Chincoteague News From The Peninsula Enterprise in 1885
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 10 January 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mr. R. H. Williams of Wesleyan University, is visiting Mr. J. T. Kenney.
The heirs of John Daisey are in receipt of two thousand dollars insurance from the Knights of Honor. The delay in payment was caused by the tardiness in the appointment of guardian for the minor heirs.
Messrs. D. J. Whealton & Bro's store, Chincoteague, is headquarters for the sale of J. & P. Coats best machine spool cotton. They will deliver it to any place on the Eastern Shore free of freight and assorted to suit purchasers at 55 cts. per dozen, less 6 per cent discount for cash. Cabinets sent free to purchasers of 25 and 100 dozen spools.
Our people are passing through the greatest financial depression ever felt here. It would be much worse but for the quarterly disbursements by the Government to its employees in oar [sic] midst. Our oyster business to the present time has been a dead letter, and the failure of our oysters, involves every other interest in our community. With a large acreage of arable land, it is surprising that our people are not more extensively engaged in agriculture, at least in the raising of small fruits and cereals. - With land sufficient to raise all we consume we are not using tenth. Another such winter, financially, as we are passing through will drive us to the soil to make up the loss from the water."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 17 January 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mr. Henry Matthews has returned from his visit to the northern cities.
Mr. Wilcox and family of Mystic Bridge, Connecticut, have left here for their home.
The Presiding Elder preached a very interesting sermon at the M. E. Church last Wednesday evening, to a large and attentive congregation.
Messrs. D. J. Whealton & Bro's store, Chincoteague, is headquarters for the sale of J. & P. Coats best machine spool cotton. They will deliver it to any place on the Eastern Shore free of freight and assorted to suit purchasers at 55 cts. per dozen, less 6 per cent discount for cash. Cabinets sent free to purchasers of 25 and 100 dozen spools.
On Friday evening last, a very pleasant party gathered at the residence of Mrs. S. M. Lewis, to celebrate her fair daughter Lillian's birthday. Games of various kinds entertained the party until 10 o'clock, at which witching hour, the party marched into the dining room where a table fairly groaned under its load of delicacies. Everyone partook of the refreshments with so much gusto, that it was a delightful study to watch the varying expressions of pleased delight, that swept over the face of our charming hostess, who never seemed weary of attending to the wants of her many guests. The party broke up at 11.30 o'clock, and a unanimous vote of thanks was tendered Mrs. Lewis and her daughter. Would there were more such birthday parties."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 17 January 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The Baptists want to build a parsonage.
We now have more patronizing "partisans" than ever.
We have had no more balls since Dr. King and his banjo left.
Oysters are almost done "wearing the green." Shipping per steamer slightly accelerated.
Wild ducks killed by lamplight have glutted our market. Choice red heads bringing 45 cents per pair.
We think our enterprising merchant, D. J. Whealton, has placed the postoffice beyond the reach of all others.
Captain "Jim" wants the island incorporated, but the ingredients won't combine. We think he would like to be mayor if he can't be postmaster.
Messrs. D. J. Whealton & Bro's store, Chincoteague, is headquarters for the sale of J. & P. Coats best machine spool cotton. They will deliver it to any place on the Eastern Shore free of freight and assorted to suit purchasers at 55 cts. per dozen, less 6 per cent discount for cash. Cabinets sent free to purchasers of 25 and 100 dozen spools.
Since the Walker-Duncan escapade, our quiet tenor has had two breaks. A native unbleached American got his "riggan ripped" clean down to his envelopes by some white boys who were dusting his pants because he was impudent. And some boys possessed by the remnant of the election returns, tried to paint Ticktown red. They wired a bale of rags to the conclusion of a dog, coal oiled and fired it, a dark night. Ticktown awoke, to battle the dog illuminator, and in a short time the fire was put out, so was the dog. We are told that the boys' mothers cut their hair, and so modified the cut of their pants that they could not be identified as the culprits. The relative injuries sustained by Ticktown, the owners of the dogs and boys is a question to be settled by law, de facto not de jure, There is now on hand with the magistrate enough warwants [sic] to generate steam for a ten-horse-power engine. Baker has spilled a great deal of ink on miscarried warrants. The dog has been diagnosed, and all that remains in an undisturbed natural condition was a lingering cadence."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 31 January 1885, page 3, columns 3 and 4:
"The Proposed Chincoteague and Delaware Canal.
