HomeMy WebLinkAbout1878-Annual ReportReports of the Town Officers of the Town of Lexington for the Year Ending January 31, 1878
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SELECTMEN.
Again that period of time which denotes a year has
passed. Again, in obedience to the requirements of
the town, we submit a statement of the administration
of the affairs of the town, for the year ending January
31st, 1878.
Again, it is your privilege, and we hope you will
consider it your duty, to scrutinize and carefully exam-
ine the proceedings of those to whom you have con-
fided and entrusted the duties, cares and responsibili-
ties necessarily arising while managing the affairs of
• the town in its several departments.
Believing now as we did one year since, that the
welfare and prosperity of the town is enhanced, to a
considerable extent, by the knowledge the citizens have
of, and the interest they manifest in the appropriations,
and expenditures ; we therefore desire to give a correct
and faithful exposition, not only of the current expenses,
and general expenditures, but also of the various mat-
ters in which the town, has been for the past few years,
and is now involved and interested.
By pursuing a different course in this respect, we
should be disregarding and setting at naught, the many
requests repeatedly expressed that this report should
contain a thorough and minute account, so that every
person in town, could have the opportunity of being
acquainted with the condition of the many subjects in
which the town is reluctantly or otherwise engaged,
and can therefore be better enabled to form a more
correct and judicious course to be pursued.
Probably the three most prominent subjects in every
town, which attract attention, and elicit the most in-
quiry are the grade of the Schools, the condition of the
Roads, and the state of the Treasury.
The grade of our schools will be i'hade known by the
report of the School Commitee.
The condition of the roads in town, can be ascer-
tained by an examination.
As the Treasury of the town is made up principally
from an annual demand upon your individual means,
it would be somewhat remarkable if you did not mani-
fest an interest in its disbursement.
A town debt is an object not at all pleasant to con-
template, unless it can yearly be reduced in its amount.
Thinking it might not be wholly uninteresting to take a
look back for a few years, at our own town debt, we
append the amount of each year since 1867 :—March
1st, 1867, $25,450 ; March 1st, 1868, $26,950; March
1st, 1869, $30,800 ; March 1st, 1870, $28,400 ; March
1st, 1871, $57,400; March ist, 1872, $58,400; March
1st, 1873, $58,400 ; March 1st, 1874, $56,400 ; Feb.
1st, 1875, $51,800 ; Feb. 1st, 1876, $64,800 ; Feb. 1st,
1877, $59,800 ; Feb. 1st, 1878 ; $53,800.
It can be seen by the foregoing statement, that the
largest debt was Feb. 1st, 1876, the increase of the
debt in that year was $13,000, $1o,000 of this sum was
borrowed for the centennial celebration, which is to be
paid by a yearly payment of $2,000, it will also be seen
that the sum of ,$11,000 has been paid within the
past two years, of this amount $7,000 was taken from
the surplus money in the treasury without any spe-
cial appropriation ; in this reduction of the debt, the
amount of $770 for interest is stopped.
In assuming the responsibility of taking the amount
of $4,000 from the treasury the past year, and $3,000
the previous year, and applying it to the payment of a
portion of the town debt, without any instruction from
the town, we deemed it more for the interest of the
town to pay such demands, as were payable, rather
than let this sum remain in the treasury, and be carried
into the expenses of the next year.
It is a matter worthy of consideration if it would not
be advisable to take what amount of money which should
happen to be in the treasury, at the close of each
financial year, over and above enough to meet the cur-
rent expenses, and have it deposited, so as to create a
reserve fund, to be in readiness to meet the liabilities
of the town as they fall due.
A note for $5,000 will be payable in June, 1881,
another for $12,300 in April 1882. If the amount at
the close of each financial year from now until 1882,
should be what it has been for the past two years, and
it can if no unusual expenditure is made of much
amount, a sum would then be in readiness, nearly if
not quite sufficient to meet the payment of these two
notes without any special taxation.
fi
TOWN BUILDINGS.
The property belonging to the town is in such condi-
tion as not to require any great outlay for some con-
siderable time.
The School Houses are all in good repair.
The Engine House in the centre village is in good
condition.
The Alms House buildings have been thoroughly
repaired and painted.
The Village Hall building has had a new entrance
added, and the outside of the building painted with
two coats of paint.
The Town Hall building will probably before a great
length of time, need to be re -slated or extensively
repaired.
All the other property of the town is in good condi-
tion ; that of the almshouse and highway departments
has been appraised agreeably to a vote of the town -
and the report of the committee is annexed in its
proper place.
NEW ROAD.
The road laid out by the County Commissioners,
leading from Bedford Street, to the house of Mr. Ham-
mon Reed, has been completed. The offer of $boo,
made by the town, was accepted by Mr. Reed, and he,
with commendable promptness, built the road at an
early day, to the acceptance of the County Commission-
ers.
COAL.
With the cordial co-operation of the School Comit-
tee, we were enabled to purchase in June last for $3.70
per ton at the wharf, a sufficient quantity of coal to
fully meet the requirements of the town.
After the season closed for repairs on the roads, the
teams were employed in teaming the coal, thereby
saving the payment of the sum of $187.50.
MIDDLESEX CENTRAL RAILROAD,
In accordance with the vote of the town, measures
were taken to collect the sum of $]oo of the Middle-
sex Central Railroad. It was ascertained that it was
necessary in order to make the claim valid, it must re-
ceive the approval of the directors of the railroad ;
this approval being refused, and as the estate of the
treasurer of the railroad was bankrupt, it was useless
to prosecute the claim, therefore it must be called a
loss.
SUIT OF O'COI' NELL VS. BRYAN r.
The suit at law, brought by Maurice O'Connell, Esq.,
against N. L. Bryant, a former surveyor of highways,
for damages occasioned by cutting down forest trees
standing beside Main street, East Lexington.
At a trial held nearly two years since, a verdict was
given for the defendant ; exceptions were taken by Mr.
O'Connell, which were sustained and a new trial or-
dered. Within the past year another verdict for the
defendant has been received.
As Mr. O'Connell objects to the payment of the
costs ordered by the court as unreasonable, and has
taken measures to have the matter considered by the
Supreme Court, no definite settlement can therefore
be announced, although so far as the town is concerned
it is practically settled except as to the amount of
counsel fees.
ARLINGTON TAX.
The tax assessed the past two years against the town
of Arlington has been paid. The particulars in regard
to it can be obtained by reference to the report of
the assessors.
STREET LAMPS.
A contract for lighting the street lamps from the first
of June Iast to the first of February, 1878, was made
with the Lexington Gas Company, and the Globe
Gas Light Company of Boston, for six cents per night.
The light furnished by the Lexington Gas Co. has
given perfect satisfaction, while that of the Globe Gas
Co. might be preferable to kerosene in giving a more
brilliant light, yet it has not been reliable, especially
when there were high winds, and in very many instan-
ces when a light was most needed in dark nights, they
did not burn. This difficulty was attributable more
particularly, to the care taken of the lamps, rather than
the gasoline.
It is generally acknowledged that the street lamps
are really enjoyable, but many of our citizens who re-
side in the outer districts of the town, think it rather
burdensome for them to bear a portion of a tax that is
so seldom of any advantage to them, and that those
who reside in the immediate vicinity of the light,
should bear all or nearly all of the expenses.
9
As the whole number of lamps is now about one
hundred, if continued to be lighted another year, an
appropriation of not less than $I,600 will be required
to cover the expense.
GAMMELL LEGACY.
Under the provisions of the will of Mr. Jonas Gam-
mell, Mrs. L. S. Pierce and Mrs. N. W. Bryant, were
appointed as trustees, for the disbursement of the in-
come of the legacy bequeathed to the town. The re-
port of the trustees will be found annexed to the report
of the Overseers of the Poor.
As the income of the legacy has not all been ex-
pended, it was thought advisable to deposit the balance
unexpended in the Lexington Savings Bank, where it
could be obtained when wanted for use.
GUIDE BOARDS.
The law requires that the selectmen shall annually
make a public .statement in relation to Guide Boards.
Those that were missing or destroyed have been re-
placed, and those that were defaced or marred have
been repaired
But so long as the thoughtless or malicious, exhibit
their foolish or evil propensity, by injuring so necessary
an object as a guide board, more or less watchfulness
will be required to keep them in order.
DRAINAGE OF MEADOWS.
It would have been with pleasure if we could have
presented this subject in a different aspect from its
present condition, which has been a fruitful source of not
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only a heavy expense to the town, but one also that has
created feelings of unkindness and enmity.
This subject which originated undoubtedly in good
faith, and was designed for the benefit of those in
proximity to the meadows, has assumed its present
condition from a combination of circumstances, and its
complex situation, is not at all gratifying, so far as the
interest of the town is concerned.
In order that it may be fully understood what an ex-
pensive affair this has already been to the town, it will
be seen by reference to the records, that nearlyif not
quite M$,000 has been expended.
The first expense to the town in this matter, was
caused by deepening the culverts on Main and Waltham
streets, which was necessary as a preparatory measure
towards the further proceedings in draining the mead-
ows ; all the subsequent expenses to the town were ne-
cessitated by the action of those who were assessed,
and who alone were benefitted, but felt aggrieved at the
assessment.
Since a recourse to law, has commenced, it would
seem by the demands for professional services, that
the Iawyers fully appreciated the worth of their client.
Mr. Somerby who was retained as counsel for the
town, and who has thus far had the management of the
case, has been paid nearly $i,000. In addition to this
a Mr. Heard puts in a modest little claim for five hun-
dred and fifty dollars, ($55o.) As we could not learn
that this gentleman had ever been consulted as coun-
sel for the town, his demand was not recognized, sub-
sequently a notice was served upon the proper officers
of the town, to make answer to this demand, to the
court to be holden at Cambridge in January last. We
appeared at Court at that time, but as the plaintiff fail-
ed to make his appearance, it was presumed he had
abandoned the demand. A few days since a notice was
received from Mr. Heard, saying he had again entered
his case in Court.
The important question in which every tax -payer in
town is interested, and which has been repeatedly ex-
pressed during the past year, is, cannot some measures
be devised, to amicably settle this perplexing and ex-
pensive matter, without these heavy drafts, not only
from the treasury, but also the pockets of those who
have been assessed ?
It would not be discreet or proper for us to venture
any suggestions, but will simply say it is our belief,
that if the act is legalized, that measures tending to-
ward a settlement could easily be adopted.
The town in April last instructed the Selectmen to
petition the Legislature, for the legalization of the
drainage act ; in compliance with these instructions we
took the necessary measures and petitioned ; two hear-
ings before the Senate Judiciary Committee have been
given, the result of which at this time has not been an-
nounced.
AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN MR. CHARLES TIDO AND THE
SELECTMEN.
As the limit of time allowed by law in whi.±h to com-
mence an action, in certain cases, having nearly ex-
pired, it became necessary for Mr. Tidd, i» order to
receive redress for damages which he alleges he has
12
sustained by reason of the digging of a deep ditch
through a portion of his property to commence the
action by law, which he did about two years since, as it
was expected that a hearing before the court would be
had in September last, and as no valid defence could
be made in consequence of the illegality of the act,
and that the cost would undoubtedly fall upon the town,
we therefore desired a postponement of the case, until
after a hearing before the Legislature. This request Mr.
Tidd objected to, but expressed a wish that a compro-
mise might be effected, which would ultimately avoid
a trial.
After considering the subject in all its bearings, and
also being aware we had no authority to make an ab-
solute settlement, finally concluded that if a condition-
al arrangement could be made with Mr. Tidd, which
would not cost the town, more than counsel fees would
in case of a trial, it was best to make the attempt.
After several interviews an agreement embracing sev-
eral conditions was arranged with Mr. Tidd, he agree-
ing on his part to withhold bringing his suit to trial
until after a hearing before the next Legislature, also
not to oppose the legalization of the Drainage Act.
We promised to submit a recommendation to the town
at the next March meeting for consideration, and would
urge its acceptance.
An instrument containing the details of the subject,
was prepared and signed by both parties, the matter
will therefore remain as it now is until after the next
annual meeting.
13
TRAMPS.
The vexed question which was asked one year ago,
"what shall be done with the tramps" still remains un-
answered; there are probably very few subjects at pre-
sent, in which the community is more particu:.arly in-
terested, than this; the frequency of the many lawless
and murderous acts committed by this class of persons
imperatively demands that some speedy measures be
adopted to arrest and abate this dangerous nuisance.
The number who have visited this town from Feb.
1st, 1877, to Feb. 1st, 1878, has been 1,876of this
number 1,847, have been, while here, under tl-eimme-
diate supervision of Mr. Eli Simonds, janitor of the
town hall, who it seems by his bill of fare "crackers"
(which has been reduced the past year from crackers
and salt fish to crackers alone) desires to simply "keep
soul and body together" rather than to immortalize his
name as a public caterer. An agreement made with
Mr. Simonds in 1876, to take charge of the tramps at
15 cents each, not expiring until the first of April,
made the cost of 482 tramps in the month of Feb. and
March for food and care $95.07, from April last to Feb.
1st, 1878 for food at the Town Hall station has been
$47.6g.
Fifteen of the above number, one woman a nd child
and thirteen men have been kept at the lock up at
East Lexington at a cost of $2, fourteen females have
been at the Alms House at a cost of about $6.
The whole expense for the year 7877, has been
$151.36, at an average cost of about eight cents each.
14
As the increase in number the past year, was over
1,200 from the previous year, it is an open question,
which would be the more preferable, to procure the
services of a less popular janitor, or make another re-
duction in the bill of fare, in order to check this unde-
sirable increase.
POLICE.
During the past year no unanticipated event or dis-
turbance has occurred to call for extra police service,
although we have by solicitation, appointed as a precau-
tionary measure and to be in readiness to meet any
emergency, three police officers, without compensation,
except when services were rendered, but happily their
services were not required.
The few arrests made during the year, is an evidence
that quietness and good order has generally prevailed.
Some few lawless acts were reported, which induced us
to offer a reward ; as no repetition of those acts occur-
red, it is hoped that the offer of a reward had a salutary
effect.
Complaints have been made against a custom that
has been practised by some of the young persons, who
have congregated in groups on the sidewalks in the
evenings, and at times rude language and actions, to
passers by, was heard and observed. If such persons
would meet in a less public place, the citizens would
be gratified.
