The following table gives the population and names of the towns of the county of Albany, in the orthography of that day. [table] NOTES FKOM THE NEWSPAPERS Continued from vol. iii, p. 198. 1798. Museum. A museum is now established in this city, and is open for inspection at the corner of Green and Beaver streets, opposite Mr. Denniston's Tavern, every day, Sundays excepted, from 9 o'clock in the morning, till 9 at night. It contains a number of living animals. Jan. 2. The legislature met; Dirk Ten Broeck was elected speaker of the house of assembly by 59 votes, his opponent, Denning, receiving 42. James Van Ingen, another citizen, received a unanimous election as clerk. Robert McClallen, a merchant of note, was appointed treasurer in the place of Gerard Banker, who had filled the office many years. March 12. Phillip Van Rensselaer, of Cherry Hill, died. April 2. Arie La Grange, a much respected citizen, died, and was interred in the Dutch cemetery. The partnership of Gould, Dickinson & Co. is this day dissolved by mutual consent. All persons indebted to said partnership are requested to make immediate payment. BENJ. DICKINSON, JOB GOULD, THOS. GOULD. The business is continued at the same stand, No. 13 Court street. May 7, 1798. JOB GOULD. June 17. Robert Lewis died, aged 74. June 21. During the session of the classis of the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church in Albany, Coenradt Ten Eyck, Robert McDowell, Abraham Brockaw, and John B. Romeyn, were licensed as candidates for the ministry; and in the evening Mr. McDowell was ordained. The ceremony took place in the old Dutch Church ; ordination sermon by the Rev. Christian Bork, of Schodack and Bethlehem ; the Rev. John Bassett presided, and gave the charge. Notes from the Newspapers. 307 Notice. A general meeting of the citizens of Albany and its vicinity is requested at the City Hall on Wednesday, the 16th inst., at 5 o'clock in the afternoon, to take into consideration the present alarming state of our country, and to adopt such resolutions as the importance of the subject shall require. May 11, 1798. This meeting passed resolutions complimentary of the administration of John Adams, and deprecatory of the French system of spoliations which was practiced upon American commerce. The resolutions were forwarded to the president, who replied to them. (See vol. iii., p. 190.) Jacob Lorillard opened a store of Tobacco, Snuff and Leather, second door east of the Low Dutch Church, State street. The votes for Jay in Albany county were 1639 ; for Livingston, 335. In Rensselaer county 1119 to 510, by which it appears that Rensselaer county polled only 345 votes less than Albany county. The vote in New York was 1060 to 793. Total vote of the state, Jay, 16,012; Livingston, 13,634. Majority for Jay, 2378. Sept. 8. Donald McDonald, lately from London, now at No. 13 Court street, introduced " the new Brutus wig, worn by gentlemen of the latest fashion in London." Sept. 10. It is with the most heartfelt satisfaction, says a writer in the Gazette, that we can inform our brethren of the Roman Catholic faith, that their church in this city is so near completed as to be under roof, glazed and floored (fire proof). That it is a neat building, and will be an ornament to the city, and a lasting blessing to all who are members in communion of that church. To the citizens in general of this city and its vicinity, and several of the other cities of the United States and Canada, the sincere prayers of the members of this church are due for their liberality in aiding to erect it. Such of our Catholic brethren in this neighborhood as have riot already contributed, it is hoped will now come forward and offer their mite to discharge the last payment of the contract, there being but a small sum in hand for that purpose. To give to the church, is itnot to lend to the Lord, who will 26 308 Notes from the Newspapers. richly repay the liberal giver with many blessings ? Should not all the members unitedly raise their voices in praise to God, who has cast their lot in this good land, where our church is equally protected with others, and where we all so bountifully partake of his goodness ? What is man without religion, which teaches us the love of God and our neighbor, and to be in charity with all mankind ? Surely without this he is nothing. 1799. Henry I. Bogart advertised for proposals for the construction of an arsenal on the lot originally purchased for a state prison, in the north part of the city. [This was the first step towards the erection of the State Arsenal, on Broadway in the seventh ward.] A deputation of Cayuga chiefs'arrived in town, empowered by their tribe to treat with the government for the sale of all their remaining lands in this state. The legislature incorporated the Cherry Valley Turnpike Company, by "An act to establish a turnpike corporation for improving the state road from the house of John Weaver in Watervliet to Cherry Valley, and to repeal the act therein mentioned." The first commissioners were William North, John Taylor, Abraham Ten Eyck, Charles R. Webster, Calvin Cheeseman, Zenas Perno, Ephraim Hudson, Joseph White, Elihu Phinney, and Thos. Machin. Also a law incorporating a company for improving the road and establishing a turnpike from Lebanon Springs to Albany. The vote for senators in Albany county was as follows : Moses Vail, 1481 I Zina Hitchcock, 1443 Ebenezer Russell, 1469 J Robert Yates, 282 For Members of Assembly: Dirk Ten Broeck, 2764 John V. Henry, 2789 Joseph Shurtleff, 179'J Jacob Winne, 2641 Philip Conine, jr 2358 Francis Nicoll, 2473 Johan Jost Deitz, 2444 James Bill, 2596 Prince Doty, 2643 Jer. Van Rensselaer, jr. 1069 The first nine were elected. The last, Mr. Van Rens