The Secretary of war has addressed a letter to Congress covering the preliminary report of a survey made for a coast line canal from Chincoteague bay, on the eastern boundaries of Accomack county, Va. and Worcester county, Md., to Delaware bay at or near Lewes. The total amount of navigable waters that would be brought into safe communication by the proposed canal would be, in round numbers, one hundred and fifty miles to the various landings along the creeks and bays, thus giving an outlet to four hundred and fifty miles of territory. The total distance to be improved to render the whole line between the two bays navigable would not exceed sixteen miles. The cost of the improvements, which would give a continuous channel seventy feet wide, with a depth of six feet at mean low water, is estimated by the engineers at three hundred and fifty thousand dollars, and the whole work, it is said, could be completed in about two hundred and fifty working days. The probable amount of freight that would be annually transported over this route by water carriage is put at about one million seven hundred and ninety-five thousand dollars. Of this total the exports, consisting of logs, ties, timber, lumber, cord wood, oysters and grain, would be over a million of dollars, and the exports seven hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars. The cord wood now standing in the woods along the bays and streams, are easily accessible, is said to be "almost inexhaustible," while ship and other timber is found there in great quantities and of superior quality. One effect of the proposed canal would be the drainage it would afford to some of the marshes through which it would pass, and stress is also laid on the fact that while the oyster business as now carried on in Chincoteague bay gives employment to over five thousand men, it is capable of being of being largely increased if its waters are given a northern outlet, thus producing a current that would freshen and relieve the stagnation that now prevents the raising of oysters north of Snow Hill and renders one-half of Chincoteague bay valueless for this purpose. The difficulty of improving the soil of the country lying along the bays, and naturally "of good quality, easily worked, and of great original productiveness," arises, according to the report of Engineer Bird, not only from the cost of transporting lime by railroad, but because of the distance which it has to be hauled from the railroads to the interior farms. The cost and distance are too great to allow of its use at present, whereas, in his opinion, it would be freely used when with water transportation "it could be cheaply brought almost to the fields by vessels as return freights." Such is the substance of the preliminary survey for an inland coast line water route between Chincoteague and Delaware bays, as authorized to be made by Congress under the provisions of the river and harbor act of July 5th, 1884. This Inland canal, it should be understood, is simply for the purpose of giving a free and safe passage between the two bays for small coasting vessels instead of exposing them to the dangers of open sea, and has no connection whatever with the proposed ship-canal from the Choptank river to the mouth of the Delaware, which would prove so valuable to the government for military purposes, and for commercial purposes to Maryland and many of the interior states. - Balto. Sun."
Advertisement on page 4, column 8, reads:
"E. W. Richardson - Sailmaker - Chincoteague Island, Va.
Offers his services to the public and guarantees:
1. Good-fitting sails - and, if a misfit should be made, to alter it free of charge.
2. Will fill all orders promptly and without cost of transportation to any part of the Eastern Shore.
3. Will do his work as cheaply as it can be done in the city.
Any reference desired will be given as to workmanship, &c.
Diagram for measuring sails forwarded on application.
Material for sails furnished by him."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 7 February 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Our potato planters will be pleased to learn that they can get supplied with first-class eastern potato seed at J. T. Kenney's store.
Rumor says Rev. J. McKendree Brewington of Princess Anne, Md., will give our Methodist friends the gospel after Snow Hill Conference.
Mr. Richardson, telegraph operator at Ocean City, reports to Chincoteague for duty, vice W. D. Maxwell, who goes to Texas. Boss Dickens still holds the fort.
Messrs. D. J. Whealton & Bro's store, Chincoteague, is headquarters for the sale of J. & P. Coats best machine spool cotton. They will deliver it to any place on the Eastern Shore free of freight and assorted to suit purchasers at 55 cts. per dozen, less 6 per cent discount for cash. Cabinets sent free to purchasers of 25 and 100 dozen spools.
Confusion in one of our Baptist churches results in an immense amount of hind throwing, the decapitation of a Deacon, and the promotion of a General. Jim declares he will lay the General out, and by the light of the Aurora Borealis, show him what's the matter with Hannah and Lucy too. Not satisfied with ecclesiastical law, the aggrieved parties have appealed to Justice Baker, and his already overburdened docket shows one more case."
Columns 2 and 3:
"Assateague.
Oysters are selling very slow with us and 60 cents only are given for those that find purchasers.
Capt. Alfred Hudson died of consumption at his residence on Chincoteague last Monday, leaving a wife and five children.
The sloop Fred dragged her anchor and went ashore in Thomas' Cove during the gale on the 28th ult. She will be floated soon without much damage to her.
The drouth last summer and fall killed a great deal of grass, and the beach ponies by reason thereof being deprived of the usual forage upon which they subsisted, are looking badly.
The schooner Hewlett, A. Conover, Captain, sailed from Thomas' Cove S. E. of the light house, January 27th, with a load of oysters for Philadelphia, the first ever shipped from this place."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 21 February 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
We regret to announce that Mr. C. F. Dickens of the signal service will leave us soon to take charge of the station at Delaware Breakwater. Mr. Williams succeeds Mrs. Dickens.
For the information of your Wachapreague correspondent we would say that our community haven't the post office fever as bad as represented. The applicants have narrowed down to four.
Hereafter Justice Baker's court will meet on the second Saturday and last Thursday of each month. Since Constable Thornton went out of commission, Chincoteague has had no one to apprehend the boys. Constable Gladding of Atlantic, will make us semi-monthly visits and serve the summons.
Mr. J. T. Kenney has just returned from Washington, having succeeded in effecting a settlement with Henry Lape of Wilmington, of accounts due parties in Maryland and Virginia, for material and labor furnished in the construction of Life Saving Stations in 1883.
