Gloucester County NJ Archives History .....The Gloucester County Board Of Freeholders ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/nj/njfiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Joy Fisher sdgenweb@yahoo.com January 2, 2008, 5:42 pm The Gloucester County Board of Freeholders* * By GEORGE E. PIERSON. FIRST RECORD BOOK OF PROCEEDINGS BEGINS IN 17O1. The first volume of the Minutes of the Board is bound in leather, in a fair state of preservation, and is marked Book A., on outside cover, in a bold, plain hand, the color of the ink being still very black, and is now in the custody of the Gloucester County Board of Freeholders. On the first page, entries appear as follows: 1701. "Glo. County, December 7th, Anno Domini, One Thousand Seven Hundred and One." "The Grand Jury held at Gloucester ye 6th day of First Month, Anno Domini, 1701, does order that Thomas Sharp and John Wood, Treasurers of ye last County Taxes, do bring in an accompt to the next Grand Jury of ye disposal of ye sayd taxes, in order to know what remaynes in Bank." On the second, third, fourth and fifth pages, under dates from 1694 to 1706, there appear accounts with Andrew Robeson, Thomas Sharp, John Ashbrook, William Wardner, John Kay and John Wood, .for Taxes in the Townships of Newton, Waterford, Gloucester, Dept-ford and Greenwich. The first regular entry of minutes is under date of July 13th, 1704. This record is as follows: TAX ORDERED. "We, the Grand Jury for ye Court, held at Gloucester, the 13th day of Seventh Mo., 1704, do order a tax to be levied, in manner following, for the discharge of a debt to ye Sheriff, John Shay, and other emergencies, relating to this County of Gloucester, and ye remaining part or overplus to be assessed by ye Grand Jury: For each 100 acres of land, surveyed and taken up, sixpence; for each horse and mare exceeding one year old, six pence; for neat cattle exceeding one year old, three pence; for sheep exceeding one year old, one pence; for each freeman in hired service, or otherwise, one shilling and six pence; for each negro exceeding twelve years old, one shilling and six pence, to be paid in a month's time, after ye old tax is all got in. Out of which tax we allow twelve pounds and ten shillings to be paid John Shay for defraying the expenses of the Justices of Gaol Delivery the last Court, and for his trouble for going to Burlington about the County's business." LORD CORNBURY VISITS GLOUCESTER. On December 19, 1704, this record appears: "We, the Grand Jury for the County of Gloucester, do order eighteen shillings to buy twelve bushels of charcoal for the prisoners, and two pounds two shillings to buy three match coats for the prisoners' use, so long as shall have occasion for it, and then to be returned for the County's use. We allow seven shillings and six pence to the Clerk for five warrants to gather the above tax. We allow Matthew Medcalfe twelve pounds six shillings for defraying the Lord Cornbury's retinue's expenses when he was lately at Gloucester, and six shillings to John Gideon for a coffin for the murthered child, and six shillings more we allow him by discount of his old tax in the year 1694, for bringing the Justice and Coroner to Gloucester. We also allow eight pounds twelve shillings and four pence to John Shay, for defraying the Lord Cornbury and his attendants' expenses when he was lately at Gloucester." On January 1st, 1705, a pair of stocks was ordered built before next Court, and "Matthew Medcalfe had undertaken to get them to be built." On September 12th, 1705, five pounds was ordered paid the Sheriff for prison charges, and Matthew Medcalfe to procure twenty bushels of charcoal, and two shifts for the prisoners' use. Under the same date, this record appears: "We, the Grand Jury for the County of Gloucester, having taken into our consideration the great expenses that our Assemblymen are at, and have been hitherto and mostly at their own charges, and likewise that they want money for the defraying of some debts, on necessary occasions for the County's use, do order a tax to be levied, and that our Assemblymen for time to come, be paid for every day that they shall serve in Assembly, each of them, five shillings per day, and the rest to be appropriated as the Bench and Grany Jury shall direct." The tax was levied in the same manner as the previous assessment had been made. Matthew Medcalfe was nominated and appointed County Treasurer, and Collectors were appointed for Waterford, Newton, Gloucester, Deptford, Greenwich and Egg Harbor Townships. EARLY ACCOUNTS. On January 12, 1706, this minute is recorded: "We, the Grand Jury of the County, having called John Reading and Matthew Medcalfe to make up their accounts concerning the County's money that was raised in the year 1694, and paid them to build the Prison and Court House, and they affirm that they did formerly make up and balance accounts with the Grand Jury, at Gloucester, and think it hard to be called to account now over again, and Thomas Sharp being now one of the Grand Jury, affirms that he was then on the Grand Jury some years ago, when the said John Reading and Matthew Medcalfe made up and balanced account with the Grand Jury." "The Grand Jury orders John Kay and John Heritage on behalf of his father, to bring their Duplicates of the County Tax that was raised in the year 1694, and make up their accounts with the next Grand Jury which shall be at Gloucester." COST OF KEEPING PRISONERS: SECRETARY BASS COMES PROM BURLINGTON. On January 12, 1705, allowance was made John Shay, late Sheriff, 2 shillings and 6 pence per week for keeping prisoners 123 1/2 weeks, which amounts to 15 pounds, 11 shillings and 3 pence. Whereof he has been paid s pounds, and the remainder being 10 pounds, 11 shillings and 3 pence, with 2 shillings and 6 pence for care of the prisoners; Ordered paid by Thomas Sharp and John Kay, Treasurer and Collector of the old County Tax, if there be so much in their hands, at or before the next County Court; if not, then by Matthew Medcalfe, present Treasurer. Secretary Bass was allowed 40 shillings for his services to the County for coming from Burlington to qualify the Justices. On February 2, 1707, an allowance was made "John Ashbrook, Sheriff, for eight pounds, six shillings and seven pence for keeping of the prisoner, Christian Boll, 60 weeks, and procuring her one shift, a pair of socks, and one petty coat, to be paid by the Treasurer of the County, if there be so much in his hands after the Assemblymen are paid; if not, then out of the County Tax is now raised." PAY FOR MEMBERS OF ASSEMBLY. On April 2, 1707, "We, the Grand Jury of the County of Gloucester, do order Matthew Medcalfe, County Treasurer, to pay our Assemblymen each of them five shillings per day, for each day that they have served in Assembly, since the 12th day of September, Anno Domini 1705, as soon as they shall bring the accounts under the Clerk of Assembly's hand." A tax levied at this meeting provided that it should be paid the County Treasurer, "in money or Country produce, at the prices following, viz: Wheat, 4 shillings 6 pence per bushel; rye, at 3 shillings per bu., and Indian corn at 2 shillings 6 pence per bu.; to be delivered and brought into the County Treasurer, Medcalfe, at his dwelling house by the respective inhabitants, within the date of September 1st." The Treasurer was allowed six pounds, with his reasonable charges, in receiving and paying off the corn, etc. ADDITION TO COURTHOUSE. At a meeting held August 3, 1708, the Grand Jury met at Gloucester to consider emergencies, concluded it was "necessary that an addition be made to the Prison and Court House, in manner following, viz: that it be joyned to the south end of the old one, to be made of stone and brick, 12 foot in the clear, and two story high, with a stack of chimneys, joyning to the old house, and that it be uniform from ye foundation to the Court House." 1708 TAXES. To effect this improvement, these taxes were levied: For every 100 acres of land taken up and surveyed, one shilling; for every horse and mare above 3 years, one shilling; for neat cattle exceeding 3 years, six pence; for sheep exceeding 1 year, two pence; for hired service or otherwise, three shillings; for each negro exceeding 12 years, 3 shillings; to be paid in current silver money, corn, or any other country produce. At a meeting held January 14, 1710, the death of Matthew Medcalfe, County Treasurer, was announced, and Thomas Sharp was appointed in his place. At a meeting held October 17, 1712, it was ordered that Joseph Cooper and Thomas Sharp undertake the letting out of the work of an addition to the Prison and Court House, according to the dimensions given by the Grand Jury, in the 8th month, 1708, with the concurrence of the Bench. There is a statement from Thomas Sharp, for receiving the tax laid for the building of an addition to the Prison and Court House, of Matthew Medcalfe, who was first appointed for the service. The amount was 32 pounds 17 shillings and 7 pence, leaving a balance in his hands of 7 pounds, 7 shillings and 10 pence. Only about 7 pounds 3 shillings and 4 pence seem to have been expended for Prison, on this statement. The entries of receipts ran from February 2, 1711, to January 25, 1714, and the disbursements from May 20, 1712, to April 21, 1715. NAMES OF JUSTICES AND FREEHOLDERS. Prior to 1715, the public business of the County seems to have been transacted by the Grand Jury. After that year, the Justices of the Peace and Freeholders appear as the governing body, as is shown from the recorded minutes under date of April 5, 1715. For the first time the names of the Justices and Freeholders are given