Notes from the Newspapers. 309 selaer, was the opponent of Mr; Shurtleff, of Schenectady. Two other candidates also had opponents. May 17. The Western Inland Lock Navigation Company declared a dividend of 3 per cent. June 21. Never do we recollect to have seen so much Lumber on our shores, or of a better quality, than at the present time. Wheat is 14s cash, and rising. The Hessian fly is making its ravages in our wheat fields, and in some parts of Montgomery county the most promising crops are already totally cut off. The Common Council resolved to prohibit all breaches of the sabbath, under the act for suppressing immorality, as follows : Resolved, That the constables in this city be and they are hereby required, on every Sunday hereafter, to stop all manner of persons who shall be riding for pleasure, or who may expose any articles for sale on that day contrary to the act for suppressing immorality; and that they report the names of aggressors, on every Monday morning, to the mayor or recorder, to be proceeded against according to law. The obstruction in the Hudson between Troy and Lansingburgh, occasioned by what was called the lower reef, was overcome by a channel 30 feet wide and 5 feet deep at low water, so that taking advantage of the tides it was thought vessels carrying 2000 bushels of wheat might pass without difficulty. It was confidently expected to render the navigation as good above Troy as below. In June, 1797, the Managers of the N. Y. State Road Lottery, advertised their scheme No. 1, consisting of 6,458 prizes, amounting to $125,000, and 18,542 blanks, making 25,000 tickets, at $5 each. The prizes were subject to a deduction of 15 per cent. The drawing was advertised to commence at Albany immediately after the sale of the tickets should be completed, which, considering that the object of the lottery was one of great public utility, and claimed the encouragement of the citizens of the state in general, it was confidently expected would

310 Notes from the Newspapers. be very speedy. But it was not till the 14th of May 1799, that the drawing commenced, and continued fortytwo days. The expenses for lighting the city and for a night watch amounted to 625 16s., and the revenue for the same 146 14s. 4d., leaving a deficit of 479:1:8. The total deficits in the revenue for the last five years for lighting the city and for night watch, amounted to 844 7s. Id. ($2110-88). A collection was made in the Dutch Reformed church at each of the three services, for the relief of the distressed citizens of New York, by reason of the yellow fever, which produced $247. A collection during the afternoon service in St. Peter's church produced $107'87. Two collections in the Presbyterian church the same day produced $201. Total $555 '87. Abraham Ten Broeck resigned his offices of president of the Bank of Albany, and mayor of the city. Philip S. Van Rensselaer was appointed to the latter, and Jeremiah Van Rensselaer to the former office. A quantity of good coffee was offered by John Bryan, corner of Court and Beaver streets, at 2s. Sd. per pound. Printing Types. For sale by Thomas Spencer, very low for cash, or on short credit for approved security, a valuable Printing office, complete, very little worn, consisting of Long Primer, Small Pica, Pica, Great Primer, Double English, Script, Canon, Five Line Pica, Flowers assorted, Mahogony Press, Chases, composing sticks, Stands, Galleys, Letter Boards, Rules, and almost every necessary article belonging to a Printing office. A loaf of superfine wheat flour to weigh 12 oz. for six pence. A loaf of common or tail flour to weigh one pound for 6d. Barber & Southwick opened a circulating library, at a yearly subscription of $4; folios 2s., 4tos Is. 6d., 8vos. 8 cts., and 12mos. 6 cts., per week: had 400 vols. William Fowler informed his friends and the public that he had for sale at his shop, No. 9 Court street, the following articles, viz: Leather Breeches, warranted to be good; buck and sheep skins, dressed; gloves, mittens,

Notes from the Newspapers. 311 mocasins; and every other article in his line, either ready made or furnished on the shortest notice, on reasonable terms. A consignment of 400 Racoon skins ; a variety of Paper Hangings kept constantly on hand at the New York prices. Painting and Engraving. The subscriber begs leave to inform his friends and the public that he has removed his shop from Mark lane to Washington street, at the sign of Raphael's bust, and solicits the patronage of the admirers of the fine arts. The painting of Portraits, Miniatures, Hair Devices, Standards, &c., will be executed in the most elegant taste and style; also Freemason's aprons, sashes, and ornamental paintings in general, done in the best manner, and on the most reasonable terms, &e., &c. EZRA AMES. A law to regulate the assize of bread, passed the Common Council, accompanied by a schedule for graduating the price, and every baker detected in selling light bread subjected himself to a fine of $1 for every loaf found to be light of weight. By this schedule, when wheat was 6s. a bushel, a loaf of bread of inspected wheat flour was to weigh 3/6. loz. 8dr., for 6d.; of common flour 3/6. 1 loz. 8 dr. At Sd. 2/6. 5oz and 2/6. 120*. 8dr. 10 1 13 8dr 238 12 188 1 13 8 14 150 198 15 138 178 20 14 8 118 and all intermediate prices in proportion. It appears by advertisements annually inserted in the papers that a fair was held annually in the fall by direction of the Common Council. No notice was taken of them by the papers. The Directors of the First Company of the Great Western Turnpike Road, advertised for proposals for constructing the road from the Schoharie creek westward; the road to be 28 feet wide, the arch 20 feet; "and to be made of stone, gravel, or such other hard substance as will secure a firm foundation and an even surface ;

312 Notes from the Newspapers. and the hills to he so dug down, as to render an easy passage for loaded carriages." Also proposals for building a bridge across the Schoharie creek, at the place at which the State bridge formerly stood, by the first day of November, 1800. The notice is signed by " Charles R. Webster, Secretary of said company." This turnpike appears to have been constructed upon the old State road. The citizens of Hudson were also on the alert to have a road to intersect this turnpike, to lead the trade from the west to their village. They had already subscribed the stock in a road to meet the Massachusetts and Connecticut turnpikes, thus forming a convenient route from Boston to the far west. Valuation of Real and Personal Property in the County of Albany: Towns.

