History: Local: Chapters XXXIII & XXXIV : Charitable and Benevolent Associations & Insane Hospital and Poor House : Bean's 1884 History of Montgomery Co, PA Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Susan Walters USGENWEB NOTICE: Printing this file 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. We encourage links to the state and county table of contents. บบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบ BEAN'S HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA บบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบบ 488 CHAPTER XXXIII. CHARITABLE AND BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATIONS. MASONIC. -There is a tradition that a Masonic lodge was in existence within the lines of the Continental army occupying Valley Forge, and that it was presided over by Washington. CHARITY LODGE, No. 190, F. AND A. M. -The first lodge of Masons organized in Montgomery County of which any positive information can be obtained is Charity Lodge, No. 190, F. and A. M., of Norristown, the charter for which was granted August 2, 1823, and the lodge constituted October 23d the same year. By the last published report it has two hundred and twelve members. The present officers are: Thomas J. Baker W. M. William F. Slingluff S. W. James A. Welsh, J. W. John Slingluff, Treas. George R. Kite, Sec. Of Past Masters now living are Charles L. Cornman Edmund A. Kite Samuel Brown, Jr. Edward D. Johnson William B. Roberts Florence Sullivan Benjamin F. Solley William E. Mover John Slingluff, R. G. L. George A. Lenzi D. G. Sherman John C. Richardson Abraham S. Hallman Benjamin Thomas Joseph H. Bodey Jacob Custer Henry A. Derr Alexander Hooven Thaddeus S. Adle John W. Bickel Joseph R. Ebert. STICHTER LODGE, No. 254, OF POTTSTOWN. -The charter for this lodge was granted March 3, 1851. It now has one hundred and forty-nine members, with the following officers: George R. Harrison, W. M. R. S. Malsberger, S. W. J. H. Morris, J. W. M. S. Longaker, Treas. Alexander Malsberger, Sec. The Past Masters now living are S. A. Stout H. C. Feger A. Malsberger Samuel R. Ellis Charles Moore W. C. Rutter J. H. Hobart T. W. Ludwig Dr. M. Aug. Withers William M. Gordon J. Harry Hobart Mont. S. Longaker John Scheetz William Auchenbach E. B. McCauley N. F. Dotterer J. M. Cunningham M. A. Campbell J. H. Smith Hiram Coller Lloyd C. Keim. CASSIA LODGE, No. 273. -The charter for this lodge was granted March 7, 1853, and it was constituted at Morgan's Corner, Radnor township, Delaware Co., and later, by dispensation, removed to Ardmore, in Montgomery County, where it still holds its meetings. It has a membership of one hundred and thirty- six, with the following officers: Samuel M. Garrigues, W. M. Thomas D. Murphy, S. W. F. V. V. Artsdalen, J. W. George H. Baker, Treas. Josiah S. Pearce, Sec. Past Masters: E. J. Lauman J. Levis Worrall J. T. McClellan Albert G. Preston Josiah S. Pearce Benjamin Shank S. S. Whiteman J. N. Marshall H. L. Litzenberg Joseph T. McBride J. M. Afflick Francis Fenimore Charles W. Humphreys E. T. Carr Isaac A. Cleaver Mahlon Rossiter George G. Lennig. FORT WASHINGTON LODGE, No. 308, is located at Fort Washington, in Whitemarsh township, and was constituted September 29, 1857. It has at present sixty-six members and the following officers: Francis S. Wilson, W. M. Oliver K. Beyer, S. W. Edward Neal, J. W. Henry Unger, Tres. George Lower, Sec., Flourtown. Past Masters: J. A. Martin Eli Hoover Joseph Rex (deceased) Dr. M. Newberry H. S. Sechler Joseph Morrison Samuel Jackson T. J. Wentz John Sechler Henry Unger George D. Whitcomb George Lower James McGowen, Charles Hoover Adam Hersh G. W. Worth Edward W. Lukens Edwin H. Faust George W. Hellings. WARREN LODGE. No. 310, was chartered September 5, 1857, and constituted at Trappe, in Upper Providence township. It has a membership of sixty-four, with the following officers: Garret F. Hunsicker, W.M Henry H. Fisher, S. W. Joseph W. Culbert, J. W. Dr. J. Warren Royer, Tres Henry W. Kratz, Sec. Past Masters: Dr. J. W. Royer W. R. Rittenhouse J. W. Sunderland Henry W. Kratz Aug. E. Dambly Frs. R. Deeds Aaron Weikel J. C. Laver D. S. Raudenbush Lewis Royer Franklin March Dr. Amos C. Coleman. FRIENDSHIP LODGE, No. 400, located at Jenkintown, received a charter bearing date September 5, 1867. It now contains ninety-five members and has the following officers: T. Benton Dornan, W. M. Paul C. Schwemmer, S. W. George W. Smith J. W. Charles Cottman, Treas. M. Luther Kohler, Sec. Past Masters: Thomas P. Manypenny (deceased) Charles Mather J. W. Ridpath S. W. Broadbent Charles Evans Dr. Thomas Betts Robert E. Patterson August Beitney A. S. Schively Samuel Keightly J. A. Shoemaker D. H. Yerkes John Dornan Lewis B. Gusman J. W. Wister John C. Roberts William Elliott. W. K. BRAY LODGE, No. 410, of HATBORO', was chartered March 4, 1868, and now has sixty members and the following officers: Thomas Kelley, W. M. Ephraim Slugg, S. W. Paul Jones, J. W. John B. Jones, Treas. Samuel B. Wilgus, Sec. Past Masters: Dr. E. Reading R. L. Davis J. John Beans George Dunnet John Slugg Jesse S. Leidy T. G. Watson Edw. Bright Edmond Wilgus W. Elwood Palmer Reuben A. Baum Dr. A. D. Markley. FRITZ LODGE, No 420, OF CONSHOHOCKEN, was chartered June 3, 1868, and had, by the last report, eighty-six members. The following are the present officers and Past Masters: George M. Williams, W. M. Cadw. H. Brooke, S. W. T. B. Reddington, J. W. J. S. Hipple, Treas. Peter Fritz, Jr., Sec. Past Masters: Edmund A. Nuss Joseph Chislett J. W. Harry Peter Fritz, Jr. J. P. Armitage George Stiles Joseph McGonegal C. A. Maxwell William F. Smith James H. Steen Dr. William McKinzie James Bell Richard B. Deal Edmund A. Kite, Jr. 489 SHILOH LODGE, No. 558, OF LANSDALE, Was constituted January 31, 1882, with ten members, and now has twenty-four members. David H. Hoult, W. M., R. G. L. W. E. Richardson, S. W. H. D. Fiesel, J. W. C. E. Miller, Treas. Hiram F. Effrig, Sec. Past Master: Rev. Henry F. Seiple. ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS. -The first in the county to be constituted was Norristown Royal Arch Chapter No. 190. Its warrant was issued December 27, 1858. The present officers and Past High Priests now living are: Comp. William F. Slingluff, High Priest Isaac W. Smith, K. Robert Wilson Perry, Scr. Joseph Shaw, Treasurer Franklin T. Beerer, Secretary. P. H. P.'s: Charles L. Cornman Samuel Brown, Jr. Edmund A. Kite William E. Meyer J. F. Hartranft John Slingluff B. F. Solly G. A. Lenzi Benjamin Thomas D. G. Sherman J. C. Richardson I. P. Wanger C. I. Baker Thaddeus S. Adle H. A. Derr T. J. Baker James A. Welsh. FORT WASHINGTON ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER, No. 220, OF FORT WASHINGTON, WHITEMARSH TOWNSHIP, was constituted September 10, 1868. Its present officers and Past High Priests are Comp. John J. Slifer, High Priest Henry J. Houpt, K. Charles H. Marple, Scr. Henry Unger, Treasurer Louis S. Whitcomb, Secretary. P. H. P.'s Joseph Rex Milton Newberry, M.D. Joseph Morrison Henry Unger Dr. J. T. Hampton Louis S. Whitcomb T. C. Vaux Adam Hersh T. MacReynolds Lemuel Rodenbaugh. ABINGTON ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER, No. 245 OF JENKINTOWN, was constituted November 28, 1873. The present officers and Past High Priests are: Comp. Elwood Wilgus, High Priest William Elliott, K. J. Howard Danenhower, Scr. Charles Harper, Treasurer Edward Bright, Secretary. P. H. P.'s S. W. Broadbent J. W. Ridpath Lewis B. Gusman Daniel H. Yorks Robert E. Patterson Thomas Rose Samuel Keightly Edward Bright Joseph W. Hunter. MONTGOMERY CHAPTER, No. 262, OF ARDMORE, was constituted, June 23, 1882. The following are the officers: Comp. Joseph T. McClellan, High Priest J. Newton Marshall, K. George G. Lennig, Scr. William H. Sutton, Treasurer Thomas McCully, Secretary P. H. P. William H. Sutton, R. G. C. KNIGHTS TEMPLAR. -HUTCHINSON COMMANDERY, -No. 32, OF NORRISTOWN, was constituted May 23, 1868. Its present officers are Sir Knight Charles I. Baker E. C. Irving P. Wanger G. Samuel J. Long, C. G. William Stahler, Treasurer Wallace Boyer, Rec. The Past Commanders living are John Slingluff Edmund A Kite John C. Richardson William Rennyson Franklin T. Beerer William E. Moyer George A. Lenzi Henry A. Derr Thomas J. Baker Benjamin F. Solly Thaddeus S. Adle. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS. -The Independent Order of Odd-Fellows is a charitable fraternal and beneficial organization, and a legitimate offspring of the Manchester Unity of Odd-Fellows in England. The payment of weekly and funeral benefits to its members, whether in straitened circumstances or not is one of its peculiar and dominant features. The amount thus paid to its members in this country has grown to almost fabulous figures, and every night throughout the land thousands of dollars are voted to its sick and disabled members, of which the general public know nothing. The origin of modern Odd-Fellowship is of comparatively recent date. Apparently endeavoring to rival other organizations, an absurd claim was set up by some, ascribing its origin to the Jewish legion under Titus, who, it is asserted, received from that emperor its first charter written on a golden tablet. Even more ancient origin has been ascribed, but all Odd Fellows now agree that Odd-Fellowship can be traced no further back than about the middle of the eighteenth century; the name is explained from the fact that orders and sects that rendered aid to members in times of sickness and distress were exceedingly rare. The Manchester Unity of Odd-Fellows was planted on American soil by Thomas Wildey, in Baltimore, in 1819. This was soon followed by the institution of Pennsylvania Lodge, No. 1, in Philadelphia, December 26, 1821, at the public-house of John Upton, on Dock Street. This lodge was started by Englishmen social and convivial in their habits, and the organization thus commenced soon became of more than local interest. Like convivial spirits became identified with the order and as they separated, induced lodge organizations whenever they happened to locate. Such an individual in the person of Morton Kelsey, who belonged to a Philadelphia lodge, came to Norristown in the fall of 1836. [See NOTE 33-1.] His evenings were spent in the barroom of the Farmer's Hotel, kept by James Coates, and the zealousness of the man's nature soon found others who were willing to cooperate with him and institute a lodge. The initiations were then a mere travesty of the impressive lessons now taught, and curiosity doubtless prompted several to become identified with the order. Mr. Kelsey secured the necessary information, and Montgomery Lodge, No. 57, was organized February 27, 1837, the charter having been previously granted by the Grand Lodge. The following-named persons were first elected, to wit: N. G., James Coates V. G., Watson Kirkbride Secretary, John W. Powell Treasurer, Jacob Spang. The lodge first met Saturday evenings, and was organized in an attic over the back building of the residence of William Powell, immediately adjoining the property on which Music Hall now stands. Shortly afterwards the meetings were held in the old courthouse, but at the expiration of a year Samuel Jamison [NOTE 33-1.] "History of Montgomery Lodge, 57" by George W. Holstein. [FINIS NOTE 33-1.] 490 rented them a roam on Main Street for sixty dollars per annum for meeting purposes. At the expiration of another year they again moved, this time to the house of their treasurer, where, January 19, 1840, all they owned was swept away by a disastrous fire. This was evidently the work of an incendiary for the popular feeling against secret societies was very great. Notwithstanding this great loss meetings at different places were still held. Immediately after the fire a full set of regalia was presented by a Philadelphia lodge, and the brotherhood in that city contributed $155.25 to the distressed lodge. The assets being at this time merely nominal, a suitable place in which to meet being secured with difficulty, it was sometimes weeks before a quorum could be obtained, and the end of Montgomery Lodge seemed fast approaching. This was doubtless aided by the feeling which, during all this time, existed against fraternal organizations. The conviviality of the members, too, had a deleterious effect on the membership, but a general weeding-out of this class, as also of some for the misappropriation of funds, revived the lodge, and made it what it is today, one of the finest organizations of the kind in existence in the State. The popular feeling against secret societies abating, the next few years witnessed not only a large increase in the membership of this lodge, but the institution of new lodges throughout the county. The second, Wissahickon Lodge, No. 178, was formed at Flourtown, and was instituted by the Grand Lodge officers, assisted by H. S. Leibert, of Montgomery, as the District Deputy. August 27, 1846, Thomas Bitting was elected N. G., N. K. Shoemaker, V. G. J.A. Martin, Secretary Charles J. Aimain, Assistant Secretary S. H. Aimain, Treasurer. This lodge has erected a hall, and is a goodworking lodge. Messrs. Thomas Bitting and Charles J. Aimain still retain their membership. D D. G. M. X. S. Leibert instituted Merion Lodge, No. 210, November 3, 1846. This lodge is still in existence, has had its periods of "hard times," but is now in a flourishing condition. The incoming Grand Master of the State, Dr. F. V. Van Artsdalen, is a member of this lodge. D. D. G. M. Leibert instituted Centre Square Lodge, No. 204 December 22, 1846, at Centre Square. The application for the charter of this lodge, was granted by the Grand Lodge before that of No. 210, but when the officers visited the village, and saw the room in which the charter members proposed to meet, they withheld the charter until a more suitable place could be obtained. The institution of this lodge was thus postponed for more than two months. Those interested persisted, and finally procured the second story of an old wheelwright-shop, where the lodge was instituted by Mr. Leibert, assisted by a delegation from Montgomery Lodge, No. 57. Thomas H. Wentz was elected V. G. William Zimmerman, V. G. Jacob Fisher, Secretary George Sheaf Sr., Asst. Secretary Wells Tomlinson, Treasurer One of the charter members of this lodge, George F. Sheaf, Sr., was initiated in Philadelphia, March, 1828, and is still living, a remarkably well-preserved old man. It is the second oldest Odd-Fellow in the State, has always been active in subordinate lodge-work, and for many years has been the secretary of Centre Square Lodge. The members of this lodge becoming dissatisfied with the accommodations, which the wheelwright-shop afforded, purchased the building they now own, and remodeled the third story into a commodious lodge-room. In the early part of the year 1847, Brother Leibert, as D. D. G. M., instituted four lodges, as follows: Manatawny Lodge, No. 214, at Pottstown, January 5, 1847 Gratitude Lodge, No. 216, at Conshohocken, January 15, 1847 Eagle Lodge, No. 222, at Huntingdon Valley, February 4,1847 and Curtis Lodge, No 239, at Norristown, April 29, 1857 Manatawny Lodge had seven charter members, and elected the following officers: Salomon A. Stout, N. G. Joseph E. Yeager, V. G. Henry A. Sellers, Secretary Andrew H. Lippin, Assistant Secretary Bernard Weand, Treasurer Samuel Lightcap and Charles Moore was the two additional members who applied for the charter. This is one of the best-disciplined lodges in the State. Its Secretary Dr. Charles Moore, was for years the representative of the Grand Encampment in the Grand Lodge of the United States, and no more efficient officer lives than he. Gratitude Lodge, at Conshohocken, is a good working lodge, and is now prospering. A hall now in the course of creation indicates the interest the members take in the order. Curtis Lodge, No. 239, was composed almost entirely of members of Montgomery Lodge at its organization. This lodge is the largest in the county, is composed of good material, and has done much to alleviate the wants of its members. William A. Ruddack, a member of this lodge, is a Past Chief Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of Pennsylvania. On the 24th of August 1848, Spring House Lodge, No. 329, was instituted by withdrawing members from Wissahickon Lodge, No. 178. After institution the members concluded to build a hall, and in this laudable effort were assisted by some of the public-spirited citizens of the neighborhood. This lodge is in a good condition now, numbering over one hundred members. Peace and Love Lodge, No. 337, was instituted at Willow Grove, November 6, 1849. The lodge first met in the attic-of a private house, next door to the Fountain Hotel. The members coming principally from the vicinity of Jenkintown, a growing village, succeeded in having it removed to that place. The first meeting was held in that village April 18, 1850. Loller Lodge, No. 338, was instituted December 8, 1848, at Hatboro'. The lodge takes its name from the old academy located at that place and is in a good financial condition. Providence Lodge, No. 345, was instituted February 491 19, 1849, and has had many difficulties to overcome. It first met at the Trappe, in Providence township (hence its name), but many years ago, its members tiring of their effort to overcome the prejudice of the vicinity, contemplated surrendering the charter. A few members who weekly drove from Kulpsville determined to save it, and succeeded in removing the lodge to the last-named place. The members here upheld it through that period of prejudice, which almost cost the member social ostracism, until now, although not strong numerically, the lodge is in a good financial condition, and has the well-wishes of the people of the neighborhood. Marble Hall Lodge, No. 351, was instituted July 10, 1849, at Barren Hill, now called Lafayette Hill. This lodge has erected a fine hall, and has a large membership. Douglas Lodge, No. 367, was instituted June 14, 1849. This lodge met at Douglasville and had a checkered history. The prejudice of the people of the vicinity drove from the lodge many of its members. In May, 1852, the lodge Dot having held a meeting for several weeks, it was determined to surrender the charter. The charter remained among the archives of the Grand Lodge until July 17, 1874, when certain members, obtaining their cards from Pennsburg Lodge, No. 449, and Providence Lodge, NO. 345, reclaimed the charter and instituted Perkiomenville Lodge, No. 367, at Perkiomenville. This lodge now numbers over one hundred members, has erected a suitable hall, and the average attendance at the weekly meetings is much better than those of the lodges meeting in the several boroughs of the county. Banyan Tree Lodge, No. 378, was instituted October 23, 1849, at Ardmore. This lodge has a few enthusiastic members and deserves to succeed. Economy Lodge, No. 397, was instituted February 25, 1850, at Evansburg. The meetings of this lodge are still held in the third story of the store and post-office at that place, and has a large and commodious room. The lodge is progressing finely. On March 28, 