History of Ontario County - The origins of Phelps
By Edward Varno / Executive Director, / Ontario County Historical Society
Posted at MPNnow on Feb 14, 2016. Reprinted here with permission of Ed Varno.
The story of “a classic pioneer town on the western frontier”
The territory that became the township of Phelps was well known by early visitors to the area for its indigenous population of Seneca Indians who thrived on the area’s abundant game and productive fields of corn and fruit orchards. That all changed in 1779 when Major General John Sullivan, under the orders of General George Washington, marched his soldiers through the region destroying crops and fruit trees. The Sullivan-Clinton Expedition, as it became known, was a focused military effort to avenge the Iroquois for their deadly ambushes against settlers and to punish them for their support of the British in the Revolutionary War. It was also the intent of this effort to drive the Seneca from the region so that the area could be settled as part of the new United States. Soldiers who participated in the Sullivan Campaign returned to New England with stories of the abundant wildlife, lush forests and fertile soils in the “Genesee Country” generally, a 2 million acre expanse of wilderness in New York state west of the Preemption Line (82nd Meridian) . On Jan. 27, 1789, title to this unprecedented amount of land was purchased by Oliver Phelps and Nathanial Gorham, and thus Ontario County was established.
One of those who heard the call of the western frontier was John Decker Robison, a young aristocrat whose family had an estate on the Hudson River. At the young age of 14, he joined the army and fought in the French and Indian War and later was a Regular in the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War. In June of 1788, Robison left his home and traveled with his family by bateaux along the Hudson, Mohawk and Oneida rivers and eventually along the Canandaigua Outlet to a point where the Outlet flow met Flint Creek. Here, after a two-month journey, he staked his claim. For $100 he purchased 490 acres from Oliver Phelps, becoming the first settler in Phelpsburg. In 1796 the township was renamed Phelps, after the county’s founder. The Robisons were quickly followed by other families, including that of Jonathan Oaks who, in 1796, founded Oaks Corners where County Road 23 and County Road6 now intersect. Oaks was elected the town’s first Supervisor and held many other elected positions, including Road Commissioner and Pound Keeper. Oaks built a tavern in 1793, named Oaks Stand. For many years it was a gathering center for those with political and social influence. A general Store opened in 1802. In 1812, Oaks Stand became a logical stop on the stagecoach route from Geneva. In 1841 rail service came to Oaks Corners, a line that eventually became the New York Central Rail Road. Although located an important crossroad, Oaks Corners lacked the one thing that was needed for sustained success: water power. By 1805, business activity began shifting to settlements that had this vital natural resource. Another early settlement in the township was Orleans. Founded by Benjamin Wheat in 1795, it was first named “Hardscrabble” because its topography made getting into and out of the settlement difficult. It was eventually named Orleans after the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812. Despite the access problem, the settlement’s location on the steep, rocky banks of Flint Creek made it a good place for mills to be built. By 1805, with a saw mill and two grist mills opened, it quickly developed as a busy center of milling and retail activity. By 1840, Orleans had two churches, five general stores, two hotels, three shoe shops, three blacksmiths, a potash factory, a carding mill, a tannery and other services. The settlement was well on its way to be a important, populated center. However, the economy of the hamlet was badly hurt by a series of destructive fires in 1910 that were of suspicious origin. The community located on County Road 23 near NYS Route 488 never really recovered. Phelps Village, located in the center of the town, became the only incorporated community in Phelps, but there were many other settlements in this early Ontario County township. The community offers a variety of 18th century buildings with architectural styles worth seeing. Melvin Hill, a residential settlement with a church and large pioneer cemetery, is located on a crest of County Road 23. Unionville, on NYS Route 96, was the location of an early dam and raceway that powered a paper mill and carding mill. The 1830 red brick Yorkshire Inn, an Early Stage Coach stop on Route 96, still stands. Transportation was the key to the success of this town’s development. The presence of Canandaigua Outlet and Flint Creek gave the town an early jump on important milling businesses. Several old Indian trails that traversed the lands were developed into corduroy roads that ox carts and stage coaches could negotiate; some became toll roads. Trees along routes surveyed for Oliver Phelps were blazed with the letter “H” where a highway could be cut. In the early 1800s roads were cut north to access the Erie Canal, improving markets for agricultural products and lumber harvested in the town. The town’s level terrain attracted railroads in the mid 1800s. The Sodus Bay and Pennsylvania Railroad along with the Sodus Point and Southern Railroad created north-south routes on either side of the town. The rail line that eventually became The New York Central Railroad passed through the town east to west. In many respects Phelps was a classic pioneer town on the western frontier. Its stoic settlers used its natural resources to bring wealth and prestige to Ontario County. It became the place to settle a family and prosper in our nation’s post-Revolutionary War westward expansion.
Ed Varno is executive director of the Ontario County Historical Society.
Reprinted here with permission of Ed Varno, retired.
History of Phelps, New York
FROM: HISTORY OF ONTARIO COUNTY NEW YORK
EDITD BY: GEORGE S. CONOVER
COMPILED BY LEWIS CASS ALDRIDGE
PUBLISHED BY D. MASON & CO., PUBLISHERS
SARACUSE, N. Y., 1893
HISTORY OF THE TOWN OF PHELPS.
THE town of Phelps includes within its boundaries the northern half of township No. 10 and the southern part of No. 11 in the first range, together with all that part of the "gore" lying east of the portion above mentioned. This town or district was originally known as "Sullivan," and so named in allusion to General Sullivan, the commander of the historic expedition against the western Indians during the summer and fall of 1779. Upon the organization of the town in 1796, at the solicitation of the proprietary, the name was changed to "Phelps;" in consideration of which change it is said that Oliver Phelps regaled the inhabitants with a sumptuous feast at the tavern of Jon athan Oaks.
The honor of being the pioneer settler of this town is generally conceded to John Decker Robison, and enough of history on this subject has been furnished by past writers to fill a volume; but in the present narrative we mainly rely on the accuracy of the statements of Dr. Caleb Bannister in his address before the Agricultural Society in 1852. According to the address, in the summer of 1888, James Robison, son of the pioneer, was employed with Nathaniel Sanborn to drive 100 head of cattle into the Genesee country, which were intended as presents to the Indians, in order to conciliate their friendship and good will, that subsequent negotiations for their title to the lands might be consummated with as little difficulty as possible. Robison and Sanborn reached Geneva with the cattle on June 3, 1788, and on the next day John Decker Robison arrived at the same place. The latter at once proceeded to the town of Phelps, as afterward known, but then unnamed, and settled on lot No. 14 in township 11, first range, which was surveyed to contain 320 acres of land, but by an error the tract actually contained more than 320 acres, and its total cost to the pioneer was not far from $100.
The foregoing statement is corroborated by the fact that the consideration was paid by Robison in building for Phelps and Gorham a house in Canandaigua, according to the following contract:
Memorandum of an agreement between William Walker on the one part and John D. Robison of the other part, witnesseth, that the said Robinson doth agree to Build for the said Walker a house at Canadauque of the Same Dimensions and in the same manner as the house now building by Captain Bartles at Geneva, with this Variation, viz.: he is to build but one Chimney and is not either of the floors, or make the Doors or window Shets, he is to board himself and procure all the materials except nails, the building is to be completed every way as well as the said Bartles, there is to be a twelve square, seven by nine Glass Window frame in the front and rear of each room, the work is to be completed this fall, for which the said Walker doth agree to pay the said Robinson forty pounds New York Currency in the following manner, viz.: in provisions Sufficient for him the said Robinson's self and hands, while building said house, and the remainder in a Lot of Land in No. Eleven, first range, to be valued according to Quality and Situation, reckoning the whole Township at two Shillings per acre, and if the said Lot should be found to exceed the Remainder of the said forty pounds, said Walker agrees to take his pay in Said Robinson's Labour after the first day of June next, when the said Walker may demand it, witness our hands interchangeably, Signed this Twentyeighth day of October, in the year of our Lord, 1788.
WM. WALKER,
JOHN DK'R ROBISON.
Witnesses present, Ezekiel Scott, Enos Boughton.
The above building was used as a land office and for the residence of Judge Walker, the agent for surveys and sales of Phelps and Gorham.
This worthy pioneer, John Decker Robison, built and opened a tavern on his tract in 1793, the first event of its kind in the town; also his son, Harry H. Robison, was the first white child born in the town. The Robison purchase included a part of the Phelps village site, being that portion thereof lying east of the town hall. In 1789 Mr. Robison's family came to the town, and nine days later there also came Pierce and Elihu Granger, Nathaniel Sanborn and a Mr. Gould, but all these returned to Connecticut (for all were Yankees) in the fall, leaving Robison and his family alone in the town, eight miles from the nearest settlement (Geneva.) Following those who have been mentioned, the next settlers in the town were Jonathan Oaks, Seth Dean, Oliver Humphrey, Charles Humphrey and Elias Dickinson. In 1793 or '94 Mr. Oaks built a large frame house, which for many years was occupied as a hotel, and was located at Oaks' Corners, a small hamlet of the town, its name being applied in honor of the pioneer. This was the second frame tavern west of Geneva, a place of much note in early days, while its founder was hardly less prominent in the new community. Philetus Swift was a pioneer of 1789, a man of much energy and influence, particularly in early political history; and as well was he prominent in military affairs, he being commander of a company during the war of 1812. Seth Dean, who has been mentioned, was a pioneer on the Phelps village site, and here in company with Oliver Phelps he erected a saw-mill on Flint Creek, on the location where an industry of some sort afterward became a fixture.
Another very prominent early pioneer was Dr. Joel Prescott, who settled in the town at an early day and was one of the prominent physicians of the county. He came to this region as early as May, 1788, and, probably, for a while resided at Kanadesaga, as during that and the succeeding year his name is found as a witness on several papers dated at that place. At the first town meeting in Phelps, 1796, Dr. Prescott was elected school commissioner and assessor, was appointed justice of peace, January, 1798, was supervisor of the town from 1797 to 1809 inclusive, except 1805, and for several years chairman of the board; was school commissioner of the town for several years. He located on a farm one. mile west of Oaks' Corners, and was the first physician of Phelps, his practice being very extensive and laborious with the old time saddle bags strapped to his saddle. He was married in Phelps to Lucy Reed, September 8, 1793, and had seven children, two of whom died in infancy, the rest living to mature years. His home was among the earliest of frame houses in the town. With an active interest and efficient in rendering them he was repeatedly placed in positions of trust by his fellow-citizens, and so great was the esteem for him that his counsels were called for in all departments of life. He was born June 20, 1759, and died October 5, 1841. His funeral took place on the afternoon of Sunday, October 6, and was attended by the largest number of people that had ever before been gathered together on such an occasion, from 1,000 to 1,200 being present, among whom were the principal and prominent men of Geneva and the surrounding country.
The following is worthy of a record in this place. Horatio Jones was one of the early pioneers at Kanadesaga or Geneva. In 1788 he was joined by his brother, John H., at that place, and having obtained a yoke of oxen in the spring of 1789, the two brothers went into the town of Phelps, found an open spot, ploughed and planted five or six acres of corn, which they sold on the ground, and finally removed to the west of the Genesee River.
Referring again to the address of Dr. Bannister, we find the names of other early settlers, among them being John Salisbury, who settled in 1791 a short distance west of Melvin Hill. Also in the same year came Walter Chase and Nicholas Pullen; in 1792, John Patten and David Boyd; in 1793, Jonathan Melvin; in 1794, John Sherman; in 1795, Osee Crittenden and Cornelius Westfall; in 1796, Jesse Warner and John Newhall; in 1797, Theodore and Lemuel Bannister, who located just north of Oaks' Corners. Another account says Theo. Bannister settled in 1798, and Lemuel one year later, which latter is probably correct. Deacon John Warner was a pioneer at Orleans, while the first settler at Melvin Hill was Jonathan Melvin, from whom the hill derived its name. Jesse Warner settled at Warner Hill, east of Flint Creek. Joseph Vandemark, Lodowick Vandemark, John and Patrick Burnett, came about or during the year 1794. Lodowick was a skillful millwright, and put up an excellent saw-mill in the town. Other early settlers were Coil Roy, Joseph, Eleazer and Cephas Hawks, Augustus Dickinson, and others now forgotten. About 1799 Cephas Hawks, Augustus Dickinson and Theo. Bannister built a grist-mill on the outlet, on the site in later years known successively as Dickinson's, Norton's, and the Exchange Mills.
In 1800 George Wilson and Harvey Stephenson came to the town, followed in 1802 or '3 by John Hildreth. John R. Green was the first merchant at Oaks' Corners. Wills Whitman came with the Oaks. The first marriage in the town was that of Joseph Annin with the daughter of pioneer Seth Reed. Magistrate Thomas Sisson performed the ceremony. Cephas Hawks erected the first plaster-mill, and about the same time Luther and Francis Root, Ezekiel Webb, and Nathaniel Hall, bought the Seth Dean grist-mill, and converted it into a plastermill.
The persons who have been mentioned thus far in this narrative were, it is thought, the pioneers of the town of Phelps; there may have been others whose names are lost and forgotten, but drawing information from all reliable sources, the statements above made are probably accurate in general. It will be observed that when once begun the settlement progressed rapidly; in fact, in 1796, on April i, the inhabitants were so many that it became advisable to organize the town and elect officers. Prior to this time the town formed part of a district, and was known as Sullivan, as has been stated, but at the time of organization the name was changed to Phelps. We may further state that according to Dr. Bannister the change in name from Sullivan to Phelps was made in 1795. Boyd's Gazetteer of the State of New York, Albany, 1872, states that Phelps was formed in 1796, under the act of January 27, 1779.
The officers elected at the first town meeting were as follows: Supervisor, Jonathan Oaks; town clerk, Solomon Goodale; assessors, Joel Prescott, Philetus Swift and Pierce Granger; collector, Augustus Dickinson; overseers of the poor, Oliver Humphrey and Patrick Burnett; commissioners of highways, Jesse Warner, Oliver Humphrey and Philetus Swift; overseers of highways, Cornelius Westfall, Abram D. Spurn, Charles Humphrey, Elijah Gates, John Patten, Augustus Dickinson, David Woodard; pound-master, Jonathan Oaks.
The present town officers are: Wm. E. Edmonston, supervisor; Jno. T. Watkins, town clerk; Lysander Redfield, Richard M. Green, Jesse P. Warner and Jno. B. Armstrong, justices; Staiham Crittenden, Wm. H. Hunt and Judson Raymer, assessors; Russell B. Cobb, Thos. H. Gerow, Samuel Cuddeback, commissioners of highways; Jno. M. White, overseer of the poor; Willard R. Laughlin, collector; Epenetus T. Lamb, James T. Sweeney, Adrian Easterly, commissioners of excise.
Succession of Supervisors: Jonathan Oaks, 1796; Joel Prescott, 1797-1804, and 1806-09; Pierce Granger, 1805; Elihu Granger, 1810-11; Wm. Burnett, 1812-13, and 1816-17; Lemuel Bannister, jr., 1814; Thaddeus Bannister, 1815; Philetus Swift, 1818-22; Wm. Hildreth, sen., 1823-26; Thos. Edmonston, 1827; Jas. Van Demark, 1828-29, and 1832-33 Richard D. Cuyler, 1831 ; David McNiel, 1834; Isaac M. Norton, 1835; Fred'k Van Demark, 1836-37; Wm. Dickinson, 1838-40; Jno. S. Harris, 1841-42; Moses Chapman, 1843; Cornelius Horton, 1844-52; Henry C. Swift, 1853; Hubbard McLoud, 1854; Sylvanus B. Pond, 1855; Lewis Peck, 1856-59; Ambrose L. Van Dusen, 1860; Nathan Oaks, 1861-64; Lysander Redfield, 1865; Henry Ray, 1866-67; Horatio N. Mather, 1868; Samuel E. Horton, 1869-70; David Cosad, jr., 1871; Thaddeus O. Hotchkiss, 1872-73, and 1875-79; Hamilton McBurney, 1874; Jno. C. Warner, 1880; Benj. F. Odell, 1881-82; Abram S. Smith, 1883-87; Thaddeus 0. Hotchkiss, 1888-90; Geo. B. Shepperd, 1891; Wm. C. Edmonston, 1892-93.
On the 11th of April, 1823, a portion of the town of Phelps was set off to Lyons, Wayne county, therefore to correctly note subsequent changes in population we may properly begin with the federal census of 1830. In that year the number of inhabitants in the town was 4,798; ten years later it had increased to 5,563; in 1850 was 5,542; in 1860 was 5,586, the greatest number ever attained in its history. By 1870 it had fallen to 5,130. During the next decade it increased to 5,189, and by 1890 had again fallen to 5,086, which is about the present population. From this we discover that Phelps had a less population in 1890 than in 1840, or half a century before.