Notes from the Newspapers. 313 Albany on the 23d December, and the Common Council resolved that the bells be tolled from three to five o'clock in the afternoon, and that the members of the board wear crape for the space of six weeks. The churches were dressed in mourning, and preparations were made by all the military and civic societies for celebrating a funeral procession on a magnificent scale. Gaine & Ten Eyck, advertise Books, Powder and Lottery Tickets. [They came to the city from New York in 1796.] 1800. Jan. 9. On Thursday, the 9th of January, the citizens with one accord devoted the day to the funeral solemnities, closing their shops, and suspending all business for the purpose. It was one of the greatest pageants ever exhibited in the city. Civic. Military and Masonic societies, Law, Physic and Divinity, everything turned out on the occasion that ever was heard of before, and much came from abroad. The directors of the Western Inland Lock Navigation company met on the 30th December, 1799, when the canals and locks at Little Falls, German Flatts, and Fort Stanwix being completed, and no further work of importance intended to be prosecuted, it was found expedient to provide money to discharge the debt due the banks, for which purpose it was estimated that ten pounds ($25) on each share would be sufficient ; and that sum was accordingly assessed. The Legislature of the State, then sitting at Albany, resolved to commemorate the virtues and talents of the late General Washington, by setting apart the 22d day of February, his birthday, to be observed in a religious manner. The Rev. Messrs. Nott, Johnson, Ellison and Bassett were chosen chaplains for the session, and it was recommended that they should choose one from among their number to pronounce a sermon on the occasion. Feb. 29. The Gazette contains five advertisements for the sale of negro slaves, which is quite an unusual 314 Notts from the Newspapers. number. Such advertisements being entirely out of date at this day, have an interest only as an obsolete custom. A Negro Soy for Sale. He is about 13 years old, smart and active; will answer best for the country. Price forty pounds. Enquire of the printers. To be Sold, a Negro Boy, for the term of 14 years, at which period he is to go free. He is ten years old, very active, lively, and honest. His master is forced to dispose of him only because the little fellow can not please every person in the house. Price 60 pounds. For Sale, a Healthy, Strong Negro Boy, 14 years old, well calculated for a farmer, or attending in a family. Apply to the printer. To be disposed of, the services of a likely young negro man, for 8 years. He can be recommended as sober and honest. Enquire of the printers. A Likely Negro Wench, 16 years of age, for sale very cheap. She understands cooking, and all kinds of kitchen work ; and will be recommended for honesty and sobriety. Enquire of the printers. In conformity with the recommendation of Congress, a funeral ceremony in memory of Washington was performed in the city. At nine o'clock in the morning an oration was delivered in the Catholic church by Rev. Matthew O'Brien. At 1 1 o'clock a procession was formed at the City Hall, composed of the executive and judicial officers of the state, both houses of the legislature, the corporation and citizens, which moved through State and Pearl streets to the North Dutch church, where a sermon was delivered by Rev. John B. Johnson, Rev. Messrs. Bassett and Nott assisting in the exercises. In the afternoon an oration was pronounced by Major Michael Gabriel Houdin in the City Hall to a very numerous audience. John Given, who had long been sheriff of Albany county was succeeded by Harmanus P. Schuyler. By the census of 1800, the population of the city and county of Albany, including the city of Schenectady, which then belonged to it, was 34,043.

Notes from the Newspapers. 3l5 1801. A bill passed the Legislature for erecting a part of the counties of Ulster and Albany into a new county, forming the present county of Greene, comprising 4 towns, Windham, Freehold, Catskill, Coxsackie. An act to amend the act entitled an act to establish a turnpike corporation for improving the road from the Springs in Lebanon to the city of Albany; and a like corporation for improving the road from the village of Bath to the Massachusetts line, and for repealing the act therein mentioned. An act for dividing the first ward in the city of Albany. An act for raising a sum of money by tax to make alterations and repairs in the jail of the city and county of Albany, and for other purposes. The votes for Governor and Lieutenant Governor in the city and county stood as follows : Stephen Van Rensselaer (fed,) - 2133 I J. Watson (fed. Lt. GOT.) - - - 2048 George Clinton (dem.) .... 705 | Jer. Van Rensselaer (dem.) - - 789 Since the last election, the county of Greene had been erected, embracing a part of the towns in Albany county, which now consisted of the cities of Albany and Schenectady and the towns of Bethlehem, Watervliet, Rensselaerville, Bern, Duanesburgh, Princetown, Coeymans. The total number of votes cast for Governor, was 46,221. Clinton received 24,808, Van Rensselaer 20,843. May 12. Tontine Coffee House. Mat. Gregory, from the village of Waterford, has taken the Tontine Coffee House, State street, in the city of Albany. He has also provided himself with a large yard, stable, &c., for horses and carriages, for convenience of the gentleman traveller. The house has been kept for three years past by Mr. Ananias Platt, and will be open and ready to wait on those who may be pleased to call on him, the 15th inst. Every attention in his line of business shall be strictly attended to, by the public's humble servant. MAT. GREGORY. [Mr. Gregory died in the year 1848.]

316 Notes from the Newspapers. Daniel Steele advertised as just printed, The Albany Collection of Sacred Harmony, containing a plain, and intelligible instruction for learners of church music; together with a lesson for every mood of time, and for every key made use of in psalmody.

For Sale: That elegant fire proof House and Stores, corner of State and Market streets, now in the possession of Messrs. Andrew Brown & Co. The building is 38 ft. 6 in. breadth on Market street, and 64 ft. 6in. on State street with excellent cellars 7 feet high under the whole, and a spacious garret. The house on Market street is three stories high with 13 rooms; the stores on State street are five stories high, four of which are partitioned for wheat, and may contain each from 3 to 4000 bushels. The stonewalls are more than three feet thick, and the brick walls are two and a half bricks thick up to the roof, with three partition walls. The whole was built in the summer of 1795, of entire hard bricks, to the number of about 450,000. The very best materials have been employed, and the best masons and carpenters the country could afford. The situation is certainly the best and most eligible one in the city for business, being in the centre of trade, within sight and pistol shot of the dock, and when the Dutch church is removed, which it is supposed must very shortly take place, it will increase the value of the property greatly, as it will then command a full prospect of State street, through which all the travellers from the western country come to town. A law was passed by the Common Council " for filling up Church street, parts of Lydius, Van Schee, Westerlo, and Sturgeon streets, and parts of Bass and Herring lanes, and all the lots from Court street westward to Dallius street, and from Ferry street northward to the north bounds of the church pasture." On Saturday, July 11, Gov. Clinton and his family arrived in Albany, and took up their residence at the house recently occupied by Gov. Jay. A salute of cannon from Fort Hill, announced his arrival. [The house occupied by these two governors was the site of Nos. 66 and 68 State street, instead of 62, as stated in a previous volume.