as follows: Justices—Richard Bull, John Inskeep, George Lawrence, John Rambo, Joseph Tomlinson, not present, yet consents. Freeholders—John Kaighn, Peter Long, John Ladd, Jacob Clement, Joseph Cooper, Jacobus Culin, John Shivers. BOUNTY FOR WOLVES, PANTHERS AND FOXES. NEW JAIL. This minute appears of record: "We, the Justices and Freeholders, as above named, do unanimously order, conclude and agree that there shall be raised on the inhabitants of this County of Gloucester, proportionably after the same manner as the tax for the support of Her Majesty's Government, for two years last, and to walk by the Rules of the Lists already in the Collector's hands, according to proportion, viz: Eighty pounds for building a Prison and repairing the Court House, and fifteen pounds for wolves, panthers and red foxes; and that for ye assessing and collecting the sums aforesaid, there is hereby appointed Thomas Sharp and Samuel Ladd, Assessors for the respective Townships of the County aforesaid, which said Assessors shall meet at Gloucester, on or before the eleventh of this instant to assess the inhabitants, according to the above mentioned proportion, and make fair lists of the said assessments, and deliver the same to the Collectors undernamed, at or before the fifteenth day of this month, which Collectors shall deliver a copy thereof to ye Constables of each Town or Precinct who is hereby required, immediately on receipt hereof, to give notice to the several inhabitants within their respective districts of the sums they are to pay, which sums shall be payable to the Collector or Collectors, at or before the Fourth Tuesday so called in May next, which Collectors are Peter Long and Jacob Clement for ye County. And upon non-payment, then the Collector is hereby required to deliver a list of the delinquents to any one Justice of the Peace of said County, who is hereby required forthwith to issue his own warrant or warrants to the several Constables, commanding them to levy the same by distress on ye Goods and Chattels of each delinquent, and expose the same to sale to pay theyor respective sums to the Collector or Collectors, at or before the third Tuesday so called in June next, and pay the overplus, if any be, to the owner, deducting twelve pence for himself for each distress, and six pence to the Justice for the warrant. "And we appoint Thomas Sharp and Joseph Cooper to be Managers to see and cause to be done the work following, viz: To build a Gaol Twenty-four foot long in the clear and fifteen foot broad in the clear, and the wall in the full height from the foundation nine foot high and two foot thick, well done with good mortar of lime and sand; and to lay the upper and under floors with the planks of the old prison; to make a good roof to it and necessary doors and windows; and to remove the Court House where the new Prison is to stand, and repair the same as shall be needful." These minutes are signed by Thomas Sharp, Clerk. A meeting was held at Gloucester, on the Fourth Tuesday in March, 1716, pursuant to an act of Assembly, entitled "An act for raising of money for the building of Gaols and Court Houses." There were present the following: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, John Mickle, Constantine Wood, Samuel Ward. Freeholders—Samuel Coles, John Inskeep, Joseph Cooper, Jr., William Albertson, Joseph Tomlinson, John Hillman, George Ward, James Lord, James Holm, John Friend, William Harrison, Abraham Albertson. Clerk—Thomas Sharp. The Managers for the erection of Prison and Court House asked to be relieved, and John Hugg, John Mickle and William Albertson were appointed in their place. On March 26, 1717, a meeting was held, with the following present: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, John Mickle, Constantine Wood. Freeholders—John Inskeep, Samuel Coles, Joseph Cooper, Jr., William Albertson, John Hillman, William Harrison, Abraham Albertson, Henry Wood, John Rambo. Clerk—Thomas Sharp. At this meeting the Managers reported that they had expended toward the building of the Prison, so far as it was done, the sum of fifty-three pounds five shillings and seven pence, and that there was a balance from the one hundred pounds levied in the last two years of forty-six pounds fourteen shillings and five pence. John Hugg and William Albertson were appointed to complete the work and to build a stone stairs at the east end. In order to assist in the expense they were empowered to sell the old Court House and Prison for the best price they could get. TIMBER CREEK BRIDGE REBUILT. Constantine Wood and William Harrison were appointed Managers to rebuild Great Timber Creek Bridge, and to make it in breadth from outside to outside eleven feet, the sleepers and camp' sills to be made of good white oak. On the 25th of March, 1718, the following were present: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, John Mickle, Amos Athead, Constantine Wood. Freeholders—Samuel Coles, Samuel Harrison, Thomas Sharp, William Albertson, Abraham Albertson, Joseph Tomlinson, John Ashbrook, John Cooper, Robert Lord. Clerk—Thomas Sharp. It was reported that nineteen pounds sixteen shillings and nine pence more had been expended than tax had been laid, by the Managers of Timber Creek Bridge, and it was allowed from the taxes laid for the Prison and Court House. It was ordered that 80 pounds be levied for the perfection of the Prison and Court House, and 20 pounds for killing wolves, panthers and red foxes, and when the money is come in Managers shall be chosen to carry on the work. UNSATISFACTORY PRISON. At another meeting "it was put to vote whether the Prison, as it is now built, being defective, should stand, or be pulled down; it was carried by ye majority of votes to be pulled down." "It is further concluded by this meeting, since there is not money enough already raised for the building and finishing the Prison and Court House, that there be levied on the inhabitants of this County, the sum of one hundred pounds, to be assessed and laid upon them according to law, and the Assessors meet at Gloucester to perform their service the twenty-first day of the second month, and at that time they be furnished with the lists of the taxable estates of ye people, in order to lay every man's part justly, and that it be payde into ye Government Collector, for the time being, by the first day of the Sixth Month next. "Abraham Porter and William Harrison are appointed Managers to agree with workmen and perform work aforesaid, according as it is hereafter expected, as it was formerly agreed at this meeting. "The Trustees of Egg Harbor Township, neglecting appearance, are fined." CONTRACT AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR COURT HOUSE AND PRISON. At a meeting held the 13th day of the Second Month, 1719, this minute appears of record: "This meeting agreeth with Abraham Porter and William Harrison, the Managers appointed by the same, that they undertake and appoint workmen for the building and fully finishing the Court House and Prison, according as it is underwritten in particulars, and that they fully finish and perfect the same, by the first day of the Sixth Month next, under the penalty of fifty pounds each, and that for the doing thereof this meeting agrees that they shall have the sum of one hundred and seventy pounds paid them by the County Collector of the County for the time being, viz.: One-third at the beginning of the work; one-third at the finishing of the roof, and the other third on the full finishing, if it be in the Collector's hands, and that they are not to have the sum the law directs being concluded, and it is fully allowed in the sum above said." At the same meeting, "Also it is agreed that the Prison as it is now built being defective, shall be pulled down to ye lower floor, and rebuilt upon the same foundation with good fresh lime and sand to ye same hight it now is with corner chimneys at each end, and barred with iron in each funnel to prevent escapes; a partition in ye middle of three inch plank, as also a house of office, to each prison, made in the manner of a well, with brick six foot deep, and boarded together with a port at ye entrance with a second door into ye prison for the better security." "A Court House built upon it of well burnt brick, a brick and a half thick, well laid in good lime and sand, nine foot in the height, a pair of substantial stone stairs, at ye east end, made of hewn stone, four foot long, with a peddiment over them; two transom windows on ye south side, a casement in each window, the lights agreeable to ye building; one of the same kind on ye north side and a casement; a large folding door case and doors with lights over it, at the head of the stairs, for an entrance; the walls of the Court House well plastered and whitewashed; the lower floor of the Court House well joyned and planked upon them, and a floor of inch boards well planed and nailed down upon them; the floor above ye Joyces of pine planed on both sides with inch boards; a pair of stairs up in the garret, and a window in each gable end, well roofed and shingled, and to jut over a foot on each side and to be considerably set off under the eaves; a Gallery at the west end from side to side, well railed, with stairs at each end; a Table and Bar below, railed that it may sufficiently accommodate the Justices, Clerk, Attorneys and Jurors; also to find glass, nails, iron work, locks, hinges, and to finish the whole building as is convenient and suitable to such a work, and that all the timber, except boards and ye upper Joyce of the Court House, be good white oak. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS. At a meeting held at Gloucester, on the 5th day of the Second Month, 1720, these Justices and Freeholders were present: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, John Mickle, Ashead. Freeholders—Samuel Harrison, Thomas Stokes, Joseph Cooper, Thomas Sharp, Abraham Porter, John Ashbrook, John Siddon, William Harrison, Robert Lord, Richard Chew, Peter Long. At this meeting Ann Ware was allowed five pounds for her trouble in keeping, nursing and burial of Mary Lorman. Abraham Porter was allowed four pounds for laying the lower floor of the Prison. Amos Ashead, Coroner of ye County, was allowed four pounds ten shillings for taking of eight inquests, where nothing was to be had to satisfy the charges and trouble. WHIPPING POST, STOCKS. It was agreed that a pair of substantial stocks be built near the Prison, with a Post at each end, well fixed and flattened with a handcuff iron at one of them for a whipping post. OLD COURT HOUSE AND PRISON SOLD. "This meeting doth sell unto William Harrison the old Prison and Court House, for the sum of eight pounds, which he promises to pay into the hands of Thomas Sharp, within the space of three months, there to be made use of for ye County's service." Thomas Sharp, Clerk, was allowed one pound for his services, and the Justices and Freeholders three shillings per day for their services to the County. The expenses, at the meeting of the Board, were also ordered paid by the County. TOWNSHIPS AND THEIR FREEHOLDERS. In the minutes of the meeting on the 8th day of the First Mo., 1721, the names of the Freeholders first appear from the respective Townships. There were present as follows: Justices—John Hugg, John Mickle, Amos Ashead. Freeholders—Waterford, Joseph Bate; Newton, Joseph Cooper, Jr., William Cooper; Gloucester, John Hugg, Abraham Porter; Gloucester Town, William Harrison, Francis Jones; Deptford, Richard Chew; Greenwich, Peter Long, Edward Eglington; Egg Harbor, Daniel Ireland. BOOK FOR RECORDING DEEDS ORDERED. At this meeting it was ordered that 50 pounds be raised towards the destroying of wolves, panthers and red foxes, a Recording Book for Deeds, &c, and to produce as many Constable's Staves as wanted, together with the new painting of the old; ones, and for any other emergencies which shall be thought good. COURT HOUSE BELL ORDERED; IRONS FOR PRISONERS. At a meeting held Third Mo. 30th, 1721, this record appears: "A proposal being made forasmuch as an inconvenience being found for want of something to apprise the people of the time of the sitting of the Courts, from time to time, that a Bell be erected over the Roof of the Court House, with something to cover it. Thomas Sharp is disposed to purchase the same, when money comes into his hands, and get it hung and perfected, the price not to exceed eight pounds." The Sheriff was allowed one pound and eleven shillings on account of Irons and putting them on prisoners, and "that he take special care of them for the same service as occasion requires." PARLIAMENTARY RULES. The Rules or Orders of the Board are given as follows: "No person to speak without standing up and directing his speech to the Chief Justice. "No person to speak above twice to one matter unless leave be first obtained. "No person to interrupt while another is speaking. "The forfeiture in the breach of any of them, six pounds." DEATH PENALTY ENFORCED. At a meeting held November 1, 1721, an allowance was made to the Sheriff for executing James Moore, his Horse, Saddle and Brass Pistol, and for executing Christian Boll, alias Logan, and other fees, nine pounds and eight shillings. Other expenses were paid Joseph Hugg for charge of Christian Boll, and drink for _______, &c, twenty-one pounds, 19 shillings and six pence; Samuel Coles, for expenses about handcuffs and other expenses in pursuing and taking James Moore, 6 pounds, and David Jamison, Chief Justice, for Court services, ten pounds. TAX LEVIED. At this meeting it was ordered that eighty pounds be raised for above expenses, and other emergencies. The manner of raising this money is described as follows: "Every 100 acres of land, that's tilled, seven pounds; all horned cattle, horses and mares two years old, and upwards, one pound per head; all sheep at three shillings per head; laboring men who work for hire, three shillings per head; all servants male in either white or black above sixteen years old, shall be nine pence, and that those whose taxable estate does not amount to one shilling, shall, notwithstanding, pay one shilling, save laboring men who work for hire, shall not be excused under three shillings. John Kay's Grist Mill, four shillings; George Ward's Grist Mill, John Brown's Fulling Mill, six shillings; Samuel Ward's Saw Mill, two shillings; Richard Valentine's Saw Mill, four shillings; Egg Harbor Mill, three shillings; Stephen Mullica's Grist Mill, one shilling; Town Lots in Gloucester, one shilling and six pence; Gloucester Ferry, fifteen shillings; William Cooper's Ferry, seven shillings and six pence." At a meeting held on the 27th day of the First Month, 1722, the following named Justices and Freeholders were named as members: Justices—John Kay, Samuel Ward, Thomas Spicer. Freeholders—Waterford, Thomas Spicer, John Inskeep; Newton, John Hillman, Benjamin Thackara; Gloucester, John Ashbrook, William Shay; Gloucester Town, William Harrison, Francis Jones; Deptford, Con-stantine Wood, Richard Chew; Greenwich, Edward Eglington, Richard Brickham; Egg Harbor, Gustavus Fish, Samuel Harem. Benjamin Thackara, Richard Brickham, Gustavus Fish and Samuel Harem did not attend. Thomas Sharp was chosen Clerk, at a salary of one pound for his service. FREEHOLDERS FINED. This record appears in the minutes of this meeting: "Whereas, by a Minute of this Board, held the thirteenth day of the Second Month, Anno Domini 1719, Abraham Porter and William Harrison were appointed Managers for ye Building ye Prison and Court House, under the penalty of fifty pounds each, in ye non-performance of the same, which they at ye time consented and agreed to, being ye members of the same body, and the work as yet lying and not completed, ordered that Thomas Sharp, if they neglect ye perfecting of it, by the twenty-eighth of ye Third Month next, shall prosecute them, the said Managers, for their deficit upon that account; or otherwise a prosecution shall be proceeded in against ye said Thomas Sharp for paying ye third and last payment before it became due." It was ordered that Thomas Sharp shall get a table with a bench on each side over in the Court House, to accommodate a Jury as occasion shall require. This action was taken by the Board: "Whereas, Benjamin Thackara, Richard Brickham, Gustavus Fish and Samuel Harem, members of this Board, did not make their appearance here this day to join in the business of the County, therefore they are hereby fined the sum of twenty shillings per man, and ordered that Thomas Sharp give the delinquents aforesaid notice of it that they make their appearance at the time of adjournment, and to bring in their fines at that time to save further trouble and charge." These fines were remitted at the next meeting, on reasonable excuses being rendered for their absence. At a meeting held on the 5th day of the Fourth Month, 1722, these persons were present: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, Samuel Ward. Freeholders—Waterford, Thomas Spicer, John Inskeep; Newton, John Hillman, Benjamin Thackara; Gloucester Tp., John Ashbrook, William Sharp; Gloucester Town, William Harrison, Francis Jones; Deptford, Con-stantine Wood, Richard Chew; Greenwich, Richard Brickham; Egg Harbor, Gustavus Fish, Samuel Harem. At this meeting this record appears in the proceedings: "Whereas, Debate hath arisen what should make a certain division in any matter or thing that might arise in debate before the meeting of Justices and Freeholders, the conclusion of this meeting is that two of the three Justices, one being of the quota, together with a majority of the Freeholders, shall be sufficient to confirm any matter that may be thought necessary to be done." STOLEN HORSE RETURNED TO OWNER. At a meeting held the 13th day of the Ninth Mo., it being put to vote whether the horse that was stolen by David Drury should be forfeited to the King, or to be returned to the owner, agreed that the owner have him. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS. From the foregoing records it appears that the first Court House and Jail was erected in 1694. A new Court House and Jail was evidently practically completed in 1720, as the old Court House and Jail was ordered sold to William Harrison, at the meeting held February 5, 1720, for eight pounds. A later minute in 1722 seems to indicate, however, that the buildings were not entirely completed to the satisfaction of the Freeholders. The principal public expenditures during the period covered by these minutes seem to have reference to the building of the second Court House and Jail, and the repairs and rebuilding of Great Timber Creek Bridge, with minor expenditures for the destruction of wolves, panthers and red foxes, &c. It is very evident that many slaves were owned by these early inhabitants, as they seem to be one of the sources depended on for taxation. Notes from the Record Book of the Board of Chosen Freeholders above, cover a period from 1701 to 1722. Subsequent proceedings covered about the same nature of business as before recorded. WILD BEASTS KILLED. On the 12th day of May, 1726, Joseph Cooper, Jr., County Collector, produced to the Justices and Freeholders 29 certificates for wolves' and panthers' heads, and for whelps of wolves, which amount to 21 pounds and 15 shillings; also 27 certificates for fox heads, which amount to 2 pounds and 14 shillings. In the minutes of December 11, 1733, this record appears: "The Board orders Ann Wheeldon one pound eighteen shillings for the expense of the sitting of this Board, which was paid in presence of the said Justices and Freeholders, and she received the same, but refused to give receipt on request." On May 8, 1734, it was ordered that a pair of stocks and whipping post be erected at Gloucester, before the prison windows, and Timothy Matlack be appointed to build it. At the same meeting it was ordered that the square whereon the Court House stands be laid out, and the bounds thereof be ascertained, and the persons appointed to see it laid out be Joseph Cooper, Thomas Spicer, Timothy Matlack and John Hinchman, and that they get a surveyor as they think proper, and that they get it done before the next Court, and bring in the charge thereof to the next sitting of this Board. At a meeting held May 12, 1736, the same order was given, and on June 11, 1736, John Hinchman was ordered paid one pound twelve shillings and eleven pence for the laying out of the square. WATCH AND WORK HOUSE. On June 15, 1736, the Board ordered a Yard and Watch House and also a Work House be built and erected before the front of the prison at Gloucester, on the south side of said prison, and also a Cellar the whole bigness of the Watch House, and also a Well to be sunk within the said yard, and a Pump to set therein. The Yard, Watch House and Work House to be erected and built according to the dimensions of a draft that is lodged with the Clerk of the Board. A Tax of 200 pounds was ordered raised for the defraying the cost thereof, and to be collected within four months time. At a meeting held August 29th, 1738, this record appears: The Board orders that the Watch House, which is now finished, be and remain in possession of the High Sheriff of the County of Gloucester, for such person as he shall think fit to dwell in this year, and the said Sheriff promises to take care that such person shall keep the said House in repair, and also take care of the Court House, that is, to secure the windows and keep the door shut, and sweep and keep it clean. The Sheriff was named William Tatem. OWNERS OF TAVERNS, MILLS, STORES, BOATS AND FERRIES TAXED. At a meeting held January 15, 1739, the Board ordered the sum of Eighty Pounds to be raised for the use of the County, and to be levied in the following manner: Taverns or Public Houses—Benjamin Peters, Gabriel Friend, Robert Gerrard, Hugh Carwell, Henry Sparks, Enoch Ellison, Jacob Ware, Isaac Hollingshead, Sarah Bull, Daniel Cooper, Thomas Periweb, Sarah Norris, five shillings each, except Ellison, 2 shillings 6 pence; Hollingshead, 3 shillings, and Norris, 2 shillings 6 pence. The Grist Mills—Samuel Shivers, William Ward, Andrew Hoffman, Jacob Cozens, Robert Gerrard, Jonathan Fisher, James Childs, Elisha Smith, Egg Harbor; Lake Gibson, George Ward, 2 mills; Richard Cheesman, Andrew Ware, Henry Roe, John Peterson, James Somers, 2 mills; John English, from 2 shillings 6 pence to 6 shillings. Stores and Shops—Abraham Chattin, Michael Fisher, John Hopper, Timothy Matlack. Ferries—Jacob Ware, Daniel Cooper, Benjamin Cooper, 8, 10 and 6 shillings. Flats and Wood Boats—Six pence per cord. Single men 2 shillings each, male servants and negroes, all above 16 years, 6 pence each. The remainder to be raised on the pound value. The assessment to be made March 1st and the tax to be paid May 15th. John Ladd, Jr., was ordered paid 20 shillings for his services as Clerk for the year 1739. Abraham Chattin was ordered paid ten shillings for treating the workmen at the building of the Watch House, and John Kaighn forty shillings for treating said workmen. The Managers for building the Watch House, John Kaighn and Abraham Chattin, produced the account of the same, amounting to 246 pounds 5 shillings and 11 pence, which was' approved and allowed by the Board. At a meeting held April nth, 1740, a committee reported that Great Timber Creek Bridge could no longer be repaired, and that a new bridge must be built. A tax of 160 pounds was ordered levied to defray the cost of erection of New Bridge. COUNTY COLLECTORS, JUSTICES AND FREEHOLDERS AND CLERKS. As before stated, the public business of the County was jointly conducted by the Justices of the Peace of the County and the Board of Chosen Freeholders. During the period from 1723 to 1740 inclusive, these persons are recorded as being the members of the two bodies during that time: Justices—John Kay, John Hugg, John Mickle, Samuel Coles, Samuel Ward, Abraham Porter, Abraham Ledden, John Inskeep, John Rambo, Isaac Jennings, David Vanneman, Alexander Randall, James Hinchman, John Jones, Robert Zane, Constantine Wood, Abraham Chattin, Alexander Morgan, John Hinchman, John Ladd, Jr., John Kaighn, Thomas Wilkins, Joseph Coles. Freeholders—John Hillman, Benjamin Thackara, William Harrison, Francis Jones, John Ashbrook, Richard Chew, Constantine Wood, Richard Brickman, Gustavus Fish, Thomas Spicer, John Inskeep, William Sharp, Edward Eglington, Samuel A. Burroughs, Samuel Downs, Joseph Cooper, Jr., John Shay, John Cooper, Jr., Robert Gerrard, Matthew Mattson, John Jones, James Steelman, Richard Somers, John Hinchman, John Mickle, John Brown, of Manto; John Cook, Samuel Harrison, John Smallwood, Joseph Ledden, Thomas Sharp, Harmames Holmes, Oake Holmes, Israel Ward, James Somers, John Mickle, Joseph Bate, John Kay, John Kaighn, John Young, Jacobus Van Culin, Peter Steel-man, Richard Somers, Caleb Culin, Alexander Morgan, James Hinchman, William Cooper, Joseph Tomlinson, Jonathan Ladd, Stephen Jones, Robert Smith, Jeremiah Adams, Richard Cheesman, Timothy Matlack, Joseph R. Cooper, George Ward, Samuel Driver, Nathan Lake, William Cordery, John Matlack, Hans Steelman, Jacob Couzens, Edward Doughty, Edward Somers, Thomas Ellis, Samuel Coles, Tobias Holloway, Joseph Kaighn, Samuel McCollick, Amos Ireland, Samuel Shivers, Thomas Bickham, Isaac Jennings, Josiah Kay, John Shivers, Simeon Ellis, Abraham Chattin, Peter Long, William Read, John Tomlinson, John Thorn, John Wood, Elias Steelman, Edward Higbee, James Hinchman, Joseph Young, Thomas Coles, William Ellis, William Wilkins, Amariah Ballinger, Hance Steelman, Abel Scull, Nehemiah Leeds. During this period the following named persons served as County Collector and Clerk of the Board: County Collectors—Matthew Medcalfe, Thomas Sharp, Joseph Cooper, Jr. Clerk—Thomas Sharp, William Harrison, John Kay, John Ladd, Jr. EXPENSES OF SHERIFF PAID. On May 12th, 1742, this minute appears of record: "The Board orders Joseph Cooper, Collector, to pay to Samuel Harrison, High Sheriff of the County of Gloucester, the sum of ten shillings for gloves which he bought at ye tryal of James Collins, and also fifteen shillings for a halter, and expenses which he was at." At this meeting the Collector was ordered to pay William Hugg the sum of four pounds and four pence, the expenses of the Board at this sitting, being two days. On May 8, 1745, the Board ordered that the sum of one hundred and sixty pounds be raised for the use of the County in defraying the charge of killing wolves, panthers, crows, black birds, &c, and the necessary repairs of the Jail and Court House, &c, and to be levied in the manner according to the direction heretofore given for levying the last County Tax (Taverns excepted) and that all stores, shops and mills erected in the County since the last like assessment, to be taxed at the Assessors' direction. WHIPPER IMPORTED; CONVICTS HANGED. On March 9th, 1750, these entries appear in the records: "Ordered, that ye County Collector pay unto John Marshall, the sum of one pound, 13 shillings, for making 3 pair of irons for ye prisoners, and attending 3 days in fitting them." "At said Board, Samuel Harrison, Sheriff for the County of Gloucester, brought in a bill wherein he charges the County, to whipping James McBride, shillings; for the time and expenses in getting a whipper and whipper's ferriages, 7 shillings, 6 pence; for executing John Johnson, John Steward and Edward Caral, 15 pounds; for ropes to execute them, 8 shillings and 8 pence; to the executioner's expenses, 1 pound; to digging graves for said men, 6 shillings. Total, 17 pounds, 12 shillings and 2 pence. The.Board taking said bill into consideration, allow for the ropes and ye digging of graves, 14 shillings and 8 pence; for ye rest, are of opinion it is ye Sheriff's office to see ye law executed upon convicts, as they know no law that justifies him to any pay for ye execution of his office in such case; think therefore it would be a ill precedent, and not warrantable in them to allow said bill or any of ye like kind. Ordered that the Clerk endorse on the back of said bill 14 shillings 8 pence, allowed for ropes and digging of graves; ye rest of ye within bill disallowed, and return it to ye Sheriff with an order on the County Collector for said sum." ADDITIONS AND REPAIRS TO PRISON AND COURT HOUSE. It was likewise agreed at said meeting that the Prison be enlarged 10 feet in the clear, with ye Road; ye walls to be sunk three foot into ye ground, to be 2 1/2 foot thick, and a partition carried up the first story; ye floor to be pitched with long stone two foot deep, filled up with mortar, and floored over with two inch plank. Samuel Coles was appointed Manager to see this addition built as above, and as soon as conveniently may be. Tax for 320 pounds was ordered raised at this meeting, 40 pounds of which was appropriated for killing of wolves, and other beasts of prey. On March 8, 1751, it was ordered that the old Prison be floored over in the same manner as the new part