The whole number of arrests during the year was
fifteen, 2 for drunkenness, 3 for drunkenness and
assault, 4 for keeping unlicensed dogs, 3 for stealing,
1 for assault, 1 for vagrancy, 1 for disorderly conduct.
15
An appropriation of $500 was made for constable
and police, $150 has been expended, leaving a balance
of $35o unexpended.
TREASURER'S SETTLEMENTS.
In compliance with a vote passed several years since,
quarterly examinations of the Treasurer's books and
accounts have been made, and they were found to be
correctly kept and balanced.
It will be seen in the final report of the Treasurer,
that one note for $3,000 and another for $I,coo have
been paid, during the year. As these notes were bear-
ing 7 per cent. interest, and as there was a st.rplus of
money in the treasury at the time they were paid, it
was thought best to pay them, and if necessary more
money could be obtained for 51 per cent. We are
happy to state, the finances are in that condition, that
we have not been obliged to borrow.
As the town debt has decreased $I I,000, in the past
two years, with no additional appropriation, except
$4,000 for the Centennial Debt, if no unforseercasualty
should occur to demand a large expenditure, if also
the annual expenditures should be economically made,
without any increase of the rate of taxation, over the
per cent. of the past two years, there is no just reason
why the entire debt of the town cannot be paid within
the next seven or eight years.
The town has by vote expressed a wish that all ex-
penditures should not exceed the appropriations. This
vote ought always to be in constant view, as no other
course could be pursued, without sooner or later prov-
•
16
ing detrimental to the interests of the town ; yet cer-
tain unavoidable exigencies may arise, which will de-
mand immediate action and involve expense beyond
the appropriation, for instance should the highways
become impassable or dangerous to travel, as was the
case a year or two since ; or if the appropriation for
the poor, which is an imaginary appropriation as to its
sufficiency, as it is based upon the present needs, irre-
spective of prospective wants, should prove inadequate
to meet the demands, an over draft would be excusable.
As the number of bills presented for payment the
past year were nearly goo, and as these have to be
classified for payment from twenty-seven different ap-
propriations, and numbered and recorded each under its
respective grant ; it would indeed be a marvel if there
was not some misclassification or irregular recording.
If such should be the case, the aggregate in the amount
would not be changed.
We have endeavored to get all outstanding demands
for expenses incurred the past year, in for payment
before the close of the financial year, and there is only
one small bill, to our knowledge, that has not been
presented for payment.
The Treasurer's statement can therefore be consid-
ered as substantially a correct account of the financial
condition of the town.
In the forgoing papers, we have briefly spoken of
the principal subjects in which the town is interested.
As each inhabitant and tax -payer, serves to make a
part and parcel of that which constitutes the town,
and as each individual's interest is inseparably connect-
17
ed, so far as it relates to the affairs of the town; it is
therefore presumed the account we have given may
not be as plain or explicit as may be desired, we there-
fore earnestly wish any who are not satisfied .with the
course that has been pursued, or who seek further in-
formation, to make known their views or desires, when
this report is submitted formally to the tow at the
annual March meeting.
Every citizen has the right to demand an explanation
of every town officer, the reasons which actiated or
influenced them in performing their duties as they did.
Again, we express the hope that this right will be
fully exercised, so that a mutual understanding may
exist in regard to the management of the affai: s of the
town the past year.
As the financial year draws toward its close and as
we review our official acts, in the three -fold capacity
which became necessary by uniting the duties of the
Overseers of the Poor, and Surveyors of Highways,
with those of the Selectmen, it would most z.ssuredly
be an anomaly, if there were not some acts of indiscre-
tion or lack of judgment committed.
It may perhaps be thought by some that when advice
has been proffered, or recommendations suggested, we
have not received that advice or recommendation in
the spirit that we ought, as servants of the :own, by
not heeding or adopting them; we have alwayE- listened
with pleasure to any suggestion offered, and have been
guided by them whenever we considered it practicable
and for the interest of the town.
If in word or deed we have seemingly evinced a dis-
position to be partial, or have not manifested a desire
•
18
to consult the interest of the town, our deeds or inten-
tions were misconstrued. The following oath was
administered to each of us: that "we would dis-
charge the duties of the office, to which we had been
elected, according to law, and the best of our ability."
This oath we have the consciousness of having kept
inviolate .
It would be presumptuous to arrogate to our-
selves any pretensions that the course pursued in the
general management of the town business the past
year, is not susceptible of improvement, therefore it
would be injudicious in us to venture any suggestion
of the course to be pursued the corning year.
WEBSTER SMITH, Selectmen
OTIS WENTWORTH, of
ALBERT W. BRYANT. Lexington.
Lexington, January 31, 1878.
TOWN TREASURER'S REPORT.
January 31, 1878, he charges himself with having received the fol-
lowing sums, derived from the hereinafter named sources, viz :
From
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the Town and Village Halls,
State as Corporation Tax,
" Bank
" " State Aid returned, .
" " Income of Mass. School Fund,
Taxes of the year x876
Interest on Taxes of 1876 over due,
License of a Billiard table,
Temporary loans,
Taxes of the year 1877,
The County Treasurer, Dog Money,
Overseers of the Poor,
Town of Methuen, .
Surveyors of Highways,
Town Scales, .
Sale of Town histories, .
School Com., tuition of non-resident children,
Sale of Centennial histories in 1876,
" " Old Ropes, .
" " Old Engine House,
Heirs of John Winning, .
Estate of Isaac B. Smith, .
Contingent Grant, .
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$367 00
507 27
7,64 8o
420 00
206 87
6,048 32
261 23
to 00
7,000 00
34,845 93
357 96
781 17
3 99
214 70
43 54
31 20
14 25
54 00
9 55
90 00
300 00
top oo
325 6o
$50,757 38
20
And the Treasurer credits himself with having paid
amounts, as shown below, viz :
By amount due the Treasurer, January 3 ist, 18 76,
`° paid Fire Department,
" Contingent Grant,
School Grant,
Highway Grant,
Support of the Poor,
School Committee, .
State Aid,
Constable and P▪ olice,
Interest, .
Decoration,
Temporary Loans,
Centennial Loans,
Town Debt, .
Street Lamps, .
`L Cary Librarian,
Ringing bells at noon,
Assessors,
State Tax,
County Tax,
Town Clerk,
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Collector and Treasurer,
Auditors,
Insurance,
Cary Library, Dog Money,
Gammell Legacy,
Removing snow,
Hammon Reed, new road,
Treasurer of Cary Library,
Repairs of Alms house and village hall,
Improving entrance to village hall,
Cash on hand,
the following
$73 73
785 63
4,269 52
9,669 03
2,874 74
32
3O0 0046
42413 00
143 50
3,752 28
99 50
7,500 00
2,000 00
4,000 00
t 1499 59
244 00
70 o0
421 25
2,445 00
1,433 47
Ioo 00
54 85
400 00
42 00
294 50
357 96
23 8o
71 34
800 00
5o 00
476 or
200 00
2,688 22
$50,757 38
COLLECTOR'S REPORT,
The Collector of Taxes for the year 1877, submits the following
report, viz
The tax list committed for 076 amounted to . $37,216 So
Supplementary List, . 331 32
Total Taxes committed, .
The Collector has paid into'the Town Treasury,
Amount allowed for prompt payment of taxes,
Amount abated by the Assessors, .
$37,548 12
$36,109 12
936 71
502 29
$37,548 ax
LEXINGTON, February 7th, 1878.
We, the undersigned, Selectmen of Lexington, have this day ex-
amined the accounts of Isaac N. Damon, Collector of Taxes for the
year 1876, and find them correct
WEBSTER SMITH,
OTIS WENTWORTH, - Selectmen of Lexington.
ALBERT W. BRYAN'1', }•
Tax List committed for 1877,
Supplementary List, .
Total Taxes committed, .
Taxes collected to date, .
Amount allowed for prompt payment,
Uncollected taxes, less abatements, .
January 31st, 1877.
$38,234 52
320 64
$38,555 16
$32,845 93
964 36
4,744 87
$38,555 16
All of which is respectfully submitted.
ISAAC N. DAMON, Collector of Taxes.
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ASSESSOR'S REPORT.
In compliance with a vote of the town, the assessors
feel called upon to make some report to the town, of
the matters that have come before them, and also to
make a few suggestions for the consideration of those
who have the taxes to pay.
At the meetings held last Spring, in March and
April, the appropriations made and voted to be as-
sessed upon the Polls and Estates in town, amounted
to $34,o69 with the addition of the State and County
tax, the amount of which was $3,878.47, together with
an overlay of $287.o5, making a total of $38,234.52, on
a total valuation of $2,704,771.
In our position as assessors we are satisfied that the
amount of tax assessed upon the property of a large
portion of those who have it to pay is a heavy burden,
under the present condition of affairs, and we earnestly
recommend to the voters, to see that the appropriations
are brought within the means of all who have taxes
to pay.
As a general thing the majority of voters vote for
the largest sum named for an appropriation and think
no more about it, until the tax bill comes and then
they do not see why their taxes are so high, and very
soon come to the conclusion that their property is val-
ued for the purpose of taxation much higher than it
should be.
24
The assessors at the beginning of their labors last
May, decided to reduce the valuation on the real estate
three hundred thousand dollars, which reduction at
that time was suposed to be sufficient, but subsequent
events appear to show that a further reduction may be
necessary.
As there has been but a very small addition to the
real estate the past year, whatever reduction is made
in the valuation of course will increase the rate of tax-
ation., unless the appropriations are made less than
those of the current year.
The town choose a board of assessors to make a val-
uation of each person's property in town, as nearly pro-
portionate as they are capable, and after giving it all
the care possible, may not be satisfied with their work
after it is completed, but after all, they are in a position
to judge better what is right, than those who do not
have the duty to perform.
It is apparent, that if every tax -payer should make
his own valuation, on his property, that it would
be very likely, to be much farther from a proportionate
value than a board of assessors would be likely to
make it.
At this time, there seems to be no rule by which
assessors can make a fair cash valuation of the real
estate, as the law requires them to do, as there is a
wide difference of opinion among the people, as to the
value of real estate.
But it is well known, that whatever sums of money
are voted to be raised, must be . assessed upon the
property in town, and whether the valuation is too
25
high or too low, if it is a proportionate valuation of all
the property, no tax -payer has any reason to complain,
as the amount that each one has to pay, is governed
very much by his own vote.
The assessors are found fault with by some, because
they do not find all the property that ought to be taxed,
and by others, because they have found more than they
wish to be taxed for, and it seems to be the policy of a
large share of the tax -payers not to make any statement
of their property subject to taxation, as the law requires
them to do, but leave the whole matter with the asses-
sors, expecting them to do what is just right. But it is a
very unpleasant duty, for any board of assessors, to be
obliged to decide, in the absence of any information
from the tax -payer, the amount of tax such person
should pay.
The town of Arlington, as is well known, have cer-
tain rights for collecting and securing a supply of pure
water in the easterly part of the town. The assessors,
and others, believe they are holding more property,
under the right of Eminent Domain, than the Legisla-
ture intended to give them, and in the year 1876,
assessed a tax upon all that portion taken under the
act of 1873, by the town of Arlington.
Application was made to the assessors, by the proper
officers of the town of Arlington, for an abatement of
the whole tax which was refused. An appeal to the
County Commissioners was heard with the same result.
Subsequently, they have paid the taxes assessed, for
the years 1876 and 1877. We think it for the interest
26
of both towns that this subject should be brought be-
fore the proper tribunal, in the most direct and least
expensive manner and settled for all future time.
We recommend an appropriation for the pay of as-
sessors, books, stationery, etc., the sum of $425.
JOSEPH F. SIMONDS, Assessors
WALTER WELLINGTON, of
HORACE B. DAVIS. Lexington.
fEPORT OF OVERSEER'S OF POOR,
In no department of the affairs of the town is there
a more constant supervision demanded for care and at-
tention, than the charge of the Alms House. The fre-
quent attempts to have the town asume the support or
render partial assistance, to those who are receiving
aid in other places, requires the strictest vigilance to
sucess£ully resist these applications and demands.
The various duties and responsibilities naturally
arising while in discharge of the duties as Overseers of
the Poor, are at times of that peculiar nature as to ex-
cite pity and sympathy, and at the same time demand
decision and firmness that might perhaps, be consid-
ered, by those unacquainted with the facts, as harsh or
vindictive. The many different phases of character
and disposition exhibited by those who are receiving
assistance, wholly, or in part, are to be met and con-
sidered.
Some in looking back over their past lives, recall to
mind their many deviations from the paths of rectitude
and sobriety, and fully realize they are now reaping
their reward in penury and want. Others, who have
acquired what is termed a military settlement, exhibit
a dictatorial spirit, by making known their wants, as an
imperative demand, rather than as a request ; of this
class of persons, some, we regret to say, are disposed
to practice deception and duplicity; yet there are those
28.
who accept with cheerfulness their situation; and are
grateful and appreciate the care that is manifested for
their comfort.
The health of the inmates of the Alms House, the
past year, has been remarkably good, considering their
age and infirmities; two deaths from old age have
occurred.
One small specimen of humanity, has been during
the past year, added to the human family, who will by
ancestral right, claim the privilege of eating of your
bread and butter; the advent of this little Miss into
this mundane sphere, happened in Boston in July last.
As no happy or joyous father, has as yet appeared to
claim the waif, she will therefore look to the Overseers
of the Poor, for paternal guidance, and the town, for
support.
The personal property at the Alms House is in good
condition, the farm wagon became so worn as not to
be worth repairing, which necessitated the purchasing
of another.
Notwithstanding, them is as much property at this
time as there was one year ago, at the Alms House,
the depreciated market value of stock, poultry, pigs,
produce, etc., is such, that the report of the appraising
committee estimates a decrease in value of $176.25.
Yet this property is of as much worth to the town now
as it was with its former value.
The fluctuations in the market value of the property,
should not, if increased be credited as income, or if de-
creased, be charged to the expenses, for it is of as
much use to the town, whether the valuation be much
29
or little; if the property was bought or sold every year,
then it would properly be reckoned with the yearly
expenses.
The good order and quietness the past year at the
Alms House has been all that could be expected.
The Matron certainly deserves notice for her faith-
fulness and devotion; she has consulted their wants,
and has done all that was possible and in her power
to render their situation comfortable and pleasant.
