A Christmas Tail - 1915

 Is this a feline version of a shaggy dog story? 

Or perhaps a cat owners big fish tale? 

Here find an odd animal tale of Christmas a hundred years ago. The writer places the scene in New Kent, as they often did with odd strange stories of that time; New Kent was a lightly populated, swampy, forested locale of great antiquity yet only a half hour from Richmond by train.

(edited for content and length)

USING TAIL AS BAIT TABBY CATCHES FISH 

Faithful Tomcat Outstrips Collie Dog That Gave Its Life to Be Near Place Its Master Was Last Seen— Charlie’s “Marster,” Ill, Was Provided For

                                               (By J. M. Bell.) 

As Christmas comes around again. Good stories follow in its train. 

With the advent of Christmas there will often arise recollections of former holiday seasons, where all was good cheer and where stories were told that linger in the memory of those who sat around the blazing log fire and festive board. The writer was one of a party who enjoyed the hospitality of Mr. S -— last Christmas. All went "merry as a marriage bell.” The apple toddy from the stone jug, the ten-year old Bumgardner from the generous cut glass decanter and the egg-nog from the jovial bowl were all sampled moderately and judiciously during our stay under the hospitable roof. The Christmas dinner was enjoyed to such an extent by all that no crevice were left to be Ailed as the gay company of ladies and gentlemen arose from the festive board and repaired to the large drawing room, hence it could be plainly seen that ail the company, well dined and well wined, were in a humor for an evening of real old-time Jollity. The shades of night were closing in, the snow, driven by a bitter northwest wind, was swirling outside. We could tell that the elements were at war, and that the turbid waters of old "Jeems” River were being disturbed, for once and awhile we could hear the Co-honk of a "v" of wild geese as they winged their rapid flight over the house, seeking a roosting place in a quite creek or estuary.

Music and Legends

 We had settled down do a Christmas evening. our host had thrown another big long on the fire. Myriads of sparks went dancing up the chimney only to die as they met the north wind.

 Our hostess opened the piano and we all stood to sing Christmas carols and old-time plantation melodies.

 A cut glass pitcher of apple toddy flanked by little pot-bellied glasses occupied the center of a side table. Dr. M., a guest and an important government official, but a fiddler withal, was drawing a good bow and when-the chorus of “Auld Lang Syne” was sung he fairly made his violin tell the story of Bobby Burns' famous poem.

 Singing makes the throat of an East Virginian dry. Apple toddy is even better than the most approved patent rough remedy on the market and especially where hoarseness must be gotten rid of, when singers are needed to blend their voices with the general chorus.

 Our host made the motion, the ladies declined, or only sipped, as the humming bird culls the sweetness from the heart of a blossom, but the gentlemen stood by to a man and with glasses raised and beaming looks drank cheerfully to all present and, to mankind in general.

 Here Dr. M., listening a moment to the hurtling blast outside, put down his empty glass and facing the assembled company, asked their undivided attention for a few moments. Gaining this, he recounted a pathetic story of a dog that had shown such devotion to its master that he had spent live years In front of a bank in which his master had entered, had been paralyzed and taken to a hospital, and there died. The doctor’s language was pathetic, graphic and altogether impressive. The dog, he said, lingered about the bank until the kind-hearted president, taking pity on him, had fed him regularly but one bitter cold night the mow fell and the north wind chilled to the bone. Nest morning a mound of snow at the bank door told the story Of the faithful collie’s supposed trust, and that he had been faithful unto death. 

Dr. M. stopped, his tale was told. All were impressed. tears glistened in the eyes of the more tender-hearted. 

         Our Host Tells His Cat Story,

 Nuts, fruits and Candy were passed around. The jovial company was somewhat subdued by the pathetic narrative of the doctor. An icy blast of wind, hail and snow flailed the north side of the brick mansion. All present naturally drew their chairs closer to the log fire which now threw out a cheerful glow, and at the same time the pitcher of apple toddy on the little side table still stood guard, for its contents were by no means depleted. The evening was young as the clock on the mantel had just struck the hour of ten.

"Ladies and gentlemen," said our jovial host, "The story just told by our guest Dr. M, I doubt not, touched the hearts of all present, setting forth as it does the well known and beautiful devotion so often evinced by the dog for his master. Now, if you will give me a few moments will tell you a true and simple story of how a cat saved his Master's life.” There was ready acquiescence on the part of all the company, so our host told the tale as follows: “Some years ago there I lived in New Kent county an old bachelor whom we will call "Uncle Nat.’ He was only possessed of most scanty means; His little tract of poor land and his small frame domicile being about the extent of his worldly goods (if you will except his Tom cat, Charlie.)

"Living alone and eking out a very precarious living, the old man led a very unobtrusive life.

"The little farm was isolated. Few neighbors called. The old man had been down in bed and sick with chills and fever for ten day a but his neighbors were unaware of his condition. He laid in his bed most of the time, alternately chilled and later  too hot to hardly breathe. 

"One day he, murmured to himself; that if he could get a nice meal of white perch he felt that he would get well. Charlie was curled up on the hearth, apparently fast asleep, but all of a sudden he rose, stretched himself and crossed the little room to his master's bedside, mewing and purring and  making every cat sign that he wanted to get out. 

"Painfully the old man dragged himself from his bed. hobbled across the room, opened the door and leaving it ajar, reached his bed and drew the faded coverlet over him. 

"Exhaustion brought on a troubled sleep from which he presently awoke. His fever-disturbed mind almost reeled. When, opening his eyes, he sow his oat enter the room with two fine white perch which, after depositing on the hearth, he jumped on his master’s bed and began to fondle him. Tears sprang in the old man's eyes as he realized this act of perfect devotion on the part of Charlie, for all of us know that it takes some sort of a cat to resist eating a fresh fish.

"Slowly Uncle Nat arose from his bed. built a small fire cleaned, cooked and ate the fish. (Charlie getting the heads, trimmings and bones).

"That night the old man slept very quietly. 

"The next morning, In fact every day for a week, Charlie brought a couple of big white perch. His owner was perfectly astounded, but he was, at the same time, recovering very rapidly.