was appointed to be done in 1750, and Samuel Harrison was appointed Manager to see it done as soon as he can conveniently. On April 14, 1751, Samuel Harrison was ordered paid 17 pounds, 5 shillings, for flooring Prison with stone and plank, and usual allowance for paying out money. At this meeting it was ordered that Robert Stephens and Jacob Albertson be Managers to have the addition to the Prison built, agreeable to an order of the Board of Justices and Freeholders, May 10, 1750, and in the manner the said minute sets forth, to be done with the greatest dispatch conveniency will admit of. On June 22, 1751, this minute appears: "This Board viewing ye Foundation for ye addition to ye Prison, think it too small. Ordered that it be built two foot wider than it was appointed by ye Board ye 17th of 4th Mo., 1751, and without any partition. Ordered that Robert Stephens and Jacob Albertson get a part of ye old Prison not yet floored, done in ye same manner as ye other part is." ANOTHER NEW BELL ORDERED. On January 22, 1753: "Ordered that ye Managers get a new Bell for ye Court House, of a 100 pound weight, and dispose of ye old one to help pay for ye same." On February 27th, 1753, it was reported that the cost of building addition to Prison was 374 pounds 17 shillings and 2 pence, including commissions of 10 pence per pound, which was allowed by the Board. At a meeting held June 12th, 1759, it was "Ordered that Joseph Harrison wait on the Governor, with a petition for ascertaining the division lines of the several Townships in this County, in order to obtain Patent for the same, and produce his account of disbursement for said service to the County Collector, who is authorized to pay same. On October 6th, 1760, this minute is recorded: "Ordered that Samuel Harrison, Jr., and Joseph Harrison, repair the Prison chimney, glaize the Court House windows, glaize one of the front Gaol windows, and make a wooden shutter to the other, clean the well in the yard, and if the necessary houses in the Gaol can be made more convenient with small expense, the same to be done. Also that they settle with Hugh Jones for what repairs he made to the County House, and draw on Simeon Ellis for the moneys in his hands lodged there for to repair the damage done by the Riotting Soldiers, and apply it towards the aforesaid repairs, and if that be insufficient, that they draw on the County Collector for the residue." TOWNSHIP DIVISIONS. At a meeting held May 13, 1761, this minute is recorded: "Ordered at said meeting that Richard Matlock, Henry Wood, John Hinchman, William Davis, James Whitall, Joshua Lord, Francis Batten and Jacob Spicer, agree with Samuel Clement, Jr., a Deputy Surveyor, to run out the division lines of the Townships of Waterford, Gloucester Township, Deptford and Greenwich, in said County, and a division line between the aforesaid Townships and Great Egg Harbour in said County, pursuant to the directions of an Act of General Assembly of the Province of New Jersey, in that case made and provided, and that the said division line between Great Egg Harbour and the said other Townships to run as follows, viz: Beginning at the southerly branch of Little Egg Harbour River, below Richard Fry's; thence on a straight course to the High Hill, on Great Eggharbour old road; thence on the same course to the division line of Gloucester and Salem Counties; and extend the said several other Townships back to the said line, and further, that the said lines be run out and marked on or before the first day of September next." At a meeting held September 15, 1761, the several persons above mentioned, appointed to run out and mark the Township lines aforesaid, together with Samuel Clement, Jr., the Surveyor, reported that they had run out and marked the several Townships they had in charge, and produced a map of the same. "Ordered that the County Collector cause the Map or Draught, and Certificate of the Division of said Townships made by Samuel Clement, Jr., Surveyor, to be entered in the Clerk's Office of the Western Division of the Province of New Jersey, according to the directions of an Act of General Assembly." COST OF RUNNING TOWNSHIP LINES. "Ordered that the County Collector pay unto the several persons appointed to run out and mark the several Townships aforesaid, their wages and expenses as follows: Richard Matlack 5 pounds, 19 shillings, 11 pence Henry Wood 1 " 18 John Hinchman 5 " 13 " 2 " William Davis 5 " 13 " 2 " James Whitall 5 " 13 " 9 " Joshua Lord 5 " 17 " 5 " Francis Batten 3 " 14 " 5 " Noah Smith 4 " 8 " 6 " Samuel Clement, Jr., Surveyor 8 " 18 " 2 " Total 47 " 16 " 2 " A Tax of 70 pounds was ordered levied for the payment of the expense of running the lines of the several Townships. THINGS TAXED. As the public needs of the County increased with the growing population, it is very certain that new sources of taxation must be found. This is herewith shown by the Tax Levy ordered September 2, 1762, as appears by the record as follows: "Ordered that the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds be raised on the inhabitants of this County, for the County's use in manner following: "All Householders, the tax of whose ratable estate, consisting of certainties, does not amount to one shilling, shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under six pence, nor above ten shillings. "All Merchants and Shop Keepers shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under one shilling and six pence, nor above one pound five shillings. "All Saw Mills shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under five shillings, nor above two pounds ten shillings. "All Grist Mills, for each pair of stones, shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under two shillings and six pence, nor above two pounds ten shillings. "All Fulling Mills, to be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under three shillings, nor above one pound ten shillings. "Every Ferry shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under two shillings and six pence nor above three pounds. "Every Coasting Sloop, Shallop, Flat Boat that carries for hire, Passage Boat, Pilot Boat and Wood Boat, shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, in proportion to their burthen and Business, not under two shillings and six pence nor above four shillings. "Every Riding Chair shall be rated at the discretion of the Assessors, not under nine pence, nor over one shilling and six pence. "Every single man that works for hire, and keeps a horse, mare or gelding, shall be rated the sum of four shillings. "Every single man that works for hire, and does not keep a horse, mare or gelding, shall be rated the sum of two shillings. "Every bought Servant and Slave, being male of 16 years old and upwards, except such slaves as are not able to work, shall be rated the sum of one shilling. "All Cattle, Horses, Mares and Geldings of two years old and upwards, shall be valued at 25 shillings each head. "All Sheep of one year old and upwards, shall be valued at 3 shillings each head. "All Profitable Tracts of Land, held by Patent, Deed or Survey, whereon any improvement is made, the whole Tract shall be valued at the discretion of the Assessors, not above forty pounds, nor under eight pounds per hundred. "The Assessors to meet at the Court House, in the Town of Gloucester, on the 20th day of October, next, in order to settle the aforesaid tax, and make out their Duplicates, and deliver them to the Collector of each respective Township, on the 27th day of the present October. Collector to collect the Tax and pay it to the County Collector on the 27th day of November next." All the Assessments seem to have been made at a joint meeting of the Assessors, at the Court House in Gloucester. ARMS AND AMMUNITION FROM PERTH AMBOY. At a meeting held September 28, 1763, James Whitall was ordered to get the County Book of Records bound with calfskin, and pay the cost and produce his account when the work is done. This was done at a cost of 7 shillings 6 pence. At the same meeting it was "Ordered that Joseph Ellis do receive of John Johnson, of Perth Amboy, Esquire, or his heirs, executors, administrators, the Quota of Arms and Ammunition which belongs to the County of Gloucester, and to pay the expenses of storage, if any be, and other necessary expenses for transporting the said arms and ammunition to the Town of Gloucester, and deliver them to William Hugg, of the Town of Gloucester aforesaid, and the account of the expenses aforesaid to be laid before the next Board of Justices and Freeholders. "Ordered that David Cooper, County Collector, pay unto Jacob Ellis, the sum of ten pounds, in order to enable him to transport the arms and ammunition belonging to this County from Perth Amboy to the Town of Gloucester." At a meeting held October 31, 1763, it is noticed that there was received this County's proportion of arms and accoutrements, as mentioned in the act of Assembly, powder and ball excepted. Joseph Ellis was paid 10 pounds 17 shillings and 9 pence for transportation of arms, &c, from Perth Amboy. Ordered that William Hugg, of the Town of Gloucester, receive the arms in his custody, and keep them until ordered otherwise, and that he employ some person to clean them and keep them in good order, and lay the expense of the same before the next Board, in order to be discharged. CONSTABLES' STAFFS WITH KING'S COAT OE ARMS. At a meeting held May 10, 1764, it was ordered that John Hillman make ten new Constables' Staffs, and get them painted with the King's Coat of Arms, and the names of the Townships, viz: One for Waterford, one for Newton, one for Gloucester Town, one for Gloucester Township, one