Notes from the Newspapers. 317 On Wednesday, Oct. 5th, at eleven o'clock in the forenoon, the corner stone of the foundation of the United Presbyterian church in this city, was laid by the Rev. John McDonald, in presence of the trustees and ecclesiastical officers of the congregation. After the stone was fixed, accompanied by three strokes of the hammer, these words were added : " In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the king and head of the church, we solemnly place this stone, the corner foundation of a sacred edifice, for the public worship of God, an expression of the piety of the United Presbyterian church in Albany. Amidst considerable opposition from some, and encouraged by the generous liberality of others, this infant society, though neither distinguished for their numbers or their wealth, has undertaken this expensive work, with full dependence on God. United in faith and affection, in pursuit and prospect they look to God for success," &c. Several brethren of the order of Hospitallers of St. Camillus de Lilies, from the St. Bernard, arrived in the city, to obtain pecuniary assistance to enable them to continue the exercise of those acts of benevolence for which they had so long been celebrated. They stated that the merchants of Switzerland and Italy had formerly contributed sufficient sums annually for all their wants; but that the wars for the last few years had not only cut off their income, but that the contending armies had carried fire and sword into their vicinity, and that all trade between Italy and Switzerland had ceased. In this posture of their affairs, the venerable prior of the order. Father Ignatius Sperzoni, had sent several of his order to the United States of America to implore the assistance of its generous inhabitants to enable them to repair the convent and hospital, and to continue to give assistance to the distressed traveler and infirm poor. Some years previous to this, a company was incorporated to construct a turnpike road from Albany to Schenectady. It was the first essay made in this state to build a turnpike. In consequence, the law was defective, and the sandy nature of the soil, and the difficulty of obtaining hard materials, were considered insurmountable

318 Notes from the Newspapers. barriers in the way of success. The project was necessarily abandoned, and the law suffered to expire, although it was a complaint that the old road was the worst one in the United States, and very few were so much used. An effort was now again made to get up an excitement on the subject. The roads throughout the country had been greatly improved, and the citizens of Albany were called upon to secure the travel to their city before it should be diverted elsewhere by better roads, and lost to them forever. The Common Council fixed the price of wheat at 1 3s. a bushel (T63), and bread at 2lb. 130*. 8dr., for Is. of inspected flour, and Slbs. 7oz. of common flour for Is. A convention of delegates appointed to revise the constitution of the state, met at the Capitol on the 13th October, and chose Aaron Burr president. The expenditures of the year for lighting the city and for night watch were as follows : t. d. For 1187 gallons of oil, 319 18 4| Watchmen, 454 17 Wood, candles and sweeping chimney, 17 10 Cleaning and lighting lamps, 97 . . 7 Repairing lamps, 57 13 4J Spirits turpentine and wick, 938 Schenectady Turnpike. A meeting of citizens was held at the City Tavern on the 3d November, which was numerously attended, for the purpose of awakening an interest in the project of constructing a turnpike to Schenectady. A committee of nine was appointed to prepare and digest a plan to be laid before the city at an adjourned meeting. On the 10th another meeting was held to hear the report of the committee. The plan proposed was to divide the stock into 2000 shares of 50 dollars each. The subscription for 1400 shares was immediately opened and subscribed for, leaving 600 shares for the city of Schenectady. No person was allowed to subscribe more than ten shares, nor permitted to transfer his stock within a year after an act of incorporation should be obtained. This was to prevent speculation. Five years previous,

Notes from the Newspapers. 319 when a charter had been obtained, and the books opened for subscriptions, not a share was taken up ! On the 24th November a meeting of the stockholders was held, when the Hon. John Lansing, jr., was elected president of the company, and Stephen Van Rensselaer, Stephen Lush, Daniel Hall, John Taylor, Garret W. Van Schaick, Dudley Walsh, Abraham Oothout, Joseph C. Yates, directors. 1802. Jan. 3. Divine service was performed in the new church belonging to the united Presbyterian congregation in this city. [This church edifice still occupies the corner of Canal and Chapel streets.] By a meteorological table published in the Gazette of Feb. 1, it appears that the lowest range of the thermometer was 10 degs., and the highest 55.^ degs. above zero. The winter was so remarkably mild as to have more the appearance of April; the river was navigable 17 days so that vessels passed from Albany to New York, and at no time was the ice strong enough for any team to pass on it, and not more than 1^ inches of snow fell within two miles of the city during the months of December and January. The highest range of the thermometer for February was 54 degs. ; the lowest 6 degs. below zero. Feb. 29. John W. Wendell, keeper of the Hotel in Court street, died, aged 62. The city and county of Albany was estimated to contain 35,000 inhabitants, Rensselaer county 30,442. The number of electors in the county possessed of a freehold of 100 value was 3,248, do. of 20, 286; do. renting tenements of 40s. annual value, 1476. (New York city, 100, 2,332; 5, 19; 40s. 5693.) Electors who were freemen on the 14th Oct. 1775, and 20th April, 1777, 19; in New York, 44. April 12. Thomas, Andrews & Penniman gave notice that they had disposed of their stock in trade and closed their business in this city.