How is it that the wreckers get nothing for saving the cocoanuts from the wreck on Williams' shoal? Hereafter we advise a settlement before the removal of the cargo. We learn the parties who got the wreck off are compelled to take the old hull for pay."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 28 February 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"Navigation between Chincoteague Island and the mainland, for several days this week, was closed by the ice."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 4 April 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mrs. Failing has left for her home at Martha's Vineyard, Mass. She was very ill at the time of her departure.
The new street recently opened via Atlantic hotel to Main street has been named James Q. avenue in honor of one of our professors.
Many of our temperance townsmen were summoned to attend before the grand jury last Monday, to testify in a certain "sweet cider case."
The sloop, John M. Rogers, owned by Capt. John W. Bunting, went ashore on Cape Henlopen Beach on the 22nd ult. She was loaded with oysters and the loss is estimated at $1,500.
Mr. E. W. Richardson has traded his famous trotter "St. Charles" for the yacht "Shoe Fly" and is expected to give an excursion on her Easter Monday, to which our citizens will generally be invited.
Our school, under the management of Miss C. Lynn Cranmer, this session has greatly improved. She is very popular with both parents and pupils, and everyone desires she will consent to serve us another year.
Capt. R. H. Wilcox and chief engineer of Mystic, Conn., arrived here last Saturday and taking charge of the steamer King Fisher which has been laid up since September, left on Monday for eastern waters.
Capt. S. S. Rich is at the time of writing, a visitor at this place and while always welcome here is especially so at this time to the "Life Saving boys." to whom he is giving the last quarterly checks for the season.
Rev. J. D. Reese has been returned by the Wilmington M. E. Conference, which lately convened at Snow Hill, to his charge at this place. He is very popular with our people, and they will show their appreciation of him by "pounding" next Wednesday.
The bottom has dropped out of our northern oyster market. Our oystermen have done comparatively nothing in fact this season. The first Jersey planter arrived this week, and is paying 50 cents per bushel for oysters. The most of our oystermen are now engaged in catch "plants" down the bay.
Messrs. D. J. Whealton & Bro's store, Chincoteague, is headquarters for the sale of J. & P. Coats best machine spool cotton. They will deliver it to any place on the Eastern Shore free of freight and assorted to suit purchasers at 55 cts. per dozen, less 6 per cent discount for cash. Cabinets sent free to purchasers of 25 and 100 dozen spools.
Mr. James Buchanan, who has been stopping at the Atlantic hotel this winter and who as a sportsman was very popular with our people, left for his home in New York City this week. He has spent several years in Europe, Canada and Florida, and says that none of them have attractions for sportsmen superior to Chincoteague."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 18 April 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Turnip greens, corn and oysters are retailing here, each, at 50 cts. per bushel.
Several Jersey oyster boats are being loaded at this time with "plants."
Messrs. L. Causey and S. D. Pollett have made Cape Charles City their home.
The wife of Capt. D. J. Whealton of John, died very suddenly of dropsy on 2nd inst.
Schooner John Young, Capt. Burton of New York, arrived here on the 4th inst., with 102 tons of coal for O. D. S. S. Co.
Mr. L. E. Mumford of Berlin, Md., and Mr. C. E. Mumford of Baltimore, have formed a copartnership and will engage in the mercantile business here.
Mr. Rupert Dodd, democrat of Frankford, Del., superseded Mr. Martin L. Williams, Republican of Seaford, Del., on the 8th inst., as mail agent of D., M. & Va. R. R.
The U.S. winter quarter launch arrived here on 9th inst., with supplies. - One of her crew, Mr. Post, resigned his position, and on the 10th was married to Miss Tubbs of this place. They will reside here.
Among the guests at Atlantic hotel this week are H. A. Bourne, Supt. O. D. Steamboat Co., Jeremiah Mahoney, Supt. Delaware R. R., John A. Brittingham and E. T. Powell of Watchapreague [sic] City. The latter purchased 16 ponies, to be sent to Parramore's Beach, leased by him for a stock farm.
The schooner J. P. Hart, Capt. Jas. Pruitt, from Tangier sound bound to Chincoteague with a cargo of oysters, encountered heavy gales off the latter place last Monday and had a jibboon [sic], bow sprit and some rigging torn away. The life-saving crews from Assateague and Wallops' Island rendered great assistance to the schooner when in a dangerous condition. No lives were lost."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 25 April 1885, page 3, column 3:
"Life Saving Service.
CHINCOTEAGUE, VA., April 13.
EDITOR OF ENTERPRISE: - I wish to return through your columns my sincere thanks to Capt. James T. Tracey and crew of Assateague Life Saving Station for the timely assistance rendered me on Sunday April 12, when my vessel was in a sinking condition, caused by striking on Chincoteague bar. If said assistance had not been rendered promptly the result would have been of a very serious nature. In twenty minutes from hoisting signal of distress the life saving crew boarded me.
J. C. HAMMEL, Master schooner "R. B. Leedes," of Absecom, N. J. "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 9 May 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mr. J. T. Kenney has just left for New York to purchase his supply of goods.
Samuel Whealton, one of our best colored citizens, died suddenly on Sunday the 3rd instant with pneumonia.
Our oystermen are scarcely getting cost out of their oysters at thirty to forty cents per bushel. Large quantities are being sold at these figures.