1851, Norris Lodge, No. 430, was instituted. The charter members formerly belonged to Montgomery and Curtis Lodges, and were ambitious young men largely drawn from professional and mercantile life, who believed that another lodge could live and prosper in the borough of Norristown. This addition to the family of lodges in this county soon proved itself entirely worthy of fellowship, for many young men became members, and energy became typical. A rivalry, not bitter, but friendly soon arose and still exists. The three lodges in the borough extend cordial invitations to the others when making or receiving visitations, and candidates from either of the lodges for an office to be voted for in the district receive a cordial support in all. The membership of this lodge now consists principally of men identified with industrial pursuits, are social and genial in their intercourse with each other, and profess great independence. Norris Lodge is a good working lodge, and has been the means of doing much. good in distributing money to its sick, distressed and worthy members. Believing that it is more blessed to give than to receive, a Christmas call at the house of an afflicted or indigent member from the membership with provisions and a well-filled purse is not an unusual thing. Pennsburg Lodge, No. 449, was instituted September 18, 1851, in the second story of an old shop at Pennsburg. In this room the lodge met until May 18, 1853, when it was first convened in the third story at the residence of Jacob Hillegass. Being dissatisfied with the accommodations afforded, the lodge erected a large and spacious hall, three stories in height, which was dedicated May 18, 1876. This hall is the largest in the county, and the lodge-room is possibly better adapted for degree work than any other. Dr. Edwin H. Bieber, of Brotherly Love Lodge, No. 77, and Daniel Heins, of Douglas Lodge, No. 367, were instrumental in organizing this lodge. Several times after having secured the signatures of gentlemen whom resided in the neighborhood to an application for a charter they were informed that objection had been made, and they desired their names withdrawn. In this manner the efforts of Messrs. Bieber and Heins were frustrated until the necessary number were obtained. After institution the lodge frequently failed to meet for the want of a quorum, until the surrender of the charter was contemplated. The members most interested suggested that the sessions, of the lodge be held after the people in the vicinity had retired, and in this way the lodge organization was maintained. Frequently members of the lodge were publicly denounced. Even at the "Harvest Home " held by the lodge during the year 1883, the, Rev Mr. Deckant, although invited by the lodge to speak, assailed the fraternity with much feeling and great bitterness. The lodge has, however, overcome all such difficulties, and is one of the best in the county. The members occasionally use the German ritual and are well versed in the unwritten work in both languages. Upper Dublin Lodge, No. 458, was instituted November 17, 1851, at Jarrettown. This lodge is, chiefly composed of farmers, and is conservatively managed, and as a natural consequence the finances are in a good condition. Madison Lodge, No. 466, was instituted at Pottstown, June 14,1852. The charter members came from Manatawny Lodge, No. 214. The lodge is finely progressing. Gulf Lodge, No. 525, was instituted at Gulf Mills, June, 12, 1856. The lodge was soon removed to West Conshohocken, and is progressing admirably in its work, and has a jovial membership, their hospitality being almost proverbial. North Wales Lodge, No. 610, was instituted at North Wales October 12, 1867. This lodge is in good working order and thoroughly equipped, the members being earnest and active. 492 Lansdale Lodge, No. 977, was instituted March 17, 1881, at Lansdale. There are flow nearly one hundred members belonging to it, mostly young men, and all seem to be earnest and active. The two lodges in Norristown succeeded in erecting a fine hall in the year 1850. In this, however, they were aided by the citizens, and the venture became a joint-stock company, which sold its building in 1878 to Philip Quillman, who has remodeled it. The three lodges, the Encampment and the Rebekah Aid meet in this hall, as do also many other secret societies. During the year 1876, when the centennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence was celebrated in Philadelphia, the order throughout the State appropriately celebrated the event by a grand street parade. The lodges of the Upper District of Montgomery County participated in this demonstration. Lodges 37, 204, 239, 345, 397, 430 and.610 joined together, elected Samuel S. Apple, of Providence, No. 345, as marshal, and turned out fully two hundred men in line. Thus has Odd-Fellowship grown until there are now twenty-three lodges in the county, with a membership of about two thousand three hundred. The Encampment branch of the order requires favorable mention. Endeavoring to copy after a sister fraternity, additional degrees to those of the subordinate lodge were written, and the Grand lodge of the United States finally acceded to the request, and made an independent branch for the patriarchal degrees. Norristown Encampment, No. 37, was instituted in July, 1846, by Montgomery Lodge members. It now has upwards of two hundred members, and is one of the fixed institutions of the county. Its members are principally taken from the three lodges in the borough, but it is a harmonious body. Since organization, this encampment has paid in benefits $21,775.00, in funeral benefits $2,820.00, and in other charities $415.00 or making a total of $25,010.00. The present officers are: Chief Patriarch, Benjamin F. Wright Scribe, James R. Ebert Treasurer, Edmund A. Kite. Centre Square Encampment, No. 84, was instituted at Centre Square December 29, 1848. The meetings were subsequently held at Hickorytown, though not for a long time, for they were soon thereafter held at the place of institution. Here the members, cherishing the beautiful lessons taught in the ritual, clung to the charter until it was felt that it must be surrendered. At this time enough of the members of North Wales Lodge became identified with it to secure its removal to the last-named place, where it has since prospered. This encampment has paid in benefits the sum of two thousand six hundred and fifty-nine dollars since its organization. The present officers are: Chief Patriarch, Thomas McClain Scribe, David R. Lewis Treasurer, William W. Morris The following lodges have since been instituted: Excelsior Encampment, No. 85, at Pottstown Flourtown Encampment, No. 94, at Flourtown Montgomery Encampment, No. 115, at Ardmore Marble Hall Encampment, No. 169, at Barren Hill Abington Encampment, No. 189, at Jenkintown Conshohocken Encampment, No. 209, at Conshohocken Pennsburg Encampment, No. 234, at Pennsburg. On the 1st day of May, 1883, Lanah Degree Lodge, No. 133, of the Daughters of Rebekah, was instituted by the Grand Lodge officers at North Wales. This is the only one in the county. A lodge of the Daughters of Rebekah was instituted at Pennsburg, but was short-lived. Miriam Beneficial Aid Association for Odd-Fellows and Daughters of the Degree of Rebekah was organized at North Wales January 1, 1884. This is a beneficial organization, and is run in conjunction with the Rebekah Degree Lodge. The Norristown Rebekah Aid has long been in existence. It is in independent organization, but none but Odd-Fellows, or there wives and daughters, can become members. It is exclusively beneficial, and is a strong, healthy organization. The following statistical table is appended, and will be of interest to all members of the order. TABLE OF INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD-FELLOWS, APPEARS HERE. 493 NOTE- It is to be regretted all lodges in the county did not respond to the inquiry forwarded. Had they done so an accurate statement of benefits paid since organization could of have been published; as it is those reporting, eighteen lodges have paid out $164,364.94. The five not reporting are estimated at $34,000, making the amount thus voted to the sick and disabled members of the subordinate lodges $202,364.94. There are eight encampments in this county. The two reporting aggregate $27,660. It is fair to assume that the remaining six paid at least $22,331, or $50,000 in this branch of this order. Therefore, more than a quarter of a million dollars have been distributed in this way by this order alone. The years 1880 and 1881 witnessed a large increase in the membership of the Norristown lodges. The conferring of degrees frequently detaining the members in their lodges until a late hour, it was determined to institute a Degree Lodge, and Harmony Degree Lodge, No.