAINE HISTORY In the evening there was a grand ball at Central hall and a dance in the Palace, both of which were largely attended. Kendall's orchestra furnished music for the former, giving a concert which was much enjoyed. The dance committee, B. T. Genthner; chair- man, report a very successful outcome of their end of affairs. On account of the heavy rain the fireworks were postponed to Thursday evening. The marshal of the day was Walter J. Mayo. He was ably assisted by E. C. McKechnie, Elmer R. Blethen, Dr. F. D. Merrill, F. W. Mason, A. J. McNaughton and E. E. Whitney. To Elmer C. McKechnie, chairman of the trades parade com- mittee, especially, belongs much credit for the good showing made ill this feature. He and the other members promised to furnish carts, and horses for floats. They did furnish them; good cart-, and fine. looking horses. If this had not been (lone the number of floats would have been much less. DISPLAY OF ANTIQUES. The display of antiques was one of the best ever shown at an occasion of this kind, the- writer believes. Doctor Mary Lowell's display at her home was a very important part of this line of th- day's features. Monday afternoon and all day Tuesday the Doctor entertained many people. The list of articles shown is as follows: Seventy-eight pictures of some of the oldest residents of Dover and Foxcroft. Pictures of Mary E. Chandler and Abbie Tower. Desk set owned by Charles Parsons Chandler in 1828. Pieces of flag staff and of flag from Marshall house (where E. E. Ellsworth was killed) secured by Col. Chandler. Autograph letters from Colonel Foxcroft to C. P. Chandler, his Att'y. Tall hat worn by Charles P. Chandler in 1825. Muffler worn by Charles Parsons Chandler, 1825. Umbrella used by Charles P. Chandler in 1825 when preceptor; of Foxcroft Academy. Shoe buckle, Col. Isaac Parsons, New Gloucester Hand woven table cloth, Mrs. Charles Parsons Chandler, made by her mother, Mrs. Isaac Wheeler of Garland, in 1828. Hand knit shawl, Mrs. Peleg Chandler St., made about I780. FOXCROFT CENTENNIAL 57 Baby bib worn by Emily Chandler in I83I. Baby's bonnet, worn by Chas. Parsons Chandler who was born in 1800. Baby's outfit made by Mary E. Chandler. Pin cushion made by Mrs. Peleg Chandler of New Gloucester, -titer she was 86 years of age. Hand made counterpane made about 1820. Original bureau scarf. Solid mahogany bureau, original brass trimmings, 1830. Card table, Mrs. Chandler, 1830. mahogany dining table, Mrs. Chandler, 1830. Feather bed (in cradle) made about 1794. Centenial Parade. On Foxcroft Bridge. Cradle made by Peleg Chandler, 1762, in which C was rocked when a baby. Collar embroidered by Mrs. Charles P. Chandler. Set of dining-room chairs to match side table. Side table for dining-room, 1830- Bedstead used by Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Chandler, 1830. Beaded bags made by Mary E. Chandler. Beaded purse made by Mrs. Charles P. Chandler. Brass cooking kettles. Brass clothes kettle. Coffee mill brought from New Gloucester. 58 SPRAGUE'S JOURNAL OF MAINE HISTORY Brass lamps made for using sperm oil. Steel knives and forks, dinner and breakfast set, 1830. Sampler worked by Mrs. C. P. Chandler, 1819. Syrup jar brought from New Gloucester, used by Col. Foxcroft. Tea set, Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Chandler, 1830- Dinner set eaten from by Col. Foxcroft. First dinner set used by Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Chandler. Vases, wedding presents, Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Chandler, 1830. Soup tureen and platter I20 years old, Peleg Chandler, Sr. Platter 130 years old brought from New Gloucester by Peleg Chandler, Sr. Set of dishes 15o years old. Warming pan. Candle snuffer and tray. First dust pan in Dover. Wedding present to Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Chandler, 1830. Table made by Peleg Chandler prior to 1762. Decanter of New England rum brought from New Gloucester in 1828. Bells set up by Peleg Chandler, Sr., prior to 1793- Carpet 183o, house in Dover. Shawl worn by Mrs. C. P. Chandler, 183o. First catalogue Foxcroft academy, 1825. Second and third catalogues of Foxcroft academy. Complete set of catalogues of Foxcroft academy to I902. Commencement program R. 1. college 1794 where Peleg Chandler Jr., was graduated. Picture of Bowdoin college. Massachusetts hall, Bowdoin college. First Cong. church, Brunswick. Pewter porringer given to Charles Parsons Chandler by his grand father, Col. Isaac- Parsons of New Gloucester, with Parsons' Coal of Arms, 1800. Light stand made by Peleg Chandler, Sr. in 1749. Desk chair over 100 years old, Peleg Chandler, Esq. Silver comb and tortoise shell comb, Mrs. C. P. Chandler. Shaving set, C. P. Chandler, Esq. Mirror, over I25 years old, Mrs. Peleg Chandler. Library of Peleg Chandler, Jr., over go years old. Foil picked up on battlefield of Vicksburg after surrender. FOXCROFT CENTENNIAL 59 Gun picked up on battlefield of Bull Run, Va., by Maj, C. P. Chandler, 1st Mass. Inf. Rebel sword picked up on battlefield of Williamsburg by Col. Chandler. Fire-place set and cooking utensils, 1830. Cane, property of Peleg Chandler, Esq., New Gloucester. Full set of pictures, five generations of the Chandler family. Peleg Chandler, Jr.'s journal, kept in 1791. Toddy -lass and spoon brought from Gloucester, England, to Goucester, Mass., in 1657, property of Geoffrey Parsons, grand- father six times removed of Mary Chandler Lowell. Teaspoons of six generations back to 1739. Doll I843, Mary E. Chandler, Mrs. Chas. W. Lowell. Walking- stick of Chas. Parsons Chandler, 1830. Spoonholder, 200 years old, brought from England to Charles Parsons Chandler. Six pieces of china that came from Duxbury, Mass., in I701, to Mrs. Peleg Chandler, belonging to the great great great grandmother of Chas. Parsons Chandler. Picture of eleven young ladies in Foxcroft academy, about I855. Chair made in I728 in No. Yarmouth by Joseph Chandler, Jr., great great grandfather of Chas. Parsons Chandler. Letters from I788 to 1839. Papers, from 1788--I837. One of the most interesting features of the Centennial was the display of relics and antiques in the Cong'l chapel. Many articles of great beauty and of great historical value were shown and the committee in charge deserve great credit for their diligence in searching them out. Unfortunately no list was made by the corn- mittee so we are unable to present the names of the articles and their contributors. (c) 1998 Courtesy of the Androscoggin Historical Society ************************************************* * * * * NOTICE: Printing the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged, as long as all notices and submitter information is included. Any other use, including copying files to other sites requires permission from the submitters PRIOR to uploading to any other sites. 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