The new supply of officers at the Signal Office, consist of Messrs. Crane and Sheanen, Mr. Dickens having gone to Fort Reno, Indian Territory, and Mr. Williams to Cape Henlopen. No Aspirants yet for district offices.
Our Menhaden catchers are over-hauling boats, mending nets and setting their houses in order for the summer work. Messrs. Gum and Hickman have sold their interest in the fish business to Messrs. Mumford and Coffin. The management is to be under Mr. Samuel J. Mumford."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 23 May 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Signal officer Hall has been ordered to Washington.
Chincoteague will vote against removing the court-house.
The annual sheep penning takes place on Wednesday, May 27th.
Chief Engineer Slott of the O. D. S. S. Line is at the Atlantic.
The D. M. & Va. R. R. Co., has put on an extra evening train, which gives us our mail at 3 p. m.
Master Johnnie Anderton, son of the keeper of the Assateague light, is ill with pneumonia, with but little hopes of his recovery.
Chincoteague is the place for sportsmen now. Beach birds are plenty and pining to be shot, while the fish actually try to crawl up the beach.
Mr. J. T. Kenney has just returned from New York, and displays on his shelves the handsomest line of new goods at the lowest figures ever offered our people. No auction stock.
The "toilers of the beach" are all at home, the stations having been closed on the first of this month. These are the only government employees in our midst who feel safe in their positions; claiming that politicians under a Republican administration were ordered to keep hands off, and that they have no fears under the reform administration. Our district election so near at hand, and yet the matter is never spoken of, not a single candidate has offered himself as a sacrifice. This is a case of office seeking the man."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 30 May 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The festival of the Methodists held during the last week was quite a success financially. The Methodist Episcopal Church is to be moved up on the lot donated by Mr. Geo. C. Birch and service held in Temperance Hall until a new church is built.
Our community was excited on Thursday evening the 21st by the report that a wreck was on the shoals near the Inlet. Captains Whealton and Tracy of the Life Saving Service proceeded hurriedly with a crew to Wallop's Station, launched the surf boat - and about midnight came upon the vessel. No one was on board and with the flood tide she was drifting off the shoal. They found her to be the schooner "Rescue," David Key, master, cargo, lumber from Little Washington, N. C., to Melville, N. J. In attempting to get in Chincoteague Inlet she had struck on Fox Shoal. The life saving crew by pumping and laboring all night, succeeded in getting the vessel and cargo into harbor - and she is now discharging her load. Too much credit cannot be given to Captains Whealton and Tracy with their industrious crew in behalf of this vessel and her cargo. But for the timely aid she would soon have been lost, or have fallen into the hands of the wreckers who would have demanded half of the property saved."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 6 June 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"The U. S. Engineer of the 4th L. H. District is stopping at the Atlantic hotel. He came in advance of the contractors to locate the position of the Killick Shoal Lighthouse."
Page 3, column 2:
"Chincoteague.
The mumps have made their appearance in our midst.
The steamer Geranium is in Port, putting the buoys of the inlet in proper position.
A number of gunners from Phila., Balto., and other points are stopping here and have been quite successful in bagging the feathered tribe.
As evidence of a wreck at sea large quantities of wreckage material, lumber, some fruit, and merchandise have been picked up on our beaches during the past week.
A Methodist celebration is announced for the 4th of July to be held under awnings on the Kenney lot in front of the M. P. Church. The Rev. J. S. Willis of Milford is spoken of as the orator.
The quietest election in the history of Chincoteague was last Thursday. - Drummondtown's representative was on hand, and the story of the "sixty thousand" dollar county buildings, requiring increased taxation, carried the day by a handsome majority.
The Rev. Mr. Scott, formerly a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church comes as pastor of the Methodist Protestant Church. With the present supply of preachers and public schools we will hardly go back to cannibalism. Another "Dominie" for Chincoteague."
Page 3, column 3:
"Election.
The following shows the result at the election held in the county of Accomac, on Thursday, May 28th, 1885: Officers elected in the several districts. ....
THE ISLANDS.
Supervisor, J. A. M. Whealton; Constable, Wm. N. Conant; Overseer of the Poor, J. P. Baker; Justices of the Peace, Henry A. Mumford, Jas. Birch and J. P. Baker.
For and against removal of court-house: - ....
Chincoteague For: 40 Against: 127
Total For: 817 Against: 1784
Majority against removal 971 ......"
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 13 June 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
A sail boat now carries our mail - the U. S. mail steamer is in Norfolk.
The Wallop Island sheep penning was a failure, owing to the high winds.
Two of our fish factories opened this week, but so far "no catch" has been made.
A new storehouse being erected here by Mr. L. E. Mumford will be the largest in the county.
We are expecting a large 4th of July. Distinguished speakers, fire works and a brass band are promised.
Mr. A. J. Powell of Berlin, Md., now engaged in "bedding and shipping crabs" from this point, gives employment to many of our citizens.
Mr. J. E. Matthews lost a valuable blooded heifer last week, "with blind staggers," which was a New Year's gift to him from Governor of Delaware.
Hamilton Diston, H. C. Forest, T. L. Harrison and Captain Mallory, engineer to locate the light house on Killick shoals, were guests at the Atlantic hotel last week.