The Mystery Solved

‘On a beautiful autumn morning the old man was sufficiently strengthened to admit of his going out for a walk, but first he cooked the last two perch that Charlie had brought him. These, with a strong cup of coffee and a hot corn pone, set him up.

"After his meal he laid down on the bed and Charlie went out. stealthily his owner followed at a distance, but always keeping his cat In view. Charlie went on down the little path which lead from the house to the Chickahominy River. His owner keeping in sight and this is what greeted his bewildered eyes as he neared ever the bank from behind a big pine tree. Charlie was seen walk out on a log that stretched far into the sluggish waters.  He seated himself on the log, allowing his tail to hang in the water. Suddenly he flirted a big perch out on the land, the fish having grasped Charlie's tall for bait, soon another perch was landed to like manner and Charlie strolled leisurely to the shore, took up the two fish by their tails and proceeded up the path home. Here was the explanation of the two perch each day for ’Uncle Nat,’ ” 

“Oh! what a beautiful story,’’ exclaimed the ladies in one voice. 

“Oh, dear, what a wonderful cat.” carolled another sweet feminine to the men. 

"Well I'll be dog-gone.”, chorused the men.

"I have never heard of such a thing," ejaculated Dr. M; "tops the dog story all round. Bless my soul, what a cat."

 The clock on the wall chimed 11:30. The fire was now only a mass dying embers. The pitcher of apple toddy which had stood on the side table was empty and the call to bed was imperative. As we severally fell asleep puzzling ideas floated our sleepy brains as some tried to study out just how that cat caught the perch with his tail for bait, how he understood in the beginning his "marster's" plea for fresh fish.

-The Richmond Evening Journal, 22 December 1915

A Lonely Road and Two Foot-pads

 

           TAKES REFUGE IN HOLLOW TREE

"Truthful Jeems" Tells a Remarkable Story of a Hold up in New Kent

Roxbury. Va.. July 28.

 Messrs. C. D. Binns and Bryan Ewan, of this place, who were held up Friday night, in a lonely road by two foot-pads, while returning from a visit to some young ladies, is yet in a nervous state. Not thinking of any danger, leisurely singing some love song, feeling good perhaps from some sweet word spoken by their lady love. When in a dark spot a call to halt was heard from the bushes followed by two shots, the young men became frightened and they ran several miles. More shots were fired when young Mr. Binns fell prostrate upon the ground crying he was shot, but fortunately he was only frightened. Young Ewan left his friend calling for help. The shots out on the midnight air and the calling for help by young Ewan woke up the neighborhood. Soon all quieted down and Mr. Binns go home safe, but lost a pair of gold rimmed spectacles and a fine watch charm. A searching party found young Ewan the next morning hatless and shoeless, in a hallow tree. The young men say they will stay home at nights and the girls will come and see them.

  - Virginia Gazette, August 1, 1908

Opening a Coffin- 1884

         Another Halloween appropriate story . . .

                                                    NEW KENT COUNTY.

A Mysterious Affair- Opening a coffin on Which There was No Address.

[correspondence of the Richmond Dispatch.]

    Wilcox Wharf, June 7. 1884.

A few weeks ago a large coffin from which the address had been lost was landed at one of the depots on the Chesapeake and Ohio railway in New Kent county. It was placed in the depot. The people of the neighborhood wondered where it came from and who was inside, and curiosity began to run high on the second day after its arrival, when no one called for it. Then, too, it began to be offensive, the agent said, and others began to hold their noses as they peeped in to look at it. One old gentleman said his family were offended by it a hundred yards away. It grew worse and  worse as the weather warmed, and something had to be done. Crowds began to collect to and hear some solution of the mystery, where did he come from, and what was his destination? How long was the corpse to remain? A proposition was made to bury it. It would make everybody sick. The agent could stand it no longer. But they must know who the corpse was if any trace could be had from a view of it. So it was decided to unscrew the coffin. Fifteen men gathered around, all but one holding their noses. This man said he could smell nothing, but he had a cold, and he supposed that accounted for it. So an expert took out the screws, and the crowd gently lifted the lid, each with one hand, the other hand to a nose, when lo! there were six other coffins packed in the big one like hats in a box.

The pall-bearers let down the lid, took down their nose-hands, looked very solemn and walked away; but as they went one man said, "It's no use to blab about it." But the man who had a cold in his head and could not detect anything offensive did blab, and so you have it.

                                           I.H.C.

-Daily Dispatch, June 08, 1884

A Coffin for Keeping

 

In keeping with the Halloween story I present . . .

 

A strange story was brought here to day, from New Kent, the truth of which is vouched for. Last week Mr. J.H. Christian, an eccentric old gentleman, was taken very ill und he thought he could not recover. He sent to Tunstall's for an undertaker to come and take his measure for a coffin, which he did. The initial box was made and taken to Mr. Christian's who approved it. He is now much better, him will no-over, but will keep the box until he needs it.

- Norfolk Virginian,  18 August 1895

                         

                           JEALOUSY CAUSE OF FIGHT AT ROXBURY 

Ladies Fainted When Boys Started Row in Front of School 

(By J. A. Wright.) 

ROXBURY, VA„ May 14.—Since my last letter many unexpected incidents have occurred; fortunately, nothing serious. At the closing exercises of the Graded School near Quinton Friday night a large crowd attended. The program consisted of recitations, music and songs. Every seat was filled. All seemed happy when a fight outside was started by some young men. The battle raged with fury. Many ladies fainted. It was a disgraceful scene, and has cast a shadow, over this section.

 Five of the young men were arrested. They were tried Saturday by 'Squire, C. C. Tunstall and each fined -$25 and costs. The lecture that Mr. Tunstall gave them will follow them through life, it is hoped. Jealousy was the cause of the row.

 Young Higgins, who is quite a favorite with the ladies, has strewn the path along lovers' fame with thorns instead of flowers. So several others decided to get rid of this young man by force. But they selected the wrong time and place, which they have found out to their sorrow.

             Fred S. Bock Postmaster.

 At last, alter a hard-fought battle for postmaster at this place for several months, Mr. Fred S. Bock* has been appointed postmaster to succeed Mr. L. H. Rowzie. Mr. George Binns, with many years' experience, will be his assistant. 