Among the pioneers of Phelps were a number of Revolutionary survivors, the names of some of whom can still be recalled, but there were others who are now forgotten. At a later period, and during what may more properly be termed the early history of the town, the inhabitants were called upon to furnish men for frontier service in the second war with Great Britain. The enrolled militia of Phelps were frequently under arms during the War of 1812-15, and also they performed duty on the Niagara frontier. Unfortunately no reliable record of the Phelps company has been preserved. However it was during the War of 1861-65 that the men of the town made their most glorious military record, at a time when the population of Phelps had reached its maximum, in 1860, the number of inhabitants then being 5,586. In 1861 the war began, and from that time until no more volunteers were needed, Phelps was ever ready to contribute men and means for the prosecution of the war. More than that, the patriotic people of the town, both men and women, had local organizations the object of which was to relieve and administer to the personal comfort of the sick and wounded soldiers. This organization was known as "The Phelps Union Soldiers' Aid Society," formed in 1863, and prominently connected with which were Mrs. Hibbard, president; Mrs. Stebbins, vicepresident; Mrs. Browning, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. C. P. Moser, assistant secretary and treasurer; and Mrs. W. A. Smith, Mrs. Jackson, Mrs. A. Hawks, Mrs. A. Swan and Mrs. Williams, directresses. During the course of the war the town of Phelps furnished to all branches of the service a grand total of more than 500 men, although the imperfect records extant show a number slightly less. An examination of the muster rolls will disclose the fact that hardly a regiment formed in Western New York in which were any Ontario county men that did not contain Phelps enlistments. A preceding chapter of this work has narrated, at length the composition of the several companies recruited in whole or in part in the county, and a reference thereto will show the towns which contributed to the county contingent of volunteers.
THE VILLAGE OF PHELPS.
First in importance in this town, and one of the first in commercial and industrial importance in Ontario county, is the incorporated village of Phelps. John Decker Robison was a pioneer of the town, and also of the village, his purchase including a part of the village tract (lying east of the town hail). Seth Dean is also to be mentioned in the same connection, for he also located on the village site and afterward became identified with Oliver Phelps in the erection of a saw-mill on Flint Creek, where the Nelson & Bowker mill of later days was built. However, pioneer Robison laid the real foundation for the subsequent village by erecting in 1793 his famous tavern. The locality at once thereafter became a trade center, and before long we find Orin Redfield in general mercantile business on the land now occupied by the Phelps Hotel. Hotchkiss & McNeil opened trade in 1810 in Root's bar-room, but later on moved to the site of the Odell block. Wing & Nelson began business in 1813 ; Dwight and Partridge in 1816; while David D. Van Auken and the Thayers were later business men. In 1816 Hotchkiss & McNeil built the first brick block in the village.
As is elsewhere stated, Seth Dean built the first grist-mill, and he was followed in the same line by the larger mill built by pioneers Hawks, Dickinson and Bannister, the latter being erected in 1799 on the outlet, while Dean's mill was on Flint Creek. In the village, about 1812, Luther and Francis Root and Erastus Butler built a rather large woolen-mill, and established an industry that prospered about three years and was then abandoned.
In fact, by this time (1812) the village had become a place of much importance, and had industries, and business interests. The truth is that in the early history of this village the whole people were imbued mainly with the spirit of enterprise, while in some other localities large tracts of land, and business interests as well, were held for speculative purposes only. To outsiders, and to wits who spoke in derision, this village was known as "Woodpecker City," yet no person will now venture to trace the origin of the name. In 1812 the village was made a post station under the name of" Vienna," and so called in accordance with the then prevailing custom of naming towns and villages after foreign municipalities (excepting English names, which were even then distasteful to the Yankees). David McNiel was the first postmaster. About the same time mail stage routes were established between Phelps and Geneva, Palmyra and Pittsford. Weekly mails were at first carried by Francis Root and Lyman Williams. As Vienna this village continued without corporate character from 1812 to 1855, and then, under the name of Phelps the court of sessions granted the petition of the people for an incorporation, thereby enabling its citizens to carry to a completion certain desirable improvements which met with some opposition from the residents of the town at large, who were not directly interested in village affairs and property, hence were not willing to be taxed for those improvements. The order of incorporation was granted by Judge Folger in February, 1855, and thereafter the first village trustees were elected, as follows: Zenus Wheeler, Dolphin Stephenson, Harvey Carey, Anson Titus and John Trisler.
Thus constituted and organized, Phelps village entered upon an era of prosperity not before enjoyed during the period of its history. In all these years there had been a gradual and healthful increase in popu_ lation and industry, and at the time of incorporation we find the village possessed of such local institutions as were usual to other similar villages of the county, and 'in many respects was far in advance of some other of the municipalities. It had then church accommodations sufficient for the town's people added to those of the village; the schools were of such character as to commend them to the public favor; and the impetus given to manufacture in various branches made Phelps, forty years ago, a place of much importance. The railroad between Syracuse and Rochester furnished ready transportation to both east and west markets, and before many years passed another thoroughfare of travel provided a north and south outlet. These facilities have been increased quite recently, yet the confession must be made that business in general in the village is not so great in volume as a quarter of a century ago. However, avoiding comment, we may briefly refer to some of the leading institutions of the village, and in a measure trace their growth.
Schools.-Tradition has it that a school was opened in Phelps village prior to 1800, but on this point there is a possibility of doubt. It is well known, however, that in 1805 a school was maintained, in the village, the building standing on the site of the Hotchkiss bank, being a double house, one story in height, and occupied in part as a dwelling.. house. Among the early teachers who are remembered as having charge of the first regular district school were Chloe Warner (better known as Aunt Chloe), Rowland Dewey, Ann Bigelow, Abigail Bigelow, Betsey Newell, Caleb Bannister, Jared Vvillson (later a prominent lawyer at the county seat), Dr. Harry E. Phinney, Miss Knapp, Oliver Moore, Erastus Kellogg and John Chapman.
After the term of Mr. Chapman had expired (in 1820), the district was divided, in order that two schools might be maintained, and to better suit the convenience of the children then living in the vicinity. Therefore the "East" and "West" districts, so-called, were established and each provided with a school-house, that of the east district being of stone and standing just south of St. Francis' Church, and that of the west district being of brick. After the division above mentioned the teachers in the east school were Wm. King, Mr. Noble, Jacob Moon, Erastus Marvin, Ziba Crawford, Chas. E. Pinkney, Sybil Marvin, T. A. Pinkney, Hiram Frazer, John S. Moore, Cornelius Horton, Philander Dawley, J. C. Anderson, Fanny Henry and Mr. Coon, the latter concluding his period of service about 1845. Among the teachers in the other districts during the same period were Cornelius E. Crosby, Richard Marvin, F. Root and Ann S. Frazer. However, about the year 1845, the districts were consolidated, and in 1846 the large brick building now owned by district number eight was built. In after years material repairs were made, but in 1890 the new rear addition was erected, while the general structure was entirely remodeled. Also about the same time (1846) the Phelps Union and Classical School was incorporated, and the affairs of its management vested in a Board of Education. This proceeding placed the Phelps school on a level with the best academic institutions of the county, and at that time it took the name above mentioned.
Succession of Principals: Lewis Peck, Thomas Purington, W. F. Crosby, Ziba H. Potter, Ezra J. Peck, Rev. Ferris Scott, Lockwood Hoyt, John S. Coe, Ezra J. Peck, James S. Root, H. C. Kirk, Geo. W. Rafter, H. C. Kirk, F. M. Smith, Cicero Hutchins, Daniel D. Edgerton. The members of the Board of Education are as follows: H. K. Bowker, president; Wm. B. Hobbie, secretary; and F. H. Wisewell, Dr. Wm. Howe and Edward Hicks.
The village fire department is equipped with one serviceable hand engine, controlled and operated by the Crothers Fire Engine Company; and a good hook and ladder apparatus, operated by the Redfield Hook and Ladder Company. In the spring of 1889 the village gave permission to the Phelps Water Works Company to lay water mains through the principal streets. Although a local improvement, the stock of this company is owned by non residents. The water supply is taken from the locality known as Melvin Hill.
The Baptist church of Phelps village was organized January 31, 1843, although a society of this denomination was formed in the town as early as 1808, and was known as the First Baptist Church of Phelps. The old society continued in existence from 1808 to about the year 1860, but its life was one of vicissitudes and hardships. For many years its meetings were held in school-houses and other convenient places, and not until about 1831 was a minister employed. The Second and Third Baptist churches of Phelps were the outgrowths of this mother society. However, in 1843 the Baptists of the village were sufficiently strong in ntimbers and influence to accomplish the formation of a society, and on January 31 the organization was effected with fifty-one original members. The first pastor was J. H. Stebbins, followed, in succession, by Revs. Bingham, Luke Davis, G. W. Mead, J. M. Wade, C. M. Newland, M. W. Holmes, W. D. Woodruff, H. C. De Witt, Mr. Chase, C. A. Vottley and others. The membership of this church is now small. The church edifice was built in 1845 and dedicated in 1847. The present pastoral supply is Rev. Mr. Long.
The Presbyterian church of Phelps village was organized May 10, 1831, with sixty constituent members, under the pastoral charge of Rev. Levi Griswold. A comfortable church edifice was erected for the society on what is now known as Church street, and here the society met and prospered, growing constantly in numbers and influence, until certain dissensions worked a division in the church, followed by the withdrawal of about twenty members in 1840, who organized a new society and held regular services. In 1858 the old school adherents, having then become numerous, built a large and commodious edifice on Main street, while the dissentients occupied the old building on Church street. However, about 1869 or 1870 the factions were once more united and consolidated, and all worshiped thereafter in the Main street edifice. The building on Church street was then sold to the bishop of the diocese for the use of the parish of St. Francis' Roman Catholic church. The Presbyterian church of the village is a large organization, and is under the pastoral care of Rev. Wm. Henry Bates, who was in January, 1892, called to succeed Dr. Porter. This society has a large Sunday school, and also helps to support several benevolent dependencies.
St. John's Episcopal church was founded in 1832. Its early services were held in public buildings until 1845 when the erection of the stone church edifice was completed and consecrated in 1856. The communicating membership numbers fifty-three. The rectors in succession have been Erastus Spaulding, Edward de Zeng, Eli Wheeler, Erastus Spaulding (second rectorship), Dr. Kendrick Metcalf, Francis T. Russell, Dr. Wm. B. Edson (who died December, 1892), and Dr. Charles Wells Hayes. St. John's has an endowment fund of $12,500, the gift of the well-known Stanley family; the rectory lot also was given to the society by the same generous donors.
The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Phelps, or, as legally organized, the "First Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church," had a beginning in this village and locality during the early years of the present century, although the formal organization was not effected until July 19, 1831, at which time Josiah Maffitt, Erastus S. Morin and Caleb Bannister were elected trustees. In 1856 the substantial brick church edifice on Main street was erected. The church has a present membership of about 200, and a Sunday school with about i 50 pupils. The present pastor is Rev. Platt T. Hughston.
St. Francis' Roman Catholic Church. A mission was established in Phelps in July, 1856, which afterward developed into a parish and church organization, and named as above mentioned, in 1857. The parish of course includes all the Catholic families of the village and vicinity, and is under the pastoral care of Father A. M. O'Niel. As has been mentioned in an earlier church history, the congregation of St. Francis' own and occupy the building formerly used by the Presbyterian society.
The record of the press of Phelps village forms a brief though interesting local history, and while the newspaper publications have not been many the proprietors have indeed been numerous; almost "too numerous to mention." About the year 1832 the Phelps Citizen and Clifton Springs News was founded, but since that time the paper, in its various stages of prosperity, and under its numerous proprietorships, has been known as the Vienna Advertiser, The Phelps Democrat, The Western Atlas, The Phelps Union Star, The Phelps citizen, The Ontario Citizen and News, and finally, as at present permanently established, as The Phelps Citizen. And we may here state, parenthetically, perhaps, that at no time during the entire history of the paper (or papers) has its success been greater than at present-under the management of Bussey Brothers. It is a bright, newsy, clean and interesting publication, enjoying a large circulation and liberal advertising patronage.
Other papers of the village, which have had a transient existence only, were The Neighbor's Home Mail and The Phelps Advertiser.
As a manufacturing locality Phelps village has for many years held a position of importance among the municipalities of the county. The two principal waterways of the town-Canandaigua Lake outlet and Flint Creek-have provided abundant mill sites and privileges, and while the former stream has its general course north of the village, its principal influences have ever extended to the village and contributed to its welfare. Flint Creek is a stream of good size and crosses the village in an east and west direction, and its "fall" being considerable, abundant power has been provided for operating the machinery of the many mills which have for nearly a century lined its banks. In a preceding portion of this chapter reference has been made to the old milling and manufacturing enterprises that have been operated in the vicinity, wherefore a repetition of them here is unnecessary; nor in the present connection need we be confined by corporate limits, for the adjoining mills are quite a part of the local interests, and may be so treated.
The commonly called Stone Mill, but in fact the old "Farmers' and Mechanics' Mill," now owned by the estate of Dr. J. Q. Howe, was built in 1834, under the ownership of F. Van Demark; A. More, builder. This mill is in the center of the village, and in the immediate vicinity is the basket factory of Henry J. Whiting, which formerly was the Miller & Hoff mill; also the malt-house of Oliver Crothers & Son, the store-house and machine shop. The old Edmonston mills, which were erected in 1819 are no longer used as originally built, but are now the cider mill and brandy distillery of Peter Garlock. The mill is north of the Phelps Hotel. The Red Mill at Phelps, built many years ago by Wm. Hildreth, has not been in operation during the last fifteen years.
The old foundry and machine shop and edge tool factory of Thompson & Co. is now a part of the extensive plow- works of G. H. Parmelee. The carriage factory of S Bowker is a thing of the past, the shop having been sold to other persons who for a time made thermometers, but afterward suspended business.
The Ontario Mills are half a mile northeast of Phelps, on the Newark road. Here are made about sixty barrels of flour daily. Fridley Bros. are proprietors. Next west of this place is the location of the Empire Mills, of which Philander Mott is proprietor. Still farther west is the Plainesville Mill.
At Unionville, which was formerly a place of some note, is the site of the once well-known Unionville Mill, originally built in 1839, also the New Mill, on the site of the old paper-mill. Although still in operation, now owned by R. A. Willing, this locality has lost its former prestige. The roller flour-mill here has a seventy-five barrel capacity.
A little farther east is the old Swift mill site, where General Swift built a small mill in pioneer days, and here a mill has ever since been continuously maintained. Since 1858 Jesse Barlow (now sole owner) has had an interest in the property. The present large mill was built in 1882, and has a fifty barrel capacity. Unionville, though once a busy locality, has lost its primitive importance.
The Crown Manufacturing Company, by far the largest industry of Phelps, was incorporated in 1883; capital $100,000. The large building was erected the same year, and here are manufactured annually about one thousand Crown Grain and Fertilizer Drills, and about one thousand two hundred Crown Wheel-barrow Grass Sowers. About fifty men are employed in the works. The officers of the company are Benj. F. Prichard, pres.; Geo. C. Prichard, vice-pres. and treas., and Edward H. Leggett, sec. The officers are also directors. Summarizing briefly, it is found that the manufacturing interests of Phelps at the present time are the Crown Manufacturing Company; Fridley Bros., millers; Peter Garlock & Son, cider and brandy manufacturers; Jno. Q. Howe & Sons, millers; Calvin McIntyre & Son, maltsters; J. K. Nester, maltster; G. H. Parmelee, plow manufacturer; the Phelps Chilled Plow Works of G. H. Parmelee; H. C. & T. C. Severance, carriage manufacturers.
In 1857 L. B. Hotchkiss opened a private bank in Phelps. Thaddeus O. Hotchkiss succeeded to the business in 1869, and Wm. B. Hotchkiss & Co. succeeded to the last mentioned owner in 1879. The banking firm of Jno. H. Roy & Co. began business in February, 1883. The personnel of the firm is as follows: John H. Roy, Simeon K. Bowker, Wm. T. Van Vranken, Isaac Roy, and Isaac Roy 2d.
The villages and hamlets of the town, except Phelps, are small and have been of little importance as elements of local history. Of those worthy of mention Orleans is the largest, and is a station on the line of the Sodus Point and Southern Railroad It is situated in the southwest part of the town, on Flint Creek, which stream has been utilized to some extent in furnishing mill power. The Blythe Mills are to be mentioned as among the industries of first importance in this locality. The public properties, past and present, have been the district school, the M. E. church, the Baptist church and the H. P. Chapel. The M. E. church building was sold to the Presbyterians and its congregation joined with the church at Seneca Castle.
The Baptist church at Orleans was organized in 1819, under the ministry of Elder Shay, its first pastor It had fifty-eight original members, among whom were a number of the pioneers of the town and their descendants. The first church edifice was built in 1820, burned in 1846, and soon afterward replaced with a more substantial structure.
Oaks' Corners is the name of a small hamlet situated three miles southeast of Phelps village, and attained an early prominence from the efforts of pioneer Jonathan Oaks, who built a hotel here as early as 1793, and who also contributed much to the general welfare and development of the town.
A Presbyterian society was informally organized here in 1803, and in the next year the organization was perfected by Rev. Jedediah Chapman, the original members numbering fourteen persons. The society of this church has experienced many vicissitudes, yet its life has been constant to the present time. Originally organized as Congregational, it became Presbyterian in 1811 and so continues. The edifice was built in 1804, and still stands, a neat and well preserved structure. Frequent repairs have been made to the building. The present membership is one hundred, and in the Sunday-school are over eighty pupils. The pastor is Rev. Henry W. Maier, whose term began June 1, 1893, succeeding Rev. Samuel Murdock.
Melvin Hill is a settlement in the southeast part of the town. The village of Clifton Springs includes within its corporate limits a portion of the town of Phelps, a subject more fully discussed in another chapter. Gypsum is a hamlet north of Clifton Springs and extends over the town line into Phelps, but it is a settlement belonging chiefly to Manchester.
In this chapter occasional reference has been made to the early schools opened in the town, and however interesting might be found a complete history of each from the time of founding, such a record is impossible in consequence of insufficient minutes and record books. According to the present arrangement the town of Phelps has a total of twenty-four school districts, four of which (Nos. 3, 5, 7 and 10) have no school-house. The school census of 1892 shows the number of children of school age to be 1,614; number of teachers employed, thirty.three; amount received from all sources for school purposes, $18,056.80; paid to teachers, $10,959.49; total value of school buildings and sites, $48,120. Of the school buildings in the town, thirteen are of brick, five of frame and two of stone.