320 Notes from the Newspapers. April 20, The Associate Reformed Presbytery of Washington, met in the city of Albany for the purpose of installing the Rev. Andrew Wilson over the united congregations of Albany and Lansingburgh. At the election for member of Congress, and for representatives to the State Legislature, held in April, Killian K. Van Rensselaer was elected to Congress by 1306 votes, His opponent, Abraham C. Lansing, received 793. Stephen Lush, Peter S. Schuyler, Johan Jost Deitz, Jacob Ten Eyck, John Frisbie, and Maus Schermerhorn, were elected to the Legislature. George Tibbetts of Troy was elected to Congress from Rensselaer county. The water works company declared a dividend of 3 per cent on the stock for the last 6 months. This company obtained an act of incorporation Feb. 2, 1802, capital $40,000. In 1813 it was increased $40,000, and iron pipes, 6 inches in diameter, laid from the creek to the reservoir June 10. A bass of uncommon size, taken in our river, was yesterday brought to our market. Its weight was 55 pounds. We believe this is the largest fish ever caught in the Hudson, the sturgeon alone excepted. It was bought by Mr. Jared Skinner for four dollars and fifty cents. The Legislature passed an act incorporating Goldsbrow Banyar, Abraham Ten Eyck, Abraham Ten Broeck and others, a body corporate and politic, by the name of the president, directors and company of the Albany and Schenectady Turnpike. The stock was fixed at 2000 shares at $50 each. By a subsequent act this road was brought into the city as far as Snipe street. The company appropriated the revenue of the year 1801 to facilitate a communication from the canal at Rome to the junction of Wood and Canada creeks, and to remove the obstructions on the Onondaga and Seneca rivers, which it was thought would be a good investment to the company, and a great public accommodation. An ordinance passed the Common Council against ringing or tolling bells at funerals, for a longer time than twenty minutes, under a penalty of 25 dollars.

Notes from the Newspapers. 321 Canal. It appears that there was great difficulty in getting the stock paid in for this work, and that those who gave their energies to the work were much embarrassed thereby. The state had advanced money to carry on the project, and this year a law was passed forfeiting the installments already paid in by those who had failed to meet the calls of the company since 1796, and investing the state's money in the stock of the company. The following table of tolls was given by the Albany Centinel, as having been taken at Little Falls: In 1796 the nett toll collected was $1759'50 1797 2350-26 1798 2938-26 1799 2500-24 1800 ... 5087-43 1801 9490-33 The tolls for the present year were supposed to have doubled those of last year for the same period. The tolls collected at Rome had averaged about $2000 a year since 1797. The tolls had been reduced at some points 50 per cent, which so far from diminishing the product, had tended to increase it. A company consisting of some of the most respectable moneyed men, was formed for exploring, opening and working coal mines, and all the necessary tools and implements prepared for prosecuting the work vigorously. It appears that some persons professing an acquaintance with coal formations, had observed indications of coal in this vicinity; and although attempts had before been made to discover it, they were supposed to have failed of success for want of sufficient effort. It was intended now to make a fair trial, and the location decided upon for the experiment was Wendell's creek a little to the west of the city, where appearances were supposed to indicate strongly that large and extensive quarries of the mineral would be found. Timothy Shalor, Money Broker, negotiated approved notes, payable at the Bank of Albany. John Jauncey also advertised that he continued to ' ; negotiate all approved notes which had from 30, 60, or 90 days to run, and which are payable at the Bank of Albany."

322 Notes from the Neicspapers. A contract was entered into by the Albany and Schenectady turnpike company, for clearing the track of the road, building fences fifty-eight feet apart, and forming an arch 42 feet broad, with ditches of eight feet on each side, for $26,000. The road was to form a perfectly straight line, and not to exceed in depression or elevation, four degrees from a horizontal line, 14 miles in length. A delegation of the principal sachems and warriors of the Seneca nation of Indians from Buffalo creek visited the city and concluded a treaty by which they ceded to the state all the lands reserved along the Niagara river, including Blackrock and the carrying place at the falls ; an important acquisition. Nov. 1. The partnership between James and William Caldwell his son was dissolved, the latter advertising that " all articles in the Grocery line, and those of Caldwell, Fraser & Co.'s manufactory, will be sold as usual by William Caldwell at his store in State st." [Died 1848.] 1803. The legislature incorporated a new bank in the city of Albany, with a capital of 500,000 dollars, under the title of the New York State Bank. At a meeting of the directors on the 25th March, John Tayler was chosen president, and John W. Yates cashier. Among the acts passed by the legislature this year, was one " to straighten the public highway leading from the city of Albany to the Ballstown springs." Christopher Dunn gave notice that he had taken the tavern in Green street, formerly occupied by David Trowbridge, and put the interior in thorough repair, and that it would be his utmost ambition to merit and preserve the good opinion of all those who would favor him with their custom. " N. B. The original stage office kept here." [Dunn was famous for his jokes, and his Coffee House was resorted to till about the year 1830, when the street was widened and his house was cut in two. He died pievious to, or about that time.]

Notes from the Newspapers. 323 The Albany Medical society resolved that they would inoculate gratis all the poor of the city for the kine pock, who may apply for that benefit during the season. A corps of comedians, calling themselves the old American company, gave an entertainment at the Thespian Hotel, in North Pearl street, near the corner ^>f Patroon, and continued their representations several weeks. The State Bank commenced business on Wednesday the 7th of September; hours from 9 to 12, and from 2 to 4. Notes offered for discount were to be drawn payable at the bank unless the drawer resided in the city of Albany or New York. Discounts were made for 36 days. In December the banks altered their hours to from 9 A. M. to 2 P. M. At a meeting of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian church of the United States, it was Resolved, That the Presbyteries of Albany, Oneida acd Columbia, be and they hereby are constituted and formed into a Synod, to be known by the name of the Synod of Albany; that they hold their first meeting in the Presbyterian church in Albany, on the first Wednesday of October, at 2 o'clock P. M., and be opened with a sermon by the Rev. Jedediah Chapman of Geneva ; or, in case of his absence, by the next senior minister who may be present ; and that they aftei wards meet on their own adjournment. Aug. 7. Rev. John B. Johnson, a minister of the Reformed Dutch church, died at Newtown, Long Island, aged 33. In consequence of impaired health, he had withdrawn from the cares of a large congregation at Albany, and accepted a call where less exertion was required; but his disease was too deeply rooted, and the change proved ineffectual to his relief. After the death of his wife, who left him in April, with three infant children, he rapidly declined, and his complaints terminated in consumption. He was distinguished by abilities which marked him for extensive usefulness, |and his mind was improved by a liberal education, and indefatigable study.