 Roxbury is one of the best paying fourth-class post offices in the Peninsula, with two rural routes running out and one star route.

 Mr. Rowzie has made many friends here. Not a complaint was ever heard by the patrons of the office or the department. All wish him well in his new held of operations.

 This appointment was no political pull, for both Mr. Bock and Mr. Rowzie are staunch Republicans. The honor was won by merit alone. Mr. Bock standing highest on examination.

  The political situation is at fever heat now as to the congressional honors between Senator L. O. Wendenburg and Congressman A. J. Montague. No one can foretell results.

 The Methodist churches are preaching prohibition every Sunday. Several have given notice that their pulpits will be supplied for the summer by students, while the pastors go out in the highways and byways to stump for the prohibition ticket.

 No one will venture to predict the result of the September election. 

Personal News.

  There will be an all-day service at Olivet Church Sunday. A large crowd is expected to attend the unveiling of the monument by the Woodmen of the World to the late Forest Gilliam, of Providence Forge.

 Misses Bessie and Sammie Provoo, with Mr. Parker Shearwood and Mr. Richardson, who have been visiting relatives in New Kent, returned to Richmond Sunday.

  All Sunday schools in this section are now in a flourishing condition. 

 Preparations are being made for an excursion to Buckroe Beach this summer over the Chesapeake arid Ohio.

-Evening Journal, 14 May 1914

Fred Stanley Bock (21 Jul 1878- 2 May 1936)

Slow News Day 1906

 BOAT KILLED 

BIG PORPOISE

Trustful Cetacean Victim of York River Steamer's Rudder- Died Game. 

An immense porpoise followed the steamer Charlotte, of the York River Line, to West Point yesterday. While the boat was making its landing the rudder dealt a blow which crippled the fish. It managed to make Its way to the opposite side of the river, near Plum Point, where it was caught. It took four to lift the porpoise into a boat. It was put on exhibition on the King William pier at Beach Park.

-Richmond Evening Journal, 1 August 1906

Homecoming- 1862

 The Richmond correspondent of the Charleston Mercury says:

A gentleman, visiting in New Kent, became apprised of this singular incident which illustrates the depopulation of that country. Two young ladies, who had became sickened to death with the sight of Yankees, pledged them-selves to each other to kiss the Confederate soldier that came along. McClellan retreated to Old Point, and for many days no man was visible at all. At last a poor fellow came dragging wearily up to the door. The girls peeped out and asked him if he was a Yankee. "No, I am a confederate soldier, born in this neighborhood, and all I want is a drink of water." The door was thrown wide open, the girls rushed out, fell upon him, kissed him, caught him by both arms and pulled him in the house, clothed him, fed him, washed him, and drank him till he was ready to burst. He became so bewildered that he has never been able to leave the neighborhood from that day three weeks ago, to this.

-The Daily Bulletin. (Winchester, Tenn) October 27, 1862

Evangelizing - 1807

 Camp Meetings. 

Held by the Episcopal Methodists. 

The 1st.— At Roper’s Chapel in New Kent, from Thursday 11th to Monday 15th June, 1807, the assembly attending on the occasion, is adjudged to amount to 2500 people— 7 Preachers, 16 tents, 23 hopefully Converted and 20 joined the Church; as heretofore we had some disquietude from the ungodly, but the good, far exceeded the evil. 

The 2d.— At Mathew’s Chapel, in Mathews county from Friday the 19th to Monday 22d of June the assembly estimated at 3000 people, 16 Preachers. 12 tens, 40 hopefully Converted, and great awakenings among the people, happy seasons of grace among the believers, and a solemn and affecting patting at the close. Very good order here:

The 3d— At Providence Chapel in Chesterfield county—from Saturday the 27th to Tuesday 30th June— the assembly supposed to be composed of 2000 people, 6 Preachers 10 Tents. 20 supposed to be converted—with visible awakenings among sinners & blessings to Christians— from the short notice of about three weeks forming a two days meeting into a camp meeting the neighboring people, are deserving the credit of very agreeable fixment for the accommodations of the assembly —and considering the rain that fell on the first day, there were more tents than could have been expected—and very good order except in one instance occasioned by some who were thought to have drank rather free—and our solemn march round the encampment—at at the previous meetings were truly affecting. 

"And there Was much murmuring among the people concerning him: for some said be it a good many: others said  nay: but he deceiveth the people.” John 7. 12 — "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false Prophet are gone out into the World," 1 John 4. 1. 

 -Virginia Argus, 8 July 1807

The vicinity of Roper's Church from the Civil War Gilmer map

The Gallows, Resurrection Men . . . and Dancing

A special Halloween reposting from 2 years ago. For the background of this piece start here.

                                         

THE GALLOWS BALL.

"The negroes came in immense numbers. It was a gala day for them, and they were all in a holiday attire. The field in which the men were hanged looked like a country fair. Booths were erected. An enterprising Yankee had a side show and educated pig, and itinerant musicians enlivened the occasion. After the hanging the crowds of whites went away, but the negroes hung about the field and around the shallow graves of the felons until dark. They had determined to have a ball, but according to some superstition among them it could not begin until after the midnight hour. A large barn in the field was swept clean by hundreds of willing hands. At 12 o'clock it was crowded. 

On a small stage in a corner the stand for the musicians was placed, which was occupied by four banjo players and one fiddle. In the middle of the room was another stand, upon which the man who called out the figures stood. It was a weird scene. Boys stood in the corners of the room with pine knot torches, which filled the place with smoke, and made a murky light.