FROM: HISTORY OF ONTARIO COUNTY NEW YORK
EDITD BY: GEORGE S. CONOVER
COMPILED BY LEWIS CASS ALDRIDGE
PUBLISHED BY D. MASON & CO., PUBLISHERS
SARACUSE, N. Y., 1893
HISTORY OF THE TOWN OF PHELPS.
THE town of Phelps includes within its boundaries the northern half of township No. 10 and the southern part of No. 11 in the first range, together with all that part of the "gore" lying east of the portion above mentioned. This town or district was originally known as "Sullivan," and so named in allusion to General Sullivan, the commander of the historic expedition against the western Indians during the summer and fall of 1779. Upon the organization of the town in 1796, at the solicitation of the proprietary, the name was changed to "Phelps;" in consideration of which change it is said that Oliver Phelps regaled the inhabitants with a sumptuous feast at the tavern of Jon athan Oaks.
The honor of being the pioneer settler of this town is generally conceded to John Decker Robison, and enough of history on this subject has been furnished by past writers to fill a volume; but in the present narrative we mainly rely on the accuracy of the statements of Dr. Caleb Bannister in his address before the Agricultural Society in 1852. According to the address, in the summer of 1888, James Robison, son of the pioneer, was employed with Nathaniel Sanborn to drive 100 head of cattle into the Genesee country, which were intended as presents to the Indians, in order to conciliate their friendship and good will, that subsequent negotiations for their title to the lands might be consummated with as little difficulty as possible. Robison and Sanborn reached Geneva with the cattle on June 3, 1788, and on the next day John Decker Robison arrived at the same place. The latter at once proceeded to the town of Phelps, as afterward known, but then unnamed, and settled on lot No. 14 in township 11, first range, which was surveyed to contain 320 acres of land, but by an error the tract actually contained more than 320 acres, and its total cost to the pioneer was not far from $100.
The foregoing statement is corroborated by the fact that the consideration was paid by Robison in building for Phelps and Gorham a house in Canandaigua, according to the following contract:
Memorandum of an agreement between William Walker on the one part and John D. Robison of the other part, witnesseth, that the said Robinson doth agree to Build for the said Walker a house at Canadauque of the Same Dimensions and in the same manner as the house now building by Captain Bartles at Geneva, with this Variation, viz.: he is to build but one Chimney and is not either of the floors, or make the Doors or window Shets, he is to board himself and procure all the materials except nails, the building is to be completed every way as well as the said Bartles, there is to be a twelve square, seven by nine Glass Window frame in the front and rear of each room, the work is to be completed this fall, for which the said Walker doth agree to pay the said Robinson forty pounds New York Currency in the following manner, viz.: in provisions Sufficient for him the said Robinson's self and hands, while building said house, and the remainder in a Lot of Land in No. Eleven, first range, to be valued according to Quality and Situation, reckoning the whole Township at two Shillings per acre, and if the said Lot should be found to exceed the Remainder of the said forty pounds, said Walker agrees to take his pay in Said Robinson's Labour after the first day of June next, when the said Walker may demand it, witness our hands interchangeably, Signed this Twentyeighth day of October, in the year of our Lord, 1788.
WM. WALKER,
JOHN DK'R ROBISON.
Witnesses present, Ezekiel Scott, Enos Boughton.
The above building was used as a land office and for the residence of Judge Walker, the agent for surveys and sales of Phelps and Gorham.
This worthy pioneer, John Decker Robison, built and opened a tavern on his tract in 1793, the first event of its kind in the town; also his son, Harry H. Robison, was the first white child born in the town. The Robison purchase included a part of the Phelps village site, being that portion thereof lying east of the town hall. In 1789 Mr. Robison's family came to the town, and nine days later there also came Pierce and Elihu Granger, Nathaniel Sanborn and a Mr. Gould, but all these returned to Connecticut (for all were Yankees) in the fall, leaving Robison and his family alone in the town, eight miles from the nearest settlement (Geneva.) Following those who have been mentioned, the next settlers in the town were Jonathan Oaks, Seth Dean, Oliver Humphrey, Charles Humphrey and Elias Dickinson. In 1793 or '94 Mr. Oaks built a large frame house, which for many years was occupied as a hotel, and was located at Oaks' Corners, a small hamlet of the town, its name being applied in honor of the pioneer. This was the second frame tavern west of Geneva, a place of much note in early days, while its founder was hardly less prominent in the new community. Philetus Swift was a pioneer of 1789, a man of much energy and influence, particularly in early political history; and as well was he prominent in military affairs, he being commander of a company during the war of 1812. Seth Dean, who has been mentioned, was a pioneer on the Phelps village site, and here in company with Oliver Phelps he erected a saw-mill on Flint Creek, on the location where an industry of some sort afterward became a fixture.
Another very prominent early pioneer was Dr. Joel Prescott, who settled in the town at an early day and was one of the prominent physicians of the county. He came to this region as early as May, 1788, and, probably, for a while resided at Kanadesaga, as during that and the succeeding year his name is found as a witness on several papers dated at that place. At the first town meeting in Phelps, 1796, Dr. Prescott was elected school commissioner and assessor, was appointed justice of peace, January, 1798, was supervisor of the town from 1797 to 1809 inclusive, except 1805, and for several years chairman of the board; was school commissioner of the town for several years. He located on a farm one. mile west of Oaks' Corners, and was the first physician of Phelps, his practice being very extensive and laborious with the old time saddle bags strapped to his saddle. He was married in Phelps to Lucy Reed, September 8, 1793, and had seven children, two of whom died in infancy, the rest living to mature years. His home was among the earliest of frame houses in the town. With an active interest and efficient in rendering them he was repeatedly placed in positions of trust by his fellow-citizens, and so great was the esteem for him that his counsels were called for in all departments of life. He was born June 20, 1759, and died October 5, 1841. His funeral took place on the afternoon of Sunday, October 6, and was attended by the largest number of people that had ever before been gathered together on such an occasion, from 1,000 to 1,200 being present, among whom were the principal and prominent men of Geneva and the surrounding country.
The following is worthy of a record in this place. Horatio Jones was one of the early pioneers at Kanadesaga or Geneva. In 1788 he was joined by his brother, John H., at that place, and having obtained a yoke of oxen in the spring of 1789, the two brothers went into the town of Phelps, found an open spot, ploughed and planted five or six acres of corn, which they sold on the ground, and finally removed to the west of the Genesee River.
Referring again to the address of Dr. Bannister, we find the names of other early settlers, among them being John Salisbury, who settled in 1791 a short distance west of Melvin Hill. Also in the same year came Walter Chase and Nicholas Pullen; in 1792, John Patten and David Boyd; in 1793, Jonathan Melvin; in 1794, John Sherman; in 1795, Osee Crittenden and Cornelius Westfall; in 1796, Jesse Warner and John Newhall; in 1797, Theodore and Lemuel Bannister, who located just north of Oaks' Corners. Another account says Theo. Bannister settled in 1798, and Lemuel one year later, which latter is probably correct. Deacon John Warner was a pioneer at Orleans, while the first settler at Melvin Hill was Jonathan Melvin, from whom the hill derived its name. Jesse Warner settled at Warner Hill, east of Flint Creek. Joseph Vandemark, Lodowick Vandemark, John and Patrick Burnett, came about or during the year 1794. Lodowick was a skillful millwright, and put up an excellent saw-mill in the town. Other early settlers were Coil Roy, Joseph, Eleazer and Cephas Hawks, Augustus Dickinson, and others now forgotten. About 1799 Cephas Hawks, Augustus Dickinson and Theo. Bannister built a grist-mill on the outlet, on the site in later years known successively as Dickinson's, Norton's, and the Exchange Mills.
In 1800 George Wilson and Harvey Stephenson came to the town, followed in 1802 or '3 by John Hildreth. John R. Green was the first merchant at Oaks' Corners. Wills Whitman came with the Oaks. The first marriage in the town was that of Joseph Annin with the daughter of pioneer Seth Reed. Magistrate Thomas Sisson performed the ceremony. Cephas Hawks erected the first plaster-mill, and about the same time Luther and Francis Root, Ezekiel Webb, and Nathaniel Hall, bought the Seth Dean grist-mill, and converted it into a plastermill.
The persons who have been mentioned thus far in this narrative were, it is thought, the pioneers of the town of Phelps; there may have been others whose names are lost and forgotten, but drawing information from all reliable sources, the statements above made are probably accurate in general. It will be observed that when once begun the settlement progressed rapidly; in fact, in 1796, on April i, the inhabitants were so many that it became advisable to organize the town and elect officers. Prior to this time the town formed part of a district, and was known as Sullivan, as has been stated, but at the time of organization the name was changed to Phelps. We may further state that according to Dr. Bannister the change in name from Sullivan to Phelps was made in 1795. Boyd's Gazetteer of the State of New York, Albany, 1872, states that Phelps was formed in 1796, under the act of January 27, 1779.
The officers elected at the first town meeting were as follows: Supervisor, Jonathan Oaks; town clerk, Solomon Goodale; assessors, Joel Prescott, Philetus Swift and Pierce Granger; collector, Augustus Dickinson; overseers of the poor, Oliver Humphrey and Patrick Burnett; commissioners of highways, Jesse Warner, Oliver Humphrey and Philetus Swift; overseers of highways, Cornelius Westfall, Abram D. Spurn, Charles Humphrey, Elijah Gates, John Patten, Augustus Dickinson, David Woodard; pound-master, Jonathan Oaks.
The present town officers are: Wm. E. Edmonston, supervisor; Jno. T. Watkins, town clerk; Lysander Redfield, Richard M. Green, Jesse P. Warner and Jno. B. Armstrong, justices; Staiham Crittenden, Wm. H. Hunt and Judson Raymer, assessors; Russell B. Cobb, Thos. H. Gerow, Samuel Cuddeback, commissioners of highways; Jno. M. White, overseer of the poor; Willard R. Laughlin, collector; Epenetus T. Lamb, James T. Sweeney, Adrian Easterly, commissioners of excise.
Succession of Supervisors: Jonathan Oaks, 1796; Joel Prescott, 1797-1804, and 1806-09; Pierce Granger, 1805; Elihu Granger, 1810-11; Wm. Burnett, 1812-13, and 1816-17; Lemuel Bannister, jr., 1814; Thaddeus Bannister, 1815; Philetus Swift, 1818-22; Wm. Hildreth, sen., 1823-26; Thos. Edmonston, 1827; Jas. Van Demark, 1828-29, and 1832-33 Richard D. Cuyler, 1831 ; David McNiel, 1834; Isaac M. Norton, 1835; Fred'k Van Demark, 1836-37; Wm. Dickinson, 1838-40; Jno. S. Harris, 1841-42; Moses Chapman, 1843; Cornelius Horton, 1844-52; Henry C. Swift, 1853; Hubbard McLoud, 1854; Sylvanus B. Pond, 1855; Lewis Peck, 1856-59; Ambrose L. Van Dusen, 1860; Nathan Oaks, 1861-64; Lysander Redfield, 1865; Henry Ray, 1866-67; Horatio N. Mather, 1868; Samuel E. Horton, 1869-70; David Cosad, jr., 1871; Thaddeus O. Hotchkiss, 1872-73, and 1875-79; Hamilton McBurney, 1874; Jno. C. Warner, 1880; Benj. F. Odell, 1881-82; Abram S. Smith, 1883-87; Thaddeus 0. Hotchkiss, 1888-90; Geo. B. Shepperd, 1891; Wm. C. Edmonston, 1892-93.
On the 11th of April, 1823, a portion of the town of Phelps was set off to Lyons, Wayne county, therefore to correctly note subsequent changes in population we may properly begin with the federal census of 1830. In that year the number of inhabitants in the town was 4,798; ten years later it had increased to 5,563; in 1850 was 5,542; in 1860 was 5,586, the greatest number ever attained in its history. By 1870 it had fallen to 5,130. During the next decade it increased to 5,189, and by 1890 had again fallen to 5,086, which is about the present population. From this we discover that Phelps had a less population in 1890 than in 1840, or half a century before.
Among the pioneers of Phelps were a number of Revolutionary survivors, the names of some of whom can still be recalled, but there were others who are now forgotten. At a later period, and during what may more properly be termed the early history of the town, the inhabitants were called upon to furnish men for frontier service in the second war with Great Britain. The enrolled militia of Phelps were frequently under arms during the War of 1812-15, and also they performed duty on the Niagara frontier. Unfortunately no reliable record of the Phelps company has been preserved. However it was during the War of 1861-65 that the men of the town made their most glorious military record, at a time when the population of Phelps had reached its maximum, in 1860, the number of inhabitants then being 5,586. In 1861 the war began, and from that time until no more volunteers were needed, Phelps was ever ready to contribute men and means for the prosecution of the war. More than that, the patriotic people of the town, both men and women, had local organizations the object of which was to relieve and administer to the personal comfort of the sick and wounded soldiers. This organization was known as "The Phelps Union Soldiers' Aid Society," formed in 1863, and prominently connected with which were Mrs. Hibbard, president; Mrs. Stebbins, vicepresident; Mrs. Browning, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. C. P. Moser, assistant secretary and treasurer; and Mrs. W. A. Smith, Mrs. Jackson, Mrs. A. Hawks, Mrs. A. Swan and Mrs. Williams, directresses. During the course of the war the town of Phelps furnished to all branches of the service a grand total of more than 500 men, although the imperfect records extant show a number slightly less. An examination of the muster rolls will disclose the fact that hardly a regiment formed in Western New York in which were any Ontario county men that did not contain Phelps enlistments. A preceding chapter of this work has narrated, at length the composition of the several companies recruited in whole or in part in the county, and a reference thereto will show the towns which contributed to the county contingent of volunteers.
THE VILLAGE OF PHELPS.
First in importance in this town, and one of the first in commercial and industrial importance in Ontario county, is the incorporated village of Phelps. John Decker Robison was a pioneer of the town, and also of the village, his purchase including a part of the village tract (lying east of the town hail). Seth Dean is also to be mentioned in the same connection, for he also located on the village site and afterward became identified with Oliver Phelps in the erection of a saw-mill on Flint Creek, where the Nelson & Bowker mill of later days was built. However, pioneer Robison laid the real foundation for the subsequent village by erecting in 1793 his famous tavern. The locality at once thereafter became a trade center, and before long we find Orin Redfield in general mercantile business on the land now occupied by the Phelps Hotel. Hotchkiss & McNeil opened trade in 1810 in Root's bar-room, but later on moved to the site of the Odell block. Wing & Nelson began business in 1813 ; Dwight and Partridge in 1816; while David D. Van Auken and the Thayers were later business men. In 1816 Hotchkiss & McNeil built the first brick block in the village.
As is elsewhere stated, Seth Dean built the first grist-mill, and he was followed in the same line by the larger mill built by pioneers Hawks, Dickinson and Bannister, the latter being erected in 1799 on the outlet, while Dean's mill was on Flint Creek. In the village, about 1812, Luther and Francis Root and Erastus Butler built a rather large woolen-mill, and established an industry that prospered about three years and was then abandoned.
In fact, by this time (1812) the village had become a place of much importance, and had industries, and business interests. The truth is that in the early history of this village the whole people were imbued mainly with the spirit of enterprise, while in some other localities large tracts of land, and business interests as well, were held for speculative purposes only. To outsiders, and to wits who spoke in derision, this village was known as "Woodpecker City," yet no person will now venture to trace the origin of the name. In 1812 the village was made a post station under the name of" Vienna," and so called in accordance with the then prevailing custom of naming towns and villages after foreign municipalities (excepting English names, which were even then distasteful to the Yankees). David McNiel was the first postmaster. About the same time mail stage routes were established between Phelps and Geneva, Palmyra and Pittsford. Weekly mails were at first carried by Francis Root and Lyman Williams. As Vienna this village continued without corporate character from 1812 to 1855, and then, under the name of Phelps the court of sessions granted the petition of the people for an incorporation, thereby enabling its citizens to carry to a completion certain desirable improvements which met with some opposition from the residents of the town at large, who were not directly interested in village affairs and property, hence were not willing to be taxed for those improvements. The order of incorporation was granted by Judge Folger in February, 1855, and thereafter the first village trustees were elected, as follows: Zenus Wheeler, Dolphin Stephenson, Harvey Carey, Anson Titus and John Trisler.
Thus constituted and organized, Phelps village entered upon an era of prosperity not before enjoyed during the period of its history. In all these years there had been a gradual and healthful increase in popu_ lation and industry, and at the time of incorporation we find the village possessed of such local institutions as were usual to other similar villages of the county, and 'in many respects was far in advance of some other of the municipalities. It had then church accommodations sufficient for the town's people added to those of the village; the schools were of such character as to commend them to the public favor; and the impetus given to manufacture in various branches made Phelps, forty years ago, a place of much importance. The railroad between Syracuse and Rochester furnished ready transportation to both east and west markets, and before many years passed another thoroughfare of travel provided a north and south outlet. These facilities have been increased quite recently, yet the confession must be made that business in general in the village is not so great in volume as a quarter of a century ago. However, avoiding comment, we may briefly refer to some of the leading institutions of the village, and in a measure trace their growth.