A social game of base ball between our club and the nine of Greenbackville at the latter named place, on the afternoon of the 6th, resulted in a victory for the Greenback boys. Score 21 to 17. A second game is announced for the 13th at this place."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 20 June 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"A member of the firm of Fletcher & Parramore will visit Chincoteague the week preceding every county court to give their attention to matters in the line of their profession in that locality."
On page 3, column 3:
"Chincoteague.
The 4th of July spread eagle celebration, contemplated by our Methodist friends has been postponed twelve months.
Our heavy weight doctor draws the reins on the fastest colt in our section. A Bonnie Scotland.
The fishing crews of Bunting's factory succeeded on Tuesday in loading their boats with black drum fish. They counted about one thousand. Thus far no Menhadden have been taken.
Our public school has closed. Some of the pupils have been preparing to enter other schools in the coming scholastic year. Miss Georgie Tracy goes to Onancock, and Master Aug. Whealton and Jo Kenney to Dover."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 27 June 1885, page 3, column 3:
"Festival on Chincoteague.
MR. EDITOR: - Will you please allow me a small space in your valuable paper. We propose holding a festival for the benefit of Union Baptist Church, on the 3rd and 4th of July. Bro. J. W. Hundley of Onancock, will be with us on the "4th" and deliver an address on "Soul Liberty." We are building a parsonage and expect to get it shut in this week. Mr. Wm. N. Conant, a first-class mechanic of our Island is the builder. We need some help, as money is scarce, and if any readers of THE ENTERPRISE who have the means, and would like to help a good cause, can do so by sending contributions to my address. Any amount, however small, will be thankfully received, and promptly acknowledged. Hoping to see some of the good people of your town at our festival, and you among the number.
Respectfully yours,
S. U. GRIMSLEY, Pastor.
Chincoteague, June 22, '85."
**** Immediately prior to this letter was the account by an un-named "local reporter" on "The Chincoteague Tragedy." This was the local report on the shooting and death of Jennie Hill, the shooting of her mother, and the suicide of the young man who shot both of the Hills. That entire event, with all the attending newspaper articles, were posted earlier this year on this Facebook page. The original article, from this paper is in Part 1 of that series... ****
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 4 July 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The habit of carrying concealed weapons by the boys and young men in our midst is almost universal. A few arrests and convictions for this violation of law would have a wholesome effect.
Our Baptist friends are hammering away at a new parsonage, all enclosed and soon to be ready for the Parson. - Their contemplated festival on the 4th is to raise funds for this worthy object.
A fight in Ticktown last Saturday night, between a man and a worthless woman, resulted in her leaving for parts unknown. We have a few more of the same kind that would not be missed.
Our people who voted against the court house on the railroad say their success settled the question of a new court house, and hope the new Board of Supervisors, whom they elected, will not go back on them and build one in Drummondtown.
Mrs. Hill, one of the victims of the recent tragedy, is slowly improving. - Since the shooting reason has been dethroned until yesterday when she became herself again. Her first questions were for Jennie and when informed of the facts in the case her grief was heart-rending to witness. The stricken family have received letters of commiseration and sympathy from many sections of our country. We shall not be surprised to hear of other cases of shooting."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 11 July 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague - On the 4th.
The 4th of July was duly observed on Chincoteague, quietly and orderly but with a spirit of patriotism worthy of the memorable occasion. A goodly part of the population of the island were out in holiday attire, and while no noisy demonstrations greeted you, it could be seen that the glorious recollections of the 4th or some other cause had put them in good humor, and they were disposed to make the most of the pleasures of the day. In that spirit hundreds of people from the mainland, Stockton, Girdletreehill, Franklin City, Greenback, Horntown, Atlantic, and Drummondtown met and mingled with them. In that whole assembly of 1500 people or more, not a jar occurred to mar the pleasure of the occasion. - A festival, match game of base ball and boat races furnished means of recreation and amusement during the day.
The festival held by the Baptist brethren under the supervision of Rev. Mr. Grimsley it is needless to say was "well ordered" in every respect. The gross sales amounting to $280 and a net profit of $175 realized from the festival, shows that the brethren and sisters were not at fault in preparations necessary for such an occasion and that the people approved the cause to be promoted thereby.
The match game of baseball between Delaware and Chincoteague nines was well contested and exciting, resulting in favor of the latter by a score of 8 to 7.
The races affording genuine amusement to many spectators, were close and interesting. In the first race, the skiffs Annie & May, Baldcrown and J. I. C., were entered and the prize offered, a silver cup to the fastest was carried off by J. I. C., belonging to Elijah Jester, Esq., by a half-second. - In the second race, the skiffs French, Maggie Lou, Scud and Bet Wise and the bateau Picnic were entered. The Bet Wise, belonging to Thos. Savage, Esq., came out ahead of the Picnic by 47 seconds and won the silver pitcher, awarded to the fastest."
Column 3:
"Accomac County Court.
County court proceedings at June term, 1885: ...
Wm. E. Jacob, Thos. C. Kellam, D. Frank White, Thomas T. Taylor and John A. M. Whealton qualified as supervisors in their respective districts to wit, Pungoteague, Lee, Metompkin, Atlantic and Chincoteague. ...