At 12:15 the festivities began. Peter Johnson, a burly tobacco hand, occupied the stand in the middle of the room, and sang out in stentorian voice: "Choose your partners." The strangely made up orchestra struck up "The Mississippi Sawyer," a wild Ethiopian air, and the dancing began. As the music went on, the musicians and dances grew wild and wilder, until they shouted and sang as though possessed by the devil. Such exclamations as "I could die dis moment" "Oh, Lord, how happy I is" and the like were heard, especially from the women. At about two o'clock Lucinda Macon, an old voudou(sic) negress, suddenly made her appearance in the barn. The musicians and dancers stopped in terror. The old hag slipped into the middle of the room, and then began a series of strange incantation scenes. The "trick" doctress* was dressed in an old blue and white checkered dress, and had in. her hand a large bundle, tied up in a red handkerchief. She opened it, and after muttering a lot of gibberish, in what the negroes say here was an African dialect, she said she had the rope with which the man were banged, and that after she had touched any bit of it that piece would secure the possessor against the evil designs of any person who tricked them or poisoned them. She cut it up in small bits, and over each bit she muttered and sprinkled something from an old jog, and then she sold it for fifty cents. The rush for these pieces of rope was great. The men fought for them.

This ceremony was kept up until 2:30 a.m. The rope did not go around, and when this became known those who did not get a piece acted like fiends, and begged the hag for a thread only. She told them that nothing else would effect the charm except small particles of the clothing in which the men were buried. A large party then started off to. the grave underneath the gallows, for the purpose of disinterring the bodies and bringing back the garments. They soon returned in horror to the ball room, swearing that they had seen the two men who were hanged walking around the grave. The hag added to the excitement by declaring at the top of her voice, singing cut the words, that Smith and Christian had not died, because she had given them a charm. The secret is, that the visit of the dancers to the grave frightened off two resurrectionists who were after the bodies for the doctors. The dancing and singing were kept up until 5 o'clock. It was announced by the voudou doctress that all who danced at the gallows ball would be able to dance as long as they lived, no matter if they lived to be ninety one"

-Shepherdstown Register (West Virginia), April 05, 1879

* hoodoo man or conjurer

For more information on the believed magical properties of the accoutrements of the gallows I suggest,  Executing Magic in the Modern Era: Criminal Bodies and the Gallows in Popular Medicine by Owen Davies and Francesca Matteoni.

As for the carnival nature of the public execution, there is The Hanging Tree: Execution and the English People 1770-1868 by V. A. C. Gatrell and "The Execution Spectacle and State Legitimacy: The Changing Nature of the American Execution Audience, 1833-1937" by Annulla Linders in Law & Society Review.

Signs a Marriage Is Going Poorly

MILDRED BRADLEY,

 Heretofore Mildred Coleman. having in vain attempted to live with her husband, (if he can be entitled to that appellation) in New Kent (where however he had made no sort of provision for a family,) has, with his consent, under a promise that he would restore to her the little property he may justly be said to have robbed her of, but which, regardless of that promise, he now refuses to do. returned to Richmond, where, as she is, in consequence of the conduct of Mr. Bradley, destitute of say other means of subsistence, she has again resorted to the MANTUA MAKING BUSINESS for a support. She is thankful for the encouragement she has heretofore received, and will be grateful for a continuance of it. Her residence for the present, is opposite to Mr. Thomas Wilson’s office, where her business will be assiduously attended to,
Richmond, Nov. 7, 1805.

- Virginia Argus, 16 November 1805

Researching the 1810 Census shows a Pleasant Bradley living in the county. That census only listed the names of heads of households. The household breakdown was three males one between 10-15 years of age, another 16-25, and the third between 26-44. It also showed two women, one between 10-15 and the other 45 or older.

A question arises: Could this be the mother of our young wayward apprentice Daniel Bradley?

He . . .

HAD HIS COFFIN READY

The Richmond correspondent of the Petersburg Index-Appeal, in the Sunday edition of that paper, says: A strange story was brought here to day from New Kent, the truth of which is vouched for. Last week Mr. J.H. Christian, an eccentric old gentleman, was taken very ill, and he thought he could not recover. He sent to Tunstall's for and undertaker to come and take his measure for a coffin, which was done. The casket was made and taken to Mr. Christian, who approved it. He is now much better and will recover, but will keep the coffin until he needs it.

 -Times (Roanoke)August 20, 1895


Interestingly, there are two "J. H. Christian"s buried at Emmaus Baptist Church. There is  John Harris Christian Jr. who died July 30, 1897 but who was only 42 in 1895 and so you would not think would qualify as "an eccentric old gentleman." The other is John H. Christian( John Harris' father?) who passed at 73 . . . on October 12, 1895.
So he was off by 50 days?

The Great Cock Match- 1755

William Hogarth, 1759, London. -Yale University

On Tuesday the 20th of this Instant, was determined at New Kent Court House, the great Cock Match between Gloucester" and New Kent, for Ten Pistoles a Battle and an Hundred the Main, there fell Eighteen in the Match, of which the New Kent Men won Ten and Gloucester Seven, one a drawn Battle: Some James River Cocks that fell on the New Kent Side, distinguished themselves in a very extraordinary manner.

-Virginia Gazette, May 23, 1755

A pistole was worth anywhere from 18 to 22 shillings at the time.

Here below is an account of cock-fighting during the time of the Revolution by the Marquis de Chastellux as he traveled through the state.

" . . .we arrived at one o clock at Willis inn or ordinary*; for the inns which in the other provinces of America are known by the name of taverns, or public houses, are in Virginia called ordinaries. This consisted of a little house placed in a solitary situation in the middle of the woods, not withstanding which we there found a great deal of company. As soon as I alighted, I inquired what might be the reason of this numerous assembly, and was informed it was a cock-match. This diversion is much in fashion in Virginia, where the English customs are more prevalent than in the rest of America. When the principal promoters of this diversion, propose to match their champions, they take great care to announce it to the public, and although there are neither posts, nor regular conveyances, this important news spreads with such facility, that the planters, for thirty or forty miles round, attend, some with cocks, but all with money for betting, which is sometimes very considerable. They are obliged to bring their own provisions, as so many people with good appetites could not possibly be supplied with them at the inn. As for lodgings, one large room for the whole company, with a blanket for each individual, is sufficient for such hearty country men, who are not more delicate about the conveniences of life, than the choice of their amusements. 