Schools.-Tradition has it that a school was opened in Phelps village prior to 1800, but on this point there is a possibility of doubt. It is well known, however, that in 1805 a school was maintained, in the village, the building standing on the site of the Hotchkiss bank, being a double house, one story in height, and occupied in part as a dwelling.. house. Among the early teachers who are remembered as having charge of the first regular district school were Chloe Warner (better known as Aunt Chloe), Rowland Dewey, Ann Bigelow, Abigail Bigelow, Betsey Newell, Caleb Bannister, Jared Vvillson (later a prominent lawyer at the county seat), Dr. Harry E. Phinney, Miss Knapp, Oliver Moore, Erastus Kellogg and John Chapman.
After the term of Mr. Chapman had expired (in 1820), the district was divided, in order that two schools might be maintained, and to better suit the convenience of the children then living in the vicinity. Therefore the "East" and "West" districts, so-called, were established and each provided with a school-house, that of the east district being of stone and standing just south of St. Francis' Church, and that of the west district being of brick. After the division above mentioned the teachers in the east school were Wm. King, Mr. Noble, Jacob Moon, Erastus Marvin, Ziba Crawford, Chas. E. Pinkney, Sybil Marvin, T. A. Pinkney, Hiram Frazer, John S. Moore, Cornelius Horton, Philander Dawley, J. C. Anderson, Fanny Henry and Mr. Coon, the latter concluding his period of service about 1845. Among the teachers in the other districts during the same period were Cornelius E. Crosby, Richard Marvin, F. Root and Ann S. Frazer. However, about the year 1845, the districts were consolidated, and in 1846 the large brick building now owned by district number eight was built. In after years material repairs were made, but in 1890 the new rear addition was erected, while the general structure was entirely remodeled. Also about the same time (1846) the Phelps Union and Classical School was incorporated, and the affairs of its management vested in a Board of Education. This proceeding placed the Phelps school on a level with the best academic institutions of the county, and at that time it took the name above mentioned.
Succession of Principals: Lewis Peck, Thomas Purington, W. F. Crosby, Ziba H. Potter, Ezra J. Peck, Rev. Ferris Scott, Lockwood Hoyt, John S. Coe, Ezra J. Peck, James S. Root, H. C. Kirk, Geo. W. Rafter, H. C. Kirk, F. M. Smith, Cicero Hutchins, Daniel D. Edgerton. The members of the Board of Education are as follows: H. K. Bowker, president; Wm. B. Hobbie, secretary; and F. H. Wisewell, Dr. Wm. Howe and Edward Hicks.
The village fire department is equipped with one serviceable hand engine, controlled and operated by the Crothers Fire Engine Company; and a good hook and ladder apparatus, operated by the Redfield Hook and Ladder Company. In the spring of 1889 the village gave permission to the Phelps Water Works Company to lay water mains through the principal streets. Although a local improvement, the stock of this company is owned by non residents. The water supply is taken from the locality known as Melvin Hill.
The Baptist church of Phelps village was organized January 31, 1843, although a society of this denomination was formed in the town as early as 1808, and was known as the First Baptist Church of Phelps. The old society continued in existence from 1808 to about the year 1860, but its life was one of vicissitudes and hardships. For many years its meetings were held in school-houses and other convenient places, and not until about 1831 was a minister employed. The Second and Third Baptist churches of Phelps were the outgrowths of this mother society. However, in 1843 the Baptists of the village were sufficiently strong in ntimbers and influence to accomplish the formation of a society, and on January 31 the organization was effected with fifty-one original members. The first pastor was J. H. Stebbins, followed, in succession, by Revs. Bingham, Luke Davis, G. W. Mead, J. M. Wade, C. M. Newland, M. W. Holmes, W. D. Woodruff, H. C. De Witt, Mr. Chase, C. A. Vottley and others. The membership of this church is now small. The church edifice was built in 1845 and dedicated in 1847. The present pastoral supply is Rev. Mr. Long.
The Presbyterian church of Phelps village was organized May 10, 1831, with sixty constituent members, under the pastoral charge of Rev. Levi Griswold. A comfortable church edifice was erected for the society on what is now known as Church street, and here the society met and prospered, growing constantly in numbers and influence, until certain dissensions worked a division in the church, followed by the withdrawal of about twenty members in 1840, who organized a new society and held regular services. In 1858 the old school adherents, having then become numerous, built a large and commodious edifice on Main street, while the dissentients occupied the old building on Church street. However, about 1869 or 1870 the factions were once more united and consolidated, and all worshiped thereafter in the Main street edifice. The building on Church street was then sold to the bishop of the diocese for the use of the parish of St. Francis' Roman Catholic church. The Presbyterian church of the village is a large organization, and is under the pastoral care of Rev. Wm. Henry Bates, who was in January, 1892, called to succeed Dr. Porter. This society has a large Sunday school, and also helps to support several benevolent dependencies.
St. John's Episcopal church was founded in 1832. Its early services were held in public buildings until 1845 when the erection of the stone church edifice was completed and consecrated in 1856. The communicating membership numbers fifty-three. The rectors in succession have been Erastus Spaulding, Edward de Zeng, Eli Wheeler, Erastus Spaulding (second rectorship), Dr. Kendrick Metcalf, Francis T. Russell, Dr. Wm. B. Edson (who died December, 1892), and Dr. Charles Wells Hayes. St. John's has an endowment fund of $12,500, the gift of the well-known Stanley family; the rectory lot also was given to the society by the same generous donors.
The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Phelps, or, as legally organized, the "First Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church," had a beginning in this village and locality during the early years of the present century, although the formal organization was not effected until July 19, 1831, at which time Josiah Maffitt, Erastus S. Morin and Caleb Bannister were elected trustees. In 1856 the substantial brick church edifice on Main street was erected. The church has a present membership of about 200, and a Sunday school with about i 50 pupils. The present pastor is Rev. Platt T. Hughston.
St. Francis' Roman Catholic Church. A mission was established in Phelps in July, 1856, which afterward developed into a parish and church organization, and named as above mentioned, in 1857. The parish of course includes all the Catholic families of the village and vicinity, and is under the pastoral care of Father A. M. O'Niel. As has been mentioned in an earlier church history, the congregation of St. Francis' own and occupy the building formerly used by the Presbyterian society.
The record of the press of Phelps village forms a brief though interesting local history, and while the newspaper publications have not been many the proprietors have indeed been numerous; almost "too numerous to mention." About the year 1832 the Phelps Citizen and Clifton Springs News was founded, but since that time the paper, in its various stages of prosperity, and under its numerous proprietorships, has been known as the Vienna Advertiser, The Phelps Democrat, The Western Atlas, The Phelps Union Star, The Phelps citizen, The Ontario Citizen and News, and finally, as at present permanently established, as The Phelps Citizen. And we may here state, parenthetically, perhaps, that at no time during the entire history of the paper (or papers) has its success been greater than at present-under the management of Bussey Brothers. It is a bright, newsy, clean and interesting publication, enjoying a large circulation and liberal advertising patronage.
Other papers of the village, which have had a transient existence only, were The Neighbor's Home Mail and The Phelps Advertiser.
As a manufacturing locality Phelps village has for many years held a position of importance among the municipalities of the county. The two principal waterways of the town-Canandaigua Lake outlet and Flint Creek-have provided abundant mill sites and privileges, and while the former stream has its general course north of the village, its principal influences have ever extended to the village and contributed to its welfare. Flint Creek is a stream of good size and crosses the village in an east and west direction, and its "fall" being considerable, abundant power has been provided for operating the machinery of the many mills which have for nearly a century lined its banks. In a preceding portion of this chapter reference has been made to the old milling and manufacturing enterprises that have been operated in the vicinity, wherefore a repetition of them here is unnecessary; nor in the present connection need we be confined by corporate limits, for the adjoining mills are quite a part of the local interests, and may be so treated.
The commonly called Stone Mill, but in fact the old "Farmers' and Mechanics' Mill," now owned by the estate of Dr. J. Q. Howe, was built in 1834, under the ownership of F. Van Demark; A. More, builder. This mill is in the center of the village, and in the immediate vicinity is the basket factory of Henry J. Whiting, which formerly was the Miller & Hoff mill; also the malt-house of Oliver Crothers & Son, the store-house and machine shop. The old Edmonston mills, which were erected in 1819 are no longer used as originally built, but are now the cider mill and brandy distillery of Peter Garlock. The mill is north of the Phelps Hotel. The Red Mill at Phelps, built many years ago by Wm. Hildreth, has not been in operation during the last fifteen years.
The old foundry and machine shop and edge tool factory of Thompson & Co. is now a part of the extensive plow- works of G. H. Parmelee. The carriage factory of S Bowker is a thing of the past, the shop having been sold to other persons who for a time made thermometers, but afterward suspended business.
The Ontario Mills are half a mile northeast of Phelps, on the Newark road. Here are made about sixty barrels of flour daily. Fridley Bros. are proprietors. Next west of this place is the location of the Empire Mills, of which Philander Mott is proprietor. Still farther west is the Plainesville Mill.
At Unionville, which was formerly a place of some note, is the site of the once well-known Unionville Mill, originally built in 1839, also the New Mill, on the site of the old paper-mill. Although still in operation, now owned by R. A. Willing, this locality has lost its former prestige. The roller flour-mill here has a seventy-five barrel capacity.
A little farther east is the old Swift mill site, where General Swift built a small mill in pioneer days, and here a mill has ever since been continuously maintained. Since 1858 Jesse Barlow (now sole owner) has had an interest in the property. The present large mill was built in 1882, and has a fifty barrel capacity. Unionville, though once a busy locality, has lost its primitive importance.
The Crown Manufacturing Company, by far the largest industry of Phelps, was incorporated in 1883; capital $100,000. The large building was erected the same year, and here are manufactured annually about one thousand Crown Grain and Fertilizer Drills, and about one thousand two hundred Crown Wheel-barrow Grass Sowers. About fifty men are employed in the works. The officers of the company are Benj. F. Prichard, pres.; Geo. C. Prichard, vice-pres. and treas., and Edward H. Leggett, sec. The officers are also directors. Summarizing briefly, it is found that the manufacturing interests of Phelps at the present time are the Crown Manufacturing Company; Fridley Bros., millers; Peter Garlock & Son, cider and brandy manufacturers; Jno. Q. Howe & Sons, millers; Calvin McIntyre & Son, maltsters; J. K. Nester, maltster; G. H. Parmelee, plow manufacturer; the Phelps Chilled Plow Works of G. H. Parmelee; H. C. & T. C. Severance, carriage manufacturers.
In 1857 L. B. Hotchkiss opened a private bank in Phelps. Thaddeus O. Hotchkiss succeeded to the business in 1869, and Wm. B. Hotchkiss & Co. succeeded to the last mentioned owner in 1879. The banking firm of Jno. H. Roy & Co. began business in February, 1883. The personnel of the firm is as follows: John H. Roy, Simeon K. Bowker, Wm. T. Van Vranken, Isaac Roy, and Isaac Roy 2d.
The villages and hamlets of the town, except Phelps, are small and have been of little importance as elements of local history. Of those worthy of mention Orleans is the largest, and is a station on the line of the Sodus Point and Southern Railroad It is situated in the southwest part of the town, on Flint Creek, which stream has been utilized to some extent in furnishing mill power. The Blythe Mills are to be mentioned as among the industries of first importance in this locality. The public properties, past and present, have been the district school, the M. E. church, the Baptist church and the H. P. Chapel. The M. E. church building was sold to the Presbyterians and its congregation joined with the church at Seneca Castle.
The Baptist church at Orleans was organized in 1819, under the ministry of Elder Shay, its first pastor It had fifty-eight original members, among whom were a number of the pioneers of the town and their descendants. The first church edifice was built in 1820, burned in 1846, and soon afterward replaced with a more substantial structure.
Oaks' Corners is the name of a small hamlet situated three miles southeast of Phelps village, and attained an early prominence from the efforts of pioneer Jonathan Oaks, who built a hotel here as early as 1793, and who also contributed much to the general welfare and development of the town.
A Presbyterian society was informally organized here in 1803, and in the next year the organization was perfected by Rev. Jedediah Chapman, the original members numbering fourteen persons. The society of this church has experienced many vicissitudes, yet its life has been constant to the present time. Originally organized as Congregational, it became Presbyterian in 1811 and so continues. The edifice was built in 1804, and still stands, a neat and well preserved structure. Frequent repairs have been made to the building. The present membership is one hundred, and in the Sunday-school are over eighty pupils. The pastor is Rev. Henry W. Maier, whose term began June 1, 1893, succeeding Rev. Samuel Murdock.
Melvin Hill is a settlement in the southeast part of the town. The village of Clifton Springs includes within its corporate limits a portion of the town of Phelps, a subject more fully discussed in another chapter. Gypsum is a hamlet north of Clifton Springs and extends over the town line into Phelps, but it is a settlement belonging chiefly to Manchester.
In this chapter occasional reference has been made to the early schools opened in the town, and however interesting might be found a complete history of each from the time of founding, such a record is impossible in consequence of insufficient minutes and record books. According to the present arrangement the town of Phelps has a total of twenty-four school districts, four of which (Nos. 3, 5, 7 and 10) have no school-house. The school census of 1892 shows the number of children of school age to be 1,614; number of teachers employed, thirty.three; amount received from all sources for school purposes, $18,056.80; paid to teachers, $10,959.49; total value of school buildings and sites, $48,120. Of the school buildings in the town, thirteen are of brick, five of frame and two of stone.
Town of Phelps History Published 1878
History of Ontario Co, NY TOWN OF PHELPS Pgs. 164 - 165
The town of Phelps, originally called the district of "Sullivan" was organized in 1796, the same years in which Steuben county was set off form Ontario. Its name was bestowed in honor of the extensive land proprietor, Oliver PHELPS, who acknowledged this unsought recognition by giving the inhabitants a "reception" at the aristocratic inn of Jonathan OAKS, where in all probability, Bacchus reigned supreme.
This town was crossed by the impetuous SULLIVAN in his devastating march in 1779, and not one decade had yet passed since the Senecas were flying before his riflemen, ere a solitary white settler might have been seen threading his way through this dense, uninviting wilderness; his name was John Decker ROBISON, of honored memory, the first white settler within the present boundaries of Phelps.
He located in 1788, and purchased of Phelps and Gorham, lot No. 14, in township 11, first range, said to contain three hundred and twenty acres of land, the wholesale price of which was two shillings per acre. A mistake of one hundred and seventy acres was however, made in Mr. ROBISON'S favor, which reduce the price of the whole purchase to about one hundred dollars, and this enormous debt was satisfied by ROBISON erecting a building for PHELPS, in Canandaigua, which was the first frame structure in the village, located on the corner of Main street and Railroad avenue, southwest of the Canandaigua Hotel.
When John Decker ROBISON and his sturdy associates left Columbia county for the land of the Senecas, they came with well defined ideas of the trials and hardships with which they would be obliged to contend in the settlement of a new country. One of the most noticeable and wisest preparations made by this resolute band was the driving of one hundred head of cattle for Phelps and Gorham into the forest for beef, intended as presents to the Indians, without whose friendship they well know all attempts at settlement would be in vain. They arrived at the outlet of Cayuga lake when not a white settler was to be found between Utica and Geneva. The task of ferrying their stock across the lake was no light one. Obtaining two bateaux at Geneva, they were strapped together, and a rude ferryboat was constructed, capable of carrying eleven head of cattle. Starting from the outlet on the eastern shore, they rowed and poled the heavy craft and heavy load one mile up the lake to secure a landing place, the shore below being covered with a marsh. James ROBISON, then a boy of sixteen, oldest son of John, and Nathaniel SANBORN, drove the cattle through to Geneva, where on the day following their arrival, the pioneer, John D. ROBISON, joined them. Both subsequently became settlers of Phelps. In 1789, Mr. ROBISON'S family came to the new country; and it may not be uninteresting in these days of fast steamers, fast trains and fast rails, to know in what manner of conveyance they traveled. They were put on board a rude contrivance called a boat, which was propelled by rowing, pushing with setting poles, and dragging with ropes, and the course they pursued was up the Mohawk into Wood creek, through the Oneida lake into Oswego river, and up the outlets of the lakes to Phelps.
A few days after the arrival of Mr. ROBSON'S family, they were followed by, Pierce and Elihu GRANGER, Nathaniel SANBORN, and Mr. GOULD, all of whom returned to Connecticut in the fall, leaving Mr. ROBISON and family sole inhabitants of the wilderness.
They were however, in a delightful spot, hemmed in on all sides by a dense, living forest, where the song of the wild birds, the swift foot of the deer, with an occasional glance from old Burin to break the monotony, constituted their daily surroundings and their morning or evening calls.
Mr. ROBISON opened a tavern in the year 1793, and was for many years its popular proprietor. His son, Harry H. ROBISON, was the first white child born in the town.
In those early days, as now, animosity and strife existed among the settlers, which often would close a warm friendship, and embitter the remainder of their lives. An unpleasantness existed between ROBISON and GRANGER, and the latter being taken suddenly ill, and thinking death near, sent for neighbor ROBISON to come and see him. He came, when Mr. GRANGER addressed him, saying, " Mr. ROBISON, we have been much at variance, and now I am about to die; I sent for you that you might ask for my forgiveness." Mr. ROBISON, not feeling in just that mood, replied, " You d____d old "Picteroon,", I came to see you die, not to ask your forgiveness."
Elihu GRANGER, purchased three hundred and twenty acres next east of ROBISON'S. He had two sons, Pierce and Elihu, and one daughter, who married Mr. CASE. Pierce resided in a large mansion at Unionville, erected by his father, and now owned by CRANSTON. Elihu erected a house on the south side of the outlet, and there reared a numerous family. General Gordon GRANGER, who attained much notoriety during the late rebellion, was a grandson.