Thos. W. Blackstone, Alfred J. Lilliston, Samuel T. Taylor, Samuel J. Davis and Josiah P. Baker qualified as overseers of the poor in their respective districts to wit, Lee, Pungoteague, Metompkin, Atlantic and Chincoteague. ...
Josiah P. Baker qualified as Justice Peace for district of the Islands. ... "
Column 4:
"Died. ...
BOOTH - On Chincoteague Island, July 3rd 1885, of consumption, Mrs. Nancy Booth, wife of Thomas Booth and daughter of Wm. Daisey, aged 33 years.
WHITE - On Chincoteague Island, July 2nd, 1885, of consumption, Mrs. Dora White, wife of Dr. Robert White, aged 38 years. ..."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 18 July 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The Ticktown party referred to in last weeks issue were of the colored persuasion. [Note: Nothing in the previous issue referred to Ticktown... I wonder if the 'Chincoteague - On the 4th' ran instead of the regular reporter's article?]
One would judge from the report in the "Breakwater Light" that the Lewes club feels sore over its recent defeat by the Chincoteague nine.
Mr. R. H. Williams who has just graduated at Wesleyan University is the guest of Mr. J. T. Kenny [sic]. He has accepted for the coming year the professorship of Greek and Latin in the Tilton Academy of Tilton, N. C.
Our farmers annual Horse Penning takes place this year a little earlier than usual. The dates are on Chincoteague Tuesday, July 28th, Assateague Wednesday, July 30 [sic]. We are informed that the owners will very much reduce their stock this year in consequence of which fine opportunities will be offered purchasers. Visitors to the pennings will be entertained with a match-game of baseball and a boat race."
Column 3:
"Base Ball Notes.
On July 4th, a game of base ball took place on Chincoteague Island, between the club from Lewes, Del., (who call themselves the champions of Sussex county, Del.,) and the Chincoteague club. The appended score shows that the home nine played a fine up hill game, not getting fairly at work until the 3rd inning. The Delaware boys are well organized and a gentlemanly set of fellows. They excelled in the field, but the Virginia boys were better at the bat. Thanks are due Clayton Dennis for umpiring. Score as follows:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 T'l
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Lewes 3 2 0 0 0 0 2 7
Chincoteague 1 1 0 2 2 2 8
Time of game 1 3/4 hours. M. S. C. "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 8 August 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Personals:"
"Mr. Daniel J. Whealton has received the appointment as postmaster at Chincoteague Island."
Column 4, under the heading "Married:"
PARKS - REID - On Chincoteague Island, on 20th day of July, by Rev. J. D. Reese, Francis O. Parks to Miss Julia C. Reid.
LEWIS - WILLIAMS - On Chincoteague Island, on the 30th day of July, by Rev. S. U. Grimsley, William T. Lewis to Miss Eliza J. Williams."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 15 August 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Rev. Mr. Bowen and daughter of Sedalia, Mo., are guests of Capt. B. W. Swift.
Wonderful reforms at the steamboat wharf since the Pennsylvania assumed control. We hav'nt [sic] learned yet which is the most benefitted the company or the public.
Art Brinney, colored, of Chincoteague, was handcuffed and taken to jail, last week, charged with being the bearer of an obscene letter to a lady in town. He declined to give the name of the author.
Another offensive partisan gone. Mr. D. J. Whealton has received the appointment of postmaster vice J. T. Kenney, suspended. It is safe to say that the removal would have been made long since, but for the county factional fight represented by the two aspirants for the position, Messrs. Whealton and Matthews.
It is very evident from the report of the chairman of the county school board, that he has'nt [sic] received returns from Chincoteague. Two months ago our schools closed and the teachers received their warrants in statements. - These warrants were cashed, not accepted in trade or payment of debts, but actually cashed by some of our citizens, and at the present writing, though presented to the treasurer more than once are still unpaid, the treasurer hinting that there would be no funds of this year's taxes to settle them. These warrants may be sought after in the chairman's district, but they are below par on Chincoteague."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 22 August 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"The Chincoteague base ball nine will attend our Fair and through our columns challenges any nine in Accomac in a match-game. They will doubtless be willing also to try their skill with the ball and bat in a contest with the "red Stockings" of Northampton."
Column 2:
"Chincoteague.
Mr. Sheam of the Signal Service is away on leave of absence. Mr. Crane "holds the fort."
Chincoteague, for the first time in our county Fair will be represented this year. The premium for "Cribbers of all ages" will be carried off by us, sure.
Our Methodist brethren of "Good Will" have their church shut in and are holding a successful rival under the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Reese. He will commence a series of meetings next Sabbath at the hall. The evangelist, Rev. M. Galloway, of Wilmington, Del., will preach in the morning."
Columns 2 and 3:
"A Card.
NEW YORK, August 17th, 1885.