The product of the farm the past year, was not as
large as the previous one, the potato yield was materi-
ally lessened by the depredations of the potato bugs;
the fruit crop was a failure, the sale of pigs, in conse-
quence of the low price, amounted to a less sum, than
for previous years, the amount of hay and other fodder
was much larger than ever before.
About four acres of land has been seeded to grass,.
which is better adapted to pasturage, than for hay;
three acres were heavily manured and seeded, which
will probably give a good yield next season; two acres
of meadow were during the dry part of the summer,.
bogged and turned over with the hoe, it being impos-
sible to do it with a team, on account of the many
springs ; this land after the action of the frosts during
the winter, will be in good condition to either plant or
seed down next season.
Quite a number of acres connected with the Alms.
House, need considerable labor and manure,before.
bringing it to that state of cultivation, that remunera-
tive crops can be gathered; nearly all the land belong-
ing to the town is susceptible of being made productive
30
in a few years, by expending a few hundred dollars, in
connection with the labor of the superintendent arid
the inmates.
NGS.
It will undoubtedly be surprising to many that we
should have continued keeping hogs, after speaking so
disparagingly as we did in our report of last year.
But chat seductive phrase, "there is money in it,"
which has been the cause of wrecking many a fond
hope the world over, we must acknowledge has in-
fluenced us to continue the keeping swine longer than
our judgment approved; as the town had been to the
expense of a piggery building and had a number of
breeding sows, also a contract for offal, again as some
still contended that there was surely money in it, we let
the matter continue another year, with the hope, that
a rise in the price of pigs and pork, might verify the
statements of the advocates of keeping hogs.
And now after the experience of another year, with
no gratifying results, we begin to doubt the truthfulness
of the old adage "every dark cloud has its silver lining."
It is, however, hoped that our successors will succeed
in finding the "silver Iining" in the pig business.
On the loth of last March four small, ragged, dirty
and barefoot boys, whose ages were from three to nine
years, belonging to the Logan family, were found in the
Rail Road depot in the centre of the town, where they
had been sent by their father. There were at the same
time three small children of the same family at the
Alms House. It was ascertained that the father of these
31
children was receiving monthly, a pension and State
aid amounting to fourteen dollars and was squandering
this money in drunkenness.
An application was made to the Probate Court of
Suffolk County, that a guardian be appointed, so that
this amount might be secured towards the maintenance
of these children, rather than squandered by their
father.
The application was granted, and Mr. Eli Simonds
was appointed guardian, who has received fifty-four
dollars for State Aid, and paid it to the Town treasurer.
As information has been desired why two of the
children previously spoken of have been taken from the
Alms House and supported elsewhere, we will state
there were last April five boys at the Alms House of
that age when the more noise they could make the bet-
ter. At the same time there were also at the Alms
House six very aged persons, two of whom *ere sick
(since died), and one whose mind was impaired. The
noise and confusion was so annoying to these aged
persons, we concluded that it would be for their comfort
to board two of the boys elsewhere, if not at a cost ex-
ceeding that at the Alms House, and take the amount
received from the guardian towards their board; a proper
place was secured for them, and $132 paid for 61 weeks
board. $54 has been received from Mr. Simonds„
which will leave $78 charged to the support of out-
side poor.
It will be observed that the cost of supporting the
poor both at the almshouse and elsewhere will not cor-
respond with the treasurer's accounts, for we have -
32
credited to the cost $15o for pigs and wood sold which
the treasurer has not at this time received.
Again we have furnished outside poor, wood and
coal to the amount of $51.8o, which was taken from
the wood and coal charged to the Alms House grant.
OUTSIDE POOR.
The outside poor, as they • are termed, or those who
do not receive support at the Alms House, are assum-
ing an importance in the expenses of the town. Not-
withstanding we have endeavored to exercise a strict
and watchful vigilance over their actual needs and con-
dition, we regret to say that in one instance, at least,
our kindness has been repaid with deception. There
have been five deaths among those receiving assistance,
besides considerable sickness. Whenever, by paying
a Iess sum than the cost at the Alms House will
answer their necessities, it is best to do so ; in fact, it
would be impossible to remove all who have been re-
ceiving help to the Alms House without enlarging the
buildings.
Eight families, containing nineteen individuals, and
three single persons, have been or are now receiving
aid. The amount paid the past year was $711.18.
Appraisal of personal property at the Alms House
by the committee:
Valuation of personal property, Feb. x, 1877 $2,180 64
Valuation of personal property, Feb. 1, 1878 2,010 39
Decrease in value �7o �5
Amount paid for support of poor .... 3,210 8r
Less received and dtie from income of farm ....$929 91
Less outside poor expenses 711 18 1,641 15
Cost of support of poor at the Alms House $1,569 66
33
There has been furnished 739 weeks board at a cost
of $2.14 3-4 per week.
Whole number of paupers at the Alms House during
the year was 32. Fourteen of this number were fe-
males and remained in all three weeks. Average num-
ber, 17 ; present number, 12.
In recommending an appropriation of $2,000 as suffi-
cient for the maintenance of the poor the ensuing year,
no assurance can be given that the amount will answer
the demands. The sum named is based upon the pre-
sent cost. The liabilities for extra expenses are so fre-
quent that any sum that might be named would only
be an imaginary one.
WEBSTER SMITH, Overseers of
OTIS WENTWORTH, Poor
ALBERT W. BRYANT,
LEXINGTON, February I, 1878.
APPRAISAL OF PROPERTY AT THE POOR FARM
Under the charge of the Overseers of the Poor, Fe& zst, 1878.
1 horse, $zoo; 2 cow;, $100 ; 6 1-4 tons English hay, $125,. $425 00
5 tons barley fodder, 55 ; 54 ft. ladder, 4.32, 59 32
t fruit ladder, 2 ; 3 shovels, 3; 3 manure forks, 4, 9 oo
3 hay forks, 1 ; 3 rakes and I drag rake, 1.50,... 2 50
I wagon harness, zo; r cart do., 15; 1 double do., 3o;
x lead do., 3,. 68 00
r blanket, 1.50; 1 hay cutter, 7; 4o0 Ibs. rye straw, 4,.... 12 50
4 stake chains, 1 ; whiffletrees, evener and chains, 5, 6 oo
i monkey wrench and 1 other wrench, 1.50 ; r cross bar, 1.20, 2 70
3 saws, 2; 3 wood do., 2 ; 3 augers, 1; draw shave, 2, 6 oo
Bit stock and bits, 1.50; 2 nail hanntners,.5a; r halter, r,3 00
1 grain chest, 2 ; set measures, .75 ; 1 pail, .50, 3 25
I' bush. oats, 5.5o ; grass seed, 1 ; 3 tie chains, .75 ; old iron, 1, 8 25
2 ploughs, 14; 2 cultivators, 10; 3 flat and 2 tined hoes, 3, 27 00
3 bog hoes, 1.50 ; 5 spade, .75 ; 1 pick, .75 ; 1-2 M.
shingles, 2, 5 00
2 planes, 1 ; set horse rackets, 3.5o; 2 scoop shovels, 3... 7 5o
Old shovels, 1 ; feed trough, 1 ; 3 hogsheads, 2, 4 00
5 hogs, 84 ; 21 shoats, 84 ; I harrow, 5, ... 173 00
I swill wagon, 25 ; r two horse do., 70 ; 1 cart, 35, 530 00
1 market wagon, 75 ; 1 hay do., 20 ; 1 pung, 12, 107 00
2 sleds, 40 ; 2 wheelbarrows, 8 ; stone drag. 5, 53 O0
125 hens, 75 ; 3o dour barrels, 3 ; 12 cords wood, 72,150 00
23 tons coal, 138; 3 axes, 1.50; 2 bushel and one half -
bushel baskets, 1.70, 141 20
3 saw horses, so ; 3 scythes and snaths, 3, 3 50
1 tool chest, 5 ; I grind stone, 3,. .. .. ... 8 00
PROVISIONS IN THE HOUSE.
1-3 barrel flour, 35 lbs. lard, 3o lbs. butter, 5 lbs. sugar,
45 lbs. coffee, 4o lbs. tea, 2 5-2 barrels pork, Too Ibs.
bacon, 1 bbl. pickles, 40 bushels potatoes, 6o gallons
vinegar, I 1-2 bushel beans, spices, &c., 141
Value of furniture, cooking utensils, and all other articles in
the house which are neat and in good condition, 453 77
All articles itemized in the appraisal delivered to the over-
seers, $2,010
Appraised value of real estate, 6,000
90
39
00
JJOOHNHN PD.. REEDBACON,, ji
,QA raisers.
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES OF GAMMELL LEGACY.
To the Overseers of the Poor.
GENTLEMEN, --Having been requested by the Select-
men to continue as trustees for the expenditure of the
income of the legacy of the late Jonas Gammell, as ex-
pressed in his will, we have during the past year fur-
nished dinners for the 4th of July, Thanksgiving and
Christmas. Some sickness has occurred when luxuries
and other comforts have been necessary, which we
have also furnished, together with articles of clothing
for the small children, which were much needed.
The amount expended during the year has been
$23.8o, leaving a balance unexpended of $11.20.
MRS. L. S. PIERCE,
MRs. A. W. BRYANT.
LEXINGTON, Feb. 1, 1878.
REPORT OF SURVEYORS OF HIGHWAYS.
Nothing is more universally commended by the
travelling community than good roads. Nothing con-
duces more tothe comfort or pleasure of the citizens
of a town than to have the roads in good order.
There are circumstances in every town which serve to
govern the condition of their roads. This town, with
an area containing more than io,000 acres of land, and
this territory intersected with upwards of sixty-five
miles of roads, extending in every direction, and over
almost every variety of soil, with an appropriation of
$3,000; while the adjoining town of Arlington, with
an area of less than two-thirds in territory, with one-
third the number of miles, with every appliance for
road -making from a pick -axe to a stone crusher, and
an appropriation of $1o,000. And yet how frequent
the comparison of our roads with theirs is made, with-
out considering the facts or causes that constitute the
difference.
If the appropriation in this town was sufficiently
large to employ by the year a practical road -maker, and
supply him with modern conveniences, then it might
37
be expected our roads would present an attractive ap-
pearance. The weather the past year has been favor-
able for working to advantage. During the months of
July and August work was suspended and two of the.
horses put out to pasture. The course pursued the.
year previous to this in regard to procuring gravel has
been continued. A very small quantity of gravel has
been taken from the pits, it was deemed preferable.
to obtain the material by cutting down the high places-
in
lacesin the roads. If this method is continued, the higher
grades will be gradually reduced, the roads made more
level and more easily kept in repair.
Our attention was called to the utility of having a
road scraper. After obtaining the us.e of one from
Burlington, and noticing those in use in other towns,
we failed to be satisfied with their work. Early in the
spring we learned of one altogether differently con-
structed from those in use in this vicinity. We wrote
the manufacturer to send a machine for trial. If it an-
swered the needs and met our approval, we would
purchase, otherwise return it. This proposal was ac-
ceded to. After using the machine in different portions
of the town, and as long as there were suitable condi-
tions for its use, we were fully persuaded that it would
be for the interest of the town to own one, which was
purchased for $125.
The property belong to the Highway department is
in good condition and ready for use. It may become
necessary to purchase a new cart during the year, as
those now in use are somewhat worn.
If the town is satisfied with the condition of the
38
roads the past year, we think that an appropriation of
$3,000 will be sufficient for the present year. The
amount of $3,000 was the last appropriation. All de-
mands for the past year are paid, including $125 for a
scraper, and there is a balance of $338.83 unexpended.
The recently severe snow storm, equalled only twice
within the past twenty years, has caused those annoy-
ances andk inconveniences which must necessarily be
expected. No one regrets the difficulties that have
to be encountered, when the streets and sidewalks are
obstructed with snow, more than we do. As a precau-
tionary measure, and to be in readiness to open the
roads as speedily as possible after a storm, ten indivi-
duals, residing in different parts of the town, were ap-
pointed and written instructions given them, to imme-
diately after a snow storm make the roads within the
limits given them safe for travel. In some places the
roads were so badly filed with snow that they were
unable, with their limited means, to make them pass-
able as soon as desirable, and the town teams had to
assist.
That periodical cry about sidewalks has again been
heard. The vote of the town at the last March meet-
ing ought to be kept in remembrance. When an ap-
propriation was asked for the special purpose of clear-
ing sidewalks, it was promptly voted in the negative.
The intention is now and has been to use the snow
ploughs, if the snow is not to deep, where it can be
used without injury to the fences or trees, or where
not forbidden by the abuttors, It should be known
that there are those in town who object to the snow
39
plough being used on their sidewalks. Perhaps it
would be advisable, in order to settle the matter of
clearing sidewalks, to have the town take proper mea-
sures to assess the abbuttors.
WEBSTER SMITH, Surveyors
OTIS WENTWORTH, of
ALBERT W. BRYANT, Highways.
LEXINGTON, Jan. 31st, 1878.
APPRAISAL OF PROPERTY AT THE POOR FARM,
Under the charge of the Highway Surveyors, Fe& 1st, 7878.
3 horses, $60o ; 3 carts, $135 ; I wagon, $35 ; 1 hamess, $5 ; $775
3 cart harnesses, 65 ; 2 lead do., r4 ; 3 halters,4.5o, 83
Old harnesses, II ; 6 snow shovels, 7.5o ; 8 new shovels, r o ; 28
g shovels, 6.75 ; lot of old shovels, 1.5o, ... 8
5 stone hammers, 7 ; 2 drilling do., 5, 12
Go lbs. drilling steel, 1o.zo ; z crowbars, 2.5o, 12
3 stone pickers, 1.5o; 3 hoes, 2.50; 4 iron rakes, .50,
z monkey wrench, 15o ; r cart do., 1,
2 cans powder and fuse, z ; 1 water can, .75 ;I chain, I, .. .
Whiffletrees and evener, 4; 2 whiftietree chains, 1.50,.....
2 buckets, 1 ; 3 blankets, 2 ; 1 bush scythe, 1.50,
21 bushel oats, 10.50; 1 grain chest, 5; 8 picks, 12,.