Soon after the ROBISONS and GRANGERS, came Jonathan OAKS, Seth DEAN, Oliver HUMPHREY, Charles HUMPHREY and Elias DICKINSON. Jonathan OAKES was a sturdy pioneer, a man of good judgment and decision of character, and in every way well qualified to meet the hardships incident to the settlement of a new country. He displayed excellent judgment in the selection of land, and soon conceived the idea of erecting a hotel, which resulted in the building of the Oaks Corners tavern in 1793, which stood until a few years since, when it was destroyed by fire. This was the second framed tavern in the whole Genesee country, and was a marvel in its day. The remains of the wine-cellar, which was a huge affair, are still to be seen. A strong and finely-built stone wall surrounded the garden, portions of which are now standing, al tending to show that the Oaks tavern was indeed, a gigantic affair in ye olden time, and must have appeared strangely grand looming up among the rude log habitations in the surrounding neighborhood. Mr. OAKS was the first supervisor of the town, elected April 1, 1796. A grandson, Nathan OAKS, Esq., resides at Oaks Corners, a prominent citizen, and one of the progressive agriculturists of the county. He has five children: Thaddeus, residing in the village of Geneva, and William, Fannie, Edward and Nathan, with their parents.
Prominent among the early settlers was Philetus SWIFT, who settled in 1789. He was an honored and influential citizen; and held many offices of honor and trust, both civil and military. He became judge of the County Court, a member of the State Senate, and at one time discharged the duties of lieutenant-governor as president pro tem of the Senate; and he commanded a regiment in the war of 1812, on the Niagara frontier.
John SALISBURY settled in the town, a short distance west of Melvin Hill in 1791. Mr. SALISBURY was one of the prominent pioneers, and did much toward the transformation of the wilderness to a land that blossoms like the rose.
Osse CRITTENDEN Sr., emigrated from Conway, Massachusetts in 1796 and located between Orleans and Melvin Hill, on the road leading form Chapinville to Oaks Corners. Other settlers on this highway were Deacon John WARNER, at Orleans, and Jonathan MELVIN at what has since been known as Melvin Hill. An anecdote is related of Mr. MELVIN too good to be lost. He had been to the village of Geneva, and while on his return on foot to his home, in passing the old Indian orchard, he picked up an apple, when the owner o the orchard chanced to see him and in commanding tones, ordered him to put that apple down. Mr. MELVIN replied, You must be mean to begrudge a neighbor an apple; I will plant one hundred trees next year for the public; and true to his word, the trees were planted along the highway on his farm for the benefit of the public.
Jesse WARNER came in 1796, and located a short distance east of Flint creek, at what has since been known as Warner Hill. Nicholas PULLEN and Walter CHASE settled in 1791; John Sherman in 1794; and in 1797 Theodore and Lemuel BANNISTER located a short distance north of Oaks Corners. John NEWHALL located in 1796, between Melvin Hill and the village of Phelps.
In 1794, Lodowick VADEMARK settled in the east part of the town, on the Canandaigua outlet, and erected a pioneer mill. Joseph VANDEMARK, John and Patrick BURNETT, Cornelius WESTFALL, Coll ROY, Joseph, Eleazer and Cephas HAWKS, were also pioneers of Phelps.
John HILDRETH came in the town in 1802, accompanied by his son, William HILDRETH. A grandson, William HILDRETH, Esq., now resides in Rochester and is one of the popular proprietors of the Bracket House. He has also served the people of Ontario County in many official capacities. He held the office of sheriff a number of years, and a long time officiated as United States marshal. George WILSON settled in 1800. John R. GREEN was a pioneer merchant, and commenced business at Oaks Corners. Wells WHITMORE came into the town with Jonathan OAKS, and was an enterprising pioneer. The following is related of Mrs. WHITMORE: AT one time there were six Indian wigwams, inhabited by Indians, which stood on her fathers mill yard; on a certain day, when the family were all absent except herself, not only during the day but the night following, an Indian, partly intoxicated, came into the house and demanded bread; she informed him that there was no bread in the house baked, and to convince him of the fact, showed him dough that was prepared for baking. He told her that she lied; and drawing a knife, flourished it over her in a very threatening manner, and said he would have some bread. On this she grasped the cheese tongs, that being the only weapon within reach, and made towards her copper colored antagonist, who instantly beat a retreat, and never troubled her again. The cheese tongs were then applied to their appropriate use, and a cheese was put into a press that stood in an open shed attached to the house, and she retired to her lonely couch, dreading most of all a return visit from the drunken Indian. During the night, a firm step in the shed where stood the cheese-press accompanied by other noises, convinced her that he had actually returned, and she knew now what might be the final result, being still along. The noise, however, soon ceased, when she found that her cheese had been stolen, not by an Indian, but by a bear.
The first marriage in Phelps was that of Joseph ANNIN, subsequently known as Judge ANNIN and Miss READ, daughter of Seth READ, the pioneer; and the justice that tied the silken knot was Thomas SISSON, one of the first magistrates in the county.. Tradition says that the father of the young lady was obstinately opposed to the union of his daughter with the one of her choice, and had forbade him entering the house, and in company with Esquire SISSON, he was passing the premises of the father of his inamorata about the hour of twilight, at which time she was engaged in milking her fathers cows near the highway; that she set her milk-pail aside for the time being, when they stood up under the shelter of an apple tree or grape vine, as the case might be, and then and there were solemnly and legally declared to be man and wife. The justice and bridegroom prosecuted their journey home, while Mrs. ANNIN finished milking the cow that was commenced by Miss READ.
The inventor of the threshing machine resided in this town, and here it was that machinery was first used in threshing grain. Mr. Ezra GOODDELL, a machinist and mill-wright, was employed to operate the carding-works of Mr. Luther ROOT, and while there he suggested that if grain were thrown to the picks of the carder, it would tear the berry from the stalk. After some discussion, a few straws were placed in the machine, and the result was entirely satisfactory, every stalk being nicely cleaned. The carding machines were then placed against the wall and thrashing began, and was carried on with great success; and many years after, carding machines were used for purposes of threshing and were only discarded when horse-power came into use.
The discovery of plaster in this town was made about 1812, and Thomas ROY was dispatched to Virginia for the purpose of negotiating for the purchase of the FRANAWAY lot, as it was called. The purchase was made and the lot subsequently disposed of to several parties.
The first plaster mill was erected by Cephas HAWKS, and about he same time Luther and Francis ROOT, Ezekiel WEBB and Nathaniel HALL formed a co-partnership and purchased the grist mill formerly owned by Seth DEAN, and changed it to a plaster mill, where they conducted a successful business.
A prominent pioneer, large land and slave owner, was John BAGGERLY, who came from Maryland and located in the western part of town. A son, Samuel H. BAGGERLY, resides in the village of Orleans.
Harvey STEPHENSON, form Springfield, Massachusetts, located in the village of Orleans in about the year 1800; a son Dolphin STEPHENSON, is the present postmaster in the village of Phelps, and one of the oldest attorneys in the county. His grandfather was also an early settler in this town. Calvin STEPHENSON was a pioneer and a soldier of the Revolution. It seems that patriotism predominated in the STEPHENSON family, as Calvin had six sons in the war of 1812. James was taken prisoner and died near Montreal; William served gallantly through the war and afterwards joined the regular army, and died on the plains of the west; Luther was in battle of the river Raisin, and was with General HARRISON at the battle of Tippercanoe; other sons were Theodore, Calvin and Chester.
History of Ontario Co, NY TOWN OF PHELPS Pgs. 164 - 165
The town of Phelps, originally called the district of "Sullivan" was organized in 1796, the same years in which Steuben county was set off form Ontario. Its name was bestowed in honor of the extensive land proprietor, Oliver PHELPS, who acknowledged this unsought recognition by giving the inhabitants a "reception" at the aristocratic inn of Jonathan OAKS, where in all probability, Bacchus reigned supreme.
This town was crossed by the impetuous SULLIVAN in his devastating march in 1779, and not one decade had yet passed since the Senecas were flying before his riflemen, ere a solitary white settler might have been seen threading his way through this dense, uninviting wilderness; his name was John Decker ROBISON, of honored memory, the first white settler within the present boundaries of Phelps.
He located in 1788, and purchased of Phelps and Gorham, lot No. 14, in township 11, first range, said to contain three hundred and twenty acres of land, the wholesale price of which was two shillings per acre. A mistake of one hundred and seventy acres was however, made in Mr. ROBISON'S favor, which reduce the price of the whole purchase to about one hundred dollars, and this enormous debt was satisfied by ROBISON erecting a building for PHELPS, in Canandaigua, which was the first frame structure in the village, located on the corner of Main street and Railroad avenue, southwest of the Canandaigua Hotel.
When John Decker ROBISON and his sturdy associates left Columbia county for the land of the Senecas, they came with well defined ideas of the trials and hardships with which they would be obliged to contend in the settlement of a new country. One of the most noticeable and wisest preparations made by this resolute band was the driving of one hundred head of cattle for Phelps and Gorham into the forest for beef, intended as presents to the Indians, without whose friendship they well know all attempts at settlement would be in vain. They arrived at the outlet of Cayuga lake when not a white settler was to be found between Utica and Geneva. The task of ferrying their stock across the lake was no light one. Obtaining two bateaux at Geneva, they were strapped together, and a rude ferryboat was constructed, capable of carrying eleven head of cattle. Starting from the outlet on the eastern shore, they rowed and poled the heavy craft and heavy load one mile up the lake to secure a landing place, the shore below being covered with a marsh. James ROBISON, then a boy of sixteen, oldest son of John, and Nathaniel SANBORN, drove the cattle through to Geneva, where on the day following their arrival, the pioneer, John D. ROBISON, joined them. Both subsequently became settlers of Phelps. In 1789, Mr. ROBISON'S family came to the new country; and it may not be uninteresting in these days of fast steamers, fast trains and fast rails, to know in what manner of conveyance they traveled. They were put on board a rude contrivance called a boat, which was propelled by rowing, pushing with setting poles, and dragging with ropes, and the course they pursued was up the Mohawk into Wood creek, through the Oneida lake into Oswego river, and up the outlets of the lakes to Phelps.
A few days after the arrival of Mr. ROBSON'S family, they were followed by, Pierce and Elihu GRANGER, Nathaniel SANBORN, and Mr. GOULD, all of whom returned to Connecticut in the fall, leaving Mr. ROBISON and family sole inhabitants of the wilderness.
They were however, in a delightful spot, hemmed in on all sides by a dense, living forest, where the song of the wild birds, the swift foot of the deer, with an occasional glance from old Burin to break the monotony, constituted their daily surroundings and their morning or evening calls.
Mr. ROBISON opened a tavern in the year 1793, and was for many years its popular proprietor. His son, Harry H. ROBISON, was the first white child born in the town.
In those early days, as now, animosity and strife existed among the settlers, which often would close a warm friendship, and embitter the remainder of their lives. An unpleasantness existed between ROBISON and GRANGER, and the latter being taken suddenly ill, and thinking death near, sent for neighbor ROBISON to come and see him. He came, when Mr. GRANGER addressed him, saying, " Mr. ROBISON, we have been much at variance, and now I am about to die; I sent for you that you might ask for my forgiveness." Mr. ROBISON, not feeling in just that mood, replied, " You d____d old "Picteroon,", I came to see you die, not to ask your forgiveness."
Elihu GRANGER, purchased three hundred and twenty acres next east of ROBISON'S. He had two sons, Pierce and Elihu, and one daughter, who married Mr. CASE. Pierce resided in a large mansion at Unionville, erected by his father, and now owned by CRANSTON. Elihu erected a house on the south side of the outlet, and there reared a numerous family. General Gordon GRANGER, who attained much notoriety during the late rebellion, was a grandson.
Soon after the ROBISONS and GRANGERS, came Jonathan OAKS, Seth DEAN, Oliver HUMPHREY, Charles HUMPHREY and Elias DICKINSON. Jonathan OAKES was a sturdy pioneer, a man of good judgment and decision of character, and in every way well qualified to meet the hardships incident to the settlement of a new country. He displayed excellent judgment in the selection of land, and soon conceived the idea of erecting a hotel, which resulted in the building of the Oaks Corners tavern in 1793, which stood until a few years since, when it was destroyed by fire. This was the second framed tavern in the whole Genesee country, and was a marvel in its day. The remains of the wine-cellar, which was a huge affair, are still to be seen. A strong and finely-built stone wall surrounded the garden, portions of which are now standing, al tending to show that the Oaks tavern was indeed, a gigantic affair in ye olden time, and must have appeared strangely grand looming up among the rude log habitations in the surrounding neighborhood. Mr. OAKS was the first supervisor of the town, elected April 1, 1796. A grandson, Nathan OAKS, Esq., resides at Oaks Corners, a prominent citizen, and one of the progressive agriculturists of the county. He has five children: Thaddeus, residing in the village of Geneva, and William, Fannie, Edward and Nathan, with their parents.
Prominent among the early settlers was Philetus SWIFT, who settled in 1789. He was an honored and influential citizen; and held many offices of honor and trust, both civil and military. He became judge of the County Court, a member of the State Senate, and at one time discharged the duties of lieutenant-governor as president pro tem of the Senate; and he commanded a regiment in the war of 1812, on the Niagara frontier.
John SALISBURY settled in the town, a short distance west of Melvin Hill in 1791. Mr. SALISBURY was one of the prominent pioneers, and did much toward the transformation of the wilderness to a land that blossoms like the rose.
Osse CRITTENDEN Sr., emigrated from Conway, Massachusetts in 1796 and located between Orleans and Melvin Hill, on the road leading form Chapinville to Oaks Corners. Other settlers on this highway were Deacon John WARNER, at Orleans, and Jonathan MELVIN at what has since been known as Melvin Hill. An anecdote is related of Mr. MELVIN too good to be lost. He had been to the village of Geneva, and while on his return on foot to his home, in passing the old Indian orchard, he picked up an apple, when the owner o the orchard chanced to see him and in commanding tones, ordered him to put that apple down. Mr. MELVIN replied, You must be mean to begrudge a neighbor an apple; I will plant one hundred trees next year for the public; and true to his word, the trees were planted along the highway on his farm for the benefit of the public.
Jesse WARNER came in 1796, and located a short distance east of Flint creek, at what has since been known as Warner Hill. Nicholas PULLEN and Walter CHASE settled in 1791; John Sherman in 1794; and in 1797 Theodore and Lemuel BANNISTER located a short distance north of Oaks Corners. John NEWHALL located in 1796, between Melvin Hill and the village of Phelps.
In 1794, Lodowick VADEMARK settled in the east part of the town, on the Canandaigua outlet, and erected a pioneer mill. Joseph VANDEMARK, John and Patrick BURNETT, Cornelius WESTFALL, Coll ROY, Joseph, Eleazer and Cephas HAWKS, were also pioneers of Phelps.
John HILDRETH came in the town in 1802, accompanied by his son, William HILDRETH. A grandson, William HILDRETH, Esq., now resides in Rochester and is one of the popular proprietors of the Bracket House. He has also served the people of Ontario County in many official capacities. He held the office of sheriff a number of years, and a long time officiated as United States marshal. George WILSON settled in 1800. John R. GREEN was a pioneer merchant, and commenced business at Oaks Corners. Wells WHITMORE came into the town with Jonathan OAKS, and was an enterprising pioneer. The following is related of Mrs. WHITMORE: AT one time there were six Indian wigwams, inhabited by Indians, which stood on her fathers mill yard; on a certain day, when the family were all absent except herself, not only during the day but the night following, an Indian, partly intoxicated, came into the house and demanded bread; she informed him that there was no bread in the house baked, and to convince him of the fact, showed him dough that was prepared for baking. He told her that she lied; and drawing a knife, flourished it over her in a very threatening manner, and said he would have some bread. On this she grasped the cheese tongs, that being the only weapon within reach, and made towards her copper colored antagonist, who instantly beat a retreat, and never troubled her again. The cheese tongs were then applied to their appropriate use, and a cheese was put into a press that stood in an open shed attached to the house, and she retired to her lonely couch, dreading most of all a return visit from the drunken Indian. During the night, a firm step in the shed where stood the cheese-press accompanied by other noises, convinced her that he had actually returned, and she knew now what might be the final result, being still along. The noise, however, soon ceased, when she found that her cheese had been stolen, not by an Indian, but by a bear.
The first marriage in Phelps was that of Joseph ANNIN, subsequently known as Judge ANNIN and Miss READ, daughter of Seth READ, the pioneer; and the justice that tied the silken knot was Thomas SISSON, one of the first magistrates in the county.. Tradition says that the father of the young lady was obstinately opposed to the union of his daughter with the one of her choice, and had forbade him entering the house, and in company with Esquire SISSON, he was passing the premises of the father of his inamorata about the hour of twilight, at which time she was engaged in milking her fathers cows near the highway; that she set her milk-pail aside for the time being, when they stood up under the shelter of an apple tree or grape vine, as the case might be, and then and there were solemnly and legally declared to be man and wife. The justice and bridegroom prosecuted their journey home, while Mrs. ANNIN finished milking the cow that was commenced by Miss READ.