__, was instituted, with Edwin P. Gresh as Degree Master. The succeeding session of the Sovereign Grand Lodge lessening the degrees to three, and requiring all business to be transacted in the third degree, seemed to anticipate the work of a Degree Lodge and the same reason for it not existing, the charter was surrendered. An instance of the methods used against members of in Odd-Fellows lodge came accidentally to the attention of the writer daring the past summer. Jeremiah Weber, a member of a city lodge, was a tenant of Eli P. McGlathery, in Whitpain Township. Mr. Weber was taken sick during the fall of 1844 and reported himself to his lodge. A committee waited on him to ascertain the nature of the illness and pay him his benefits. Mr. McGlathery, hearing of it although on the best of terms with his tenant, never again called on him, and in due time Mr. Weber received notice to quit. Many such incidents doubtless happened, for the general feeling that then existed was so great against all fraternities that it is a marvel that murders were not committed. COLORED ODD-FELLOWS. -The Colored Odd-Fellows, who claim to be a part of the Manchester Unity of Odd-Fellows, of England, have a lodge in the borough of Norristown. When the colored men were debarred membership in the American fraternity they sent to England five persons, who were there made Odd-Fellows, and returned to this country with the full authority to institute a lodge and grant charters. Thus were the Colored Odd-Fellows' lodges commenced in Philadelphia, and this is the foundation of the many lodges now in existence this country. On the 15th day of May, 1851 five persons, residents of Norristown, Joined Good Samaritan Lodge, of Philadelphia. They immediately made application for a charter, which was granted, and Good Will Lodge, No. 1025, Grand United Order of Odd-Fellows, was instituted June 3, 1851. John Augusta was elected Noble Father Joseph Mann, Noble Grand Samuel Amos, Vice-Grand Allen Blau, Secretary Thomas Bruff, Treasurer Thomas Bruff has filled the position of treasurer from institution to date, and he and John Williams are the only charter members living. IMPROVED ORDER OF RED MEN. -The Improved Order of Red Men is a fraternal and benevolent organization, based upon the custom and antiquities of the North American Indians. It originated as a patriotic association among the volunteers who garrisoned Fort Mifflin in 1813. It is distinctly different in every detail from other fraternal organizations, being original in conception and peculiarly American in character and tendency, without being proscriptive. A good moral character, sound in mind and body and I belief in the "Great Spirit in whose hands all power doth exist" are its only prerequisites for membership. John Fry, of the borough of Norristown, visited Baltimore during the winter of 184546. While there he made the acquaintance of gentlemen who belonged to the Society of Red Men. On his return he induced Charles L. Cornman Robert K. Ward Samuel Jamison A. S. Powel John Shaner and David Dice to cooperate with him, and they made application to the Great Council of the United States for a charter. The Tribe Tecumsch, No. 1, was instituted July 14, 1846, in the Masonic lodge-room, at the corner of Lafayette and Swede Streets, Norristown, and is the first one organized in Pennsylvania. The officers who instituted this tribe proceeded at once to Lancaster, where the second tribe was instituted and from there to Philadelphia, where Lenni Lenape Tribe, No. 3, was organized. The membership of Tecumseh rose to about sixty, and after a couple of removals fitted up handsome rooms on Main Street. The walls were decorated with scenes from the "Lady of the Lake," and everything represented the primitive manners of the Indians. But incompetent officers created dissatisfaction, and after a long struggle the tribe was compelled to yield, and the pioneer organization n the State surrendered its charter. This was in 1853 Thus matters remained until October 31, 1869, when some of the members of old Tecumseh and twenty-seven of Beaver Tribe recalled the charter, and Tecumseh Tribe, No. 1, was reinstituted, and is now one of the best beneficial organizations in the county. Beaver Tribe, No. 62, was instituted at Norristown; for several years after its institution its membership was recruited almost entirely from the rolling mills, and the adoptions were carried on in a very rough manner. But as time rolled on these men allowed themselves to be suspended for non- payment of dues, and then the tribe took front rank in the secret societies of the town. At present it has invested funds of about six thousand dollars and a membership exceeding two hundred and fifty. The present officers are: Sachem, Ephraim F. Slough Chief of records, C. H. Fisher Treasurer, Charles H. Bard 494 There, are in the county seven tribes, and, aggregate membership of about seven hundred. The following table is appended: IMPROVED ORDER OF RED MEN MEMBERSHIP TABLES, APPEARS HERE. KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. -This order has made a wonderful growth since its organization, twenty years ago. Norristown Lodge, No. 32, was instituted January 22, 1868, has initiated over three hundred persons and now has a large membership. Jenkintown Camp Lodge, No. 476, was the twelfth, instituted November 10, 1881, and has over one hundred members. The following table is appended: KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS LODGE TABLE, APPEARS HERE. -The Patriotic Order Sons of America was organized in the city of Philadelphia, Pa., in the year 1847, under the name of the Junior Sons of America. The order prospered and attained a degree of popularity that was unprecedented. The breaking out of the Civil war brought disorganization into the order, for by the principles Of the Patriotic Sons of America, and in obedience to them, the members rushed to the from of battle to save the flag that they had pledged themselves to honor. National American pride and glory are the cherished sentiments of the Patriotic Order Sons of America. "God, our country and our order," is the consecrated motto under whose inspiration the Patriotic Order Son, of America has been laboring to perpetuate freedoms holy cause, and preserve the temple of American liberty, built on the broad foundation of universal emancipation, and sealed by the precious blood of our forefathers. The order is distinctively American being limited in membership to the native-born citizen of the United States. Washington is fond of the orders a name beloved by bond and free, and second to none in the cause of constitutional liberty. The ritual is martial in form, patriotic in spirit and benevolent in it operations. The first camp in this country was No. 6, of Norristown, chartered March 20, 1850. It had a somewhat precarious existence for a few years, resulting in the surrender of its charter. The camp was revived April 11, 1856, grew and flourished until, as stated before, the late war for the preservation of the Union transferred the members from the camp fraternal to the camp of war. Camp No. 33, of Norristown, was instituted June 15, 1855, and survived until 1876, when, from serious financial embarrassment it, together with Camp No. 6, disbanded. Montgomery County has at present ten camps, located as follows, with a membership of seven hundred: Washington Camp, No. 33, at West Point Washington Camp, No. 53, at Cold Point Washington Camp, No. 92, at Pottstown Washington Camp, No. 114, at Norristown Washington Camp, No. 120, at Lansdale Washington Camp, No. 121, at Conshohocken Washington Camp, No. 200, at Hatboro' Washington Camp, No. 215, at Ambler Washington Camp, No. 224, at Jarrettown Washington Camp, No. 267, at Collegeville. There are three degrees in the Patriotic Order Sons of America, -the Red, the White and Blue. The first two admit into the camp and the coun- 495 cil the third, the highest, admits into the Commandery. The commandery distinct from the camp and the council, but can be reached only through them. Each distinct is limited to one commandery. This county has Montgomery Commandery, located at Conshohocken, and constituted June 8, 1875. The present District President, the highest local officer of Montgomery County, is A. D. Fetterolf, of Camp 267, Collegeville. The name Patriotic Order Sons of America was adopted in 1866 at a State convention held in Minersville, Pa. The form of government in the order was radically changed, the original name was abolished and the surviving members of Camp those of ten other camps were constituted the First State Camp of Pennsylvania, Patriotic Order Sons of America. This order is rapidly growing in strength and reputation, and in its advance confirms its lofty mission and sacred purpose, leaving to posterity a bright record of which every freeman may well feel proud. BROTHERHOOD OF THE UNION (H. F.). -This is a secret fraternal and beneficial organization and possesses much merit. Norris Circle, No. 111, was instituted October 24, 1874, in Norristown, with eight charter members. It immediately grew to a membership of over two hundred, and now has about one hundred and thirty. Since organization over two thousand dollars have been expended in benefits to the members. There are three other circles in existence in the county Kenderton, No. 62, at Cold Point, Joseph W. Coulston, Scroll-Keeper; Good Intent, No. 75, at Lansdale, John Steever, Scroll-Keeper; and Schwenksville No. 117,at Schwenksville, Enos Schwenk, Scroll-Keeper. There are three hundred and fifty members in the county. The present officers are: John K. Stong, C. W. Wm. Hart, C. J. John McAfee C. F. Wm. Rylands, Treas. John L. Weber, Fin. Sec. William H. Wolper, Scroll-Keeper. Jerome B. Hendricks, the Chief Washington of the State organization during the year 1881, was a member of this circle, and died while filling this position. ANCIENT ORDER OF GOOD-FELLOWS. -The Ancient Order of Good Fellows was transplanted from the city of Philadelphia May 17, 1869 when Buena Vista Lodge, No. 16, was organized. This lodge has been extraordinarily successful, the membership now reaching one hundred and seventy, with assets valued at upwards of three thousand dollars. The lodge has paid out in benefits the sum of $10,316.66, as follows: Weekly Benefits, $9246.66; funeral benefits, $1070. KNIGHTS OF FRIENDSHIP. -The order Knights of Friendship is a fraternal organization of great merit. It was founded by Dr. M. G. Kerr, of Philadelphia, formerly of Norristown; and, by the aid of his friends, Consonance Chamber, No. 3, was instituted in Norristown May 9, 1868. The chamber has at times numbered upwards of two hundred and it other times only a faithful few have maintained the organization. About 1872 it change in the bylaws providing for benefits was adopted. This displeased a great number, and many suspensions in the next few years took place. Subsequently the beneficial feature was defeated, and since then a large increase in the membership has taken place, the number now being upwards of two hundred. The present officers are: Sir Knight Marshal, Geo. F. Meredith Secretary, Daniel F. Quillman Treasurer, John J. Corson. BLACK KNIGHTS OF MALTA. -The Black Knights of Malta were introduced in Norristown by the institution of Montgomery Lodge, No. 51, and August 27, 1884. The order is claimed to have been instituted in the Holy Land during the Crusades, in A.D. 1048, and is a beneficial and religious order, with a military tendency. It is entirely an independent organization, having no affiliation whatever with any other order. The officers are: James A. Duffy, Sir Knight Commander David A. Moyer, Generalissimo Joseph Cameron, Captain General Allen Martin, Jr., Prelate Chester L. Bertolette, Recorder William Chantry, Treasurer Samuel R. Fisher, Registrar. ORDER OF UNITED AMERICAN MECHANICS. -This order was founded in Philadelphia in 1845, and soon thereafter introduced in this county, Montgomery Council at Kulpsville, being eighteenth instituted American Star Council, No. 53 at Bryn Mawr, was instituted June 26, 1847; Union Council, No. 102, May 26, 1849, at Norristown Manatawny Council, No. 240, August 6, 1870, at Pottstown. There is also a council at Limerick Square, -Limerick, No. 278. The entire membership in this county is about four hundred. Union Council has paid for sick benefits, $13,089.10; for funeral benefits, $1810 for relief of widows and orphans $269.51; and in other charities, $584.02, or making a total of $15,752.63. The present officers are: Councilor, Albert J. Henning Secretary, William S. Seany Treasurer, Anthony Richardson. American Star Council has paid $2121.45 for benefits. The present officers are: Councilor, Edgar C. Humphreys Secretary, Charles W. Scott Treasurer, Jas. T. McClellan. Manatawny Council has paid in benefits, $6100. Its present officers are: Councilor, Bion Cofrode Secretary, M. S. Lessig Treasurer, Samuel H. Roeller. JUNIOR ORDER OF AMERICAN MECHANICS. -This order has a council at Evansburg, this county. The principles of the seniors and juniors are much the same, the last named admitting to membership it the age of eighteen years. The council at Evansburg is flourishing. AMERICAN PROTESTANT ASSOCIATION. This organization is a beneficial one, the membership coming generally from the Protestant Irish families. There are two lodges in the county, -Conshohocken Lodge, 496 No. 41, being instituted November 28, 1853, one day before Friendship Lodge, No. 39, of Norristown. Almost the entire membership of the last named lodge having enlisted in the late war for the Union, the charter was surrendered, but was reclaimed after the war had closed. The records for the period prior to 1861 having been lost, but partial statistics call are obtained, but enough is known to show that fully who have been paid to their sick and disabled members. W. J. McKinley is Worthy Master James A. Duffy, Secretary James Kilpatrick, Treasurer The Conshohocken Lodge has, however, had a continuous existence, and has paid in sick benefits, $2832; in funeral benefits, $1285; and for other charities, $297.54, or making a total of $4414 54 Samuel B. McAfee is Worthy Master William Glass, Secretary James Cairns, Treasurer. JUNIOR AMERICAN PROTESTANT ASSOCIATION. -This order has the some principles in view as the American Protestant Association, admit to membership youths above the age of seventeen. Lincoln Lodge, No. 18, was organized October 16, 1882. The present officers are: Worthy Master, Elmer E. Shearer Secretary, A. Markley Murray Treasurer, Joseph Cameron. KNIGHTS OF THE REVOLUTION. -This organization was instituted in Norristown January 24, 1884, and has been successful in obtaining a goodly number of members. The patriotism of the Revolutionary heroes is inculcated in the ritual. The present officers are: H. S. Longaker, Ex-Patriarch James Boyd, High Priest Milton Schell, Prophet John L. Weber, Sergeant-at-Arms J. K. Stong, Treasurer H. C. Fisher, Secretary William Hart, Guard John McAfee, Sentinel. KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN EAGLE. -The order of the Knights of the Golden Eagle is a secret benevolent institution, and was founded in the city of Baltimore, Md., February 6, 1873, and for the general administration of affairs it is divided into Supreme, Grand and Subordinate Castles. In 1875, through the efforts of prominent Odd-Fellows, Keystone Castle, No. 1, was instituted in Philadelphia, where there are now nineteen castles. Some of the members of the castles in Philadelphia, with the cooperation of their friends at Shoemakertown, instituted a castle which now members about seventy-five members, who participated in the Centennial parade at Norristown. This order made such an elegant appearance at that time that prominent gentlemen were attracted to it and aided in the institution of Montgomery Castle, No. 34, which event took place October 20, 1884, and it now has about one hundred and twenty-five members. The following named persons were the officers, to wit: Past Chief, J. R. Harner Noble Chief, A. J. Henning Vice-Chief, J. H. Henning High Priest, Wm. A. Ruddach Master of Records, Jos. B. D. Hamill Master of Exchequer, Anthony Richardson Clerk of Exchequer, John T. Ruddach. ANCIENT ORDER KNIGHTS OF THE MYSTIC CHAIN. -This is a fraternal and beneficial order, there being two castles in existence The first castle organized is located at Pottstown: was instituted July 6, 1872, and is named Westminster. There have been initiated in this castle two hundred and ninety-four persons, and the benefits paid exceed tour thousand dollars. H. R. Bossert is the Recording Scribe and A. M. Miller, Treasurer. Blooming Rose Castle, No. 44 was instituted at Norristown January 30, 1873. The membership exceeding two hundred, and the castle is well officered. The present officers are: S. K. C., James A. Duffy S. K. V. C., Elmer Slough Recording, Scribe, George A. T. Coe Treasurer, A. W. Geiger 0ver five thousand dollars has been expended in benefits alone and assets on hand exceed two thousand dollars. SONS OF VETERANS. -This organization was instituted for the purpose, of inculcating the patriotic sentiments of the Grand Army of the Republic in the sons of the veteran, of the late war for the Union, and with the hope that when the ranks of the Grand Army of the Republic are depleted by death that their archives and trophies may be handed to this junior organization for preservation. The membership is limited to the sons of the members of the Grand Army of the Republic and to the sons of veterans, living or dead, who can produce all honorable discharge from the United States government. The beneficial feature has been added as an additional inducement to secure members. Colonel Edwin Schall Camp, No. 29, was instituted December, 1882, in Norristown, with thirty charter members. There are now about forty-four members. A camp was to have been started in Jenkintown, but the requisite number to secure success could not be obtained, and the project was abandoned. The office of the State organization is in Philadelphia. MYSTIC DRUIDS. -This organization, which is claimed to be the offspring of the ancient Druids, who were a separate class of the inhabitants of Britain, and who were to the masses of that ancient people a sort of priests or wise men, to whom all paid tribute, whether for medical advice or religious instruction, has long had an organization in this county. About twelve years ago a lodge was instituted in Norristown. For a while it prospered beyond the expectation of its charter members and finally rooms were fitted up in elegant style, the paintings, being representative of the old rites and ceremonies of ancient Druidism. This was such an epoch in the history of the lodge that the rooms were thrown open for inspection of the public. Elegant carpets covered the floor and all the appointments were of the most elaborate finish. But extravagance was the forerunner of destruction for in a few years the sick list increasing the funds became low and the lodge was compelled to yield to the inevitable and surrender the charter. This was not done however until every cent was expended, and suits against the more prominent and well-to-do members instituted for payment of orders granted by the lodge. After the dissolution of this lodge one was started in Conshohocken. Here economy instead of extravagance was practiced, and the consequence is that the lodge there is in good condition financially as well as numerical, and gives promise of spreading to other parts of the county. 