Mr. EDITOR: - Through some misunderstanding it has been circulated thro' your county, especially among sweet potato shippers, that we have failed and that our checks have gone to protest, etc. We have received a good many communications from our shippers in regard to the matter, and take this method of notifying them that our financial standing is as good as ever it was, and to explain to them why we allowed one check to go to protest. The circumstances are as follows: On July 22nd, we received 10 barrels of potatoes from a certain D. T. Tarr, a resident of Chincoteague Island, Va., and on the 24th of July 4 barrels more. On the same day (July 24th,) we sent account of sales and check to said D. T. Tar for 14 barrels. About the 31st of July we received a letter from D. T. Tarr stating that he had not received his check for the 10 barrels, and asking for an explanation as he said all other parties had received their money. On the same day we got this letter, the check came back to our bank with D. T. Tarr's and D. J. Whealton's endorsements on it. Naturally supposing something was wrong, we immediately notified the cashier of our bank to refuse payment on said check, which he did, and it was protested as required by law and notice sent to the endorsers. Then we immediately made out separate statements for the two lots of potatoes and sent our check for same to our agents, J. M. Birch & Brother, relating the circumstances to them and requesting that the right parties got paid for their potatoes. We have received a reply from them stating that this had been done and that everything was all straight. Anyone with ordinary reasoning faculties can readily see that payment on this check was refused, not only to protect ourselves against loss, but also the person to whom the money rightfully belonged. We have subsequently learned that there are two D. T. Tarr's on Chincoteague Island - one Sr., and one Jr.
We would add for the benefit of those wishing to ship to us; that we have agents at different point who have money in hand to cash all checks issued by us. Shippers will please to send invoice of goods, how marked, their full name and postoffice address. As evidence of our financial standing we append the following certificate from D. B. Halstead, President New York National Exchange Bank.
Respectfully,
CHILD, TAPPEN & BRO.
------------------------
NEW YORK, Aug. 17, 1885.
"Child, Tappen & Bro., have always kept an excellent account in this bank, never borrowing any money - always meeting their engagements promptly. - We have always found them straight-forward and reliable business men."
D. B. HALSTEAD,
Pres't. N. Y., National Exchange Bank. "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 29 August 1885, page 3, columns 1 and 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"General Fitzhugh Lee and others will address the citizens of Chincoteague Island on Tuesday night, succeeding court-day, and will also address the people of Belle Haven on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ...
The commissioners appointed to mark the boundary line between Maryland and Virginia, have not located the buoys in Pocomoke sound to suit the Somerset oystermen - they claim that the line as marked takes a slice of what has heretofore been considered as Maryland oyster-rock, and the Virginians object to the citizens of our State crossing the line after oysters. A meeting of oystermen has been called to meet in Princess Anne to take steps to remedy the matter. - Somerset Herald."
"Chincoteague.
Our porkers are dying up with the cholera.
The Knights of Honor jubilee at Red Hills last Wednesday, was a decided success socially and financially.
Our Chincoteague "nine" have accepted a challenge from the Onancock "nine" to play on the Fair Grounds.
Colonel C. C. Long of Egyptian army notoriety, is registered at Matthews' hotel. Rumor says that he will visit Egypt again soon, not to fight Arabs, but, as a representative of this government.
Interest centered in the skiff race for the silver pitcher. The contestants were the "John W. Edmonds" of Powelton, the "Pic Nic," "Mamie French" and "Scud" of Chincoteague. With a full sail breeze only, they sped away over the designated course; comments and opinions favoring the "Pc Nic," champion of Chincoteague. To the chagrin of her admirers, she came in just 48 seconds behind the "John W. Edmonds," and the prize was lost."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 5 September 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"A child of Mrs. William Reid of Chincoteague was burned so badly on Monday night that it cannot live. The mother in the effort to extinguish the fire received severe injuries also. A lamp knocked from a sewing machine by the child was the cause of the accident."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 31 October 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mrs. James E. Matthews is visiting her daughter, Mrs. Wilcox in Connecticutt [sic].
Misses Willie Pepper and Lucy Short of Georgetown, Del., are guests of Mr. Jas. Williams.
Our fish factories have closed, and the owners of them say they have made no money this season.
At the late registration of voters six white and five colored people availed themselves of the privilege.
Mr. Harry Corbin succeeds Mr. B. F. Swift as clerk of steamer Widgeon, who resigned on account of his health.
Our citizens complain of dull times, but it being generally conceded that our oysters are finer than they have been for ten years, better times are expected soon.
The addresses to be delivered on the night before election by Messrs. Blackstone, Kellam and Johnson, are looked for with interest by our Democratic voters.
The steamer Widgeon will, according to advices received by us, be soon taken off the line from Franklin City to Chincoteague, and a better steamer will be placed on the route. It is reported also that an extra train is to leave Franklin City at 5 p. m., at an early day.
We have a building boom with us despite the hard times. The Baptist parsonage and the handsome dwelling of Capt. John B. Whealton have recently been completed. Mr. William Davis is having a fine dwelling erected and Captain Wm. Risley and others propose also, soon to make a move in the same direction."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Friday, 6 November 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"Capt. G. G. Savage, collector of customs, has recommended for appointment as deputies, Mr. W. F. R. Cropper, of Chincoteague, and Charles H. Savage, Esq., Cherrystone."
In column 3:
"Official Vote of Northampton and Accomac.
Precincts Lee Wise Blackstone Wescott Wilson
Chincoteague 196 78 194 184 196
......