 Whilst our horses were feeding, we had an opportunity of seeing a battle. The preparation took up a great deal of time; they arm their cocks with long steel spurs, very sharp, and cut off a part of their feathers, as if they meant to deprive them of their armour(sic). The stakes were very considerable; the money of the parties was deposited in the hands of one of the principal persons, and I felt a secret pleasure in observing that it was chiefly French. I know not which is the most astonishing, the insipidity of such diversion, or the stupid interest with which it animates the parties. This passion appears almost innate among the English, for the Virginians are yet English in many respects. Whilst the interested parties animated the cocks to battle, a child of fifteen, who was near me, kept leaping for joy, and crying, Oh! It is a charming diversion."

-TRAVELS NORTH AMERICA, IN THE YEARS 1780-81-82. BY THE MARQUIS DE CHASTELLUX, ONE OF THE FORTY MEMBERS OF THE FRENCH ACADEMY, AND MAJOR-GENERAL IN THE FRENCH ARMY, SERVING UNDER THE COUNT DE ROCHAMBEAU. TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH, BY AN ENGLISH GENTLEMAN, WHO RESIDED IN AMERICA AT THAT PERIOD.  . .  1828

* Willis' Ordinary was in Louisa County

A good article on the subject from the CW Journal of autumn 2008.

Another Bird Story

EGGS SCARCE.

A New Kent Lady's Plan to Increase Energy of Lagging Hens.  

(Special to The Times-Dispatch.) 

ROXBURY, VA., Jan. 14.-There are not quite so many happy homes in New Kent as usual. The cause of all the trouble is nothing more than  that the hens been three months one general strike. Eggs at thirty cents wholesale.  No not more than three or four eggs per day out of a large flock is more than the housewife can stand. The verdict of death will be read to whole flocks of fowls in the near future unless they do
better.  

One lady near this place hit on a happy plan. Her fowls were well fed and sheltered but would not lay. She had a load of manure hauled. No sooner had the wagon been unloaded than the Whole bank of manure was covered with the fowls. The lady went out some time later, to her surprise she found thirty-two eggs laying nil around where the hens had been feeding. The lady was delighted, and the news soon spread all over the neighborhood. Then the husbands had to come out from their warm roosts, hitch up and go after manure.

 -Times Dispatch, 15 January 1904

Holly Fork Festivities - January 1892

New Kent Gayety. 

[Correspondence of the Richmond Dispatch.) 

HOLLY FORK, NEW KENT COUNTY, VA, January 15.-The hospitable home of Mr. A. P. Richardson was the scene of conviviality and enjoyment last Friday evening. A most enjoyable leap-year party was given by Miss Lulu Richardson in honor of her guests. Misses Dele Richardson and Lula Atkinson, of Richmond. The spacious building was a blaze of  light from the hickory back-log in the fire-place and from beautifully-colored lamps. The guests assembled early, and until a late hour participated in the unrestrained but refined enjoyment of the pleasures to be found in an old-fashioned country home. Music, instrumental and vocal, lent its charms, amusing games were played with zest by young and old, and to the music of the piano, harp. and violin the younger of the guests danced until morning light.  

A SUMPTUOUS FEAST 

At 11:30 o'clock the party was invited to a sumptuous feast, where all the most tempting viands were spread. In accordance with the time-honored leap-year custom the gentlemen were escorted to the table by the ladies, and their wants supplied by their fair servitors. 

The genial host and hostess wore most assiduous in their efforts to contribute to the enjoyment of their guests, and the occasion was pronounced one of the most enjoyable ever known in old New Kent, a county noted for its hospitality. 

There were about thirty ladies and gentlemen present, among whom were Misses Richardson and Atkinson, of Richmond; Messrs. Woodward, Barnes, Frayser. and Wright, of New Kent; and Messrs. C.A. Branch, R. Henley, and N. Henley, of James City county; Farinholt, Woodward. Jones, Richardson, and others, of New Kent

-Richmond Dispatch, 17 January 1892

Watch Out for . . .

NEW YEAR SNAKES.

Pumpkin Story Easily Believed After Christmas Cheer. 

(Special to The Times-Dispatch.) 

ROXBURY, VA., Jan. 6- A peculiar accident happened near this place a few days ago. Joe Macon is worthy colored man, and a prosperous farmer, who makes a specialty of raising pumpkins of enormous size, which he has given the name of "Fitz Lee." Joe Macon was raised on the old White House farm and belonged to the Lee family, a fact about which he feels very proud.  

Old Joe is fond, of pumpkin pie. Every Christmas he brings the choicest one to the house and pies are made of it.  

They are sent broadcast over the neighborhood to his white friends, who pronounce them fine. Tuesday evening Joe called his boys to help bring up the pumpkin. It was of enormous size, weighing about one hundred and eighty-five pounds. The pumpkin had to be rolled up a hill. One of the boys let the huge vegetable get a way. It went down the hill at a rapid rate. A beautiful Holstein heifer, a great pet of the old negro's, was leisurely chewing its cud, unmindful of the impending danger, when it was struck fully amidship and knocked over. it was soon found that its back was broken and two ribs, so it had to be killed to end its suffering.  

The pumpkin struck a tree and was burst open. Then was made a discovery that caused surprise to all and no little excitement. In the neck of the pumpkin was found nine, large black snakes, which had gone into winter quarters and were in a comatose state. They were easily dispatched.  

Now old Joe will not use the pumpkin, as he fears that those who eat the pies will have snakes after them.

- Times Dispatch, 7 January 1904

The Happy September Ninety-Nine Years ago

ENJOYING SEPTEMBER, 

New Kent People Are Happy.

Providence Forge. Sept. 20- September is making a record for itself. The magnificent days that have followed one another the past week, have added much enjoyment to those visiting our hustling little village.

Sora are being killed in small quantities. Messrs. J H. Christian, E.F. Gill, J.B. Richardson and W.F. Gilliam were in Bradby's Marsh, near Windsor Shades, last week, but the sora came up missing. 

Protracted meetings are in progress this week at Oliver Presbyterian church. Rev. Osborne officiating. 

The Masonic Lodge is being rapidly built. It promises to be quite a nice building. 

Mr. J. B. Richardson has returned from the White Sulphur Springs very much benefited in health. 

Mrs. W. F. Gilliam and son, Blair, and Miss Mary Taylor Gilliam, of Richmond, were visitors in Williamsburg a few days since. 

Miss Josie Oliver, of Richmond, is the guest of her brother here. 