497 ANCIENT ORDER OF UNITED WORKMEN. -This is a fraternal and beneficial organization formed in Meadville, Pa., October 25, 1865, by seven persons. It is the first organization, which provided for the families of deceased members by contribution from the members of an amount equal to two thousand dollars. Several Norristown gentlemen having become identified with a lodge of this order in Philadelphia, induced others to cooperate with them, and Lynwood Lodge, No. 154, was instituted May 13, 1879. The membership now numbers over one hundred, and is increasing. Three deaths have occurred since organization. The present chief officers are: M. W., Dr. Horace Still Financier, J. P. Hale Jenkins Receiver, I. H. Brendlinger Recorder, William F. Solly. AMERICAN LEGION OF HONOR. -The American Legion of Honor is a secret benevolent organization, and has been in existence but five years. The benefits are paid on the death of a member to the person named in the beneficiary certificate, and for the amount therein mentioned. This amount varies from five hundred dollars to five thousand dollars. The assessments are graded according to the age of the candidate when becoming a member. De Kalb Council, No. 855, was instituted February 20, 1882, at Norristown, and Pottstown Council, No. 962, at Pottstown, June 7, 1882. Meetings are held biweekly, and the entire membership of the two councils does not exceed seventy-five. The principal officers of De Kalb, Council are: Commander, John B. Beaver Secretary, William F. Solly Treasurer, Philip Quillman The officers of Pottstown Council are" Commander, Dr. M. A. Withers Secretary, J. H. Binder Treasurer, William M. Stanford. THE ROYAL ARCANUM. -The Royal Arcanum is a secret order, which pays a death benefit of three thousand dollars, collected from the membership-at-large in proportion to age. It was instituted in Boston in June, 1877, and was introduced in this county by the institution of Pottstown Council, No. 351. There are about fifty members and there have been two deaths since organization. Dr. James B. Wieler is Regent William C. Beecher is Treasurer R. Morgan Root, Secretary. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD TEMPLARS. -This order, a semi-secret society is antagonist of the liquor traffic. Both sexes are admitted to membership on an equal footing, and initiates take a lifelong pledge not to make, buy or sell, use, furnish or cause to be furnished to others a beverage any spirituous or malt liquors. At one time there were possibly twenty lodges in the county; now there are but six lodges, with a membership of about two hundred and fifty. SONS OF TEMPERANCE. -This, the pioneer order antagonistic to the liquor traffic, has fit organization in this county, there being a division in the borough of Norristown with about fifty members as also in other section of the county, the total membership aggregating about four hundred. TEMPLE OF HONOR AND TEMPERANCE. -Prohibition Temple, No. 32, of this order, was organized in the borough of Norristown in 1873. Its career was short lived, however, bickerings amongst the members causing its dissolution within two years after its organization. LADY MASONS. -This ladies' order is one that has had all organization for many years, but was introduced in Norristown about fifty years ago. The membership is small, the members undemonstrative and the organization is hardly known to exist. DAUGHTERS OF THE FOREST. -This is a secret society of women, and was introduced in the county by the institution of Osceola Tent, No. 30, November 3, 1871. One hundred and eighty-five persons have become members, of which number sixty-nine still retain their membership. The organization has paid out in benefits since institution as follows: In sick benefits, $3495; funeral benefits, $430; other charities, $17, -total, $3942. DAMES OF THE KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. -Damon Chamber, No. 3, of this order, was organized March 3, 1870, in Norristown. It is a ladies' beneficial organization, and was first intended to be exclusively for the wives and daughters of the Knights of Pythias, but, other regulations being adopted, the membership was allowed to become general. This chamber, the only one in the county, has paid during the fourteen years of its organization, in sick benefits, $2385, in funeral benefits $11,350, and in other charities $29.74. PYTHIAN TEMPLE. -Naomi Temple, No. 3, of this organization, is a ladies' beneficial and fraternal society, and was instituted in Norristown about the year. 1870. This order clings to the Knights of Pythias, none but members of the last named order being eligible for the position of trustee. INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD SAMARITANS AND DAUGHTERS OF SAMARIA. -This beneficial order is, composed of men and women of color, and in 1868 was introduced in the borough of Norristown by the institution of Shaw & Kenworthy Lodge, No. 6. This lodge is still in existence, though now without funds to pay its maturing liabilities. 498 CHAPTER XXXIV. INSANE HOSPITAL AND POORHOUSE THE STATE HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE, LOCATED AT NORRISTOWN. -The state Hospital for the Insane of the Southeastern District of Pennsylvania is beautifully situated upon. a broad plateau within the northern limits of the borough of Norristown. The grounds comprise about two hundred acres of superior farmland, and the site selected commands an extensive view of Norristown and tile picturesque country surrounding it. It has ample surface drainage, with perpetual streams near at hand to carry off necessary sewage. The Stony Creek Railroad passes within a few yards, of the promises, with track running to the buildings for the transportation of necessary supplies. This magnificent charity was erected by a commission appointed by Governor Hartranft in the spring of 1876. [See NOTE 35-1.] The commission so appointed originally consisted of the following named gentlemen: Joseph Patterson, Esq. Dr. Herbert M. Howe Col. James S. Chambers Dr. Thomas G. Morton, of Philadelphia Henry T. Darlington, Esq., Bucks County William H. Miller, Delaware County Dr. L. W. Reed, Montgomery County Gen. George Smith, Chester County Hon. John Shouse, Northampton County Gen. Robert McAllister, Lehigh County [NOTE 35-1.] By act of the General Assembly approved the 5th day of May 1870 it was provided, "That the Governor shall appoint ten commissioners to select a site and build an hospital for the insane for the Southeast District of Pennsylvania, embracing the city and the county of Philadelphia and the counties of Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, Chester, Northampton and Lehigh, four of said commissioner to be chosen from citizens from the city. And county of Philadelphia and one from each of the other counties embraced within the district aforesaid, who shall serve with out compensation." [FINIS NOTE 35-1.] During the period in which the commission was engaged in the execution of its important trust there were three deals among its members. Two of the vacancies, thus occasioned were filled by the appointment of Dr. A. J. Pennypacker, Chester County, and John Williams, Esq., Bucks County. One year was judiciously consumed by the commission in the selection of all eligible site and another year in the examination and adoption of a suitable plan of hospital buildings. Among the five competing architects, the plans of Messrs. Wilson Bros. & Co. were preferred. (The construction of the hospital was awarded to the well-known builder, John Rice, Esq.) The erection of tho hospital began March 21, 1878, and was completed February 17, 1880. PICTURE OF THE STATE INSANE ASSYLUM AT NORRISTOWN, APPEARS HERE. The plan of the hospital is unique, and marks an era in the progressive development of asylum construction. It is designated the segregate or detached system (or more commonly, the cottage plan), which in this instance consists of eight ward building an administration building, amusement hall or chapel, kitchen building and a boiler house and laundry, -in all twelve separate buildings. A number of hospitals for the insane throughout the United States have been built in accordance with this system, but none similar in design to this, which in its originality and adaptation to purpose surpasses any scheme as yet devised. In former years it was believed and promulgated by the American Association of Asylum Superintendents that a set form of hospital building, then in vogue, was the ne plus ultra of desirability, and that all unbuilt asylums should be cast in this mould. As well might a society of architects attempt to rigidly enforce the adoption of a certain pattern of voltage, hotel or schoolhouse, and strenuously oppose any departure from their specifications. Not least among the reforms of the old system was required a more economical method of providing accommodations for the largely increasing numbers of the insane. Formerly the palatial structure upon which untold thousands were expended in external architectural adornment, and upon sumptuous for quarters for officers, cost per capita from fifteen hundred to three thousand dollars. The commissioners, endeavored to avoid this waste of public funds in erecting an appropriate hospital at Norristown that would be comfortable but at the same time shorn of all unnecessary ornamentation. They accomplished their difficult task at a cost not exceeding eight hundred dollars a bed. This is in harmony with public sentiment, and is a long stride toward, the correction of the lamentable inconsistency of caring for a portion of the indigent insane in palaces, while an equally deserving number of them are lying in squalor in the almshouses. The principal advantages of this plan of building's are that it facilitates convenient classification of patients (separating widely the noisy and