Totals 2797 1591 2776 2741 2796 ....."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 14 November 1885, page 3, column 1, under heading of "Local News:"
"The annual report of the Light House Board makes an estimate for special appropriation to Chincoteague buoy depot $1,250; Winter Quarter Shoal-Light-Ship, $30,000."
In column 2:
"Chincoteague.
Business has been booming here since Fitz Lee got elected.
Mr. W. F. R. Cropper is having a new building erected for a Custom House.
Father Spencer, 72 years of age, is having a blacksmith shop erected at this place in which to ply his trade.
Our U. S. Signal Observer reports that ten inches of rain fell here on Sunday - the heaviest rain fall of the season.
Mrs. J. E. Matthews has returned from her tour throug [sic] the New England States, accompanied by her daughter, Mrs. Wilcox and little son, Eddie.
Robert C. Loney, wholesale lumber dealer of New York, has rented rooms at the Atlantic Hotel and proposes to make Chincoteague his future home.
Tom Cove oysters are selling at $1.75 per bushel and oysters on eastern side at 75 cents per bushel. Capt. Wm. Risley has bought 3,000 bushels at above prices and two of his schooners are being loaded with them at this time.
Mr. C. F. Coffin, one of our most enterprising merchants, left this week for Elizabeth City, N. C., to take charge of the store and goods recently purchased at that place by him, for the sum of $7,000. His business here will be continued under the supervision of his father.
Prominent among the arrivals at the Atlantic Hotel last week were Capt. G. W. Gastins, R. Holway, C. H. Dodd, Louis Palmer and Wm. H. Kepps, of New York; Geo. Stephens, L. A. Cox, J. E. Pitts and B. Wharton, of Phila.; C. B. Church, Balto., A. Branley, Bordentown, N. J., and J. W. G. Blackstone, A. T. Johnson and John H. Wise, Accomac C. H.
Atlantic.
... Our oyster inspector, Capt. S. J. Davis returned last week from a tour to Chincoteague Island, but his mission thither was not a successful one. ... "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 21 November 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mr. W. J. Adams is recovering from a serious illness of several weeks.
Mr. J. T. Kenny & Son [sic], have returned from a protracted visit to Philadelphia.
Capt. R. H. Wilcox of Connecticut, is among the guests of the Atlantic Hotel.
According to report, the Penna. R. R. Company will, on the 7th of December, place one of their steamers on route between Franklin City and Chincoteague.
Lieut. Baldwin of Newport, Rhode Island, has been ordered to succeed Lieut. W. A. Failing as commander of the U. S. cutter at this place on the 25th inst. Capt. [sic] Failing has been ordered to take charge of cutter at Baltimore. The regret at his departure from this point will be universal.
The construction of the light-house on Killick Shoals, at head of Chincoteague channel is now assured at no distant day. The material for same arrived here from New York on schooner C. J. Hart, commanded by Capt. Smith, last Tuesday, and was landed at Government wharf. The lighthouse will be a useful and ornamental structure. The query now often propounded is, who will be the keeper?"
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 5 December 1885, page 3, column 2, under heading of "Local News:"
"According to announcement the Electoral School Board met at Accomac C. H., November 30th ult., and made the following appointments, to fill vacancies which have occurred in the five magisterial school districts, to wit: Island, Dr. N. S. Smith and J. J. Jones vice D. J. Whealton postmaster; Atlantic, Dr. J. E. Broadwater; ... By order of the Electoral Board, J. E. MAPP, Clerk.
Chincoteague.
The schools here were closed Thanksgiving day.
Mrs. Elizabeth Carpenter died Tuesday, November 24th inst., aged 76 years.
The gun of Wm. Holston bursted while he was out gunning recently, and he was severely wounded.
New York yachts are being loaded in our channel with oyster culls and primes - the latter at 70 cents per bushel.
Now is the time for sportsmen to visit this place, as ducks, brandt [sic], geese and wild fowl of all kinds are abundant.
Rev. Mr. Grimsley has returned from the Association lately in session in Richmond, and has moved into the new Baptist parsonage.
The dwelling of John Ewell, colored, caught fire from stove, Friday night of last week, and it and furniture were entirely consumed.
Mr. J. T. Kenny is having his store-house remodeled, and when completed it will be one of the handsomest structures of the kind on Chincoteague.
Capts. Smith and Birch left last week for Philadelphia, to bring the steam yacht Fisher to Chincoteague, which is to ply between this point and Franklin City.
Among the recent arrivals at Atlantic hotel were as follows: Dr. Charles W. Gumby, Frank Stevens and wife, Richard Trimble, W. J. Crawford, Philadelphia; J. C. Kellogg, J. B. Irwin, R. C. Laws, E. B. Gardner, New York; E. B. Melson, Bishopsville, Del.; R. J. Saterfield, Milford, Del.; W. H. Andrews, Samuel Hecht, Baltimore; F. H. Benson, Pocomoke City; Isaac Uhlman, Salisbury; E. L. Crockett, Washington; John E. Wise, A. T. Johnson, George Parramore, Accomac C. H.; George H. Bagwell, B. S. Rich, Onancock."
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