Axe, and hammer, 1.25 ; stone drag, 5 ; 1 screen, 1.50,7
2 ploughs, 20; 2 side scrapers, 6o; 1 road scraper, 1.25,205
r gutter scraper, 2 ; I post spoon, 1.25 ; 1 rope, r, 4
2 brushes and combs, 2.5o ; r branding iron, 3 ; z lanterns, 2,
125 chestnut posts, r 2.50, 12
4
2
3
5
4
27
00
50
50
25
oa
70"
50'
50.
75
5a
5°
50
75
00
25
50
50
$1,205 20
JOHN P. REED, }Appraisers.
JOHN D. BACON, p�
TOWN CLERK'S REPORT,
BIRTHS.
Whole No. of births from January 1, 1877, to January 1, 1878, 31.
Males, 18 ; Females, 13.
American parentage, 12. Foreign parentage, 15. Mixed, 4.
MARRIAGES
Registered in Lexington, from January I, 1877 to January 1, 1878.
Whole No. r3. Both parties American, g.
Both parties Foreign, 2. American and Foreign, 2.
DATE.
January 1,..
Mach 22,. ......
April 26
Jnly 12,...
July 14,
September 10,...
September 10,...
October 10,
October 13
October 31,
November 7,
November 8,
November 29,
NAMES.
RI1SIDENC1 .
James S. Merriam
Mary Ai ui Ga11a her
Frank 1-1. Simonds
Eliza Maria Emery
Joseph Fitch,trick
Elizabeth .1. Gately
iohIL Kam Ley
Mary Algro
Frederick William Rogers
Mury Alice Berry
Patrick F. Daey
Maggie M. Shea
Robert S. Harrison
Katie E. Sullivan
Charles 13. Stearns
Eva L. Frost
Elliott A. Hastings
Priscilla F. Walker
George A. Field
Harriet W. Prosser
George A. Stearns.
Emma M. Hovey
Michael Fitzgerald
Ann Gill
S. Myron Lawrence
Alma Withrow
. Lexington.
Lexington.
Concord.
Lexington.
Concord.
Lexington.
Lexington.
Newton.
Lexington.
Arlington.
Northhoro'.
Lexington.
Arlington.
Lexington.
Lexington.
Lexington.
cc
Lexington.
Boston Highlands.
DEATHS
Registered in Lexington, from Jan. r, 1877, in Jan. 1, 1878.
DATE.
-NAME.
28
28
Fcb'y 11
• 15
19
Cf 24
March 2
23
14.1
93
''
27
C. 28
April 1
9
• 13
id 2• 9
9
Alay 1
9
JULIO 1
4
• 28
July 14
25
It 29
Aug. 2
a
• 17
Supt. 16
16
91
21
Oct. 3
4
• 4
8
8
11'
• 10
Nov. 5
Dec. 4
Willem Leary
HL Wendell Pierce,
Marcus Simonds,
Sarah E. Wiggin,
Berrie Mills,
Ahignil F. Sown,
Marshall Bennett Livermore,,..
Anastacia Dunn,
Edith May Taylor,
Susan 13. Currier,
F,ilzabeth S. Piper, .....
Lydia 31. Penney,
Lucy Clan o pS1i y,
Jerry Reardon, Jr.,
Timothy P. Crowley
Mary Isabella Campbell,
Lee Streeter,
Rebecca W. Ricaardsou,
Battle A. Leav}tt,
Sophroula Bacon,
Betsey Wilkins,
George Drummond
Jelin Welch,
Horgan O'Brien,
Anna Lawrence
Julia Ann O'Connors,
Ann Whalen,
Abigail Cary
Daniel Cummings,
Isaac Bnttriek,
Ella M. Simonds,
George Albert 31Oe1ton,
Alonzo P. Campbell,
James (teed,
Albert H. Stafford,
Lydia I. Flsker.
Chellus 13. Batley
William E. Porter,
Georgie S. Dunning,
S. Junta Currier, ..........
Maria Davis,
Philipp llasmue$en,
Abraham Burton,
Eike B. Wentworth,
Mary Curran,
Margaret Harrington
Al813.
48
18
83
59
46
8
50
69
epi
78
19
3
2
5
86
88
84
83
87
19
89
80
87
23
84
37
48
49
23
20
71
33
42
93
0
2
3
5
1
6
s
6
8
6
11
5
3
8
8
8
11
2
8
10
4
6
1t
6
10
2
e.
12
15
1
12
1
19
18
28
22
15
19
25
18
19
11
1
5
8
4
9
18
80
7
DUB ASE.
Heart Disease.
Consumption,
Cancer,
Cancer.
Scarlet Fever.
In. of Stomach.
Cunenmptlon.
Paralyssa.
Old Age.
Throat Disease.
Consumption,
TI Disease.
dcarle'tina,
Choi. Infantum
Diphtheria.
Cong. of Brain.
Consumption.
Aceidentul.
Ileart Disease.
Slow Fever.
Scurvy.
OId Ater
COnaumption,
Choi. Iufantum,
Consumption.
Marasmus.
Heart Disease.
Painter's Colic.
14. H. Acxddent.
Coneumpllon.
Dysentery.
Rheumatism.
Choi. Ittfantum
Neu. of Heart
Consumption.
010 Age.
PLACE OP
BIRTH.
Ireland.
Lexington,
Boston.
Lexington.
Lexington.
Lexington.
Arlington.
Lexington.
Boston.
Lincoln.
Wolfhoro,
Ireland.
Lexington,
Ireland.
Waltham,
Lexington.
Ireland.
Lexington.
Woburn.
Pepperell.
Lex nis1on.
41
Burlington.
Wallingford.
Lexington.
Buckfield, 14fe.
Lexington.
Concord.
Lexington.
Ireland.
Whole No. of deaths, 46. Males, 20 ; females, 26. No. of Amer-
ican birth, 40. No. of foreign birth, 6. No. over 6o years of age,
14. No. under to years of age, 16.
42
TOWN HISTORIES.
No. of Town Histories sold from Jan. 31, 1877, to Jan. 31, 1878, 21
Donated and exchanged for other books
No. on hand Jan. 31, 1878 250
No. copies on hand by Lee & Shepard, Boston, 39 bound
volumes; 23 copies in sheets.
No. of volumes of History of Lexington Centennial sold from
Jan. 38, 1877, to Jan. 31, 1878 2
Donated and exchanged for other books
No. on hand Jan. 31, 1878 229
3
3
DOGS.
No. licensed in 1877 180
Amount returned to County Treasurer .
Compiled from the Town records.
'345 00
LEONARD A. SAVILLE, Town Clerk.
RE'ORT OF ENGINEERS OF FIRE DEPARTMENT.
The Engineers of the Fire Department submit the
following report:
At the last annual meeting of the Town it was voted
to re -organize the department, that it should tonsist of
not more than go men, and that each man should re-
ceive five dollars per annum for his services. Compan-
ies were at once organized to man the several engines,
and at the time of making this report are officered and
manned as follows:
Adams Engine Company, No. I: Benjamin Hadley,
foreman, 30 members.
Hancock Engine Company, No, 2: John Caldwell,
foreman, 29 members.
Chemical Engine Company, No. 3: A. L. Ball, fore-
man, 13 members.
Hook and Ladder Company, No. 1: H. D. Hanson,
foreman, 12 members.
It was deemed important in organizing, to obtain
men, who reside near the engine houses ; this has been
done, as far as possible but much difficulty was ex-
perienced in the centre village, owing to a lack of in-
terest in the department, which was expressed by many,
who were asked to join. We feel satisfied, how-
ever, that although, a few members may live at a
greater distance from the engine house than is de-
sirable, these men are interested and more serviceable,
44
than men who join the department because they are
begged to do so, though they may reside near the
house.
Last fall the Hancock engine was re -painted, and her
suction hose, having been found upon testing to leak
badly, was made over.
The frame of the Hose carriage, of this engine, is
much too light for the amount of hose that it is requir-
ed to carr+, it has been repaired many times and is un-
fit for service, and we recommend that a new one be
bought, or a new frame built for the one now in use.
Of the I,too feet of leading hose in the department
650 feet have been in service twenty years. This hose
is wholly unreliable and it is an imperative necessity
that it should at once be replaced by new hose. With
the above exceptions, the engines and their equip-
ments are in good order.
RESERVOIRS.
The importance of building reservoirs in each vil-
lage, that will furnish a good supply of water for fire
purposes, has been urged by the Engineers in their
reports, and discussed by the town so often, that it
has become an oId, old story, but the older the story,
the more important the need of the reservoirs. The
centre of the Town, in its present unprotected state, is
in great danger, should a fire occur; and if a high wind
should prevail a large amount of property, would un-
doubtedly, be destroyed, as there is no water available,
except what could be obtained from wells. There is
in the business centre of the place, a good well, in front
45
of Mr. Saville's store; another in the yard of the Mon-
ument House, in the rear of the depot is another,
which is almost as good as a reservoir. The two for-
mer would last an engine probably ten minutes, the
latter is too far distant to be of service with one en-
gine, except for protection of Railroad property.
A very good cistern, which was used by the Lexing-
ton House, and is still in repair, stands by the side of
the Town Hall, and although it is now so situated that
an engine could not draft conveniently from it, a few
loads of gravel and the removal of part of a fence
would make it accessible.
The next nearest water is Vine Brook, which during
most of the year is more useful for drainage than for
fire purposes, as most of the time it is so shallow that
an engine could not draft from it until it had been
damned perhaps fifteen minutes, yet with a very small
expense a very good reservoir could be made here.
The upper part of East Lexington is as dry as in the
centre, but the lower part is better protected by the
brook, and a good reservoir at the junction of Main
and Pleasant streets. The Engineers in view of the
above facts, respectfully urge the town to take some
action on this subject.
A well or cistern is needed at the Adams engine
house to supply water for washing hose, etc., etc. All
the water used at this house has to be brought from
the neighbors.
The hall and rooms connected in the centre engine
house are yet unfinished, and we would recommend
the sum of $30o be appropriated to complete the same.
We would respectfully ask that the sum of $I,2oo be
46
appropriated for the Fire Department for the current
year. May i st, the pay of the members, which amounts
to nearly $450, is due, and the usual appropriation of
$800, will be insufficient to meet this and the running
expenses of the department.
Four fires have occurred during the year:
August 18, barn of R. H. Gove, in East Lexington,
struck by lightning and destroyed.
October 5, barn of J. S. Merriam, on Forest street,
destroyed.
October 9, Daniel Donovan's barn on Woburn street,
destroyed.
November 15, fire in L of J. E. Hodgman's house,
on Forest street, extinguished by Chemical engine
with trifling loss.
We desire to thank the officers and members of the
department for the interest which has been manifested
by them, and all others who have_by word or deed ren-
dered us any service.
HENRY A. WELLINGTON, Engineers
HENRY A. TURNER, of Fire
WILLARD WALCOTT, Department.
LEXINGTON, Feb. 1, 18 78.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CEMETERIES.
The Committee on the Cemeteries submit a report
of their acts and doings, receipts and expenditures the
past year. They have, during the past year, graded
three of the principal avenues in the old portion of the
yard, and have supplied the defects in the row of trees
on the borders of the new portion of the yard, so that
when these trees come to their growth, this portion of
the Cemetery will be encircled by a continuous row of
maple and pine trees. We have taken pains to have
that plague of country burial places, wild grass, weeds
and briars, removed or kept down. The Cemeteries
have been mowed over once and some portions twice
during the season.
An earnest desire was manifested to have a well
sunk in the easterly part of the yard, that water might
be more easily obtained to refresh the shrubbery and
flowers on the lots. The Committee, on examining
the subject, were satisfied that water could not be ob-
without sinking a well about thirty feet; and, not being
able to obtain any bids for an ordinary well that we
48
could approve, we conferred with parties who had been
quite successful in our village in driving pipes into the
earth to the water springs or water level. We engaged
Mr. Isaac Childs, of Waltham, who was engaged in that
business, to make a trial, and, if he obtained water
with an ordinary supply, he was to have two dollars
per foot for the depth sunk, he supplying the pipe and
pump and the ordinary apparatus ; and we were to sup-
ply anything extra that might be required. He pro-
ceeded and drove his pipe to water, but the pump did
not give a free and easy supply. The difficulty in
bringing up the water created a fear that there was a
leakage in the pipes or some defect in the machinery.
We told Mr. Childs, on paying his bill, that we had
fears that the water would fail through some defect in
his machinery, and he said, that if there was any failure,
he would make it good.
The difficulty at first noticed, grew more obvious
until it came to be impossible to obtain water to any
practicable amount, without labor altogether dispropor-
tionate to the quantity obtained. We have expended
nearly a hundred dollars, and as the matter now stands,
that expenditure has been fruitless. We shall expect
that Mr. Childs will so repair or improve his appliances
as to give us a supply of water.
Our financial operations will be seen in the state-
ment made below:
Before the Superintendent had made his collections,
Mr. Hudson drew from the Savings Bank where the
Committee had a deposit, the sum of two hundred
49
dollars to pay the bills which were falling due
account stands thus:
He charges himself with the withdrawal from
the Bank
And claims allowance as follows:
Cash paid Mr. Wetherell, as per voucher
((
14
((
((
" Childs, `(
" Locke,
" Norris,
(c (4
(C ((
44 44 44
$59 36
67 6o
18 45
5 27
His
$200 00
$150 68
Balance deposited in Bank, see book $49 32
Mr. Kendall, the Superintendent, charges him-
self with sum collected from sale of lots$170 00
With balance at last settlement 20 18
And claims allowance as follows:
Cash paid Mr. Bowen, as per vouchers
" " " Wetherell, "
For services and commission on collections
25 00
9 25
27 44
$190 18
61 69
He accounts for this balance of $128,49, by a de-
posit in the Bank.
The collections for the past year have been $ 17o.00,
and the expenditures, $212.37, being an excess of ex-
penditures above receipts of $42.37.
Total amount of funds in the Bank with the accrued
interest, $416.46.
The Committee are happy to see the growing inter -
50
est manifested in the Cemeteries and the disposition
to beautify and render cheerful the resting place of the
departed. Within the last year there has been a
marked improvement in the yard.
As the ground in the new Cemetery is being taken
up, we would respectfully call attention to the old
yard near the Unitarian Church. There is considerable
unoccupied ground there, and when strangers die in
town and have no family connections, they could be
interred in the old yard, where the first fathers of the
town sleep. The old yard has its charms and looks
out upon a more pleasing landscape than the yard
which now seems to attract public attention.
All which is respectfully submitted.