for Deptford, two for Greenwich, and three for Eggharbour; 45 shillings were paid for this work. William Hugg was ordered paid one pound fifteen shillings for getting 159 muskets cleaned. COUNTY LINE BETWEEN SALEM AND GLOUCESTER; ARMS TO BE SOLD. "Letter being read, signed by Robert Johnson and John Holme, Justices of the Peace for the County of Salem, wherein was an appointment to run and mark the line between the Counties of Salem and Gloucester, giving notice to two of the Justices of the Peace for Gloucester County to meet the 25th of June next, which letter being laid before this Board; "Ordered, that Francis Batten, George Flanningham and Thomas Denny, Esq., be a committee to joyn a committee chose by ye Justices and Freeholders of ye County of Salem, to run and mark the division line between the said Counties, pursuant to an act of General Assembly, and that ye said Thomas Denny is hereby appointed as Surveyor to assist therein." At a meeting held June 10, 1765, the committee reported that they had performed the duty assigned them, at an expense of 5 pounds 10 shillings and six pence for Thomas Denny as Surveyor for 6 days; Francis Batten, 2 pounds 10 shillings; George Flanningham, 2 pounds 10 shillings; Markers and Chain Bearers, 2 pounds 5 shillings, 5 days each. At this meeting it was ordered that the County Arms be divided into four equal parts between the following persons: One-fourth part in care of John Hinchman and Isaac Mickle. One-fourth part to Samuel Harrison, Esq., and John Hider. One-fourth part to Alexander Randall, Esq., and George Flanningham. One-fourth part to Michael Fisher and John Sparks. The above persons to be entrusted with the said arms, and to sell them for the best price they can, the way and manner how to be at their discretion, and to render an account of the same to the Board, at Gloucester, the first day of December Court next. Samuel Clement, Jr., County Collector, reported that he had received the following fines: Jacob Orchard and Benjamin Lippincott, for refusing to serve as Constables in the Township of Greenwich, 10 pounds; James Steel-man, for refusing to serve as Town Collector in the Township of Greenwich, one pound. GUNS SOLD. At the meeting held December 7th, 1765, reports were made as follows: John Hinchman and Isaac Mickle reported sale of 39 guns for 59 pounds 5 shillings and 9 pence. Samuel Harrison and John Hider, 39 guns for 57 pounds 19 shillings and 10 pence. Michael Fisher and John Sparks, 38 guns, 57 pounds. Alexander Randall and George Flanningham, 34 guns, 51 pounds. Each Committee reported a balance unpaid on account of sales. It was ordered that these balances be collected and paid County Collector, at the next meeting in May, the committees to receive 5 per cent, commission on the whole sum for their trouble. All balances were reported paid in full at a meeting held May 13, 1767. The County Collector reported the following fines from persons nominated as Constables, who refused to serve: John Kaighn, 5 pounds; Jonathan Paul, 5 pounds; James Steelman, 5 pounds; Gideon Scull, 5 pounds. COURT HOUSE DAMAGED BY FIRE. At a meeting of the Justices and Freeholders, on the 8th day of February, 1768, agreeable to the summons of Samuel Harrison, Robert F. Price and John Hinchman, Justices, to meet and consult on some method to repair the damages done to the Court House by fire, and other matters for the County's service, the following members appeared: Justices—Samuel Harrison, Robert F. Price, John Hinchman. Freeholders—Waterford, Richard Matlack, Nathan Lippincott; Newton, David Branson, Isaac Mickle; Gloucester Town, John Brick, John Mickle; Gloucester Township, Josiah Albertson, John Hider; Deptford, Joshua Lord, James Hinchman; Greenwich, George Flanning-ham, Archibald Moffett; Woolwich, Jacob Spicer. Woolwich Township seems first to have had a Freeholder at the meeting held May 13, 1767. The minute records this action at the meeting held February 8, 1767: "Whereas, by the account of fire, the Roof of the Court House is burned off, and other damage done to ye said house, it is "Ordered by the Board that all necessary utensils be purchased, and all necessary repairs be made to the Court House and Jail, in or near the manner it was before the consumption by the fire, with all convenient speed, and accordingly Isaac Mickle and James Hinchman are appointed Managers to purchase material and hire workmen, and see the work is done and produce their accounts to the next meeting of the Board, if the work is done; if not to the next succeeding Board. OLD BELL TO BE SOLD AND NEW ONE PURCHASED. "Ordered that said Managers endeavor to sell the old bell at the best price they can, and also purchase a new one at their discretion. "Ordered that the Managers call on the County Collector for cash to carry on the said work, and to purchase the Bell, and their receipts shall be his discharge for the same. "Ordered that the County Collector pay unto William Hugg the sum of 13 shillings and four pence for drink for the persons who helped put out the fire at the Court House." On October 3d, 1769, Isaac Mickle reported the cost of repairs to the Court House to be 125 pounds, 10 shillings and 11 pence, which was ordered settled. JUSTICES, FREEHOLDERS, COLLECTORS, CLERKS. From 1740 to 1770, these persons served as Justices and Freeholders: Justices—James Hinchman, Isaac Jennings, John Kaighn, Joseph Kaighn, Thomas Coles, Thomas Wilkins, Japhet Leeds, Simeon Ellis, John Ladd, Michael Fisher, Alexander Randall, Samuel Clement, Alexander Morgan, Thomas Denny, Joseph Harrison, Edward Doughty, Robert F. Price, Henry Wood, John Hinchman, James Somers, Samuel Harrison, Samuel Spicer. Freeholders—Alexander Morgan, William Ellis, Ebenezer Hopkins, Robert Stephens, William Harrison, John Mickle, John Hinchman, John Tomlinson, John Wood, George Ward, Jr., Alexander Randall, William Wilkins, Richard Risley, Edward Doughty, Richard Mat-lack, Timothy Matlack, James McCullough, Allen Morgan, Robert Smith, Daniel Lake, Samuel Harrison, William Hugg, Samuel McCullough, James Cooper, Samuel Shivers, Aaron Aaronson, Samuel Clement, Jacob Albert-son, John Burrough, Isaac Smith, Edward Richardson, William Wood, Joseph Ellis, James Whitall, William Mickle, John Thorn, James Lord, Robert Gerrard, Samuel Coles, David Cooper, Henry Roe, Francis Batten, John Hillman, James Talman, John Sparks, John Chew, Thomas Wilkins, Jacob Couzens, Thomas Cheesman, Isaac Kay, Robert Zane, Isaac Albertson, William Gerrard, John Brown, Joshua Lord, Jr., Archibald Mickle, John Gill, Jacob Clement, Matthew Gill, Samuel Harrison, Jr., Isaac Mickle, George Flanningham, Isaac Cooper, Joseph Johnson, John Hopkins, Joshua Lord, Jr., Henry Wood, William Davis, Gideon Scull, Joseph Cooper, Josiah Albertson, David Branson, Jacob Spicer, Abraham Chattin, John Hider, Thomas Bate, Nathaniel Lippincott, John Brick, Archibald Moffett, Frederick Steelman, John Somers, David Hurley Solomon Lippincott, Peter Cheesman, Benjamin Lodge, Joseph Hillman, Thomas Clark, Samuel Hewes, Thomas Wood. During this period, also, the following persons served as Clerks of the Board and County Collectors of the County: County Collectors—Joseph Cooper, Ebenezer Hopkins, David Cooper and Samuel Clement, Jr. Clerks—Samuel Spicer, Alexander Randall, William Wood, Samuel Harrison, Jr., David Cooper, Joseph Harrison, James Whitall, Samuel Clement, Jr., Joseph Hugg, Isaac Mickle, James Hinchman, Joseph Kaighn. From the year 1725 forward, there seem to be many references to the business of the Commissioners of the Loan Office, but as the writer does not understand fully these proceedings, no further reference thereto will be made in these notes. Frequent reference is made to inquests and burial of "dead corpses," and the payment of board of prisoners is referred to as "dieting" them. Murders and other crimes seem to have been frequent, and several executions of criminals are noted. Repairs to Court House and Gaol, and Great Timber Creek bridge, seem to have been an annual responsibility. The Board frequently failed to have a quorum for business at their meetings, and Freeholders from Egg Harbour Township were seldom present. However, sessions occasionally lasted two days. Two or three meetings per year, seem to have been the custom. Under date of May 11, 1771, this entry appears: "There not being a sufficient number of Justices met to do business, no business was done." There are no further entries or proceedings for that year. At a special meeting held April 8, 1772, James Kinsey was ordered paid the sum of four pounds, sixteen shillings, for prosecuting Peter Mantle to conviction for the murder of Elizabeth Lippincott. "James Kinsey laid another bill of 30 shillings before the Board for prosecuting Darby Leary, but as it was at the Circuit Court, the Freeholders would not allow it." On May 13, 1772, James Bowman was ordered paid eight shillings and three pence for a Book to record the return of Roads. A new Bridge having been ordered to be built over Great Timber Creek, this minute appears at the meeting held May 12, 1773: "Joseph Hugg, Esq., engageth to keep a Ferry over Great Timber Creek, at or near the place of the present Bridge, to carry over passengers or travellers passing the road whilst the said Bridge is rebuilding; and the Board order him to take no more fee or rate than what is commonly taken at Ancocas Lower Ferry, and that he give constant attendance to that business during the time the said Bridge is rebuilding." At a meeting held May 11, 1774, the cost of rebuilding Bridge was reported to be 202 pounds, one shilling and seven pence. Only one meeting was held in the year 1775, on May 10th, but nothing of present day interest was transacted. DURING THE REVOLUTION. No quorum appearing in May, 1776, no business was transacted. No record of any other meetings held that year. This notation is attached in this minute: "N. B.