Miss Clara Bock, of Pennsylvania. is visiting her brother, Fred S. Bock. 

Mrs. G.C. Edwards and daughter of Richmond. have returned to their home, after spending some time at the former's parents. 

Mrs. Julia Anderson and two children, of Portsmouth, are on a visit to her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Robertson. 

Miss Fedora Haxall has left for college in Red Springs, N.C. 

Mr. Home, the popular proprietor of the Windsor Hotel, Boulevard, and Mr. S.C. Burnette were in our village Saturday. 

Mrs. E. B. Townsend, of Washington. D.C., will arrive here Oct. 1st. to straighten up the late Col. E.B. Townsend's estate. he leaving all his property to his widow, who is sole administratrix.

Roxbury. Va.. September 20- 

A larger crowd of admiring friends of Mr. C.D. Binns, the young merchant of this place, at Roxbury Wednesday to congratulate the young man and his bride, but were doomed to disappointment when the young merchant got off the train alone looking sad. As he told of his disappointment, tears would force their way down his rosy cheeks. He told of his travels to far away Cincinnati with the fond hopes of bringing back a fair rose, out from the west, but the sweet thing changed her mind and took another. Yet the young man is not discouraged and says "if you wont another will; if none do not, it's better still." Cheer up, Charlie, "faint heart never won fair lady." 

The roads in New Kent have completed and the fine teem is hauling telephone poles.

September 28th will be court day for New Kent. Court will be held in a storehouse as the new courthouse is not completed. The most important case to be tried this is that of two negro boys for holding up and robbing a Syrian woman peddler some time ago.

-Virginia Gazette, September 23, 1909

Green Wood- 1909

                                                                  New Kent News.

Roxbury. Va . Jan. 6-The pretty young lady teacher of White House schools has blistered her hands cutting wood to keep her pupils warm. She showed the blisters which were as large as English walnuts, to this scribe. This is all true. as will be vouched for by the young lady herself. She was deeply affected as she told of the suffer of her pupils.  

This is a shame and disgrace to our county. Where is the man who the county taxpayers are paying ten dollars a year to furnish wood, good dry wood, cut and ready for user? Not green poles and they not cut? What are the county officials doing? I have written to trustees of the conditions and got no relief, not even hot air We hate to say this, for every member of board is a most perfect gentleman and personal friends of the writer, but duty demands this. He that knoweth his duty and doeth it not will be beaten with many stripes.  

Mr. Henry Post, the popular clerk for Mr. C. D. Binns at this place, after spending several days with his parents at Porto Bello, has returned to his duties again. He brought with him a ten pound fruit cake, lot of chochow(sic), pies, four baked rabbits, one turkey, two large fowls, all prepared by his fond mother and enjoyed by his many young friends who hope him a happy new year. 

                                                Truthful Jeems


-Virginia Gazette, 7 January 1909

The teacher, the "pretty young lady" referred to, would have to be Miss Mary Bailey whose hiring at the White House school was mentioned in a November 1908 article by "Truthful Jeems."

The Hub of the Universe

BELIEVED NEW KENT WAS THE HUB,- There is an amusing story told on a man living in New Kent, who thought New Kent was the greatest place on earth. A gentleman was in Richmond talking to a friend in a hotel office, telling of his trip abroad and where he bad been, The New Kent fellow listened as long as he could when suddenly he sprang to his feet and approached the talkers, and said "I say, sir; have you ever been, been to New Kent, sir? Well, well, sir: then you have never been nowhere, sir." Li Hung Chang places great stress on visiting Grant's tomb, but Virginians will tell him unless he has been to Lee's and Jackson's tombs he has "been nowhere, sir."

-Alexandria Gazette, 5 September 1896

A Lost Account from the War of 1861-1865

I had been aware of this account in Confederate Veteran magazine for sometime, but had never got around to reading it. Imagine my surprise when finally siting down to do so and finding that the article was entirely about incidents on the Pamunkey River, not the James. The title was, I assume, just a mistake on the part of the magazine.

EARLY WAR INCIDENTS ON THE JAMES.*

BY LIEUT. J.B. TAPSCOTT, CLARKSVILLE, TENN.

Although it is thirty-seven years since the boom of artillery and the defiant Rebel yell were heard in the harbor of Charleston at the bombardment of Fort Sumter, and the opening of the war thus inaugurated, the incidents unnumbered, of every shade of interest, which followed in the four eventful years still continue to come forth from the memories of those who were engaged in the mighty struggle, and are being given to the rising generation to preserve as precious relics gathered from "flood and field" in the greatest civil war of which there is any record. 

I give an account of the first Federal gunboat which appeared in the inland waters of Virginia as it came under my own observation, as well as that of others who were with me as members of the party of which I was the commanding officer in charge. As first lieutenant in the corps of engineers of the Army of Northern Virginia, I received the following order from Capt. Alfred L. Rives, acting chief engineer of the bureau at Richmond, under date of March 25, 1862:

"Sir: You will form a party or parties at once and proceed to the county of New Kent to reconnoiter and survey the country, especially noticing the streams, woods, marshes, and landings, to determine up to what points the Pamunkey and Chickahominy Rivers are navigable. Examine the rivers also with a view to obstructing them rapidly and at low points, if possible."

 The following one was issued, on my personal application by John Withers, A. A. G.:

"The following men are detailed for temporary duty in the Engineer Department, and will without delay report to Lieut. John B. Tapscott, of the provisional engineers, in this city: H.L. Heiskell, Company G, Twenty-Seventh Virginia Volunteers; W.M. McDonald, Company G, Second Virginia Volunteers."

Before leaving for the field my friend, John Harmer Gilmer, Jr., of Richmond, joined the party. 

Having been equipped with the necessary instruments and appliances for the work, and having a permit from the provost marshal "to visit West Point and country between James River and Rappahannock, upon honor not to communicate in writing or verbally for publication any fact ascertained, which, if known to the enemy, might be injurious to the Confederate States of America," we proceeded without delay. 