CHARLES HUDSON, Committee
ore
LORIN WETHERELL. Cemeteries.
LEXINGTON, January 31, 187 8.
REPORT OF TRUSTEES OF CARY LIBRARY.
The number of bound volumes in the Library, Jan.
31, 1878, was 5,682. During the past year 578 vol-
umes were added -526 by purchase and 52 by do-
nation. The names of the donors are—Hon. Charles
Hudson, 21 vols. ; United States Government, 15 vols. ;
Hon, N. P. Banks, 3 vols. ; Mr. Webster Smith, 2 vols. ;
Mr. C. McMahan, 2 vols. ; Town of Lexington, 2 vols. ;
and one volume from each of the following : Capt. W.
A. Courtenay, S. C. ; Mr. C. S. Parker, Arlington ; Mr.
C. E. Gilman, Mr. W. R. Cutter, City of Boston, City
of Newton ; Smithsonian Institute.
The number of volumes taken from the library dur-
ing the year was 22,843, being an increase in the cir-
culation of about ten per cent. over that of the previ-
ous year. At the annual examination, the library was
found in good condition.
There have been presented to the library during the
past year, a piece of the frame of a Mirror which was
broken by the British troops, April 19, 1775, and a
collection of Ancient Fast and Thanksgiving proclama-
tions, by Miss Almira M. Chandler; a collection of
Maps by Hon. Charles Hudson; and a file of "The
Lexington Minute Man," for 1877, by Mr. C. S. Parker,
of Arlington.
52
A book for the recording of the names of visitors
to the library, has been procured; and in accordance
with the vote of the town, the Treasurer of the library
has given satisfactory bonds.
HENRY WESTC OTT,
For the Trustees.
CARY LIBRARY, TREASURER'S REPORT.
The Treasurer of Cary Library debits himself as
follows :
Note of town of Lexington, Feb. 28, 1871,
6 per cent
Deposit in Lexington Savings Bank
Cash on hand, Feb. 1, 1877
" received, fines
•" Dog Tax, not deposited
" Interest on Notes
And credits himself with :
Payment for books
$5,000 oo
r,58z 65
7o r6
41 23
57 96
370 oa
$773 15
On account of expenses 35 90
By Note and Deposit books 6,242 65
By cash on hand
LEXINGTON, February r, 1878.
70 30
$7,122 00
$7,122 00
W. R. CU'T'ER, Treasurer.
AUDITORS' REPORT.
HIGHWAYS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877,
Received from W. H. Smith, street sweepings,
as
Cr
Ci
°° H. B. Davis, chestnut posts,
" street sweepings,
School Grant, .
Overseers of the Poor,
Removing snow,
Amount expended,
Balance unexpended,
EXPENDITURES.
$1 00
2 20
50
go 0o
96 00
25 00
$3,000 00
$214 70
$3,214 70
• $2,874 74
339 96
$3,214 70
A. Childs, grain,
L. A. Saville, tools, grain and groceries, .
C. A. Butters & Co., grain, groceries, &c., ..
S. T. Smith, grain,
Thing Brothers, grain,
James Emery, labor,
Patrick Caffery, labor,
Patrick Keating, jr., labor,
Patrick Keating, labor,
Patrick Powers, labor,
Fred Chaloner, labor,.
N. Shea, labor,
William Murphy, labor,
Harrison Pierce, labor,
Frank Gaffney, labor,
Amount carried forward,
$25
78
29
74
29
178
218
r8o
36
220
250
215
221
251
50
10
04
05
go
82
63
76
37
23
99
63
25
57
50
$2,012 24
.'mount drought forward,
$2,012 24
William Brigham, drag and repairs,. 14 87
B. L. & N. R. R., freight,...... 3 42
R. W. Holbrook, groceries, 22 76
E. H. Goodwin & Co., shovels, 9 7g
Hadley's Express, 12 32
William Ham, smithing, 65 04.
Humphrey Machine Co., scraper, 125 00
Theodore Munroe, hay, 24 04
John Chisholm, repairing harness, r 1 25
Lyman Lawrence, repairing harness, 15 53
F. H. Kneeland, smithing, 17 46
E. S. Locke, hardware, 1
30
Ames Plow Co., r plow, 10 00
Samuel H. Pierce, pasturing horses, 21 00
John McKeon, 128 loads gravel, 7 68
C. K. Tucker, wheelwrighting, 3 62
John A. Russell, smithing, r 8o
D. Dow & Son, grain, 20 22
H. P. Webber, smithing, 14 31
Overseers of Poor, 44 weeks board of Emery, 220 00
" « 140 " cc Of horseS, 220 OO
Peter Peters, gravel, 2 20
Benj. Brown, use of harness, r 00
E. Blasde]l, grinding grain, 6 go
:1. W. Bryant, 42 bushel oats, 21 00
REMOVING SNOW.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877,
Amount expended,
Balance unexpended,
William W. Hartwell,
John Abbott,
Arthur B. Shedd,
EXPENDITURES.
labor, ..
if
Amount carried forward,
$71 34
428 66
$12 00
3 75
5 to
$20 85
$a874 74
$500 00
$500 cm
3
Amount brought forward, $20 85
F. H. Bowen,
Nicholas Shea,
Patrick Powers,
William Keefe,
P. Keating, Jr.,
M. O'Brien,
Albert F. Fessenden,
Richard Dunn,
John P. Reed,
Alden Jameson,
George W. Jameson,
A. N. Tufts,
Surveyors of Highways,
labor,
CrCC
CC
..
Cr
if
1C
Ci
CC
if
CC
CC
52
2 og
2 Io
100
Amount droughl forward,
G. L. Parker, horse for do
A. W. Phillips, horse and wagon for do., ....
Overseers of Poor, teaming coal for do., ... .
E. S. Locke, sundries for do.,
Hunneman & Co., sundries for do.,
75 R. W. Holbrook, sundries, Adams fire
75 E. H. Brabrook, table for do.,
A. W. Mitchell, engraving 30 badges for do.,
H. P. Webber, smithing for do., ..
H. A. Wellington, charcoal for do.,
A. Goddard, Agent, sundries for do.,
John Chisholm, hose, &c., for do.,
Hunneman & Co., coupling for do,
$71 34 A. L. Bali, sundries for do.,
L. A. Saville, sundries for do.,
Brooks, Rushton & Co., Express,
J. T. Adair, care of engines,
Hadley's Express, moving hook and ladder to
Lombard's barn fire,
Hadley's Express, moving hook and ladder to
X800 0o Goddard's fire,
Hadley's Express, moving hook and ladder to
Blanchard's fire, .....
Hadley's Express, sundries,
A. W. Mitchell, engraving hook and ladder,
Lyman Lawrence, repairing harness,
Lyman Lawrence, oil,
Ames Plow Co., jack,
E. O. Webster, 24 keys,
Henry A. Turner, services as steward,
" printing, sponges, &c.,
Benjamin Hadley, services as engineer to
May I, 1877,
Henry A. Turner, services as engineer to
May r, 1877,
Otis Wentworth, services as engineer to May
I, 1877,
4
50
4 95
3 53
2 55
1 50
5 25
25 00
FIRE DEPARTMENT.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877,
Amount expended, $785 63
Balance unexpended,
EXPENDITURES.
W. A. Holmes & Co., chemicals, fire ext'r,...
E. S. Locke, sundries, fire ext'r,
Boston Dye Wood & Chemical Co., do.,
Wentworth, Engine Co.,services to May z'T7,
L. A. Saville, sundries, fire extinguisher,
Hunneman & Co., spring, &c., fire ext'r,
F. H. Kneeland, smithing, Hancock engine,
J. S. Merriam painting do.,
A. W. Mitchell, engraving 3o badges for do.,
G. A. Page, wood for do.,
J. W. Pierce, coal for do.,
A. L. Ball, repairing door for do.,
Willaxd Wallcott, teaming to Boston and return,
Contingent grant, coal, for do ,
Amount carried forward,
14 37
14 56
2 I2
3 So
too 00
97
2 25
2I 00
9 o0
43 50
3 00
6 25
x 50
14 00
7 40
$229 35
$229 35
3 00
6 oo
3 00
2 50
235 63
engine, 16 41
11 50
43 50
37
I 20
6 25
9 75
3 00
r 25
77
I go
49 45
5 00
5 00
$boo 00
5 00
1 30
18 00
4 30
8 00
4 00
6 o0
43 75
15 45
15 00
15 00
15 00
$785 63
5
SCHOOLS.
Instruction, Fuel, and Care of Rooms.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877, $9,700 00
Three-fourths of State School Fund,
155 15
Incidentals and Repairs.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877, 300 00
One-fourth of State School Fund,
ExPENDrrURFS.
Whole amount of expenditures as per sum-
mary on page I1,
Unexpended balance,
HIGH SCHOOL.
$9,855
15
51 72 351 72
10,206 87
9,206 08
1,000 79
$10,206 87
From School Grant.
George R. Dwelley, instruction, 1,500 ov
Joseph P. Livermore, " 393 75
L W. Eddy, 155 00
Emily P. Hidden, if
239 83
1'. H. Bowen, janitor, 24 00
cutting wood, 2 00.
J. G. Kaufinan, janitor, 64 00
E. C. Fletcher, care of rooms, 27 50•
Town of Lexington, coal, ... 59 20•
Overseers of the Poor, wood, 6 00•
Surveyors of the Highway, teaming coal, 24 00.
Mary Mansfield, cleaning r 50
Hannah Canfield, cleaning. z 0O•
Horace Bird, music, . 3 o&
J. G. Kaufman, housing fuel, 2 00
$2,503
84
6
From Gram' for Repairs, &v.
William Keefe cleaning vault,
E. S. Locke, repairs, &c_, .
G. W. Nichols, repairing clock,
H. C. Kendall, diplomas,....
Gilbert Cutting, tuning piano,
H. B. Davis, repairs,
H. B. Davis, grading yard,
George R. Dwelley, books,
David Clapp & Son, stationery and printing,
W. R. Cutter, diploma ribbons,...
Brooks, Ruston & Co., moving piano,...., .
Boston Journal, advertising for teacher,
A. Leavitt, repairing piano,
Albert K. Hill, cleaning chemical apparatus,
H. B. & W. 0. Chamberlain, chem. apparatus,
J. P. Livermore, chemicals,
A. L. Ball, window sash,
School Committee, books,
1-2 ream paper,
Eli Simonds, labor and repairs,.
L. A. Saville, glass and putty.
SOWDITCH SCHOOL.
From School Grant.
Emma E. Wright, instruction,
W. A. Kendall, janitor,
Albert A. Nourse, janitor and cutting wood
Michael Henchy, care of Room,
Town Lexington, coal,
Overseers of the Poor, wood,
Surveyors of Highway, teaming coal,
$r o0
10 88
2 50
t 50
2 00
22 17
500
2 6o
14 00
150
5 00
1 13
1 00
1 50
14 81
I 28
T 87
17 12
1 54
5 15
95
450 00
12 75
10 00
I0 50
14 80
6 00
6 oo
From Grant for Repairs.
A. Godard, Agent, sundries,
A. L. Ball, labor and stock,
L. A. Saville, broom, mat, &c.,
Amount carried forward,
17
2 53
3 19
$5 89
$114 60
8510 05
Amount brought forward,
E. S. Locke, labor and repairs, 9 70
D. A. Tuttle, labor and stock, 3 50
labor per contract, 27 00
School Committee, 2 quires paper, �6
$5 89
Rosa Ackerman,
F. A. Hutchinson,
Ellen B. Lane,
HANCOCK SCHOOL.
From School Grant.
instruction. Soo 00
424 99
50o ao
400 00
4 50
7 68
Mary Mansfield, " 4 50
Eli Simonds, janitor, 75 00
Town of Lexington, coal, 66 6o
Surveyors of Highways, teaming coal,. 27 00
re
Ellen E. Harrington,
Bessie Desmond, cleaning,.
Hannah Canfield, "
From Grant for Repairs.
E. S. Locke, repairs,
Alonzo Goddard, sundries,
L. A. Saville, floor mat, glass, &c
H. B. Davis, repairs, .
Lyman Lawrence, repairing pump,
E. L. & F. S. Rollins, shades and fixtures,...
A. Leavitt, repairing piano,.
D. A. Tuttle, repairs,
1). 5. Sullivan, repairing blackboard,
G. W. Nichols, repairing clock,
G. Swan, repairing vault,
A. L. Ball, sash,
Gilbert Cutting, tuning piano,
John J. Murray, pump handle,
C. A. Butters & Co., soap,
School Committee, books, &c
Eli Simonds, extra labor,
50 33
55
3 46
50
75
16 la
r o0
28 96
7 50
2 75
2 50
1 85
3 00
1 50
68
21 53
4 50
ADAMS SCHOOL.
From School Grant
Silas Peabody, instruction, $1,o5o 00
Carrie F. Fiske, " 450 00
Silas Peabody, janitor, 75 75
$46 35 Town of Lexington, coal, 37 00
$2,310 27
$147 46
Surveyors of Highways, teaming coal,
E. Spaulding, cutting wood,
Mrs. Dennis Manley, cleaning,
15 00
75
6 29
From Grant for 1?epairs.
A. Childs, sundries,
William Keefe, cleaning vault,
Silas Peabody, blackboard, eraser and book,
Gilbert Cutting, tuning piano,
John Lynch, labor,
A. Leavitt, repairing piano,
E. D. Sawyer & Co., lumber
Oliver Brown, painting, &c.,
William Locke, 2d, repairs,
John A. Strople, labor and stock,
F. W. Chalenor, graining, &c.,
Hadley's Express, lumber and express,
Alonzo Goddard, grate, &c ,
R. W. Holbrook, brush &c,
School Committee, crayons, books and paper,
John Chisholm, repairing pump,
r 62
3 ao
3 35
2 00
2 00
5 00
15 6r
20 75
r6 8o
15 20
5 00
2 85
19 12
3 29
4 42
So
WARREN SCHOOL.
From School Grant.
M. Alice Paul, instruction ... $480 62
Mrs. McNamara, care of room
Katie McNamara, " rr
Rosa McNamara, labor and care of room...
Town of Lexington, coal
Surveyors of Highways, teaming coal
G. F. Chapman, wood
8 75
5 50
12 50
14 80
6 ou
7 30
$1,634
79
$120 81
$535 47
9
From Grant For Repairs &c.