—The present Government took place on the 2d of July, 1776." Only one meeting was held May 10, 1777, for that year, and little business transacted. At a special meeting held August 3, 1778, this minute is made: "The Freeholders refusing to take the oaths to Government, prevented proceeding to business." No other entry appears for that year. At a meeting held January 1, 1779, 1500 pounds was ordered raised for defraying the public expenses of the County. At a meeting held June 13th, 1780, Col. Joseph Ellis and Major Samuel Hugg, Freeholders from Gloucester Town, are described with military titles. At a meeting held August 7, 1781, a County Seal was ordered. At a meeting held February 5, 1782, this minute is recorded: "John Wilkins, Esq., County Collector, moved the Board for allowance of 882 pounds, 15 shillings, Continental money, which he had received for County Taxes, which he had paid into the Treasury, and hath been returned to him as counterfeit. "Ordered that this Board do not make any allowance to the County Collector aforesaid, for any part of said 882 pounds, 15 shillings. "Samuel Harker, Collector of Woolwich Township, moved the Board for allowance for ten three pound State bills, being counterfeit, which he had received in said Township for Tax, not knowing them to be such when he received them. "Ordered that this Board do not make any allowance to the said Samuel Harker for any part of said Counterfeit Money aforesaid." At the same meeting it was "Ordered that the Board do not allow the Crier of the Court to draw his fees out of the County's Money, by virtue of any order of Court whatsoever, or otherwise." Preceding the minutes of a meeting held March 23, 1786, there appears a lead pencil memorandum made by John M. Saunders, which reads as follows: "NOTE.—The Court House and Jail at Gloucester must have been destroyed by fire, I think, sometime in the early part of the 3d Mo., (March) 1786. J. M. S." At a special meeting held March 23, 1786, at the House of William Hugg, in the Town of Gloucester, the following named Justices and Freeholders were present: Justices—John Wilkins, Joseph Hugg, John Sparks, Robert Brown, Thomas Denny, John Griffith, Joseph Ellis, Samuel Kennard, Joshua Smith. Freeholders—Waterford, Joseph Champion, Thomas Thorn; Newton, John E. Hopkins, John Gill; Gloucester Town, Samuel Harrison, Samuel Hugg; Gloucester Tp., Isaac Tomlinson, John Hider; Deptford, James Wilkins, Joseph Reeves; Greenwich, John Haines, Elijah Cozens; Woolwich, John Kille, George Van Leer; Egg Harbor, Thomas Somers. PETITION TO LEGISLATURE TO PERMIT NEW COURT HOUSE TO BE ERECTED AT WOODBURY. The minutes of this meeting show action as follows: "The question whether the Court House and Gaol, lately consumed by fire, should be repaired, or whether a petition be sent to the Legislature for a law to be passed to enable the inhabitants to build a new Court House and Gaol. The vote being called there was a majority for having them built new. It was then agreed by the Board that a petition should be sent from said Board praying the Legislature to pass a law for the building of a Court House and Gaol, in such place in said County as a majority of the inhabitants thereof shall determine by a fair and impartial election. "Ordered, that a petition be drawn immediately, and signed by the Clerk, on behalf of the Board, which was done accordingly." At a meeting held at the House of William Hugg in Gloucester, May 10, 1786, the following action was taken: "Whereas, there was a minute made at the last meeting of the Board, by order of said Board, that a petition be sent to the Legislature, praying them to pass a law for the building of a Court House and Gaol, in such place in said County as a majority of the inhabitants thereof shall determine by a free and impartial election. Agreeable thereto a petition from the Board and signed by the Clerk was sent, but before it arrived, the House rose. And whereas, said petition is either lost or mislaid, as appears, the Board then resumed the consideration thereof, and the votes were called accordingly, a majority of which were for a new petition to be drawn and sent to the Legislature, agreeable to the said minute; therefore ordered that the Clerk of this Board draw a petition in manner and form aforesaid, and sign it on behalf of the Board, and cause it to be forwarded to the Legislature at their next sitting. At a meeting held August 3, 1786, James Brown, John Jessup and Samuel Hugg were chosen managers to agree with workmen, and purchase materials for the building of the Gaol and Court House at Woodbury. SITE FOR COURT HOUSE AND JAIL SELECTED. At a special meeting held September 22, 1786, at the house of William Hugg, it was unanimously agreed to adjourn until the 29th of September, to meet at the house of Josiah Hillman, in Woodbury, to fix upon a Lot of Ground whereon to build the Court House and Gaol. The Board met according to adjournment, and proceeded to the choice of a lot for the use of a Court House and Gaol; when John Bispham offered a lot four rods front and fifteen rods back for the purpose aforesaid. The votes were then called, and the offer was unanimously accepted. "Ordered, that James Wilkins, John Wilkins and Joseph Reeves be a committee to see the Lot laid out and take Deed therefor. "Ordered, that the Jail be built the same size of Salem Jail, and the Court House to be 35 by 40 feet, and the Yard 100 feet in length." At a special meeting held December 6, 1786, "Ordered that the Managers chosen to superintend the building of the Court House and Gaol, do immediately take a Deed for the lot whereon said buildings are to stand, agreeable to the draft produced to this Board by John Wilkins. "Ordered, that said Managers do pay for said lot out of the public moneys in their hands, 50 pounds." 1500 pounds was ordered raised by Tax for the building of Court House and Gaol. At a meeting held December 2, 1787, the Managers of the Gaol and Court House made report that the Gaol was nearly finished, upon which the Board appointed John Wilkins, Joseph Ellis, Samuel Harrison and James Wilkins, Freeholders, as a committee to take charge of the Gaol, and deliver it up to the High Sheriff of the County, as soon as it is fitting to hold prisoners. John Blackwood was then High Sheriff. The cost of the Court House and Gaol, as changed from pounds, shillings and pence to dollars and cents, seems to have been $12,286.10, as shown by memorandum made in Minute Book by John M. Saunders. At a meeting held May 11, 1791, it was "Ordered that John Wilkins, Esq., take charge of the Deed whereon the Court House and Gaol are erected, and get it recorded in the Secretary's Office at Burlington, and then to bring it down again and lodge it in the Clerk's Office of this County. John Jessup was ordered paid 30 pounds for a Bell and hanging same for Court House. At a meeting held May 9, 1792, it was "Ordered that a Stove be purchased for the Court House, 2 dozen Windsor chairs, one table, 2 sets andirons, shovels and tongs, 2 cords of hickory wood, glass put over the door, windows fitted with glass. The seats to be raised at the discretion of the Managers. To erect Stocks, Whipping Post and Pillory, placed at the discretion of the Manager, and that John Jessup be Manager to carry the business into effect." NEW ROADS LAID OUT. "The Commissioners appointed by law to lay out a public road from Mount Holly to Joshua Cooper's Ferry, represent in writing to this Board that 200 pounds is necessary to complete said road." At a meeting held May 14, 1794, "Ordered that the sum of 150 pounds specie, more than the 50 pounds directed by law, be raised in this County for that purpose, and for the laying out and clearing the public road directed by said law to be laid out from Woodbury to Bridgeton, in Cumberland County; and that 35 pounds of the money now in the County Collector's hands be paid to the Commissioners for laying out the Mount Holly road, (if their fees do amount to so much) and the remainder of said County money, after the paying the orders of this Board, to be paid to the Commissioners for laying out the Bridge-ton road, if said road shall be laid out." At a meeting held May 13, 1795, it was ordered that 500 pounds specie be raised by tax to lay out, open and improve the roads from Burlington and Mount Holly to Cooper's Ferry, and from Bridgeton and Roadstown to Woodbury. At a meeting held May 10, 1797, Joshua Howell and Phineas Lord were appointed Commissioners to make an estimate of the expense necessary to purchase a Lot of Ground in the town of Woodbury, and for the building thereon of a house for the safe keeping of the Records of the County of Gloucester. At a meeting held May 10, 1797, this minute is recorded: "Benjamin Whitall, Aaron Pancoast, Thomas Carpenter, Eli Elmer and Elnathan Davis, five of the Commissioners for opening and improving certain Roads in the Counties of Cumberland, Salem, Gloucester and Burlington, in this State, under the seventh section of the act passed February 15, 1794, applied to this Board for the sum of Five Hundred Pounds, to be assessed, levied and collected, to enable them to fulfil for the purposes mentioned in the said act. On the question whether the said sum of Five Hundred Pounds be raised for the purpose mentioned in the said application, it was determined in the negative." These notes conclude extracts from Book A of Minutes, and the following notes are condensed