Taking the Richmond and the York River railroad to West Point, a distance of thirty-nine miles, I concluded to make a beginning at the Pamunkey river and opposite the Mattapony, the two rivers forming the York river. Getting a boat, we crossed over to the tongue of land formed by the rivers to examine some defensive works that had been thrown up there. I wrote a report only of their condition, as I knew full drawings of them were on file in the war office. 

Returning to the town about noon, I asked a darky if he knew where we could get dinner, and he said, "Yes, sah! right ober dah," pointing to a queer-looking old house having a centenary look in all respects. The first story was of stone, and on this was one of weatherboards, the wood looking old and dingy. Above the cone of the roof an immense chimney top rose, built of English brick brought over as a ballast in vessels more than a hundred and fifty years ago. It was finished in a very peculiar style, and resembled many others I afterwards saw in other parts of the country. I took a peep into this old rookery before dinner. Imagine my surprise when I saw a clean, sanded floor, with a snow-white cloth spread over a long table, on which was an abundance of dishes and plates nicely arranged and ready to receive the dinner about to be served. In half an hour we sat down to enjoy a feast that I shall never forget. The season was just opening for shad, and we found this queen of all fish on the table, being fried, baked, and boiled; also York River oysters, fried ham and eggs, and all the vegetables of the season, together with different kinds of bread, fresh butter, sweet milk, buttermilk, and winding up with a dessert of custard pie. Ample justice was done this fine dinner. 

Having the order to make examinations of the Pamunkey river in regard to obstructing it for the purpose of intercepting Federal gunboats, we commenced the ascent of it, carefully noting everything bearing upon the object intended to be effected. Sketches were made, noting the topography at many points along its hanks, also the names of landings and their connections with the main county roads leading to Richmond. These observations were continued until we reached White House Landing, fifteen miles from West Point. 

Sundown on the first day found us near a farmhouse, on a little elevation back from the south bank of the river, and. concluding to seek its hospitality for the night, we called on the gentleman, stating our business in that part of the country, and were received most cordially. After a fine supper we were delightfully entertained by his daughters and a couple of young lady visitors from the neighborhood. We had music and dancing, and the hours, winged by pleasure, flew charmingly along, leaving pleasant memories with all. The next day we reached the head of Cook’s Island, two miles below a small settlement called Cumberland. Here was the only point that I considered practicable for placing obstructions for the intended purpose. We then continued the work to the end. Returning to Col. Cook's, whose residence was on the bluff, near the head of the island, I made a survey and sketch of the position, reporting to the department at Richmond: "It appears that the upper end of the island could be easily obstructed. The bottom of the river is composed of mud and sand, and there would be no difficulty in sinking piles. The timber necessary could be obtained along the river, and within three miles of the island — white oak and spruce pine. Near the main elevation, which enfilades the river, is Chestnut Grove Landing. Artillery could be hauled up rapidly by making a rough trackway, or, if the road should be dry, it could be transported over the natural surface. The country presents an irregular profile for some distance back from the river. The landings have roads leading to the ridge roads, and connect with the county and stage roads to Richmond. The rains in April and May would not prevent the advance of the enemy, as the roads dry rapidly, the water being absorbed and carried off in subterranean channels. Cahoke Station is twenty-eight miles from Richmond. There are but two mails per week, Wednesdays and Fridays. 

The sketch I send is sufficiently clear to enable you to determine the practicability of placing obstructions at the point as designated. Supplies are getting scarce in this region, the army on the peninsula having pretty well exhausted them." 

We went from Col. Cook's to New Kent C. H., and began the survey of the county, which occupied the greater part of the month of April. Having received a subsequent order to make a hydrographical survey of the Pamunkey river, beginning at West Point and extending to the railroad bridge beyond the "White House," we did this work, and on its completion returned to Cumberland. Before this Yorktown had been evacuated and an immense quantity of military stores of every description which were there had been loaded on schooners and sent up to White House Station, near the railroad bridge, to be transferred on trains to Richmond. The department at Richmond having been notified that a Federal gun-boat had started up York River and would continue its course up the Pamunkey, with a view of destroying the property which had been carried away from Yorktown, it was determined by Gen. Lee to intercept it by obstructing the river at Cook's Island, as suggested in my report, and I received a note from Capt. Charles A. Carrington, of the quartermaster's department, who had been sent to take charge of and secure the same if possible. He wrote: "I ask you to come to this place with all possible speed to aid me." On reporting to him as requested, I received this additional order, dated May 4, 1862: "You are hereby ordered to take charge of any vessels at Cumberland loaded with wood or long forage, and, detailing any force which may be necessary, discharge their cargoes and use them in obstructing the Pamunkey river against the passage of the enemy's vessels. You are further ordered to apply to the farmers to aid you in the discharge of this duty." 

Another note from Col. R. T. Cook, which I received at Cumberland, stated: "We are all on our heads nearly. I am just on my feet creeping about the house. We don't know what to do. You are called to the 'White House' by Gen. Lee. A boy came down here after you posthaste. If you come down here, call." 

It being arranged to have the vessels unloaded and sent to me at the place to be obstructed, we returned to Mr. Tolers', at Cumberland, to spend the night. The night, I may say, was an eventful one, and the incident which occurred was in striking contrast to those which transpired the three days following it. I bring it forth as an amusing episode which was altogether unexpected. After having enjoyed a delightful supper and the pleasant social intercourse of the family for two or three hours after it, we were shown to our room by Mr. Toler, all bidding us good-night, with wishes for refreshing sleep and happy dreams. We were not long in disrobing. Gilmer got in bed with me, and McDonald in one just opposite. Being pretty well worn out, it was some time before I could settle to an easy position in bed. I heard several low growls coming from the direction of McDonald's bed, and very soon more of them came — when all of a sudden the cover on the bed rose up, and quick as a flash it descended to the floor, with McDonald following it, lighting upon his feet. "What's the matter?" I said. "There are rats in there," he answered; "and I don't propose to be a bedfellow with them." Gilmer was awakened, and he said: "Let's rout 'em out." I got up, struck a match, and lit the candle, McDonald standing just where he had landed from the bed, and facing it, robed in a red flannel undergarment of very full dimensions; and, unadorned otherwise, he presented a sight that was amusing and picturesque. Gilmer, finding a couple of canes in the room, gave one to McDonald and held the other himself. The bed was pulled out a few feet from the wall, and they went behind it. I got on top, with the candle in one hand to give light, and was to bend the mattress back until the varmints came in sight. All being ready, I took hold of the side of the mattress near them and commenced raising it, and when halfway up I gave it a sudden jerk, and behold! a little pet squirrel came in sight, and sat upon his haunches, pluming his tail and looking at us with his big eyes, as much as to say: "What are you disturbing me about?" The canes were dropped, and Gilmer, throwing his vest over the little fellow, gathered him up, and, finding his box in the room, put him in it, and we then returned to bed, and were soon wafted to the land of nod. The next morning we had a fine breakfast, and, thanking our friends for their kindness, left to begin the work of obstructing the river. 