The inventor of the threshing machine resided in this town, and here it was that machinery was first used in threshing grain. Mr. Ezra GOODDELL, a machinist and mill-wright, was employed to operate the carding-works of Mr. Luther ROOT, and while there he suggested that if grain were thrown to the picks of the carder, it would tear the berry from the stalk. After some discussion, a few straws were placed in the machine, and the result was entirely satisfactory, every stalk being nicely cleaned. The carding machines were then placed against the wall and thrashing began, and was carried on with great success; and many years after, carding machines were used for purposes of threshing and were only discarded when horse-power came into use.
The discovery of plaster in this town was made about 1812, and Thomas ROY was dispatched to Virginia for the purpose of negotiating for the purchase of the FRANAWAY lot, as it was called. The purchase was made and the lot subsequently disposed of to several parties.
The first plaster mill was erected by Cephas HAWKS, and about he same time Luther and Francis ROOT, Ezekiel WEBB and Nathaniel HALL formed a co-partnership and purchased the grist mill formerly owned by Seth DEAN, and changed it to a plaster mill, where they conducted a successful business.
A prominent pioneer, large land and slave owner, was John BAGGERLY, who came from Maryland and located in the western part of town. A son, Samuel H. BAGGERLY, resides in the village of Orleans.
Harvey STEPHENSON, form Springfield, Massachusetts, located in the village of Orleans in about the year 1800; a son Dolphin STEPHENSON, is the present postmaster in the village of Phelps, and one of the oldest attorneys in the county. His grandfather was also an early settler in this town. Calvin STEPHENSON was a pioneer and a soldier of the Revolution. It seems that patriotism predominated in the STEPHENSON family, as Calvin had six sons in the war of 1812. James was taken prisoner and died near Montreal; William served gallantly through the war and afterwards joined the regular army, and died on the plains of the west; Luther was in battle of the river Raisin, and was with General HARRISON at the battle of Tippercanoe; other sons were Theodore, Calvin and Chester.
Phelps Village History
History of Ontario Co, NY Published 1878 Pgs. 165 - 168
Kindly transcribed by Donna Walker Judge
VILLAGE OF PHELPS
This village was originally called Woodpecker City, subsequently Vienna, and finally received the name of Phelps. The early settlement of the village has been mainly related in the town history. The first settlement in the town was made here, and this soon became the nucleus of a busy colony of pioneers.
Orrin REDFIELD was the first merchant in Phelps, having an assortment of dry goods and groceries in a log building on the site now occupied by the Phelps Hotel. HOTCHKISS (father of L. B. HOTCHKISS, Esq.) and McNEIL commenced the mercantile business in 1810 in Luther ROOTs bar-room, but soon after erected a building which they occupied as a store, standing on the site of the present block owned by B. F. ODELL. WING & NELSON opened a store in 1813. Dwight and Theodore PARTRIDGE commenced business in 1816, in the building now occupied by Mr. SNOW as a dwelling. The PARTRIDGES were succeeded by David D. AUKEN. Joel and Levi THAYER bought, for a hogshead of rum, the site for a store, now occupied by the establishment of S. C. HAWKS.
The first brick store in Phelps was erected in 1816, by HOTCHKISS and McNEIL.
The first grist-mill in the town was erected by Seth DEAN. This was a primitive establishment, but a great convenience to the settlers. In 1779, Cephas HAWKS, Augustus DICKINSON, and Theodore BANNISTER erected a grist-mill on the outlet, for which they were severely censured by Mr. DEAN, as encroaching upon his just rights. For, said he, I am the pioneer of the town in the business; I have, at great sacrifice, privation, and labor, erected a mill for the accommodation of the inhabitants; it just supplies me with bread for my family, and it meets all the wants of the community, and no doubt always will, and they will take the bread from my mouth. If Mr. DEAN could glance about the town today, he might be somewhat surprised in seeing nine grist-and flouring-mills in successful operation.
In about the year 1812, under the stimulus of high prices, many woolen-factories were built in various parts of the country, and among the number was that established by Erastus BUTLER, Luther ROOT, and Francis ROOT, in this village. It was a large establishment, employing about twenty-five persons, and the business was successfully prosecuted until 1815, when the country became flooded with foreign fabrics at low prices, and this, with other establishments, was abandoned. Luther ROOT leaned the clothiers trade of Aaron HAYDEN, and came to Phelps in 1798, where he actively engaged in business, and was one of the prominent pioneers of the town. A son, Mr. Francis ROOT, now resides near the village, at the advanced age of seventy years, who is familiar with the men and customs of ye olden time. and has rendered much valuable assistance in the compilation of the history of this town.
The year 1812 draws upon Vienna. and finds it assuming the importance of a village. In this year a post-office was established, and David MCNEIL appointed postmaster, a position which he held until his death. The contract for carrying the mail was given to Luther and Francis ROOT and Samuel and William HILDRETH, and the routes were from Phelps to Geneva and from Geneva via Phelps to Palmyra and to Pittsford once a week. Francis ROOT and Lyman WILLIAMS were the mail carriers.
Phelps located as it was in the center of a wealthy agricultural region, rapidly rose in importance until, to-day, it is one of the most thriving and pleasant towns in western New York.
Below are given the present business interests of the village:
The Red Mill, in the west end of the village, erected many years since by William HILDRETH, father of the historian, now owned by J. P. CHAMPION.
The Stone Mill, built by Frederick VAN DE MARK in 1835, now owned by Dr. J. Q. HOWE.
The Edmonston Mill, erected in 1819, by J. EDMONSTON, Esq., now owned by FOSGATE brothers.
The Coon Mill, built many years ago by John COON, now owned by Robert ROBINSON.
The Snyder Mill, erected by the SNYDER brothers about three years ago, and owned by them.
The New Mill, built the present year on the site of the old paper-mill, by WILLING and KINKAID, and owned by them.
Unionville Mill, erected in 1839 by Moses SWIFT, now owned by James McLEAN.
The Swift Mill, built nearly sixty years ago; present proprietor, Mr. J. BARLOW. There are three plaster-mills, one owned by R. B. GUIFFORD, one by Dr. J. Q. HOWE, and the other by Mr. SHORT. Four saw-mills, one in Orleans, one connected with SNYDERs Mill, one with BARLOWs, and one with BIGELOWs rake factory.
Foundry and Machine Shop, L. P. Thompson & Co., proprietors.
Steam-Engine Manufactory, owned by MILLER and HOFF.
Carriage-Manufactory, S. BOWKER, proprietor. A glove-and mitten-factory, conducted by Harvey CAREY, and a barrel-factory, owned by Fred BAKER.
European and American Oil Depot - Leman B. HOTCHKISS commenced the mercantile business in this village in 1832, which he continued a number of years, and then engaged in the manufacture and distillation of oil of peppermint and other essential oils, which he has since carried on with great success. The business is conducted on a large scale, and shipments are made to all parts of Europe.
The Banking Office of Phelps was established by L. B. HOTCHKISS in 1857, and continued by him until 1869, when he was succeeded by his son, Thaddeus O. HOTCHKISS, the present proprietor.
Malt-Houses - There are six stone malting establishments, owned by the following parties, viz: J. Q. HOWE, M.D., John MCGOVERN, Barnard MCKENNA, John WHITE, BETZ and NESTOR, and occupied by KELLY and BRADLEY.
The Phelps Hotel is a large and commodious building, finely located, and is mainly owned by L. B. HOTCHKISS; H. TICKNER, proprietor. The Globe Hotel is owned by Mr. CLARK. There are seven brick blocks, as follows:
The Carpenter Block, erected a few years since, and occupied by W. LAUGHLIN as a dry-goods store.
Boydens Block is occupied by A. L. BOYDEN, hardware dealer, and Mr. KELLYs grocery.
The Gibson Block, erected by WHITE about six years ago, and occupied by A. L. BOYDEN, agricultural implements; A. B. & M. PRUYN, groceries; D. White & Co., clothing, and S. C. HAWKS, dry goods.
Odells Block, erected in 1875, B. F. ODELL, and occupied by himself and son as a wholesale and retail grocery store.
Ross and Cooley Block was built about ten years ago by ROSS, VANDEMARK, and COOLEY, and is occupied by Mr. SPEER, groceries; Mr. COOLEY, boots and shoes; J. COLE, saloon; FRESBEE, White & Co., hardware; F. D. S. HELMER, millinery, and John FRASIER, furniture.
The MCNEIL Block, erected about three years ago by McLOUD, SMITH, SNOW & HOTCHKISS, all occupied by A. McLOUD, jeweler; T. J. LYMAN, dry goods; Mr. W. H. FINCH, dry goods; J. R. GREEN, groceries; T. O. HOTCHKISS, bank; Wm. WHITING and daughter, clothing and telegraph office; C. MUDGE, groceries and drugs; R. B. MARLEY, saloon; F. BOSWELL, market.
Among other business interests there are four coal-yards, owned by DILLINGHAM & STOTENBERG, A. D. & H. CROSBY, A. S. SMITH, and A. ALDRICH, and a blacksmith and carriage shop owned by H. C. & C. T. SEVERANCE.
A town hall was erected in 1849. There is one dentist in the village, Dr. J. R. SNOW, and six physicians. Viz. J. BURT, E. G. CARPENTER, J. Q. HOWE, Charles MUDGE, G. C. PRITCHARD, and F. VANDERHOOF. There are five shoe-stores, George POND, A. D. COOLEY, H. GREY, and G. H. PRESCOTT [only 4 listed]; three lumber-yards, owned by J. W. POST, George LOVELL, and L. D. WILBER; two harness-making establishments, CARPENTER & RICE, town hall block, and W. C. TOUT, Church street; and three millineries, viz., Mrs. CAREY, Mrs. WHITBECK, F. D. S. HELMER.
Phelps has many fine residences, the principal ones, however, being those of Dr. PRITCHARD, S. S. PARTRIDGE, Esq., S. BOWKER, T. O. HOTCHKISS, Mr. HARGEN, J. Q. HOWE, M.D., T. J. LYMAN, and Mrs. ROSS, on Main street; widow KING, on Ontario street; Mr. DILLINGHAM, on William street, and Mr. CRANE, on Church street.
The village was incorporated January 2, 1855. The following comprised the first board of trustees: Zenas WHEELER, Dolphin STEPHENSON, Harvey CAREY, Anson TITUS, and John TRISLER.
The Ontario Citizen and News - The Phelps Citizen and Clifton Springs News was founded about 1832. The office has preserved a continuous existence, but the paper has changed its name and its proprietors a number of times. It has been known as the Vienna Advertiser, The Phelps Democrat, The Western Atlas, The Phelps Union Star, The Phelps Citizen, and The Ontario Citizen and News. Its proprietors have been Messrs. PHELPS, JONES, DILLON, SHAW, PRESTER, LOWN, KILMER, PLEASANTS, WILLIAMS, RAY, CRANE, J. W. NEIGHBOR, and W. S. DRYSDALE.
While issued by J. W. NEIGHBOR as the Phelps Citizen, the Clifton Springs News was added, at first being published as a separate sheet. In anticipation of the hard times, the News was temporarily consolidated with the Citizen under its present proprietor, Mr. W. S. DRYSDALE. The Ontario Citizen and News of 1876 is an eight-column paper, neatly printed, and comparing well in every respect with the papers of Ontario County. It is an ably edited and influential journal, and has a circulation of about one thousand. Independent in politics. Its office is in a new building, expressly erected by its present proprietor, Mr. W. S. DRYSDALE, on Church street.
Neighbors Home Mail was established in 1874, by John W. NEIGHBOR. It is a patriotic magazine, devoted to the interests of American homes and their defenders. It is a three-column, twenty-four page monthly magazine, and has a wide circulation. Mr. NEIGHBOR is a veteran of the gallant One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and has every qualification for editing a soldiers journal. He also issues a semi-weekly advertising sheet called the Phelps Advertiser.
Phelps Lodge, No. 286, I.O.O.F., was instituted August 14, 1871. The charter members were A. L. WILSON, John SHAW, Thomas SHAW, George SHAW, Edward SHAW, H. K. WYMAN. John SHAW was its first Noble Grand, who is supposed to be the oldest Odd fellow in the State, if not in the United States. The lodge was moved from Clifton Springs in May, 1875, and is now located at Odd fellows Hall, in the upper story of the Cooley block. Its name was changed to Vienna Lodge, in August, 1876.
The elected and appointed officers for the term commencing July 3, 1876, are as follows: elective officers, N. G., R. C. CARPENTER, P. G.; C. T. SEVERANCE, V. G.,; James T. GEORGE, R. S.; W. C. TOUT, Sec.; John J. SALISBURY, Treas. Appointed officers, John TOUT, Warden; I. G., William ABBOTT; R.S.S., C.E. HARMON; Con., J.V.D. WYCKOFF; O. G., Frank C. SWEET; L.S.S., Ed. P. HICKS; Chaplain, Rev. Wm. D. WOODRUFF; R.S.N.G., P.B.SABIN; L.S.N.G., E. O. MARSH; R.S.V.G., Calvin HULL; L.S.V.G., Geo. MACK; S.P.G. and Representative to Grand Lodge, John T. WATKINS; proxy Representative to Grand Lodge, Past Grand John SHAW. The lodge is in a flourishing condition, and has a membership of fifty-four persons.
Phelps Grange, No. 150, was organized in March, 1874, and now numbers about sixty members. Its officers for the present year are as follows: H. H. HOPKINS, M.; C. C. COOLIDGE, S.; W. W. GATES, T.; J. W. GRIFFITH, O.; C. VANDERVORT, L; Mr. STYKER, Steward; Prescott CROSBY, Asst.-Steward; Thad. MUSSELMAN, G.K.; Mrs. W. W. GATES, Chaplain; Mrs. H. H. HOPKINS, Lady Asst.-Steward; Miss STYKER, Ceres; Miss Emma COOLIDGE, Pomona; Miss Jennie HOPKINS, Flora.
Sincerity Lodge, No. 200, F. and A.M., was organized May 7, 1811, with the following officers: Wells WHITMORE, W. M.; Wm. BURNETT, S.W.; Alfred WITTER, J. W.; Luther ROOT, Treas.; Nathaniel WILSON, Sec.; Michael MUSSELMAN, S.D.; David SAUNDERSON, J.D.; Rossel FLINT, Joseph DANOLDS, Stewards; B. CRARY, TYLER. During the anti-masonic excitement the lodge surrendered its charter, and was reorganized June 19, 1858, as Sincerity Lodge, No. 443, and subsequently recovered its original number, 200. At its reorganization the following were the first three officers: William M. CROSBY, W. M.; C. H. CARPENTER, S.W.; and T. A. LAWRENCE, J. W. The lodge now numbers one hundred and thirty-two master masons.
Union and Classical School - To be entirely in keeping with this Centennial period, we ought, doubtless, in presenting a history of the Phelps Union and Classical School, to go back at least a hundred years ago and chronicle the progress of educational matters to the present time. Aside from the very probable conjecture that the education of that day was limited to teaching the young idea how to shoot the arrow and to kindred employments we can offer nothing concerning the school of 1776 in the town of Phelps. There is a rumor that a log school-house existed somewhere on the present site of the village of Phelps prior to the year 1800. Of this we have been able to get no authentic account.
In the year 1805 there stood on the ground now occupied by the bank of T. O. HOTCHKISS a low one-store frame building, nearly new, being about twenty by forty feet square. There were two apartments, of which one was occupied by Mr. Joseph WOODHULL, son-in-law of the old hero and veteran, John Decker ROBISON. The other apartment was occupied as a school-room, and Aunt Chloe WARNER, as she was familiarly called, was the teacher. How long she taught, or how successfully, we are not informed. At this time the old log school-house of the early pioneers, with its wide jambs, stick chimney plastered over with mud, and its greased-paper windows, together with the mane and fame of its teachers, had passed away. Seventeen years had elapsed since Mr. ROBINSON had landed from his boat on the farm now owned by Hugh HAMMOND, where the brook, east of the village, winds around from its northern to an eastern course, about eighty or a hundred rods north from Mr. Hiram PECKs residence.
Aunt Chloe was succeeded by Rowland DEWEY, Ann BIGELOW, Abigail BIGELOW, sister of Ann, who married Mr. Thomas HOWE; then Betsey NEWELL, who married David McNEIL; then Caleb BANNISTER, afterward known and highly respected as Dr. Caleb BANNISTER, who taught in 1810 or 1811. Jared WILSON also taught soon after Dr. B.; he afterwards was one of the leading lawyers of the county. Dr. Harvey E. PHINNEY; then Miss KNAPP. Oliver MOORE was teaching in 1816; Erastus KELLOGG, about 1818. John CHAPMAN, distinguished as a mathematician, taught about 1820; with him passed away the fashion of locking out the teacher on Christmas morning so as not to have school that day. In order to have the work securely done, some of the older boys would stay in the school-house all night. It was not only expected by the scholars that there would be no school, but that the teacher would stand treat all around, which Mr. CHAPMAN was but too willing to do.
About this time the district was divided and two districts formed, the east and west; each built a new house. The east district built one of cut stone, which is the building next south of the Catholic church, and now occupied by Abram S. SMITH as a dwelling. The second story was owned and occupied by the Masons as a lodge-room. The west district built of brick, and the building is now occupied as a dwelling, and is situated a few rods west of Mr. COOPERs blacksmith-shop.
Among the teachers of the east district were Wm. KING, Mr. NOBLE, Jacob MOORE, 1821. Erastus MARVIN taught 1822 to 1825, and was a very efficient and successful teacher. Ziba CRAWFORD about 1827. Chas. E. PINKNEY, Sibyl MARVIN, T.A. PINKNEY, Horace FRAZER, 1832. John S. MOORE, 1833. Cornelius HORTON, Philander DAWBY, J.C. ANDERSON, Fanny HENRY, Mr. CONN, 1845. About this time the districts were reunited, and the present large and commodious building was erected and opened in 1846.