from the Minute Book marked B. BOOK B At the annual meeting held May 9, 1798, there is no record of the attendance of any Justices, but a full attendance of Freeholders only. COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE. A plan for the erection of a Clerk's Office was presented by John E. Hopkins, being 25 feet 4 inches by 20 feet, arched cellar under the whole, door posts and window frames stone, doors and window shutters iron, and the roof to be covered with copper, which plan was approved. This Office afterwards became the Surrogate's Office, and when it was vacated as such when the present Court House was completed, the Fanners and Mechanics National Bank occupied it when first organized for several months. It was finally demolished for the purpose of opening Newton Avenue. ROOM IN COURT HOUSE USED AS A LIBRARY. Joshua L. Howell and James M. Whitall, two of the Directors of the Union Library Company, of Woodbury, requested the liberty of putting the books, &c, of said Company, in one of the front chambers of the Court House, which request was granted on trial. At a meeting held January 8, 1799, 1000 pounds was ordered paid John E. Hopkins and Phineas Lord on account of building the Clerk's Office. At this meeting a Deed was presented from Isaac Wilkins and Rachel, his wife, for the purchase of a lot on which the Clerk's Office was erected. At this meeting also it was ordered that a Wrought Iron Chest be purchased for the County Collector, the more safely to keep the money of the County. The Commissioners for opening the road from Woodbury to Bridgeton and Roadstown, requested that the County Collector should pay them 177 pounds 3 shillings 3 pence for the use of said road, it being the balance of 500 pounds which was ordered for that purpose, which was ordered paid by the County Collector. At a meeting held May 8, 1799, this minute is recorded: RACCOON CREEK BRIDGE. "John Pisant, on behalf of the proprietors of the Lower Bridge over Raccoon Creek, reported to this Board that the said proprietors do now relinquish all their claim to said Bridge, and request that this Board provide for the repairing and supporting said Bridge, at the expense of this County. On motion, whether said Bridge be maintained by the County, it was carried in the affirmative." This is the first record having reference to construction and repair of Bridges other than Great Timber Creek Bridge before above date. At the same meeting the question of building a Bridge over the South Branch of Great Timber Creek, at or near Limber Bridge, was presented, and James Hopkins, Jacob Stokes and Jeremiah Wood were appointed a committee thereon. This Committee reported in favor of making application to the Legislature for the passage of a law authorizing the construction thereof. At a meeting held December 12, 1799, report was made that such a law had been passed. It was therefore ordered that John Wilkins, John B. Morgan, Jacob Stokes, Jeremiah Wood and Samuel P. Maul be appointed a Committee to proceed with its construction. Other references are made to the building and repairs of Bridges over Woodbury Creek, on public highway; Carpenter's Landing Bridge, Raccoon Bridge at Swedes-boro, lower Bridge over Mantua Creek, over Garrard's Dam, and Penshawkin Creek, &c, in 1799 and 1800. At the same meeting this minute is recorded: A POOR HOUSE CONSIDERED. "A motion was made to this Board, of the propriety of procuring a Poor House in the County of Gloucester, the more conveniently to enable all poor persons who are, or may be, a public charge to said County, to be provided for by said County, which was carried in the affirmative; and ordered that Samuel Cooper, James Hopkins and James Stratton be a Committee to make inquiry about the premises and report to this Board at their next meeting." CONTRIBUTION FOR FIRE ENGINE. At same meeting, "Franklin Davenport, Esq., on behalf of the Woodbury Fire Company, requested of this Board their assistance, in order to enable the said Company to purchase Fire Engine and other apparatus for the use of said Company; therefore ordered, that the sum of $200 be paid by the County Collector to the Treasurer of said Company, on or before the expiration of one year." At this time entries changed from use of words Pounds, Shillings and Pence, to Dollars and Cents. At an adjourned meeting held December 12, 1800, this minute is recorded: POOR HOUSE FARM PURCHASED. "The Committee, who were appointed by this Board, at their last meeting, to purchase a suitable place for building a Poor House, &c, for said County, now reports that they have purchased of Michael C. Fisher, in the Township of Deptford, a Plantation containing 125 acres of land, at ten pounds per acre, amounting to $3,333-33, which was unanimously agreed to. Said Committee also produced a Deed for said land, which was duly executed; and it is further ordered, that the Director of said Board be authorized to receive said Deed, when acknowledged, and have the same recorded, and to execute a Bond to the said Michael C. Fisher, for the purchase money, agreeably to contract." The Committee consisted of Samuel Cooper, James Hurley, John Hider, Samuel W. Harrison, Amos Cooper, William Ford, James Stratton, John Collins, Richard Westcott and Elias Smith, Jr. This Committee produced a plan of a House to be built 75 by 35 feet, two stories high, and a cellar under the whole, to be built with stone, which was agreed to, and Amos Cooper, John Brick and John Hider were appointed Commissioners to superintend the building thereof, at $1.50 per day, if service in County, or $2.00 out of the County. JUSTICES, FREEHOLDERS, COLLECTORS AND CLERKS. From 1770 to 1800 these persons served as Justices and Freeholders: Justices—Michael Fisher, John Hinchman, Samuel Spicer, Isaac Kay, James Bowman, Thomas Clark, George Van Leer, Samuel Blackwood, James Hinchman, James Somers, Samuel Risley, Robert Wood, Israel Shreve, Thomas Denny, John Sparks, Joseph Hugg, Robert Brown, Bodo Otto, John Wilkins, Isaac Tomlinson, Thomas Hastings, Samuel Kinnard, John Cooper, John Griffith, John Little, William Cozens, Joseph Ellis, Joshua Smith, Jeffrey Clark, Robert Morris, Samuel Elwell, Thomas Champion, Samuel Risley, Micajah Smith, EHas Smith, Benjamin Morgan, David Clark, William Tatem, Joseph Blackwood, Thomas Carpenter, James Stratton, Abraham Inskeep, Joseph Champion, William Zane, Thomas Heston, James Sloan, John Brick. Freeholders—Nathaniel Lippincott, Joshua Stokes, David Branson, Isaac Mickle, Joseph Ellis, John Mickle, Peter Cheesman, Jacob Jennings, David Cooper, Joshua Lord, David Brown, Jacob Spicer, Matthew Gill, William Cozens, John Gill, Joseph Hillman, Joshua Cozens, Joshua Fisher, Constantine Wilkins, Joseph Hugg, James Whitall, John Glover, Thomas West, Frederick Steelman, John E. Hopkins, Samuel Harrison, John Brick, Benjamin Pittfield, Isaac Jones, David Davis, Thomas Thorn, Jacob Stokes, Joseph Low, Charles Fisher, John Kille, Samuel Wilson, Robert Ford Price, Thomas Taber, Joseph Collins, John Griffith, John Little, Samuel Hugg, John Hider, John Hedger, James Wilkins, Randal Morgan, Isaac Thompson, Felix Fisher, Henry Shute, John Middleton, Isaac Mickle, Elijah Clark, Richard Cheesman, John Ladd Howell, Daniel Southerland, John West, John Steelman, Samuel Burrough, Jacob Jennings, Lazarus Price, William Zane, Joseph Hillman, Joshua Howell, John Winner, James Hopkins, Joseph Bolton, Jeremiah Higbee, Jonathan Steelman, William Smith, Amos Ireland, Enoch Allen, Thomas Somers, Edmund Brewer, John B. Morgan, John Steelman, John Collins, Richard Westcott, Daniel Steelman, James Hurley, Amos Cooper, William Ford, Enoch Leeds, Joseph Cooper, Joseph Collins, Samuel Harrison, Jacob Albertson, James Wilkins, Arthur Reeves, David Paul, Isaac Somers, Nehemiah Steelman, Richard Borden, Ephraim Tomlinson, James Hinchman, Archibald Moffett, Elijah Cozens, William Todd, Elijah Clark, David Davis, Thomas Thorn, Joseph Champion, Samuel Hugg, John Jessup, Joseph Reeves, John Haines, George Van Leer, Thomas Somers, David Sayres, David Clark, Edmund Cordery, Edward Gibbs, John Stevens, Samuel French, William White, Joshua Leeds, Jeremiah Higbee, Joseph Burrough, Marmaduke Cooper, William Hugg, Benjamin Whitall, James Scull, Felix Leeds, Joseph Johnson, George Sparks, Samuel Cozens, Samuel Tonkin, Samuel Stokes, Samuel Cooper, James Sloan, Jonathan Harker, Frederick Steelman, Richard Higbee, John Smith, Isaac Stephens, Edmund Ireland, Charles French, Joseph Mickle, Samuel P. Paul, Joseph Dalher, Samuel W. Harrison, John Wood, Phineas Lord, Enoch Allen, Jeremiah Wood. During this period also, these persons served as Clerks of the Board, and County Collectors of the County: County Collectors—Samuel Clement, Jr., John Wilkins and Joel Westcott. Clerks—Samuel Harrison, Samuel Spicer, Joseph Hugg, John Griffith, Elijah Cozens, William White, John Blackwood, John Wilkins, Thomas Wilkins, James Strat-ton, Joseph Cooper, Jacob Jennings, Samuel W. Harrison, Benjamin Rulon. The Gloucester County Board of Freeholders records continue down to the present time but it has not been thought desirable to crowd this book with extracts later than the year 1800, although much of interest appears after that date. Additional Comments: Extracted from: NOTES ON Old Gloucester County NEW JERSEY HISTORICAL RECORDS PUBLISHED BY THE NEW JERSEY SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA VOLUME I Compiled and Edited by FRANK H. STEWART HISTORIAN OF THE SOCIETY 1917 This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/njfiles/ File size: 79.1 Kb This file is located at http://files.usgwarchives.net/nj/gloucester/history/local/boardoffreeholders.txt