324 Notes from the Newspapers. Oct. 2. Mr. Sylvanus Palmer ordained in the old Dutch church, by a commission of the classis of Albany, to the office of the sacred ministry. He was called to the missionary service by the Northern Missionary Society in the state of New York, and entered immediately upon his mission among the frontier inhabitants of the state. A sermon adapted to the occasion was preached before a crowded assembly by Rev. John Bassett. from 2 Tim. iv, 5. Oct. 4. A convention of the Protestant Episcopal church in the state of New York met in this city. On the same day, the church lately erected in the city was consecrated by Bishop Moore, in presence of a large concourse of people. A discourse was delivered by Rev. Mr. Hobart, one of the associate clergy in the city of New York. On Wednesday, the Rev. Mr. Beasley was inducted in this parish, and an appropriate sermon pronounced by the Rev. Mr. Harris. On Thursday, the Rev. Mr. Phelps was ordained. Oct. 11. An election for president and directors of the Albany Mercantile Company took place, when the former president and directors were defeated, and a new board chosen. A statement of the condition of the company's affairs was published in the papei-s (Gaz. Oct. 17) and a counter statement by the new board of directors. It appears that the stock of the company consisted of $32,000, and the amount of specie $.23,355. The following unique advertisement appeared in the Gazette of the 20th October: "Those who wish to buy one of the most valuable negro wenches, one free from ever having had a husband or child, and one not in the least used to black company, and free from every vice of any moment ; will please to inquire of the editors of this paper, from whom they may know the price, and the present owner." In February of this year, Robert McClellan, a respectable merchant, and treasurer of the state, proved a defaulter to a large amount. He published a justification cf his defalcation, alledging that he was a loser to a very heavy amount by the state, in the war of the Revolution, in consequence of having outlayed money in clothing [325] and stores for the army, imported from Canada, and that he had been embarrassed by those operations ever since.

March 7. It was ordained by the common council, that a loaf of inspected wheat flour should weigh 3Zfcs.Soz. for Is. A loaf of common wheat flour to weigh 4 Ibs. 3oz., for Is. It was asserted by a writer of the day that bread was 4 ounces to the shilling heavier in Albany than in New York, and when the river was closed from 8to 12 ounces heavier.

May 19. A dividend of one dollar and fifty cents on each share of the Albany Water Works company, was declared, payable to the stockholders after the first of June, at the office of the treasurer in Pearl street. Soon after, Stephen Lush, John Lansing, jr., John Taylor and Isaac Hutton, were elected trustees, the recorder of the city being, ex-officio, a trustee also.

Daniel Steele advertised that he had opened a circulating library, consisting of 400 volumes.

The ladies and gentlemen of Albany were informed that I. Wood had taken rooms at Mrs, Dole's, next door to the Albany Coffee House, corner of Green and Beaver streets, where he would take likenesses in profile, at five minutes sitting, at a dollar, by a process which he dignified with the name of Physiognotrace. This was nearly forty years in advance of the Daguerreotype.

In consequence of the prevalence of yellow fever in New York, the Common Council required all vessels coming from that city to perform a quarantine of a few hours, to ascertain if there were any sick on board, before coming up to the city. A young man by the name of Townsend, died in Troy about this time of the yellow fever, which he had taken in New York, which is the only case mentioned as having occurred in this vicinity.

Oct. 10. The St. Andrew's society held its first meeting, and adopted a constitution, and celebrated the nativity of its patron saint on the 30th November following. On the 10th November was held the first election of officers, which resulted in the choice of the following persons: John Stephenson, President; George Ramsey, Vice President; Andrew Brown, 2d Vice President; Rev. [326] John McDonald, chaplain; Dr. Wm. McClelland, physician; Wm. Milroy, treasurer; Archibald Mclntyre,* secretary, Peter Boyd, assistant secretary; and Daniel Cumming, Peter Sharp, John Kirk, John Grant, Geo. Pearson, Thos. Barker, Wm. French, John D. Cunningham, managers. The avowed object of the society was to afford relief to poor and unfortunate Scottish emigrants.

Garret Van Vranken died, aged 94.

1804

A bill was brought before the legislature at its session this year, authorizing the city corporation to sell the old Court House on the corner of Hudson and Court streets, and erect a new one on the public square at the head of State street. Most of the other states had already erected public buildings for the accommodation of their respective legislatures, and public purposes, while the opulent state of New York was still without any such convenience, but met in a building which had long served the double purpose of court house and jail; and although the jail had been removed some time previous to this, the edifice was occupied for city and county purposes, as well as those of the state. In it criminals had been incarcerated, tried and executed. The whipping post stood before it many years. March 5. There was a great depth of snow upon the ground in this vicinity, the like whereof was unknown to the oldest inhabitant; being about three feet on a level. A man with two horses perished in the tempest on the * Mr. Mclntyre is probably the only survivor of the board. WPM ^~ City Hall. comer of Couit and Hudson streets.