turbulent classes from the mild and convalescent), that it insures better ventilation, admitting more light and sunshine into the wards and that it also greatly diminishes the risk of extensive conflagration. The act of Assembly referred to further provided that upon the completion of the hospital the commissioners "shall surrender their trust to a board of manager, to consist of thirteen members five of whom shall be appointed by the Governor from the State-at-large, two by the Council of, Philadelphia and one by the county commissioners of each of the other counties embraced in the Southern District" described in said act, and shall manage and direct the concerns of the institution and make all necessary bylaws and regulations not inconsistent with constitution and laws of the commonwealth. The commissioners completed their duties and made their report on the 17th day of February, 1880, and formally surrendered their trust to the board of managers on the same day. 499 The following gentlemen composed the original board of managers: Appointed by the Governor: Ex-Governor John F. Hartranft, Philadelphia Hon. James Boyd, Norristown Mr. Samuel M. Dines, Philadelphia Mr. Thomas R. Brown, Philadelphia Mr. B. K. Jamison, Philadelphia Appointed by the City Councils of Philadelphia: Mr. George W. Simons, Philadelphia Mr. Israel Fleishman, Philadelphia Appointed by the commissioner of the several counties: Hon. Charles H. Stinson, Montgomery County Addison May, Esq., Chester County Mr. W. D. H. Serrill, Delaware County Hon. Harmon Yerkes, Bucks County Dr. George P. Kern, Northampton Count Dr. E. G. Martin, Lehigh County. The board organized by electing John F. Hartranft, president B. K. Jamison, treasurer, Dr. E. G Martin, secretary. The hospital was established for the care of the indigent insane of the district, and the management was intended to be consistent with the spirit of reform urged by men and women of the State who had given the subject of insanity the most careful consideration. Those who are conversant with the history of this practical field of philanthropy can alone appreciate the progressive changes that have been wrought in the care and treatment of the insane within the comparatively short space of time measured by three generations. First, the benighted theory that an insane man was possessed of evil spirits was combated, and with it the cruel and barbarous methods of treatment were modified; successively, the false notions that he was a demon, an outcast, a monster, and, last a criminal, yielded one by one to the proper conception of his true position in society, -that he is a sick brother, bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh, requiring of the community, with rare gentle nursing and skillful treatment for his malady, as other sick folk, and one whose suffering touch the tenderest chords of human sympathy. It was well known that the inmates would comprise both sexes, and possibly in about equal numbers. The progressive men of the management desired to place the insane women under the care of a female physician, and thus insure for them proper and kindly treatment. This was deemed an innovation, and a wide departure from the usual manner of organizing institutions of this character. The same element in the board insisted upon separating the professional care and responsibility from the routine or general administrative duties connected with the management, in order that the proper medical treatment could be bestowed upon the unfortunate inmates. Both of these measures were successfully inaugurated, and the institution was opened under a government of the most humane and approved plan. In May 1880, Dr. B. H. Chase was elected resident male physician of the male department [See NOTE 35-2.] and Dr. Alice Bennett resident female physician of the female department. This conclusion was reached after the most mature consideration upon the part of the trustees, who recognized fully the requirements of a public opinion that demanded an enlightened change in the government of our insane asylums. [NOTE 35-2.] Dr. Mary Stinson, of Norristown, Pa., a graduate of the Female Medical College of Philadelphia, was elected resident female physician, but declined to serve. [FINIS NOTE 35-2.] The new departure was not in the sense of a novelty or experiment, but as a permanent rule of government, as appears from the following by-law, chap. iii sec. i, rules and regulations of the institution: "Resident physicians' duty, -They shall devote all their time and attention to the personal care, treatment and management of the patients and inmates of their respective departments, and shall have therein the entire and exclusive direction of their medical, moral and dietetic treatment, and their respective instructions and directions are to be, implicity observed and obeyed by all the assistants, subordinates and others employed in their respective departments aforesaid." For a quarter of a century the question of the competency of female physicians, and the propriety of employing them in the care and treatment of their sex, had been agitated by the most skillful and enlightened men of the medical profession. A separate college for the training and graduation of female practitioners had been fully and liberally equipped and successfully maintained in Philadelphia. Female physicians gradually but surely found their way to public confidence, and nowhere received a more prompt and cordial recognition than in Montgomery County, the medical society of this county being the first in the State (at the instance of Dr. Hiram Corson) to admit them to equal fellowship and the privilege of honorable consultation, while eminent physicians of the community, with rare exceptions, accorded them honorable standing in the profession, and aided them in their humane and exalted calling. It was therefore natural for the trustees, in adopting the organic law for the government of this great asylum, to utilize them in the treatment of the inmates, and for the first time in the history of this country or Europe make them responsible to the board of management. The experience of several years has demonstrated the wisdom of the course pursued, and the medical profession of the State and country is to be congratulated upon the advanced ground taken and maintained, and the unfortunate class of indigent sufferers and their families may rejoice that the days of brutality are approaching in end. The institution has adopted the system of non-restraint, the employment of patients, a thorough system of night service, a scientific investigation into the causes and nature of insanity, and other features which so distinctly mark the progress of modern psychiatry in our hospitals for the insane. The Hon. James Boyd, and ex-Judge Stinson, of Montgomery County, the former appointed by the Governor and the latter by the commissioners, were united in their advocacy of the reform measure, insisted upon in founding this asylum, and to them is due in no small degree the honor of its successful accomplishment. 500 The following gentlemen compose the present board of managers: Ex-Governor John F. Hartranft Ex-Judge Charles H. Stinson Hon. Charles Hunsicker Hon. George Ross Dr. George P. Kern Dr. G. Martin Addison May, Esq. Mr W. D. H. Serrill, Mr. Thomas Walters Mr. Israel Fleishman Mr. George W. Simmons Mr. _____ Rhoades Mr. L. P. Ashmead. SOME ACCOUNT OF THE POOR AND THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY POOR-HOUSE. [By Wm. J. Buck] -In the early settlement of the country very little appears to have been done for the support of the poor. The population was sparse, labor was in demand, and the necessities of the people were limited to such few absolute requirements that pauperism could scarcely be said to exist. The Society of Friends, the Mennonites and the Dunkards have invariably supported their own unfortunate poor to the present time. During the whole of the colonial period, down to the erection of houses for the support and employment of the poor, they were maintained by their respective townships or districts. For this purpose two overseers were appointed for each by the judges of the County Courts. Their duties were to secure for those committed to their charge homes and employment at the most favorable rates. At March Sessions, 1736, a petition was sent to the court by residents of Hanover, stating that there was a dispute as to the line of Limerick, whereby they were compelled to support a cripple who had served his time and received his misfortune in the latter township, and that the same may be satisfactorily determined. The court ordered that as the bounds had not been fixed or recorded at the proper time, that both townships be at equal charges for his keep or maintenance, and the line be ascertained by the surveyor-general. An act was passed in 1771 that provided for the appointment of two overseers in every township by the justices at a special meeting to be held every year. The expense incurred in providing subsistence, shelter and employment for those whom misfortune bad rendered a burden to society was to be supplied out of the regular county rate. The overseers were responsible for the collection of the amount assessed and were required to pay over the moneys in their possession. A record was kept of the poor, and an order from a justice of the peace was necessary to become admitted to the list before assistance could be furnished. All having near relations who were paupers were compelled to support them, in their circumstances enabled them to do so. Those who liberated slaves were required to give bonds in the sum of thirty pounds each to keep harmless and to indemnify the overseers in case such negroes became a charge through sickness or otherwise and rendered incapable of supporting themselves. Among the duties of the overseers were applying the immediate wants, of families reduced to poverty, and in case of death to give them a decent burial. Those that could work were kept in employment among the farmers. On the formation of the county the justices of the court made the following appointments of overseers of the poor for the year 1785, which, however, does not embrace half the townships: Abington.