E. S. Locke, sundries
E. S. Locke, wooden pump
Alonzo Goddard, sundries
A. L. Ball, repairs
D. A. Tuttle, labor and stock
School Committee, books, &c
L. A. Saville, broom and glass.....
FRANKLIN SCHOOL.
From School Grant.
Carrie A. Underwood, instruction
Annie E. Bryant,
Edwin G. Shedd, cutting wood and care room.
Mrs. Condon, cleaning
Carrie A. Underwood, care of room
Town of Lexington, coal
Surveyor of Highways, teaming coal
Overseers of the Poor, wood
Stephen Wright, janitor.
Julia Abbott, cleaning
•
$rr 75
Io 00
2 17
3 07
4 50
4 93
I
22
$320 00
So oo
r2 25
4 00
6 5o
14 So
6 oo
6 00
¢ 00
100
From Grant for Repairs, &c.
J. L. Hammett, Crayons
L. A. Saville, broom
A. L. Ball, repairs, &c
E. S. Locke, " «
E. S. Locke, wooden pump
William Keefe, cleaning vault
School Committee, books, crayons, &c.
15
40
3 28
8 8o
IO 00
2 00
4 79
10
HOWARD SCHOOL,
From School Grant.
Maria A. Butterftekl, instruction,
Charles FL Corea, janitor,
M. A. Butterfield, care of room, &c.,
W. W. Ferguson, C2
Town of Lexington, coal,
Surveyors of Highways, teaming coal,
Overseers of the Poor, wood,
$37 54 Peter Ferguson, cutting wood,
454 55
29 42
$400 00
10
05
4 17
to 30
14 8o
6 00
6 00
125
From Grant for Repairs.
A. Goddard, sundries,
L. A. Saville, broom and glass,
Maria A. Butterfield, keys and books,
Lyman Lawrence, duster,
E. S. Locke, repairs,
A. L. Ball, glazing,
School Committee, books, crayons, &c.,
8o
3 ro
90
2 65
II 50
18o
3 04
COMMON TO ALL SCHOOLS.
From Sekool Grant. .
Horace Bird music 152 q0
Alice W. Wheildon, music 58 0O
From Grant for Repairs, 6rc.
W. R. Cutter, horse hire
Rev. E.S. Elder, expenses visiting schools, etc.,
Lockwood, Brooks & Co., stationery
William Plummer, balance of account
David Clapp & Sons, stationery
A. W. Phillips,horse hire
D. S. Sullivan, repairing, blackboard erasers.
E. G. Loomis, refunded
M. R. Warren, ink
School Committee, paper, postage &c..
Eli Simonds, Truant officer
I2 83
5 5o
1 55
18 74
z 5o
8 25
r 35
75
3 00
16 Io
5 00
$452 57
23 79
210 00
74 57
11
SUMMARY.
NA1fE OF SCHOOLS.
SCHOOL GRANT.
GRANT
FOR REPAIRS,
TOTAL.
High,
$2,503
84
$114
6o
$2,618
44
Bowditch,
510
05
46
35
556
4o
Hancock,.
2,310
27
147
46
2,457
73
Adams,
1,634
79
12o
8r
1,755
6o
Warren,-
535
47
37
54
573
01
Franklin,
454
55
29
42
483
97
Howard, .
452
57
23
79
476
36
Common to all,
2r0
00
74
57
z84 57
Total,
$8,611
54
$594
54
$9,206 o8
STAIRS AT HANCOCK SCHOOL.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877,
Amount expended,
Balance unexpended,
$122 20
27 8o
EXPENDITURES.
D. A. Tuttle, labor and stock, 122 20
BILL OF J. W. PIERCE.
Amount appropriated and assessed in 1877 for
unpaid bill of J. W. Pierce of 1876,
Amount expended,
EXPENDrrURES.
High School,. 109 00
Adams z,67 5o
Hancock 'f 121 50
Warren " 14 00
Bowditch `i 14 00
Franklin "
24 00
Howard `f 14 00
150 00
12
SUPPORT OF THE POOR.
RECEIP'T'S.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877.
Received from Overseers of the Poor
cC
[f
if
u
[[
CC
[f
ti
CC
if
[i
$I
20
Jackson Brothers 9 21
Michael Pierce, tobacco25
James Rafferty, " 85
C. H. Lowe, hog, calf, and
pork 25 02
Otis Wentworth . .... 75 •
Town of Methuen 21 29
S. T. Hadley, 2 pigs 8 00
Eli Simonds, guardian. 54 00
School Grant, wood 24 oo
Contingent Grant . .. 54 00
Surveyors of Highways 430 00
H. S. Howland. 88 78
Fire Department 3 00
A. W. Bryant 64 81
r5o 0o Amount of Appropriations and receipts2,785 16
Excess of Expenditures 582 71
Amount of Expenditures ...
EXPENDITURES.
W. S. Hovey, Butter 37 53
C. Hayes, rubber shoes 3 oo
354 O0 F. R. Willis, dry goods and shoes. 79 47
354 00 Joseph M. Eaton, soap 20 20
Geo. W. Simmons & Son, clothing. 70 78
Johnonnot & Saunders, dog muzzle i oo
Francis Fratus, fish 2 63
Hibbard S. Howland, self and wife 300 oo•
if CC sundries
35 82
Richard Dunn, milk, 5 25
A. Childs, groceries, 19 34
354 00
Amount carried forward, $575 02
$2,000 00
2,785 16
3,367 87
3,367 87
13
Amount brought forzelard,
City of Cambridge, house offal
W. A. Holmes & Co., groceries,
William Brigham, wheelwrighting,.
Mesd. Pierce & Bryant, clothing &c.,
H. B. Mitchell, fish,
Israel W. Munroe & Co., groceries,
O. W. Kendall, exp. Lucy Champney's funeral
Alonzo Goddard, sundries,
E. S. Locke, "
C. A. Butters & Co., groceries,
Margaret Fitzpatrick, nursing,
Jackson Bros., meat,
Brooks, Rushton Sr Co., express,
Nellie S. Ball, millinery,
E. H. Goodwin & Co., shovels,
Parker, Gannett & Co., plow,
P. C. Page, lard, .
L. A. Saville, groceries,
Hadley's express
Martin Foley, labor,
A. F. Spaulding, boots and shoes,
Theodore Munroe, hay,
William Ham, smithing,
T. H. Packard, straw,
D. Dow & Son, groceries,
Michael Pierce, labor,
James Rafferty, " ...
C. H. Lowe, meat,
Lyman Lawrence, blankets and rep. harness,
G. W. Berry, use of bull,
R. W. Holbrook
S. T. Smith, sundries
Howland Holmes,
F. H. Kneeland, smithing,
Town Clerk, dog license,
Patrick Keating, labor,
Amount carried forward,
$575 02
166 43
284 39
7 63
24 90
2 54
22 40
2F 00
3 97
24 35
71 93
7 50
130 54
9 70
5 50
2
F3
7
98
50
25
o8
66
45
00
45
FO
43
74
20
00
14
Amount brought forward,
Patrick Powers "
William Murphy, "
Rockwell Bros., flour,
Estate of Eliab Brown, clothing.
E. P. Henderson, wagon,
H. B. Davis, labor, etc., -r
C. K. Tucker, wheelwrighting.
G. Swan, laths and lime,
H. P. Webber, smithing,
S. W. Hendley, milk,.
Thing Bros., groceries,
W. H. Richardson, repairing wagon,
H. W. Lane, fish,
John Savage, milk,
Dennis McNamara, cleaning wells
Town of Lexington, twelve tons of coal
Cr LP {f
ten " " " at
town hall to be distributed.
2 J. G. Reed, killing hogs,
4 D. S. Sullivan, repairing mattrass,
35 John Chisholm, repairing harness,
52 Esterbrook & Blodgett, pasturing,
15 Mary Howland, nursing and sewing
20 A. W. Phillips, horse hire,
37 A. G. Babcock, medicine,
zo A. W. Bryant, baggage chain
to 00 " " " So bushels of oats
1 1 7 �3 E. Blaisdell, grinding grain,
21 59 Surveyors of Highways, use of horse,
2 00 W. T. Ham, dry goods,
30 92
92 15
6 25
24 30
2 00
5 75
$r,969 35
OUTSIDE POOR.
Paid Hugh Graham in aid Reed and sister,.
Aid furnished Mrs. Hawkins,
Amounts carried forward,
$1,969 35
13 50
r 50
8 75
5 00
75 00
5 00
21 50
F 00
95
2 67
92 51
75
5 88
r 20
6 oo
44 40
37 00
5 50
z 50
70
6 00
zo 00
F 50
85
1 50
40 00
6 900
9665
6 00
5 57
2,467 98
65 04
140 79
$205 83 $2,467 98
15
Amozents brought forward,
L. A. Saville, tramps furnished
Eli Simonds, putting up 482 tramps
" °° expenses sick tramp,
A. S. McDonald, food for tramps,
H, A. Wellington, " " " . • • . • .
Aid furnished Lydia Gleason,
" Mrs. Egan,
Adam Naylor,.
George Neiderman
J. A: Fiske,
Henry O. Stearns,
Mrs. Logan,
Maria L. Kenniston,
Paid John Savage for board
°` for clothing, for Logan children,
A. W. Bryant, care Samuel Harrington,
O.W. Kendall, funeral exp. of Tim. Crowley.
A. W. Bryant, fare of pauper to Tewksbury,.
Thing Bros, for J. Reed,
John Savage, for board of Logan children
Joel Reed, two tons of coal,
Mrs. Crowley, two tons of coal,
John Savage, for board of Logan children,
rr
it
.f
if
C!
4'
ef
INTEREST.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877,
" of interest on overdue Taxes
Amount expended
Balance unexpended,
$205 83 $2,467
bo 46
72 3o
5 00
3 3o
2 o0
104 0o
42 57
12 64
4 97
11 34
13 70
12 50
173 23
28 00
4 35
7 30
II 35
I 25
5 00
68 00
7 40
7 40
36 too
98
3899 89
33,367 87
4,000 00
261 23
$4,261 23
3,752 28
5o8 95
34,261 23
16
EXPENDITURES.
State Treasurer,
Warren Sherburne,
Treasurer of Cary Library,
Richardson, Hill & Co ,
National Security Bank,
Heirs of George Holden,
Plymouth Savings Bank,
Trustees Ministerial Fund,
STREET LAMPS.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877,
Amount expended....
Balance unexpended,
EXPENDITURES.
George Stearns, care of lamps
G. Kaufman, « Cr «
John Harrington, '° '< «
L. A. Saville, sundries,
Lexington Gas Light Company, Gas,
Globe Gas Light Company, Gasoline,
T. H. Bowen, labor,
Oliver Brown, care of lamps,
31,5oo 00
41 76
370 00
455 00
34 67
863 5o
275 00
212 35
$3,752
28
$1,500 00
1,499 59
41
$1,500 00
4 I0
70 So
490 5o
15 85
639 59
262 44
3 35
12 96 $1,499 59
CONSTABLES AND POLICE.
RECEIPTS,
Appropriated and assessed for 1877,e
ro p
Amount expended,
Balance unexpended,
$500 00
143 50
356 50
3 oo ao
17
EXPENDITURES.
G. Kaufman, services three months,
H. A. Wellington °`
Eli Simonds, drawing Jurors, and.services at
Town meetings,
Eli Simonds, notifying officers,
" posting notices three times...
notifying owners of dogs
notifying and attending two
Town meetings
police duty
if
CI
if
tif
CARY LIBRARY.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877
Dog Tax for 1876
12 50
50 00
19 00
2 5o
3 00
11 50
24 00
21 00
350 00
357 96
Amount expended 587 96
Balance unexpended 126 00
EXPENDITURES.
W. R. Cutter, Treasurer, Dog Tax, 1876....
Grace S. Wellington, Librarian
RINGING BELLS.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877
Amount expended
357 96
224 00
EXPEND1TURES.
Joseph F. Ham, from April 1, 1876, to April
1, 1877 35 00
J. Chisholm, from Apr. 1, t876,toApr. 1,187735 00
8143 5°
$707 96
$707 96
$581 96
18
DECORATION DAY.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877
Amount expended
Balance unexpended
Paid L. G. Babcock....
EXPENDITURES.
STATE AID.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877
Received from State
$99 50
50
99 50
450 00
420 00
Amount expended 424 00
Balance
EXPENDITURES.
Mary S. Manning, 12 months
Annie C. Whitney, 7
70 0o James A. Mitchell, 12
7o 00 Thomas Burke, I2
$70 00
G. A. Page,
Lydia Kinnaston,
Emily Earle.
Jeremiah Logan,
12
12
12
9
if
446 00
48 00
28 00
54 00
72 00
72 00
48 00
48 00
54 O0
$roo 00
$100 00
$87o 00
$870 00
$424 00
19
SEXTON.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877
Amount expended
Balance unexpended
EXPENDITURES.
$75 00
$43 50 Amount expended
31 50
20
INSURANCE.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for r877
O.W. Kendall, services from Jan. t, 1877, to
Jan. 1, 1878-46 deaths returned • II 5o
32 funerals attended 32 oo
75 00
43 50
PAINTING ALMS HOUSE AND VILLAGE HALL.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877..
Amount expended
Balance unexpended...
EXPENDITURES.
$476 01
23 99
Brooks, Rushton & Co., freight, etc 10 S4
C. A. Butters & Co., nails. 2 6o
E. S. Locke Hardware 3x5
John Clary, lumber 45 77
Sidney Butters, labor 29 37
C. B. Bailey, painting 5o 0o
Gershom Swan, labor and stock 4 50
J. H. Baker, oil and paints 72 82
Oliver Brown, paint etc ... 200 00
Estate of C. B. Bailey. 57 16
$500 OO
$500 00
$476 or
294 50
Balance unexpended 205 5o
4
ABATEMENT OF TAXES.
500 00
500 00
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877, 500 00
No abatement for 1877 returned by Collector and Treas.
DISCOUNT ON TAXES.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877, Boo oo
Excess of appropriation. 164 36
964 36
Allowed for prompt payment of taxes, 964 36
GAMMELL LEGACY.
RECEIPTS.
Interest on $50o to July 23, z877
Unexpended balance of 1876, deposited in
Lexington Savings Bank .