Among the teachers in the west district were Cornelius E. CROSBY, father of Prof. CROSBY, who was afterwards principal in the Union School; Richard MARVIN, afterward judge in the eighth judicial district of this State; F. ROOT, 1829 and 1830; Ann S. FRAZER, 1832.
The records of the eastern district still exist, and among the interesting resolutions passed at the school-meetings and contained therein, are the following:
Resolved, That each scholars parents shall furnish one half-cord good hard wood, or pay the sum of fifty cents for each scholar. (1820)
Voted, To dismiss the present teacher unless he shall consent to teach for twelve dollars per month.
The first teachers employed after the present building was erected were Prof. Lewis PECK, principal; Mr. T. H. FRENCH, assistant principal; Miss GARDNER, preceptress; Miss ALLEN, primary department; and a Miss STONE, teacher of penmanship. The first trustees were Anson P. WATERMAN, Wm. HILDRETH, and Moses B. WHITMORE.
Prof. Lewis PECK, the first principal of the school, was born in the town of Phelps, and was a graduate of Hamilton College. He remained as principal until October 15, 1853, at which time, on account of ill health, he sent in his resignation, having had charge of the school seven years. During his administration several different ladies occupied the position of preceptress. After Miss GARDNER a Miss NEWCOMB taught for one or two years. Miss BELDNEY succeeded her; after whom the position was filled by Miss Caroline ADGATE, and she in turn was succeeded by Miss Sarah LONG, now Mrs. Lewis PECK.
After Mr. PECKs resignation the trustees procured the services of Professor Thos. PRURINTON, who, though very popular at first, according to report did not prove to be successful. He was accidentally killed on the railroad some years since. He left the school in the spring of 1855. It was during his time that the bell now in the building was procured. Professor PECKs health had so far recovered that he was again persuaded to take charge of the school, and he retained the position until 1857. Professor W. F. CROSBY, a graduate of Hobart College, was the next principal. He was a man of taste and culture, and did much toward improving and decorating the grounds and buildings.
Mr. CROSBY had his defects as well as good qualities, and it is intimated that in consequence of the latter he was finally induced to resign his position. He instituted chapel exercises, and introduced music in the morning and Friday afternoon exercises. He left the school at the close of the term of 1856. Miss E. A. CLARK was preceptress during nine months of the time Mr. CROSBY was principal, and Miss Amelia SPOONER occupied the position during the remainder of the term.
The next principal was Mr. Ziba H. POTTER, now assistant professor of mathematics in Cornell University. He had charge of the school during 1860. We are informed by a lady, who was a pupil in the school for a number of years, that she learned more under his instruction than under the instruction of any other having charge of the school while she attended; and this she attributed to his superior qualities as a teacher. Miss Margaret REES was preceptress during the year.
Ezra J. PECK, A.M., took charge of the school in 1861, with Miss OKEEFE as preceptress, and remained one year, and then left the school to take a position in the army. His regiment was the Eighth New York Cavalry. Rev. Ferris SCOTT succeeded Mr. PECK. He had previously been employed in the south as a teacher.
After this gentleman had been in the school some weeks, through a feeling which appears to have sprung up suddenly among the trustees, much to his surprise he was coolly informed, one Friday night, that his services as principal would be no longer required. The conditions under which he had engaged to teach were such that he could do no better than submit. He visited the school, however, on the following Monday. A Mr. CURTIS had been engaged to teach at a lower rate of wages. The pupils seemed to favor Mr. SCOTT; and either from the fact of his visit, the unprofessional way in which Mr. CURTIS conducted affairs, or other reasons, it is at least true that Mr. CURTIS was discharged, and Mr. SCOTT reinstated the week following. He subsequently became chaplain of the gallant One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, and is now a teacher in Jersey City.
The trustees employed as principal for the school year ending July 3, 1863, Mr. Lockwood HOYT, A.M., a veteran teacher of some thirty years experience. Miss Sarah M. CLOY was preceptress during the fall and winter terms of this year, and Miss E. D. EVERETT filled the position during the spring term. Both of these ladies were graduates of the Ontario Female Seminary. Of Professor HOYT it is said that he was an excellent instructor, but deficient in government. Mr. Milton HOWE, A.B., was employed as assistant principal a portion of the year. The same position was filled the remainder of the year by John W. KENNARD.
For the school year ending July 15, 1864, John S. COE, A.M., a graduate of Union College, was employed. Of the ability of this gentleman to control the school, the reader is requested to inquire of some of his old pupils, especially of those who came under his displeasure through disobedience. Miss Eliza D. EVERETT, who, it appears from the records, was a graduate of Ingham University, as well as the Ontario Female Seminary, was preceptress this year. Professor Lockwood HOYT was assistant principal during the winter term. Mr. COE is a successful lawyer and claim-agent at Canandaigua, and Miss EVERETT is a teacher in the Beirut Mission School, Syria.
It was during the administration of Professor Lewis PECK that, on petition of the trustees, the law was enacted incorporating the school under its present title.
In the fall of 1866, Professor E. J. PECK again took charge of the school. Miss Mary BUTLER, who was to have been preceptress, was taken ill at the beginning of the term and subsequently died, and the trustees secured the services of Miss Helen WIRTS, who had recently graduated at Houghten Seminary, Clinton, to fill the position. Thereon Van AUKEN was assistant during the winter term, and seven lady teachers were employed, besides Miss WIRTS, during the year. Miss Ruth H. NELSON, who had taught very successfully in the primary department of the school for some ten years previously, closed her connection with the school this year.
Mr. PECK remained as principal of the school till the end of the fall term, 1869, when he was elected school commissioner for the first district, Ontario County. He was succeeded for the winter term by James S. ROOT, then a student at Hamilton College, subsequently a graduate, and now pastor of the Presbyterian church, Camillus. He was assisted a few weeks by a Mr. DODD, who was superceded for the remainder of the term by Thereon Van AUKEN.
In the spring of 1870, H. C. KIRK became principal of the school, and remained as such till the end of the fall term of 1872, when he vacated the position to take the office of school commissioner for the first district. During most of this period Charles D. WADER was assistant in the school, and teacher of drawing, book-keeping, and penmanship. He left in the fall of 1872 to take a position in the First National Bank of Geneva, where he still remains.
George W. RAFTER, a student in engineering at Cornell University, was principal for the ensuing winter term, with C.R. DRYER as assistant. Mr. RAFTER also had charge of drawing. In the spring, Mr. RAFTER left to pursue his profession, and Mr. DRYER took charge of the school. Mr. RAFTER is the present assistant city surveyor, in Rochester.
During a portion of Mr. DRYERs term of service, Rev. J.A. WADER was assistant teacher of German, book-keeping, penmanship, etc. During the last portion of Mr. DRYERs term, however, this office was filled by Mrs. Frank HAMMOND. At the close of the school year 1875, Mr. DRYER closed his connection therewith to complete his studies, and to engage permanently in the practice of medicine. He is now a successful practitioner in the village of Victor.
H. C. KIRKs term of office as school commissioner expiring at the close of the year 1875, he took charge of the school for the full term of that year, and still retains the position of principal. Miss Helen WIRTS, the present preceptress, has held that position for the past ten years, a fact in itself proving the efficiency and success of her teaching. Mrs. HOSFORD, now in the senior intermediate department, has been connected with the school for quite as long a period, and has had the largest experience as a teacher of any connected with the school. The remaining teachers are Misses GERVIS, WHEELER, and ROOT, who have proved uniformly successful in their various departments, and Mrs. HAMMOND, who teaches writing, drawing, and German. She is a graduate of the Packer Institute, Brooklyn, and a very capable teacher.* (*The above excellent history was compiled by H. C. KIRK and Francis and Augustus F. ROOT.)
As early as 1822 classical teachers were employed in the village, and many students here prepared for college. Among the teachers are mentioned the names of KNIFFEN, HOUGH, BRADLEY, and William W. CAMPBELL. The Misses SPOONER also early conducted a female seminary, which was extensively patronized.
CIVIL HISTORY
The first town meeting in the district of Sullivan (now Phelps) was held April 1, 1796, when the following officers were chosen: Jonathan OAKS, superintendent; Solomon GOODALE, clerk; Joel PRESCOTT, Philetus SWIFT, Pierce GRANGER, assessors; Augustus DICKINSON, collector; Oliver HUMPHREY, Patrick BURNETT, overseers of the poor; Jesse WARNER, Oliver HUMPHREY, Philetus SWIFT, commissioners of highways; Cornelius WESTFALL, Abram D. SPURN, Charles HUMPHREY, Elijah GATES, Augustus DICKINSON, John PATTEN, Cornelius WESTFALL, Charles HUMPHREY, David WOODARD, overseers of highways; Jonathan OAKS, pound master.
The present officers are T. O. HOTCHKISS, superintendent; R. C. CARPENTER, clerk; Cooper SAYRE, Lysander REDFIELD, John H. ROY, John P. SPEAR, justices of the peace; Lincoln BROWN, Charles B. BURTIS, Warren W. CRITTENDEN, assessors; Norman ROCKFELLOW, H. McBURNEY, Peter RAYNER; commissioners of highways, Hiram PECK, Philo B. SABIN, Myron H. FULLER, Charles H. CRANDALL, Zorah DENSMORE, constables: George HUBBELL, H. B. PRUYN, Wm. JONES, James W. MOORE, C. H. HOLBROOK, C. B. BURTIS, Richard M. GREEN, C. J. PITKIN, Ichabod BOYD, S.S. PARTRIDGE, C. W. MITCHELL, J. A. BLYTHE, excise commissioners.
History of Ontario Co, NY Published 1878 Pgs. 165 - 168
Kindly transcribed by Donna Walker Judge
VILLAGE OF PHELPS
This village was originally called Woodpecker City, subsequently Vienna, and finally received the name of Phelps. The early settlement of the village has been mainly related in the town history. The first settlement in the town was made here, and this soon became the nucleus of a busy colony of pioneers.
Orrin REDFIELD was the first merchant in Phelps, having an assortment of dry goods and groceries in a log building on the site now occupied by the Phelps Hotel. HOTCHKISS (father of L. B. HOTCHKISS, Esq.) and McNEIL commenced the mercantile business in 1810 in Luther ROOTs bar-room, but soon after erected a building which they occupied as a store, standing on the site of the present block owned by B. F. ODELL. WING & NELSON opened a store in 1813. Dwight and Theodore PARTRIDGE commenced business in 1816, in the building now occupied by Mr. SNOW as a dwelling. The PARTRIDGES were succeeded by David D. AUKEN. Joel and Levi THAYER bought, for a hogshead of rum, the site for a store, now occupied by the establishment of S. C. HAWKS.
The first brick store in Phelps was erected in 1816, by HOTCHKISS and McNEIL.
The first grist-mill in the town was erected by Seth DEAN. This was a primitive establishment, but a great convenience to the settlers. In 1779, Cephas HAWKS, Augustus DICKINSON, and Theodore BANNISTER erected a grist-mill on the outlet, for which they were severely censured by Mr. DEAN, as encroaching upon his just rights. For, said he, I am the pioneer of the town in the business; I have, at great sacrifice, privation, and labor, erected a mill for the accommodation of the inhabitants; it just supplies me with bread for my family, and it meets all the wants of the community, and no doubt always will, and they will take the bread from my mouth. If Mr. DEAN could glance about the town today, he might be somewhat surprised in seeing nine grist-and flouring-mills in successful operation.
In about the year 1812, under the stimulus of high prices, many woolen-factories were built in various parts of the country, and among the number was that established by Erastus BUTLER, Luther ROOT, and Francis ROOT, in this village. It was a large establishment, employing about twenty-five persons, and the business was successfully prosecuted until 1815, when the country became flooded with foreign fabrics at low prices, and this, with other establishments, was abandoned. Luther ROOT leaned the clothiers trade of Aaron HAYDEN, and came to Phelps in 1798, where he actively engaged in business, and was one of the prominent pioneers of the town. A son, Mr. Francis ROOT, now resides near the village, at the advanced age of seventy years, who is familiar with the men and customs of ye olden time. and has rendered much valuable assistance in the compilation of the history of this town.
The year 1812 draws upon Vienna. and finds it assuming the importance of a village. In this year a post-office was established, and David MCNEIL appointed postmaster, a position which he held until his death. The contract for carrying the mail was given to Luther and Francis ROOT and Samuel and William HILDRETH, and the routes were from Phelps to Geneva and from Geneva via Phelps to Palmyra and to Pittsford once a week. Francis ROOT and Lyman WILLIAMS were the mail carriers.
Phelps located as it was in the center of a wealthy agricultural region, rapidly rose in importance until, to-day, it is one of the most thriving and pleasant towns in western New York.
Below are given the present business interests of the village:
The Red Mill, in the west end of the village, erected many years since by William HILDRETH, father of the historian, now owned by J. P. CHAMPION.
The Stone Mill, built by Frederick VAN DE MARK in 1835, now owned by Dr. J. Q. HOWE.
The Edmonston Mill, erected in 1819, by J. EDMONSTON, Esq., now owned by FOSGATE brothers.
The Coon Mill, built many years ago by John COON, now owned by Robert ROBINSON.
The Snyder Mill, erected by the SNYDER brothers about three years ago, and owned by them.
The New Mill, built the present year on the site of the old paper-mill, by WILLING and KINKAID, and owned by them.
Unionville Mill, erected in 1839 by Moses SWIFT, now owned by James McLEAN.
The Swift Mill, built nearly sixty years ago; present proprietor, Mr. J. BARLOW. There are three plaster-mills, one owned by R. B. GUIFFORD, one by Dr. J. Q. HOWE, and the other by Mr. SHORT. Four saw-mills, one in Orleans, one connected with SNYDERs Mill, one with BARLOWs, and one with BIGELOWs rake factory.
Foundry and Machine Shop, L. P. Thompson & Co., proprietors.
Steam-Engine Manufactory, owned by MILLER and HOFF.
Carriage-Manufactory, S. BOWKER, proprietor. A glove-and mitten-factory, conducted by Harvey CAREY, and a barrel-factory, owned by Fred BAKER.
European and American Oil Depot - Leman B. HOTCHKISS commenced the mercantile business in this village in 1832, which he continued a number of years, and then engaged in the manufacture and distillation of oil of peppermint and other essential oils, which he has since carried on with great success. The business is conducted on a large scale, and shipments are made to all parts of Europe.
The Banking Office of Phelps was established by L. B. HOTCHKISS in 1857, and continued by him until 1869, when he was succeeded by his son, Thaddeus O. HOTCHKISS, the present proprietor.
Malt-Houses - There are six stone malting establishments, owned by the following parties, viz: J. Q. HOWE, M.D., John MCGOVERN, Barnard MCKENNA, John WHITE, BETZ and NESTOR, and occupied by KELLY and BRADLEY.
The Phelps Hotel is a large and commodious building, finely located, and is mainly owned by L. B. HOTCHKISS; H. TICKNER, proprietor. The Globe Hotel is owned by Mr. CLARK. There are seven brick blocks, as follows:
The Carpenter Block, erected a few years since, and occupied by W. LAUGHLIN as a dry-goods store.
Boydens Block is occupied by A. L. BOYDEN, hardware dealer, and Mr. KELLYs grocery.
The Gibson Block, erected by WHITE about six years ago, and occupied by A. L. BOYDEN, agricultural implements; A. B. & M. PRUYN, groceries; D. White & Co., clothing, and S. C. HAWKS, dry goods.
Odells Block, erected in 1875, B. F. ODELL, and occupied by himself and son as a wholesale and retail grocery store.
Ross and Cooley Block was built about ten years ago by ROSS, VANDEMARK, and COOLEY, and is occupied by Mr. SPEER, groceries; Mr. COOLEY, boots and shoes; J. COLE, saloon; FRESBEE, White & Co., hardware; F. D. S. HELMER, millinery, and John FRASIER, furniture.
The MCNEIL Block, erected about three years ago by McLOUD, SMITH, SNOW & HOTCHKISS, all occupied by A. McLOUD, jeweler; T. J. LYMAN, dry goods; Mr. W. H. FINCH, dry goods; J. R. GREEN, groceries; T. O. HOTCHKISS, bank; Wm. WHITING and daughter, clothing and telegraph office; C. MUDGE, groceries and drugs; R. B. MARLEY, saloon; F. BOSWELL, market.
Among other business interests there are four coal-yards, owned by DILLINGHAM & STOTENBERG, A. D. & H. CROSBY, A. S. SMITH, and A. ALDRICH, and a blacksmith and carriage shop owned by H. C. & C. T. SEVERANCE.
A town hall was erected in 1849. There is one dentist in the village, Dr. J. R. SNOW, and six physicians. Viz. J. BURT, E. G. CARPENTER, J. Q. HOWE, Charles MUDGE, G. C. PRITCHARD, and F. VANDERHOOF. There are five shoe-stores, George POND, A. D. COOLEY, H. GREY, and G. H. PRESCOTT [only 4 listed]; three lumber-yards, owned by J. W. POST, George LOVELL, and L. D. WILBER; two harness-making establishments, CARPENTER & RICE, town hall block, and W. C. TOUT, Church street; and three millineries, viz., Mrs. CAREY, Mrs. WHITBECK, F. D. S. HELMER.