We found two schooners awaiting us, anchored a short distance above the line to obstruct. Raising the anchor of one, we let it float with the ebbing tide to position, dropped the anchor again, to hold it, and ran the bow close to the channel edge by a mud flat which ran out a hundred and fifty feet from the New Kent side of the river and terminated in water fifteen feet deep. We then scuttled the vessel at the water line, midway between bow and stern, and in less than half an hour it filled and sunk to the bottom. The other one was worked in the same way, and in line with the first, extending toward the island. Late in the after-noon five others came, and, although a cold drizzling rain commenced falling about sundown, we worked straight along all night, getting the last one in position about sunrise. While at breakfast my boatman informed me that four more schooners were in sight, making eleven in all, the number necessary to finish the work in the New Kent channel. The rain continued to come down, and it was chilly. 

We were now expecting the gunboat at every moment, so we used all the energy within us to sink the remaining vessels, which would finish the most important part of the work, as the pilots knew nothing about the channel on the King William side of the river. Not taking time for dinner or rest, we completed the obstructions as intended late in the afternoon. 

Four other schooners were sent down to be sunk in the King William channel. They came about sundown. Taking advantage of the ebb tide, we got two of them in position, after losing a great deal of time in getting around shallows and sandbars at the head of the island. These were sunk before midnight, and the two others left anchored until the flood tide ceased and the ebb commenced again. This would not occur until about nine o'clock in the morning. 

We concluded to take a little rest, and went up to Col. Cook's, giving orders to a picket to notify me promptly on the appearance of the gunboat. About sun up there was a heavy pounding on the door of our room, which I found was made by the picket, who informed me that the boat was coming up the river slowly, and was about a mile distant. We were soon in our clothes, and determined to burn the vessels remaining at anchor, to prevent their falling into the hands of the enemy. Having our boat at shore nearby, we started to carry out this purpose, and just as we were in the act of ascending the side of one of the vessels the gun-boat appeared, coming around a short bend in the river less than half a mile away. It was a dangerous-looking object. Its hull was painted black and appeared to sit low in the water, and came moving along with dense smoke rolling from its stack. Knowing that we were in short range of its guns, the idea at once suggested itself that our best chance to escape its fire was to deceive the officer in command by making the impression that we were the crew of the vessel instead of Confederates. I told the boys we would return to the shore, but to make no hurried motions in rowing back, to keep cool, and not to look toward the Federals. We moved slowly along, expecting every moment to see the puff of gray from the explosion of the bow gun and hear the hissing of a shell or the screech of grape coming from it; but we got safely to shore, and, pulling the boat up a gulley near a fish house, I told them to remain there and I would go up on the bluff and see what would be done by the enemy. Creeping through the undergrowth and weeds, I got within a few hundred yards of them, getting a full view. They approached the obstructions very slowly, and, seeing an open space of about one hundred and fifty feet where there appeared no vessels had been sunk, they made for it, evidently with the intention of passing on up the river to carry out their purpose of capturing or destroying the military stores taken from Yorktown by the schooners; but this was the mud fiat spoken of heretofore, which the tide yet covered, and, going into it before knowing its character, they stuck fast, and puffed and swung around right and left for half an hour before they got off again. Being once more in the channel, they tried to force a way through the obstructions, attempting it at several places, but failed to do so; the vessels would not yield, the work being well done, and they were thus disappointed. This was on the morning of May 7, 1862. A launch was then lowered from the boat. and twenty armed marines got into it, and after making a few soundings they captured a negro on the island, who had been left a prisoner by the tide carrying off his skiff. Taking him to the gunboat, they then crossed the obstructions and started up the river. Having reason to believe that the darky had betrayed us, and as we were greatly in the minority, and having no arms to fight them, we left at once for New Kent C. H., and from thence crossed over to the railroad near White House Landing, and returned to Richmond on a freight loaded with some of the Yorktown supplies that still remained at the station  I afterwards learned that the two vessels which were not sunk were carried off by the Yankees, and that no further attempt was made by the enemy to force the obstructions after he returned down the river with the captured vessels. 

The party now disbanded, having successfully carried out all the orders given, and were afterwards assigned to different lines of service. Altogether, we had a pleasant time in the prosecution of the work, and many pleasing incidents in connection with it are still
treasured in memory by me, and will never fade from it.

-Confederate Veteran. Vol. VII.

S. A. Cunningham, Editor and Proprietor.

Nashville, Tenn. 1899.

Running With the Hounds

There was much excitement near Quinton a few days ago, when a colored woman came near being frightened to death. Mr. Harvey Mantelo, a prosperous young farmer in that neighborhood, has a pretty little son and the father humors him to everything he wants. Some time ago he told his father he wanted a little billy goat. So the young farmer bought the goat. At the, same time he was raising a pair of young hounds. It seems that the goat and hounds grew up together and became very fond of each other. When the dogs got large enough to go hunting the goat would go too. It is said the goat will keep up with the hounds. It cannot bark like the hounds, but it makes a terrible noise just the same. It seems a colored woman who lives in the neighborhood left home early one morning to see a friend and left a small child in the care of a larger girl. She had not gotten far when she heard some hounds running and a terrible noise in the same direction. The poor frightened woman thought it was her child calling- and the hounds, would devour it before she could get to it. 

It was nothing but the little billy goat running with its companions. It was a long time before she could be restored to consciousness, when found by one of the neighbors.

-The Times(Richmond), 3 November 1901