Amount expended
Balance unexpended
EXPENDITURES.
35 O0
26 63
$61 63
23 8o
37 83
6r 63
Mrs. Pierce and Bryant, sundries ... r6 70
Charles H. Lowe turkeys. 7 10
$13 So
21
TRUST FUNDS.
Received of heirs of John Winning, 300 00
estate of I. B. Smith . z o0 00
400 00
No expenditures.
The above funds were left to the town in trust, the interest to be
expended in care of Iots in the Cemetery belonging to these estates.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877
Amount expended
EXPENDITURES.
E. S. Elder, services T00 00
W. R. Cutter, " z00 00
J. R. Reed, zoo 00
TOWN CLERK.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877
EXPENDITURES.
L. A. Saville, services
COLLECTOR AND TREASURER,
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877,
EXPENDITURES.
I. N. Damon, services as treasurer and collec-
tor for 1876, in part
I. N. Damon, services as treasurer and collec-
tor for 1877, in part
Unexpended balance
100 00
300 00
100 00
300 00
22
TREASURER OF CARY LIBRARY.
RECEIPTS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877 $50 00
EXPENDITURES.
W. R. Cutter, services for one year 50 00
COUNTY TAX.
Assessed for 1877 1,433 47
Paid County Treasurer 1,433 47
STATE TAX.
300 0o Assessed for 1897 2,445 00
Paid State Treasurer 2,445 00
ASSESSORS.
Appropriated and assessed for 1877 425 00
300 00 Amount expended 421 25
Balance unexpended 3 75
EXPENDITURES.
Aaron R. Gay, stationery 5 25
100 0o Chas. K. Darling, " . 16 o0
J. F. Simonds, services. 145 00
Walter Wellington, " . 120 00
100 00 H. B. Davis, '° . 135 00
AUDITORS.
soo 00 Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877
Amount expended .
Balance unexpended
500 00
42 00
3 00
EXPENDITURES.
F. E. Wetherell, services, . 21 00
Gershom Swan, 21 00
425 00
421 25
45 00
45 00
$42 00
23
IMPROVING ENTRANCE TO VILLAGE HALL.
Amount appropriated and assessed for x877$zoo 00
Paid Wm. Locke, zd 200 0o
BILLS PAYABLE.
Amount appropriated and assessed for annual
payment of Centennial Loan.
March 31, borrowed of Warren Sherburne...
April 6, borrowed of National Security Bank,
May 31, " " " CC ti
Appropriated and borrowed
Excess of expenditure
Amount of expenditure
EXPENDITURES.
Feb., I. N. Damon, temporary loan
Feb. z r,Warren Sherburne, loan, Jan. 3r, x876,
March 3r, Richardson, Hill & Co., April r, r 875,
June 21, National Security Bank
July 17, Warren Sherburne
July 19, National Security Bank
July 19, Trustees of Lexington Ministerial
Fund note of July 3r, i868
Aug. 29, Trustees of Cary Library note of
August 27, 1869
2,000 00
3,000 00
2,000 00
2,000 00
9,000 00
4,573 73
73 73
500 oa
2,000 00
2,000 00
3,000 00
2,000 00
3,000 00
1,000 00
CONTINGENT GRANT.
RECEIPTS.
Amount appropriated and assessed for 1877..
Coal delivered Hancock engine
" " alms house and outside poor
school grant
Amount carried forward,
3,500 00
7 40
96 20
222 00
$3,825 6o
9,000 00
13,573 73
13,573 7.3
13,573 73
24
Amount brought forward, $3,825 6o
Rent of Town Hall 32o 00
" " Village Ha11 47 00
A. S. McDonald, billiard license 10 00
Corporation tax 507 27
Sank tax 764 So
Taxes for 1876 6,048 32
Hay scales 43 54
Sale of Town Histories 31 20
" Centennial Histories, sold in x87654 00
School Committee, tuition 14 25
Old ropes 9 55
Old engine house ... 90 00
Supplementary tax list 320 64
Overlaying 287 05
12,373
22
Amount expended 4,086 58
Cf unexpended 8,286 64
12,373 22
EXPENDITURES.
D. Dow, journey to Framingham
I. N. Damon, expense on E. H. Clews' acct
L. A. Saville, reg. births, marriages and deaths,
L. A. Saville, sundries
Charles Blodgett, appraising at Poor Farm
William Ham, repairing hearse
A. L. Ball, labor, &c.
Peak Brothers, use of hearse
G. L. Pierce, janitor at Village Hall
G. L. Pierce, sundries at " "
Otis Wentworth, services
Webster Smith "
Webster Smith, case of W. Plummer
Otis Wentworth, piping lamp posts
A. W. Bryant, services
1 50
6 67
59 32
6 69
5 o0
1 go
24 16
12 00
48 34
7 50
300 00
350 00
2r 26
22 50
300 00
Amount carried forward, $1,r66 84
25
Amount broughtforward, $1,166 84
A, W. Bryant, registering voting list 30 00
Gershom Swan, repairing lockup 3 75
Frank Wood, printing 105 8o
Hammon Reed, printing 109 45
Arlington Press Association, printing. 56 50
Locke & Goddard, lantern 2 50
A. Goddard, lamps, &c., .
E. S. Locke, sundries.
G. Kaufman, janitor of Village Hall,
" sundries at `° "
Eli Simonds, janitor
case of William Plummer
blanket, &c.,
John D. Bacon, appraising at Alms House
Albert J. Wright, printing
J. A. Wellington & Co., coal
Brooks, Rushton & Co., express
Hadley's Express, express
John P. Reed appraising
P. P. Pierce, auctioneer
Eston & Bickford, one brand
H. A. Wellington, firing salute April 19
A. Wilbur & Co., slate and nails
William Locke zd, repairing Adams engine
house, lock up, &c.
N. W. Pierce & Go., gas fixtures
R. Sherburne, glass
Geo. F. Smith, land damage
A. W. Cushing " "
Michael O'Brien, labor on Common
Davis & Farnham Manufacturing Co., 1 grate,
H. B. Davis, lumber and labor
Lexington Gas Light Co., Town Hall.
State of Massachusetts Register
H. P. Webber, smithing
L. M. Ham & Co., iron door for lockup
5 65
27 43
17 50
4 45
162 17
31 00
2 50
3 75
8 II
473 6o
2 75
8 00
5 40
2 00
2 00
8 oo
14 23
42 00
82 30
6 6o
300 00
25 00
2I 23
7 56
44 19
99 71
8o
50
30 52
Amount carried forward, • $2,913 79
26
Amount broughtforward, £2,913 79
W. H. Smith, labor and stock 8 5o
William Parkman, lock 75
Overseers of the Poor, teaming caal 54 00
Aiken & Woodward, charcoal 14 00
R. W. Holbrook, sundries 5 r3
O. W. Kendall, repairs on hearse 13 07
Globe Gas Light Co. 6 go
r993 25
7 75
1 37
48 42
Nathaniel Garmon, labor and stuck 10 00
G. A. Somerby, legal services 681 45
C. D. Fletcher, land damage 35 00
Geo. H. Phelps, raising town flag 10 00
John Chisholm, repairing pump. 1 6o
Chas. Hudson, drainage 10 oo
T. R. Marvin & Co., printing . 20 00
Oliver Brown, guide post 2 00
Otis Wentworth, land damage 15o 00
William Reed & Son, cannon, &c., April
L. G. Babcock, painting signs
A. G. Babcock, stationery.
John Clary, lumber
$4,086 58
27
AUDITOR'S BALANCE SHEET.
DR.
School Grant and 3-4 School Fund
" Repairs and 1-4 "
Stairs at Hancock School
State Aid and amount from State
Town Clerk
Collector and Treasurer
Treasurer of Cary Library
County Tax
State Tax
Auditors .
Improving entrance to Village Hall
Ringing Bells.
Decoration Day
Sexton
Insurance
Appropriation for Interest and Interest on overdue Taxes.
School Committee.
Bills Payable, Appropriation and borrowed
Assessors
Cary Library and Dog Tax
Constable and Police
Street Lamps
Fire Department
Contingent Appropriation and sundry receipts
Support of Poor "
Highways " `r CC
Removing Snow "
Painting.Alms House and Village Hall Appropriation....
Abatement of Taxes
Discount on Taxes for prompt payment
Trust Fund'
Special Appropriation for Coal, J, W. Pierce
Road at North Lexington
$9855 15
351 72
150 00
870 00
100 00
500 00
50 00
2,433 47
2,445 00
45 00
200 00
70 00
100 00
75 00
500 00
4,261 23
300 00
9,000 00
425 00
707 96
500 00
1,500 00
Soo 00
12,373 22
2,785 16
3,214 70
500 00
500 00
500 00
Soo 00
400 00
354 00
800 00
$56,466 61
28
AUDITOR'S BALANCE SHEET.
CR.
School Grant.
Repair "
Stairs at Hancock School
State Aid
Town Clerk
Collector and Treasurer
Treasurer Cary Library
County tax
State
Auditors
Improving entrance to Village Hall....
Ringing bells
Decoration day
Sexton
Insurance .
Bills Payable
Interest
Gamme]l Legacy
School Committee
Assessors
Cary Library and dog tax
Constables and Police
Street lamps
Fire department
Contingent grant
Support of poor
Highways
Removing snow
Painting AIrns House and Village Hall,
J. W. Pierce, coal bill
Road at North Lexington
Discount on taxes
Uncollected taxes
Cash on hand
Expenditures....
if
if
if
.r
if
if
'4
11
K
if
Li
$8,611
54
594 54
122 20
424
00
I00 00•
400 00
00
50
21,433 47
24 ,45
42
200
70
99 50
43
294 50
13,573 73
3,752 28
23 So
300 00
421 25
581 96
143
1,499
785
00
00
00
00
50
4,086
3,367
2,874
71
476
354
Soo
964
4,744
2,714
50
59
63
58
87
74
34
OI
00
00
36
87
85
$56,466 61
•
REMARKS.
In the Auditors' Trial Balance a discrepancy will be
noticed, between the amount of cash which they claim
on hand, and that reported by the Treasurer, of $26.63.
This amount arises from the fact that $26.63 has been
deposited in the Lexington Savings Bank to the credit
of the town, and was charged as paid out, instead of
cash on hand. This amount is the balance unexpended
of the Gammell Legacy for 1876. In our treatment of
this matter, we followed the course of the Auditors of
last year, as we were unable to correct it except by
changing the books of 1876. This Legacy is the sum
of $Soo left the town, the interest of which is to be ex-
pended for a specific purpose. The interest there-
fore should be charged to the interest account, and the
account rendered as interest on Town debt, in which
table the principal appears. Instead, however, no in-
terest has been charged, and the amounts paid out, as
specified by the will of the Legator, have been charged,
part to Contingent account and part to Gammell
Legacy, for which there is no appropriation or charge
to offset it.
ALVAH C. STONE, Auditor
TOWN OFFICERS FOR 1877-78.
TOWN CLERK.
LEONARD A. SAVILLE.
SELECTMEN, OVERSEERS OF POOR AND SURVEYORS OF HIGHWAYS.
WEBSTER SMITH, ALBERT W. BRYANT,
OTIS WENTWORTH.
ASSESSORS.
J. F. SIMONDS, WALTER WELLINGTON, H. B. DAVIS.
TREASURER AND COLLECTOR.
ISAAC N. DAMON.
CONSTABLE.
ELI SIMONDS.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE.
REV. E. S. ELDER,
WILLIAM R. CUTTER.
J. RUSSELL REED,
Term expires March. 1880.
CP
C[ CC
as !f PP
1879.
1878.
AUDITORS.
A. C. STONE, GERSHOM SWAN.
CEMETERY COMMITTEE.
T. G. HOVEY,
LORIN WETHERELL,
CHARLES HUDSON,
Term expires March, 18So.
ar
K
SC LC
Ci if
1879.
1878.
r
31
FENCE VIEWERS.
13. T. I3ATCHELLER, JOHN P. REED.
C. R. RICHARDSON.
FIELD DRIVERS.
C. O. WENTWORTH, J. S. MERRIAM.
DAVID HALL,
WEIGHER AND SUPERINTENDENT OF TOWN SCALES,
L. A. SAVILLE.
WEIGHER OF COAL AND HAY,
R. W. HOLBROOK.
MEASURERS OF WOOD AND BARK.
L. A. SAVILLE, AUGUSTUS CHILDS, H. 13. DAVIS,
F. V. BUTTERS.
SEXTON,
U. W. KENDALL.
SURVEYOR OF LUMBER.
O. W. KENDALL.
AUCTIONEER.
P. 1'. PIERCE.
SPECIAL POLICE OFFICERS WITHOUT PAY TILL APRIL I, I878.
ELI SIMONDS, S. W. HENDLEY.
REPORT
or• THE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
OF Till•:
TOWN OF LEXINGTON,
FOR THE YEAR 1877-78.
LAWRENCE:
PRINTED BY HAMMON REED.
1878.
11,
REPORT.
The School Committee of Lexington submit the
following report:
At the annual meeting on March 5, 1877, the town
voted to appropriate, as recommended by the Com-
mittee, for the support of public schools, the ensuing
year, the following sums:
For instruction, fuel and care of rooms, $9,7oo 00
" incidentals and repairs, 300 oo
" stairs at Hancock school house, 150 00
" unpaid coal bill of J. W. Pierce, 354 00
Town appropriation, $10,504 00
Received from State School Fund, $206 87
Total, $10,710 87
The Committee have endeavored to manage their
financial responsibilities in an economical manner.
Bills have been approved by them for 1877-78, as
follows :
Instruction, £7,846 25
Fuel, 346 3o
Care of rooms, 354 25
Repairs and incidentals, 603 6o
Stairs at Hancock School House, r r o 00
In detail as follows :
ADAMS SCHOOL.
Instruction, $1,500 oo
Fuel, 52 75
Care of rooms, 82 04
Repairs, &c., 112 76
EOWDITCH SCHOOL.
Instruction, . $450 00
Fuel, 27 8o
Care of rooms, 20 50
Repairs, &c., 45 92
FRANKLIN SCHOOL.
Instruction,
Fuel,
Care of rooms,
Repairs, &c.,
$400 00
22 8o
25 00
25 38
$8,260 40
$1,747 55
$544 22
$473 18
5 6
HANCOCK SCHOOL.