Phelps has many fine residences, the principal ones, however, being those of Dr. PRITCHARD, S. S. PARTRIDGE, Esq., S. BOWKER, T. O. HOTCHKISS, Mr. HARGEN, J. Q. HOWE, M.D., T. J. LYMAN, and Mrs. ROSS, on Main street; widow KING, on Ontario street; Mr. DILLINGHAM, on William street, and Mr. CRANE, on Church street.
The village was incorporated January 2, 1855. The following comprised the first board of trustees: Zenas WHEELER, Dolphin STEPHENSON, Harvey CAREY, Anson TITUS, and John TRISLER.
The Ontario Citizen and News - The Phelps Citizen and Clifton Springs News was founded about 1832. The office has preserved a continuous existence, but the paper has changed its name and its proprietors a number of times. It has been known as the Vienna Advertiser, The Phelps Democrat, The Western Atlas, The Phelps Union Star, The Phelps Citizen, and The Ontario Citizen and News. Its proprietors have been Messrs. PHELPS, JONES, DILLON, SHAW, PRESTER, LOWN, KILMER, PLEASANTS, WILLIAMS, RAY, CRANE, J. W. NEIGHBOR, and W. S. DRYSDALE.
While issued by J. W. NEIGHBOR as the Phelps Citizen, the Clifton Springs News was added, at first being published as a separate sheet. In anticipation of the hard times, the News was temporarily consolidated with the Citizen under its present proprietor, Mr. W. S. DRYSDALE. The Ontario Citizen and News of 1876 is an eight-column paper, neatly printed, and comparing well in every respect with the papers of Ontario County. It is an ably edited and influential journal, and has a circulation of about one thousand. Independent in politics. Its office is in a new building, expressly erected by its present proprietor, Mr. W. S. DRYSDALE, on Church street.
Neighbors Home Mail was established in 1874, by John W. NEIGHBOR. It is a patriotic magazine, devoted to the interests of American homes and their defenders. It is a three-column, twenty-four page monthly magazine, and has a wide circulation. Mr. NEIGHBOR is a veteran of the gallant One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and has every qualification for editing a soldiers journal. He also issues a semi-weekly advertising sheet called the Phelps Advertiser.
Phelps Lodge, No. 286, I.O.O.F., was instituted August 14, 1871. The charter members were A. L. WILSON, John SHAW, Thomas SHAW, George SHAW, Edward SHAW, H. K. WYMAN. John SHAW was its first Noble Grand, who is supposed to be the oldest Odd fellow in the State, if not in the United States. The lodge was moved from Clifton Springs in May, 1875, and is now located at Odd fellows Hall, in the upper story of the Cooley block. Its name was changed to Vienna Lodge, in August, 1876.
The elected and appointed officers for the term commencing July 3, 1876, are as follows: elective officers, N. G., R. C. CARPENTER, P. G.; C. T. SEVERANCE, V. G.,; James T. GEORGE, R. S.; W. C. TOUT, Sec.; John J. SALISBURY, Treas. Appointed officers, John TOUT, Warden; I. G., William ABBOTT; R.S.S., C.E. HARMON; Con., J.V.D. WYCKOFF; O. G., Frank C. SWEET; L.S.S., Ed. P. HICKS; Chaplain, Rev. Wm. D. WOODRUFF; R.S.N.G., P.B.SABIN; L.S.N.G., E. O. MARSH; R.S.V.G., Calvin HULL; L.S.V.G., Geo. MACK; S.P.G. and Representative to Grand Lodge, John T. WATKINS; proxy Representative to Grand Lodge, Past Grand John SHAW. The lodge is in a flourishing condition, and has a membership of fifty-four persons.
Phelps Grange, No. 150, was organized in March, 1874, and now numbers about sixty members. Its officers for the present year are as follows: H. H. HOPKINS, M.; C. C. COOLIDGE, S.; W. W. GATES, T.; J. W. GRIFFITH, O.; C. VANDERVORT, L; Mr. STYKER, Steward; Prescott CROSBY, Asst.-Steward; Thad. MUSSELMAN, G.K.; Mrs. W. W. GATES, Chaplain; Mrs. H. H. HOPKINS, Lady Asst.-Steward; Miss STYKER, Ceres; Miss Emma COOLIDGE, Pomona; Miss Jennie HOPKINS, Flora.
Sincerity Lodge, No. 200, F. and A.M., was organized May 7, 1811, with the following officers: Wells WHITMORE, W. M.; Wm. BURNETT, S.W.; Alfred WITTER, J. W.; Luther ROOT, Treas.; Nathaniel WILSON, Sec.; Michael MUSSELMAN, S.D.; David SAUNDERSON, J.D.; Rossel FLINT, Joseph DANOLDS, Stewards; B. CRARY, TYLER. During the anti-masonic excitement the lodge surrendered its charter, and was reorganized June 19, 1858, as Sincerity Lodge, No. 443, and subsequently recovered its original number, 200. At its reorganization the following were the first three officers: William M. CROSBY, W. M.; C. H. CARPENTER, S.W.; and T. A. LAWRENCE, J. W. The lodge now numbers one hundred and thirty-two master masons.
Union and Classical School - To be entirely in keeping with this Centennial period, we ought, doubtless, in presenting a history of the Phelps Union and Classical School, to go back at least a hundred years ago and chronicle the progress of educational matters to the present time. Aside from the very probable conjecture that the education of that day was limited to teaching the young idea how to shoot the arrow and to kindred employments we can offer nothing concerning the school of 1776 in the town of Phelps. There is a rumor that a log school-house existed somewhere on the present site of the village of Phelps prior to the year 1800. Of this we have been able to get no authentic account.
In the year 1805 there stood on the ground now occupied by the bank of T. O. HOTCHKISS a low one-store frame building, nearly new, being about twenty by forty feet square. There were two apartments, of which one was occupied by Mr. Joseph WOODHULL, son-in-law of the old hero and veteran, John Decker ROBISON. The other apartment was occupied as a school-room, and Aunt Chloe WARNER, as she was familiarly called, was the teacher. How long she taught, or how successfully, we are not informed. At this time the old log school-house of the early pioneers, with its wide jambs, stick chimney plastered over with mud, and its greased-paper windows, together with the mane and fame of its teachers, had passed away. Seventeen years had elapsed since Mr. ROBINSON had landed from his boat on the farm now owned by Hugh HAMMOND, where the brook, east of the village, winds around from its northern to an eastern course, about eighty or a hundred rods north from Mr. Hiram PECKs residence.
Aunt Chloe was succeeded by Rowland DEWEY, Ann BIGELOW, Abigail BIGELOW, sister of Ann, who married Mr. Thomas HOWE; then Betsey NEWELL, who married David McNEIL; then Caleb BANNISTER, afterward known and highly respected as Dr. Caleb BANNISTER, who taught in 1810 or 1811. Jared WILSON also taught soon after Dr. B.; he afterwards was one of the leading lawyers of the county. Dr. Harvey E. PHINNEY; then Miss KNAPP. Oliver MOORE was teaching in 1816; Erastus KELLOGG, about 1818. John CHAPMAN, distinguished as a mathematician, taught about 1820; with him passed away the fashion of locking out the teacher on Christmas morning so as not to have school that day. In order to have the work securely done, some of the older boys would stay in the school-house all night. It was not only expected by the scholars that there would be no school, but that the teacher would stand treat all around, which Mr. CHAPMAN was but too willing to do.
About this time the district was divided and two districts formed, the east and west; each built a new house. The east district built one of cut stone, which is the building next south of the Catholic church, and now occupied by Abram S. SMITH as a dwelling. The second story was owned and occupied by the Masons as a lodge-room. The west district built of brick, and the building is now occupied as a dwelling, and is situated a few rods west of Mr. COOPERs blacksmith-shop.
Among the teachers of the east district were Wm. KING, Mr. NOBLE, Jacob MOORE, 1821. Erastus MARVIN taught 1822 to 1825, and was a very efficient and successful teacher. Ziba CRAWFORD about 1827. Chas. E. PINKNEY, Sibyl MARVIN, T.A. PINKNEY, Horace FRAZER, 1832. John S. MOORE, 1833. Cornelius HORTON, Philander DAWBY, J.C. ANDERSON, Fanny HENRY, Mr. CONN, 1845. About this time the districts were reunited, and the present large and commodious building was erected and opened in 1846.
Among the teachers in the west district were Cornelius E. CROSBY, father of Prof. CROSBY, who was afterwards principal in the Union School; Richard MARVIN, afterward judge in the eighth judicial district of this State; F. ROOT, 1829 and 1830; Ann S. FRAZER, 1832.
The records of the eastern district still exist, and among the interesting resolutions passed at the school-meetings and contained therein, are the following:
Resolved, That each scholars parents shall furnish one half-cord good hard wood, or pay the sum of fifty cents for each scholar. (1820)
Voted, To dismiss the present teacher unless he shall consent to teach for twelve dollars per month.
The first teachers employed after the present building was erected were Prof. Lewis PECK, principal; Mr. T. H. FRENCH, assistant principal; Miss GARDNER, preceptress; Miss ALLEN, primary department; and a Miss STONE, teacher of penmanship. The first trustees were Anson P. WATERMAN, Wm. HILDRETH, and Moses B. WHITMORE.
Prof. Lewis PECK, the first principal of the school, was born in the town of Phelps, and was a graduate of Hamilton College. He remained as principal until October 15, 1853, at which time, on account of ill health, he sent in his resignation, having had charge of the school seven years. During his administration several different ladies occupied the position of preceptress. After Miss GARDNER a Miss NEWCOMB taught for one or two years. Miss BELDNEY succeeded her; after whom the position was filled by Miss Caroline ADGATE, and she in turn was succeeded by Miss Sarah LONG, now Mrs. Lewis PECK.
After Mr. PECKs resignation the trustees procured the services of Professor Thos. PRURINTON, who, though very popular at first, according to report did not prove to be successful. He was accidentally killed on the railroad some years since. He left the school in the spring of 1855. It was during his time that the bell now in the building was procured. Professor PECKs health had so far recovered that he was again persuaded to take charge of the school, and he retained the position until 1857. Professor W. F. CROSBY, a graduate of Hobart College, was the next principal. He was a man of taste and culture, and did much toward improving and decorating the grounds and buildings.
Mr. CROSBY had his defects as well as good qualities, and it is intimated that in consequence of the latter he was finally induced to resign his position. He instituted chapel exercises, and introduced music in the morning and Friday afternoon exercises. He left the school at the close of the term of 1856. Miss E. A. CLARK was preceptress during nine months of the time Mr. CROSBY was principal, and Miss Amelia SPOONER occupied the position during the remainder of the term.
The next principal was Mr. Ziba H. POTTER, now assistant professor of mathematics in Cornell University. He had charge of the school during 1860. We are informed by a lady, who was a pupil in the school for a number of years, that she learned more under his instruction than under the instruction of any other having charge of the school while she attended; and this she attributed to his superior qualities as a teacher. Miss Margaret REES was preceptress during the year.
Ezra J. PECK, A.M., took charge of the school in 1861, with Miss OKEEFE as preceptress, and remained one year, and then left the school to take a position in the army. His regiment was the Eighth New York Cavalry. Rev. Ferris SCOTT succeeded Mr. PECK. He had previously been employed in the south as a teacher.
After this gentleman had been in the school some weeks, through a feeling which appears to have sprung up suddenly among the trustees, much to his surprise he was coolly informed, one Friday night, that his services as principal would be no longer required. The conditions under which he had engaged to teach were such that he could do no better than submit. He visited the school, however, on the following Monday. A Mr. CURTIS had been engaged to teach at a lower rate of wages. The pupils seemed to favor Mr. SCOTT; and either from the fact of his visit, the unprofessional way in which Mr. CURTIS conducted affairs, or other reasons, it is at least true that Mr. CURTIS was discharged, and Mr. SCOTT reinstated the week following. He subsequently became chaplain of the gallant One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, and is now a teacher in Jersey City.
The trustees employed as principal for the school year ending July 3, 1863, Mr. Lockwood HOYT, A.M., a veteran teacher of some thirty years experience. Miss Sarah M. CLOY was preceptress during the fall and winter terms of this year, and Miss E. D. EVERETT filled the position during the spring term. Both of these ladies were graduates of the Ontario Female Seminary. Of Professor HOYT it is said that he was an excellent instructor, but deficient in government. Mr. Milton HOWE, A.B., was employed as assistant principal a portion of the year. The same position was filled the remainder of the year by John W. KENNARD.
For the school year ending July 15, 1864, John S. COE, A.M., a graduate of Union College, was employed. Of the ability of this gentleman to control the school, the reader is requested to inquire of some of his old pupils, especially of those who came under his displeasure through disobedience. Miss Eliza D. EVERETT, who, it appears from the records, was a graduate of Ingham University, as well as the Ontario Female Seminary, was preceptress this year. Professor Lockwood HOYT was assistant principal during the winter term. Mr. COE is a successful lawyer and claim-agent at Canandaigua, and Miss EVERETT is a teacher in the Beirut Mission School, Syria.
It was during the administration of Professor Lewis PECK that, on petition of the trustees, the law was enacted incorporating the school under its present title.
In the fall of 1866, Professor E. J. PECK again took charge of the school. Miss Mary BUTLER, who was to have been preceptress, was taken ill at the beginning of the term and subsequently died, and the trustees secured the services of Miss Helen WIRTS, who had recently graduated at Houghten Seminary, Clinton, to fill the position. Thereon Van AUKEN was assistant during the winter term, and seven lady teachers were employed, besides Miss WIRTS, during the year. Miss Ruth H. NELSON, who had taught very successfully in the primary department of the school for some ten years previously, closed her connection with the school this year.
Mr. PECK remained as principal of the school till the end of the fall term, 1869, when he was elected school commissioner for the first district, Ontario County. He was succeeded for the winter term by James S. ROOT, then a student at Hamilton College, subsequently a graduate, and now pastor of the Presbyterian church, Camillus. He was assisted a few weeks by a Mr. DODD, who was superceded for the remainder of the term by Thereon Van AUKEN.
In the spring of 1870, H. C. KIRK became principal of the school, and remained as such till the end of the fall term of 1872, when he vacated the position to take the office of school commissioner for the first district. During most of this period Charles D. WADER was assistant in the school, and teacher of drawing, book-keeping, and penmanship. He left in the fall of 1872 to take a position in the First National Bank of Geneva, where he still remains.
George W. RAFTER, a student in engineering at Cornell University, was principal for the ensuing winter term, with C.R. DRYER as assistant. Mr. RAFTER also had charge of drawing. In the spring, Mr. RAFTER left to pursue his profession, and Mr. DRYER took charge of the school. Mr. RAFTER is the present assistant city surveyor, in Rochester.
During a portion of Mr. DRYERs term of service, Rev. J.A. WADER was assistant teacher of German, book-keeping, penmanship, etc. During the last portion of Mr. DRYERs term, however, this office was filled by Mrs. Frank HAMMOND. At the close of the school year 1875, Mr. DRYER closed his connection therewith to complete his studies, and to engage permanently in the practice of medicine. He is now a successful practitioner in the village of Victor.
H. C. KIRKs term of office as school commissioner expiring at the close of the year 1875, he took charge of the school for the full term of that year, and still retains the position of principal. Miss Helen WIRTS, the present preceptress, has held that position for the past ten years, a fact in itself proving the efficiency and success of her teaching. Mrs. HOSFORD, now in the senior intermediate department, has been connected with the school for quite as long a period, and has had the largest experience as a teacher of any connected with the school. The remaining teachers are Misses GERVIS, WHEELER, and ROOT, who have proved uniformly successful in their various departments, and Mrs. HAMMOND, who teaches writing, drawing, and German. She is a graduate of the Packer Institute, Brooklyn, and a very capable teacher.* (*The above excellent history was compiled by H. C. KIRK and Francis and Augustus F. ROOT.)
As early as 1822 classical teachers were employed in the village, and many students here prepared for college. Among the teachers are mentioned the names of KNIFFEN, HOUGH, BRADLEY, and William W. CAMPBELL. The Misses SPOONER also early conducted a female seminary, which was extensively patronized.
CIVIL HISTORY
The first town meeting in the district of Sullivan (now Phelps) was held April 1, 1796, when the following officers were chosen: Jonathan OAKS, superintendent; Solomon GOODALE, clerk; Joel PRESCOTT, Philetus SWIFT, Pierce GRANGER, assessors; Augustus DICKINSON, collector; Oliver HUMPHREY, Patrick BURNETT, overseers of the poor; Jesse WARNER, Oliver HUMPHREY, Philetus SWIFT, commissioners of highways; Cornelius WESTFALL, Abram D. SPURN, Charles HUMPHREY, Elijah GATES, Augustus DICKINSON, John PATTEN, Cornelius WESTFALL, Charles HUMPHREY, David WOODARD, overseers of highways; Jonathan OAKS, pound master.
The present officers are T. O. HOTCHKISS, superintendent; R. C. CARPENTER, clerk; Cooper SAYRE, Lysander REDFIELD, John H. ROY, John P. SPEAR, justices of the peace; Lincoln BROWN, Charles B. BURTIS, Warren W. CRITTENDEN, assessors; Norman ROCKFELLOW, H. McBURNEY, Peter RAYNER; commissioners of highways, Hiram PECK, Philo B. SABIN, Myron H. FULLER, Charles H. CRANDALL, Zorah DENSMORE, constables: George HUBBELL, H. B. PRUYN, Wm. JONES, James W. MOORE, C. H. HOLBROOK, C. B. BURTIS, Richard M. GREEN, C. J. PITKIN, Ichabod BOYD, S.S. PARTRIDGE, C. W. MITCHELL, J. A. BLYTHE, excise commissioners.