Notes from the Newspapers. 327 night of the 2d inst. on the Schenectady road, in attempting to reach Albany. The traveling was wholly impeded in every direction, and three mails were due from New York. The weather had been intensely severe since the first of January. March 18. A charity sermon was preached by Dr. Nott in the Presbyterian church, in aid of the funds of the Humane society, established by the ladies of the city, for the " relief of poor women and small children." The collection amounted to $327, and was considered the most liberal ever taken up in any of the city churches. Contracts were executed in the beginning of this year for the construction of a turnpike road from Hoboken to Hackensack, to be commenced early in the spring, and completed in November. This was to form a link in a great chain of roads, which were to connect the cities of Albany and New York on the west side of the river. It was thought that by connecting it with the great state road, to be opened in the spring between Goshen and Albany, the distance would be materially shortened, and the preference given to this route over any other, by the rapidly increasing travel between the two cities. [There was at this time as great a rage for turnpikes, as there has been at any time since for canals or rail roads.] Feb. 4. Benjamin V. Henry, a merchant of Albany, died at the island of Jamaica. The legislature passed an act authorizing the Common Council to raise money by tax for defraying the expense of lighting the city and for night watch. Also, to prevent the bringing in and spreading of infectious and pestilential disease, in the cities of Albany and Hudson. Also, an act to vest certain powers in the freeholders and inhabitants of that part of the town of Watervliet commonly called the Colonie. Also, to establish the Albany and Bethlehem turnpike. E. Hosford. Bookseller, Stationer and Binder, opposite the State Bank, has commenced business in the above line, and offers for sale an assortment of Books, comprising Divinity, Law, Physic, History and the various

328 Notes from the Newspapers. branches of Literature, School Books, of all kinds in common use. Also, an assortment of stationery, consisting of Royal, Medium, Demy, thin Posts, Foolscap writing paper, wrapping do. Also, trunks of all descriptions. Bookbinding in all its various branches, performed with neatness and expedition. Merchants' account books ruled aud bound to any pattern, and the least favor thankfully received. [The above is the first advertisement of E. Hosford, who subsequently became an extensive publisher in the edifice now occupied as the American Hotel.] Vote for Governor. At the annual election the following majorities were given: Lewis. Burr. City of New York, majority, ]01 Albany, " 384 Columbia, 1162 1290 Greene. majority, 51 Rensselaer, 1388 1132 2611 2970 May 10. The State Bank commenced business in their new banking house in State street. March 18. A meeting of the citizens was held at the City Tavern, to take into consideration the propriety of instituting an academy. The Lieutenant Governor, Mayor, Chancellor, Rev. Mr. Nott, Dr. De Witt, and Messrs. Henry and Beers were appointed a committee, to report a plan of an institution. The plan was submitted at a subsequent meeting on the 5th May, and approved, and another meeting appointed on the 10th May. It was proposed to make the academy a reorganization and reform of the city schools, which were to be incorporated in one. June 2. It was announced that his Excellency Morgan Lewis and family had arrived in town, and entered upon the duties of his office as Governor of the State of New York. June 21. Wheat 9s per bushel. A loaf of superfine 4lb. \oz. for a shilling. A loaf of common flour, bibs. for 1 shilling.

Notes from the Newspapers. 329 June 22. " Buried on Friday last, that truly good and well known character, Capt. Shawk, of African origin, and for upwards of half a century ferryman between this city and Greenbush.' ' Episcopal Church, Troy. " It can not but be pleasing to the friends of religion to notice the ardor for erecting x convenient places of public worship, which at prest-n^ actuates the citizens of this flourishing village. This ardor is not confined to any particular sect or class of worshippers, but seems equally diffused through all classes, which exhibits itself in their liberal subscriptions for the erection of churches the present season. Yesterday morning at 10 o'clock the Rev. David Butler, accompa-^ nied by the Rev. Mr. Coe, pastor of the Presbyteria; church, and a respectable number of citizens, formed i procession, and proceeded to the spot destined for t' Protestant Episcopal church, and with the usual excises of prayer, vocal and instrumental music. &c., ' ~ ~ l uuildan edifice for the Mad and Herring Fishery-.An abundant source of employment and profit to the inhabitants of of the borders the Hudson river, were the fisheries. In one net du ring this season 40,000 shad were taken at the city of Hudson, which may not have been the most successful on the river At one fishing place 46.000 were * '' employed within the limits of the city of Hudson IT ^ving to each 20,000 shad, at the lowest price of Uie market, $3 per hundred, the product would be $30 000 and computing the herring at half the value of the sha the revenue from the bosom of the river at one fi hut place, for about two months, would be $45,000 zette of'*LireXandeT Hami]ton *^ 12. ' of The Ga- July 16 announces the report of the death of Col. Hamilton, and the three succeeding numbers were

330 Notes from the Newspapers. filled almost exclusively with the proceedings of various societies on the occasion, and the ceremonies attending the obsequies, orations, resolutions, &c. A meeting of students at law was held in Albany, Teunis Van Vechten, secretary, which resolved that the members should wear crape on the left arm six weeks. Eulogies, &c., .followed in the Gazette for many weeks. July 13. Mrs. Harriet Backus, wife of Eleazer F. Backus, bookseller, died, aged 25. A line of stages commenced running between Albany and New York, which accomplished the journey in three ) days, lodging at Rhinebeck and Peekskill. This arrangement was made in regard to the ease of the trailer, who was allowed all the time at the different feges requisite to make the passage agreeable. [So far mine was concerned, surely no one could wish to be Wter on the road.] Fare $8. >y 18. Rev. Samuel Blatchford was installed pastor Jot the unifed P'resDyteriaiT'con^ltJ^QA^of. Lansingburg (, and Waterford. Rev. Jonas Coe of Troy delivered in,, sermon from 2d Tim., xi, 15; and Rev. Mr. Miller of Albany delivered the charge. July 29. Eliphalet Nott, A. M., delivered a discourse in the North Dutch church on the death of Alexander Hamilton, which was published in a volume of similar effusions, by William Coleman, at p. 104. Aug. 2J. Rev. Eliphalet Nott, pastor of the First . Presbyterian church in Albany, was elected president of Union College, Schenectady, vice Dr. Marcy, who had accepted the presidency of the University of South Carolina. [Dr. Nott just previous to this delivered a sermon on the death of Alexander Hamilton, which was published, and was characterized by the editor of the Hudson Bee as " one of the most eloquent and highly finished productions of the kind which this country has produced,'' and he was pronounced one of the ablest divines in the United States.] Sept. 1. Wheat 13s. Qd. per bushel. A loaf of ssuperfine flour to weigh 2lb. \2oz. for one shilling. Of common flour, 3/6. 5oz. for one shilling (12 cents).