Instruction, $2,125 oo
Fuel, 93 6o
Care of rooms, 87 86
Repairs, &c., 251 15
HIGH SCHOOL.
Instruction, $2,286 25
Fuel, 91 20
Care of rooms, 91 50
Repairs, &c., 100 33
HOWARD SCHOOL.
Instruction, $400 00
Fuel, 28 05
Care of rooms, 23 35
Repairs, &c., 21 87
WARREN SCHOOL.
Instruction, -
Fuel,
Care of rooms,
Repairs, &c.,
$475 00
30 10
24 00
29 74
$2557 6r
$2,569 28
Amount of bills approved for 1877-78,
Amount of bills approved for 1876-77, .
Coal bill of J. W. Pierce for 1876, . .
54 64
354 00
$9,260 40
$408 64
$9,669 04
At a meeting of the Committee on March 7th, the
Rev. E. S. Elder was chosen chairman, and W. R. Cutter
secretary. The Committee organized for the manage-
ment of the agency for the sale of school books, and
herewith submit a report.
The Committee through this agency have disposed
of about one thousand books since the first of April
last.
The Treasurer appointed by the Committee debits
himself as follows :
Cash received of Grace S. Wellington,
Agent, $366 26
Cash received of town of Lexington for
text books and sundry articles fur-
nished, 72 73
$473 27 $438 99
And credits himself with
Payment for books and other articles fur-
nished the schools,
Services of Agent,
Other expenses,
By cash on hand at date,
$558 84
$380 49
45 44
6 95
6 rr
$438 99
W. R. CUTTER, Treasurer.
Correct and properly vouched :
Instruction in music, $210 00 E. S. ELDER,
Not classified, 126 45 JAMES RUSSELL REED, } Auditors.
$336 45 Lexington, Feb. r, 1878.
The whole number of school children May i, as re-
ported by the Assessors, is 472.
In July the Committee voted to have but one assistant
in the High School, and after an examination of appli-
cants chose Joseph P. Livermore, a Harvard graduate,
to that position.
At the examination for admission to the High School
twenty -fire scholars from the town schools appeared.
Of these, six from the Adams, three from the Han-
cock, and one from the Bowditch School were admit-
ted free from conditions, and six were admitted with
conditions. It was afterward decided to have a second
examination of rejected and conditioned applicants,
when one more scholar was admitted and several had
their conditions removed.
The names of the graduating class of the High School
for 1877, were Anna Belle Adair, Frederick Gardner
Davis, Joseph Henry Fitch, Ellen Shepard Bacon Lunt,
Mary Alice Munroe.
Mr. Horace Bird having resigned the position of
music teacher of the Schools, Miss Alice W. Wheildon
was appointed in his stead. Miss Underwood, teacher
of the Franklin School, having resigned, Miss Annie
E. Bryant was appointed in her place.
The Committee have constructed a staircase at the
Hancock School as provided by town appropriation,
repaired the outside of the Adams School, changed
the desks (from double to single) at the Bowditch
School, and made such other repairs as were necessary.
The public examinations of the schools were held
at the close of January, when the corps of teachers
and janitors were reappointed. Miss Grace S. Welling
a
-ton, the librarian of the Cary Library, was also reap-
pointed agent for the sale of school books, and Messrs.
Eli Simonds and Walter Wellington were reappointed
truant officers.
The prolonged absence of Mr. Bird, who had been
sick a long time before the committee felt willing to
accept his resignation, and the reduction of the staff
of teachers at the High School lessened the expected ex-
penditure for instruction by three hundred and twenty-
three dollars and seventy-five cents ($323.75). The
stairs at Hancock School cost one hundred and ten
dollars ($ i 1 o), or forty dollars less than the appro-
priation therefor. The supply of coal was purchased at
a comparatively small outlay to the town. The Com-
mittee are thus eight hundred and thirty-four dollars
and ninety-six cents within their appropriation, or in-
cluding the State School Fund one thousand forty-
one dollars and eighty-three cents within their resources.
The condition of the various schools during the year
has been on the whole satisfactory to the committee ;
with four exceptions the teachers holding positions a
year ago have been retained and re-engaged.
Beginning with the ungraded schools, the Howard,
Bowditch and Warren, under Misses Butterfield, Wright
and Paul respectively, have passed the year without
•eventful occurrences of any sort, and with the steady
progress in study and regularity in discipline usual
under those circumstances. At the Franklin School it
became evident to the Committee last autumn that
affairs were not progressing as they ought, and an in-
vestigation showed that for some time past there had
been misunderstandings of a serious nature between
the teacher and the parents of several scholars, which
of course acted to the detriment of the discipline and
general conduct of the school; as a result the Commit-
tee thought it best to accept the teacher's resignation,
which was received at the time of the Thanksgiving
vacation, and Miss Annie E. Bryant, who had had some
experience as teacher in this town and elsewhere, was
chosen to fill the position. Since that time the condi-
tion of the school has been satisfactory.
At the Adams and Hancock Schools also nothing
of importance has occurred to break in upon the regular
condition of affairs, and in all departments, primary,
intermediate and grammar, the results have been grat-
ifying.
The High School commenced the year under Mr.
George R. Dwelley, as principal, with Mrs. Imogen W.
Eddy and Miss Emily P. Hidden, as assistants. During
the month of April Mrs. Eddy was obliged by poor
health to give up the greater part of her work. She
retained the charge of the French classes, however, un-
til the summer vacation, teaching two hours a day, and
receiving her salary in proportion. During the sum-
mer it seemed best to the Committee to reduce, some-
what the number of branches studied, with a view to
greater proficiency in the remainder, and with the idea,
also, that some of them, to be studied to any advantage,
required minds more mature than those of the average
High School pupil. It was also decided to employ but
one assistant teacher, and Mr. Joseph P. Livermore was
chosen to the position. It is the endeavor of both the
teachers and committee to get hard work and concen-
to
trated energies upon a few studies, rather than a gen-
eral and superficial knowledge of many.
All the teachers have been enthusiastic in their work
and have labored faithfully and efficiently. Much is
gained by retaining the same teachers year after year.
The exceptionally fine weather has favored constant
attendance. The deportment of the scholars, with but
very few exceptions, has been excellent.
It is desirable that the scholars in the Grammar
and High Schools should be able while attending
school, to devote their whole time and strength to their
school work. This they cannot do if they are allowed
and encouraged to spend their evenings away from
home, neither can they properly do their school work
if they are allowed, as many are, to waste their strength
on story papers and novels. The injury which many
school girls receive from this mental dissipation cannot
be measured, it lessens their interest in their studies,
weakens their memory, tends to destroy their power of
attention, unfits them for the appreciation of useful
reading, disturbs their mental equilibrium, and tempts
them to live in an unreal world of their fancy and im-
agination.
If parents fully realized how much their children lose
by misspent evenings and novel reading, they would
keep them at home evenings, and would not allow them
to read exciting stories while attending school.
Instead of giving books to those scholars whose par-
ents are unable to buy them, the Committee has plac-
11
ed the books in the care of the teacher for the use of
those who could not buy them. No books have been
given away.
No new studies have been introduced into the High
School. The Committee does not expect the High
School to fit scholars for Harvard College. But, if
there are scholars in town, who wish to go to College
it is particularly desirable that they should have the
privilege of pursuing their studies in the High School
with that end in view. The presence of a few young
men and young women in our High School who are
studying with a definite aim and purpose, exerts a very
helpful influence upon the whole school, and the fact
that they can do four years of their "fitting" work in
their own town will encourage many to make an effort
to attain a liberal education. If in our town there are
young men and young women who heartily wish to ob-
tain an education, let them be encouraged. The town
will never regret the wise expenditure of money in be-
half of the education of its sons and daughters. It is
to be borne in mind that the amount of education con-
sidered sufficient for all practical purposes forty years
ago is not sufficient for to -day.
VISITORS EXCLUSIVE OF COMMPrTEE FOR THE YEAR.
Adams Grammar School,
Adams Primary School,
Bowditch School, -
Franklin School, - -
Hancock Grammar School, -
Hancock Sub -Grammar School,
Hancock Intermediate School,
Hancock Primary School, -
High School, - - -
Howard School, -
Warren School, -
19
6o
50
II
45
28
33
Io
20
2I
35
12
ROLL OF HONOR.
Scholars not absent or tartly.
'AMS GRAMMAR SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR.—Carlton Childs, Florence Holbrook, Annie Jones.
FOR A TERM.— Morris Bartholernew, Louis E. Chalenor, Mary
Chisholm, William D. Chisholm, Charles Hadley, Florence Hadley,
R. Amie Holbrook, Ella Keefe, Etta Smith, Edward Webb.
ADAMS PRIMARY SCHOOL.
•
FOR THE YEAR.—Julia M. Maynard.
FOR A TERM.—Frank Fletcher, Annie Hadley, Charles Lombard,
Maggie Moakley, Harry Pratt, Henry Webb.
BOWD['CH SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR.—Richard Hinchey.
Fox A TERM. --Annie I. Amy, Lillian E. Fitch, John Hinchey,
Michael Hinchey, George A. Nourse, Prescott B. Paine, Emma A.
Reed, Catherine J. Ryan, Gertrude A. Ryan, Lizzie Ryan, Marion E.
Simonds, L. Esther Whitaker.
FRANKLLV SCHOOL.
FDR A TER34[.—Eddie E. Cutler, Abbie C. Smith, Lottie A. Smith,
Stephen C. Wright.
HANCOCK GRAMMAR SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR.—Lillie A. Adair, Alice H. Butters, Geo. P. Conant,
Edith C. Harrington, Howard Hendley, John S. Spaulding, Minnie
E. Vallette.
Foa A TERM.—Andrew J. Adair, Mary Brigham, Willie H. Davis,
Charles Gould, Frank G. Lunt, Frank N. Merriam, Lucy Porter, Syl-
via B. Reed, Fred C. Saville, Mabel R. Wing.
13
HANCOCK SUB-GRAlIMAR SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR.—Grace Harrington, Mattie Locke, Mary Ryan,
Josie Scott.
FOR A TERM.—Frederic Emery, Elmer Fletcher, Howard Hendley,
Colburn Johnson, Edgar Lane, Annie Manley, Lizzie Manley, Benja-
min Muzzey, Lilla Norris, Walter Shaw, Minnie Vallette.
HANCOCK INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAH,—Addie E. Peters, Cora F. Peters, William R. Ryan.
FOR A TERM. ---Michael Collins, Leola A. Fiske.
HANCOCK PR71fARY SCHOOL.
FOR A TERM.—Addie E. Peters, Cora F. Peters, John D. Peters,
Mary Reardon, William R. Ryan, Mary Sullivan, Vincent Sullivan.
HIGH SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR,—Andrew J. Adair, William L. Barnes, John Buck-
ley, Fred E. Butters, Louis E. Chalenor, William D. Chisholm, Wil-
, liam C. Gleason, Albert K. Hill, R. Amie Holbrook, Annie J. Leavitt,
Abbott S. Mitchell, Elmina Munroe, Frank H. Reed, Susan H,
Stearns.
Fox A TERM.—Annie B. Adair, Hattie E. Adams, John A. Demar,
Henrietta Dow, Everett S. Emery, Eveline P. Flint, Charles A. Fowle,
Nellie Holbrook, Alonzo E. Locke, Nellie Lunt, James P. Moakley,
Julia A. Moakley, Fred G. Reed, William W. Reed, Elsie L. Shaw,
Annie A. Smith, Jennie H. Smith, Frank R. Whittemore.
HOWARD SCHOOL.
FOR THE YEAR.—Emily A. Ferguson, Mary W. Reed.
14
WARREN SCHOOL.
FOR A TERM.—Flora Batchelder, Ryland Batchelder, Johnnie Com -
ley, Lila Comley, Rosa McNafnara.
The Committee announce the want of improved
ventilation in some of the schools, and of a new fur-
nace at the High School.
The Committee ask the town to appropriate for the
support of public schools, the ensuing year, the fol-
lowing sums:
For instruction, fuel and care of rooms.
incidentals and repairs, . . . .
ventilation and new furnace for
High School,
$9,000 00
700 00
300 00
10,000 00
Respectfully submitted,
E. S. ELDER,
W. R. CUTTER,
JAMES RUSSELL REED.
LEXINGTON, February, I878.
TABULAR VIEW FOR THE YEAR.
scuoola.
TEACafEnp.
No. of I No. of
Scholars Scholars
lst Term. ' 2d Term.
IN
IN tun ter
1st Tenn.
Avre rge
Number
211 Perm.
Number
for the
,,.wheal
ru Ceua.
oi A'wend-
mum. of
Mun1}M •1'M.
Salarles r ehrd. School yett]
of 40 Wean Lind le6®.
George R. A%+e111•y.
i
X1.500 00
High
Imogen W. Edrl
z7 '
50
54
49
53
51 08
100 00 (for 8 weeks.)
55 00 (for 11 weeks.)
Emily I'. Iliddeu.
.
237 50 (for 10 weeks.)
Jos. P. Livermore.
393 75 (for 21 weeks.)
Ilaucoek Granlnlar
Host Akerman.
45
52
37
44
40
00
S00 00
Hancock Sub -Grammar.
Ellen B. Lane.
38
1 42
35
38
30 90
500 00
Iiaucoek Intermediate
F<tntrieA.Iiateltinsou.
30
38
30
31
30 I 90
425 00
[Iuncock Primary ....
Elicu E. Harrington. i
39
32
29
25
27 ` 94
400 00
S.ilants Grainuiar
Silas Peabody.
45
37
37
30
33 91
1.050 00
Adams Primary.
Carrie F. Fiske.
45
48
34
35
34 88
450 00
Warren
31. Alice Paul.
58
49
35
37
30 00
475 00
Ilvwdltc:h
En1111F1 E. Wright.
48
43
38
36
37 I 89
450 00
Eloward
Maria A. Butterfield.
26
23
19
15
17
7G
400 00
?1'auklial
5 0. A. Underwood.
Annie E. Bryant.
18
21
17
19
18
94
320 00 (for 32 weeks.)
80 00 (for 8 weeks.)
1Allecr.W
152 00 (for 19 weeks.)
4lusie'Teachcf•ofSchools.
{ iVllellaloll.
...
...
...
I0 00 (for 2'weeks.)
. 48 00 (for 8 weeks.)
ri%-rho Se7 tears o";
i