- John Collum, Matthew Tyson Cheltenham. -Alexander Loller, Benjamin Mather Horsham. -William Lukens, John Lloyd Lower Merion. -Jonathan Robeson, Lewis Thomas Moreland. -Isaac Warner, Lawrence Sentman Springfield. -John Piper, Christian Keysler Montgomery. -Peter Martin, Edward Morgan Plymouth. -John Meredith, Thomas Davis Upper Salford. -Christian Hellerman, George Widemyer Whitemarsh. -David Acuff, David Shoemaker. The subject of providing a home and a house of employment for the poor, instead of the former method of having them work or board around with those that would consent to receive them, began to receive attention soon after the formation of the county. The first move in this direction was the holding of a public meeting at the house of John Davis, at Norristown, January 23, 1801, on the expediency of petitioning the Legislature of the State for the of building a poorhouse for the use and benefit, of the destitute, in Montgomery. But little was done in the matter until March 10, 1806, when an act was passed authorizing the purchase of a farm and the erection thereon of suitable buildings for the purpose by the county. Subsequent acts were passed January 2, 1807, and December 22, 1810. The location of the place now began to attract attention, and a meeting was called and held in regard to the matter at Centre Square, Whitpain Township, and October 8, 1806. Strange to say, this was so managed as to recommend the purchase of the out-of-the-way site that was shortly afterwards chosen, -namely on the east-bank of the Schuylkill, in Upper Providence township, ten miles above Norristown, and all of said distance west of the centre of the county. The place was purchased from a person by the name of Cutwaltz, to which a few additional acres were added, making together about two hundred and sixty-five acres at a cost not ascertained. The directors, Ezekiel Rhoads, Henry Scheetz and Jacob Houck, gave notice that they would be on the premises May 28, 1807, at nine o'clock A.M., "to meet persons who may desire to erect by contract a house for the reception of the poor agreeably to a plan to be shown. The person or persons contracting to find all the materials for completing the same." It would appear that by fall the building must have been completed, for in the county statement for the year ending February 9, 1808, the cost of keeping the same is reported to be $5217.10. On the following May 17th the directors gave notice to the overseers of the several townships that they would be present at the poorhouse "in order to receive the paupers of the said county," with their goods, which are to be 501 valued by two men appointed for the purpose. Among the expenditures for the year 1809 are mentioned horse, cattle, and swine, $696.35 implements of husbandry, $245.98 bedsteads, bedding and furniture, $8839.67. Among the items in the report of the farm for 1813 are: 5 barrels of shad 435 bundles of flax 3 yards of flannel 45 of linsey 500 of linen 30 yards of carpeting Jacob Barr of Pottstown, was steward, probably from the beginning until about 1816, at an annual salary of $400, which included his wife's services as matron. In 1821 the poorhouse was destroyed by fire. At this time Philip Reed, Samuel Horning, Samuel Mann were directors, who shortly afterwards had the same rebuilt. The barn and out-buildings were burned March 31, 1867 and rebuilt that summer. The former is of stone, 126 feet long, 76 feet wide, and cost $9790.71. The wagon-house, slaughter-house, sheep-stable, barn-yard wall, corn-crib and chicken-house cost additionally $3189.91. The house proving inadequate and not well adapted for the purpose designed, it was resolved to erect another more comfortable to modern taste, improvement and requirements. The contract for the building awarded by the county commissioners, August 15, 1870, to William H. Bodey, of Norristown, for the sum of seventy-one thousand dollars. The grading cost upwards of five thousand dollars; the engine, pipe and plumbing, four thousand dollars; in 1874 the building, steam-heating apparatus and necessary fixtures, cost nearly thirteen thousand five hundred dollars; the following year the steam-pump, plumbing, as fixtures, etc., above ten thousand dollars. The main building is two hundred and forty-four feet long, from seventy-five to fifty feet wide, and three stories high, surmounted by a stone belfry. A central rear wing extends back one hundred and two feet in length, fifty-four feet wide and two stories high. The whole is substantially built from the red sandstone of the neighborhood. Sixty dormitories are for the use of the paupers. The architect was Henry Sims. An adjacent building contains three large boilers for the purpose of heating water to warm the house. The water is brought hither from a spring about eight hundred yards distant, is pumped from a cistern by a steam-engine. A three-story stone building is used for hospital purposes and for the insane, and also another of two stories, a department of which is assigned to colored persons, the insane numbering about twenty-five. Water is brought to these buildings, and the barn by gravity from a Spring about five hundred yards distant. The male and female paupers eat apart and have their separate rooms. The graveyard is neatly inclosed and contains nearly an acre of ground. A law has been lately passed that all children between the age, of two and sixteen years are not to remain at the poorhouse over sixty days, but that the directors shall provide place, for them, thus rendering schools unnecessary here for the instruction of the young. In 1872 the former building was burned, fortunately when the present was nearly completed. The officers of the institution in January 1884, were as follows: Directors John A. Richter John 0. Clemens Daniel Shuler David H. Ross, clerk Adam F. Saylor, steward Joseph H. Johnson, deputy steward Samuel Rambo, farmer Dr. J. W. Royer, physician Horatio Sands, engineer Charles Ulrich, watchman Number of paupers, three hundred and five; monthly average, two hundred and forty-seven; cost of each per week, $1.46; net expenses, $18,798.80. Through a late purchase of farm now contains two hundred and ninety-eight acres, of which but ten or twelve remain in timber. The woodland in 1858 comprised about thirty acres. The land is quite rolling and appears to be under good cultivation. The main building from south, and, as seen from below on the east bank of the river, presents a fine view, the scenery around being unusually interesting. Above it is the Black Rock bridge spanning the Schuylkill, nearer it lovely island reposing its bosom, and the boats passing up and down the river impart variety. The government of the entire place is under the complete control of the three directors, who told their positions for three years, one being elected annually They appoint all the officer, of the institution and are accountable for its management. They are required bylaw to meet at least every month at the place and see to the proper regulation of the same. On the first Monday of January the directors, county auditors and treasurer meet here to adjust and make out the accounts of the previous year. The expenses are met by funds raised from taxes, levied by the County commissioners on requisition of' the directors, and through their order paid by the county treasurer. From the following statistics relative to pauperism in this county interesting information may be obtained: Number of paupers in the poorhouse on the 1st day of January, 1815, was 82 in 1825, 106 in 1832, 110 in 1849, 198 in 1858, 233 in 1870, 265 in 1884, 305. The important question now arises have the poor increased or diminished with the population according to the several enumerations made? By calculation in 1815 we find it was about 1 in 393 in 1825, 1 in 350 in 1832, 1 in 360 in 1849, 1 in 290 in 1858, 1 in 343 in 1876, 1 in 340 in 1883, 1 in 280 of the population. It would have materially aided us, if we could have had the statistics at hand of the number of paupers in the poorhouse in census years, which would have been more accurate; but it is evident that pauperism among us is increasing in spite of the great diminution taking place in the use of intoxicating liquor, and the considerable sums now raised and paid out by benevolent and secret associations to ward off poverty and ameliorate the condition of society. It must be admitted that a considerable number of the poor are 502 improvident foreigners, as the officers of the Poorhouse have informed us; yet we doubt that the ratio is near as great now in proportion to our native population as formerly; at least, it does not appear so obvious. One of the great causes, most probably, is the rapid increase of our larger manufacturing towns, where habits of dissipation and idleness are more readily acquired and more prevalent than among the simpler habits and more regular pursuits of country life.