Notes from the Newspapers. 331 Oct. 2. The stockholders in the Albany arid Bethlehem Turnpike company met at the City Tavern and chose the following directors: Francis Nicoll, James Van Rensselaer, Peter S. Van Rensselaer, John H. Burhans, Abraham Ten Eyck, Goldsborough Banyar, jun., Gerrit Bogart, Sebastian Visscher, Solomon Russell; F. Nicoll, president. The editor of the Gazette remarked that no part of the country suffered more on account of bad roads than the town of Bethlehem for many years past, in its intercourse with this city. Oct. 17. The Common Council ordained that part of State street, Lion [now Washington] street, Washington [now South Pearl] street, which remained unpaved and greatly out of repair, should be immediately paved by the owners and occupants, the work to be completed within eight days after they should receive notice from the city superintendent. It appears by the annual report of the Chamberlain, Elbert Willett, that the expenditure for lamps and night watch, was as follows, for the year ending Oct. 8, 1804. 1652 gals, oil, $1739-21; night watch, $1008.44^; wood and candles, $50; lighting lamps, $390'68|; 8lbs. wick, $4-98; total, $3193'32. The amount of expenditures for the last seven years more than taxes $4785'95. The total amount of the city expenditures for this year was $18,l87'70.]j cents. Among the receipts into the treasury this year was that of $1128'46 for land sold at Schaghticoke; $50 for rent of ferry house, and $274 for ferriage; and for " lots of ground sold at vendue," $9596*75. Nov. 6. The legislature of the state met in the city on Tuesday, Nov. 6; Alexander Sheldon was chosen speaker and Solomon Southwick, clerk. The message of Gov. Lewis would not fill a column of our modern daily papers. Nov. 8. Wheat 17 shillings per bushel. A loaf of superfine wheat flour to weigh 2lbs. Zoz , for one shilling. A loaf of common flour to weigh 2lbs. lOoz.

Nov. 18. Major Gen. Philip Schuyler, an officer of the revolution, and eminent also as a civil officer, died, aged 71. He was buried on the 21st with military honors, in 29

[ 332 Notes from the Newspapers. ]

the family vault of the Hon Abraham Ten Broeck. [See biog. sketch, in vol. i, p. 250.] Nov. 20. Ontario Wheat. A wagon load of wheat was brought to the city from Bloomfield, Ontario county, a distance of 230 miles. The load consisted of 100 bushels, and was drawn by four yoke of oxen ; and had the traveling been good the teamster thought the quantity might have been increased to 150 bushels. The wheat was purchased at Bloomfield for five shillings a bushel, and sold for 13s. 3d. The net proceeds, after deducting expenses and prime cost, was not less than $100. It was calculated that the journey both ways might be performed in 20 days, notwithstanding the badness of the roads. It was the first adventure of the kind known to have been undertaken, but was warranted by the high price of grain, and rewarded satisfactorily the individual who achieved it. Nov. 26. A school building was erected by the charitable contributions of the benevolent, for the benefit of neglected and helpless female children ; and a family of twenty-three, gathered under the care of a discreet governess, were daily instructed in reading, writing, and plain work, and in the strict observance of every Christian and moral duty. Waterford Bridge. Dec. The ceremony of opening the Union Bridge across the Hudson at Waterford, was celebrated with considerable parade. The Waterford Gazette conceived it the most perfect model of architecture, beauty and strength in the United States. Its length was 800 feet, and its greatest height from the bottom of the river 33 feet ; its width 30 feet. There was much firing of cannon all day, and a procession from Lansingburgh to Waterford, where a dinner was served, at the expense of the directors, and partaken of by the dignitaries of state and many gentlemen of the city and villages in the vicinity. Turnpikes west. Great effort was making at this time to push the line of turnpikes through from this city to Lake Erie. It was already nearly completed to Canandaigua. At the same time a rival road was attempted, Aug. 11. John Melanchton Bradford ordained and installed pastor or bishop of the Reformed Dutch church in this city. He was deposed from the ministry in 1821, but subsequently restored, and died without pastoral charge. It was announced that the city corporation had established a ferry on the Greenbush side of the river, opposite the Albany ferry, and had licensed Mr. James Wynkoop to keep the same ; that he was furnished with good scows and boats, and would employ as ferrymen none but those who were sober and obliging, and thatevery endeavor would be made for the passage of carriages and travelers in a safe and expeditious manner. The rates of ferriage were: Foot passenger, 2cts. Man and horse, 6 Wagon and two horses, .... 12^ u loaded with firewood, 4 Chair, sulkey or chaise,. . . 12! Four wheeled 2 horse pleasure carriage, 25 Each additional horse, .... 6cts. Mail stage, two horses,... 25 Each additional horse, .... 3 Horse and cart, 6 Double ferriage from one hour after sunset to day break, the city watch and night lamps were as follows : 3178? gallons of oil, 3666'2l Attending night watch, 130T81 12 Ihs. wick for lamps, 7*75| Wood and candles for watch, 54'84 Lighting lamps, 4V3-15 5454 36 i The amount of money received for taxes towards defraying these expenses was $4940 94, leaving a deficit of $513'42|. And the deficit in the 7 years after exhausting the amount raised by taxes, was $2 121 '55.^. The Brig Troy. This is the first square rigged vessel ever built in this place, and very properly bears the name of the village. She was built at the upper ship yard by Capt. Storer, is a very handsome, stout vessel, of 170 tons burden, well calculated for a West India or Ireland trader, and does honor to the workmanship of her constructer and owner. A collection was taken up in the old Dutch church at the foot of State street, in aid of the funds

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