Chincoteague News From The Peninsula Enterprise in 1886
***A few missing issues in January and February, plus issues with no mention of Chincoteague. ***
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 27 February 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Washington's birthday was observed with us by closing the public schools.
Mr. J. T. Johnson "elocuted" to a limited audience at Duncan hall last week.
Mr. Isaac Reynolds and Miss Sarah C. Williams were married on 17th inst., Rev. J. D. Reese officiating.
Our weather observer reports velocity of wind last Saturday 52 miles per hour, the heaviest during the winter.
A. Brown, general passenger agent of the Old Dominion Steamship Company, and Geo. Stevens of Pennsylvania R. R. were at Atlantic hotel this week.
Capt. Wm. Collins has retired from Life station at Green Run, and now commands a yacht of Mumford & Bro., plying between Chincoteague and Philadelphia.
The Killick shoal light is nearly completed, and the question has not been solved yet as to who is to be its keeper. A Democrat is entitled to the place, even under the civil service humbug administration of Mr. Cleveland, it being a new light, but the matter has been so clumsily handled, if not neglected altogether by our representative, Mr. Croxton, that the third colored assistant keeper of Assateague light is likely to fill the place. Commander Evans alone seems to be consulted in the matter, though Chincoteague is in the jurisdiction of Captain White.
The marriage of Mr. W. C. Bunting and Miss Hattie Mumford came off as announced in the last issue of your paper. Supper was served at residence of bride on 17th inst., and on the return of the happy couple from their tour north on last Wednesday, a handsome reception was given at residence of Capt. John W. Bunting, father of the groom. Besides the waiters, consisting of Daly Richardson of Snow Hill, and Miss Mamie Bratten of Berlin, W. J. Matthews and Miss Ida Tracy of Chincoteague, Mr. Laws of Pittsville, Md., and Miss Kate Mumford, Chincoteague, about 50 other guests were present. The entertainment on each occasion was delightful and completely enjoyed."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 6 March 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
"Notice is given by the Lighthouse Board that after March 10th, a light of the fourth order will be shown from the structure recently erected on Killick Shoal, Chincoteague bay, Va. ....
Two colored men of Chincoteague, charged with stealing four gallons of gin and other liquors, were sent to jail this week. One of them was subsequently released on bail to answer charges at grand jury term of court."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 13 March 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The young ladies of the M. E. Church propose having an oyster supper, to raise funds, to meet deficiency in their pastor's salary.
A street light recently placed in front of store of our enterprising druggist, Mr. O. N. Jones, adds greatly to appearance of that part of our town, at night.
The estimated loss of Elva A. Jeffries, owner of the sloop Rebecca J. which was sunk during the storm of 25th ult., off of Wachapreague inlet, is $800.
Rev. J. D. Reese has been attending Wilmington M. E. Conference at Elkton, Md., and during his absence, services in his church here have been suspended.
Mrs. L. A. Taylor, one of our fashionable milliners, has retired from business. Her house, purchased by Mr. J. H. Tindle, has been moved to Main St., and converted into a boot and shoe manufactory.
The proprietor of the "Lone Star Saloon" here it is said has lively matrimonial expectations. A recent visit to Delaware of our friend, had a significance which means much, according to madame rumor.
Mr. Joseph T. Kenney, delegate to the Grand Lodge, Knights of Honor, which recently convened in the city of Richmond, has returned home. At its session this year, he was elected Grand Dictator, the highest office in the Lodge in Virginia.
Prominent among the arrivals at the Atlantic hotel this week are; Capt. J. C. Mallory, light house engineer, G. B. White, light house inspector. J. H. Nicolson, James Trimble, T. H. Moore, Phila.; R. C. Lowery, N. Y.; T. B. Doughty, H. C. Doughty, A. Upshur Mapp, Geo. E. Scott, Balto.
The contractor says that Killick Shoal light will be ready for occupancy 15th inst. and Wm. Parker, colored, second assistant of Assateague light has been promoted and appointed keeper of the new light. Elijah R. Wilson, of Georgetown, Delaware, has been appointed to fill Parker's old place. We are informed, that one if not both of these men are utterly incompetent, knowing nothing of light-house work and cannot tell even in what direction the wind is blowing. Such are the men appointed instead of our own citizens, whose life work has been such as to prepare them to fill efficiently the places, which should belong to them. It is to be hoped, that an examination will be given these men - so that it may be seen to what folly the civil service laws, enforced without regard to party obligations or efficiency, lead."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 20 March 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Letter From Commander Evans.
OFFICE OF LIGHT-HOUSE INSPECTOR, FIFTH DISTRICT
BALTO., MD., March 15, '86.
EDITOR, PENINSULA ENTERPRISE: - -
Dear Sir: My attention has just this morning been called to an article in your edition of Feb. 27, 1886, removing the cuticle from my body in the most masterly style. The "freedom of the press" is a great thing, but in your able hands the tension is greater than should be applied. Having, as above stated, removed the cuticle from my unoffending body, won't you be fair enough to restore it by publishing the following?
I was not aware, until I read your able editorial that there was, or was to be, a light-house at Killick Shoal, Va. I never received an application, petition or other writing, of any kind shape, or verbal request from any one for the position of keeper of said light-house. If I had received such, I would have returned it at once to the sender with the information that the station was not in my district. Anyone who charges me with being an offensive partisan - either Republican or Democratic, does not tell the truth. I never cast a vote in my life and never expect to - nor did I ever influence anyone to cast a vote for any party. I am an officer of the Navy and as such have no business with politics. Under the last administration I was charged with being a Democrat. Knowing the honorable instincts and practices of newspaper men generally, I have no doubt that you will give this card the same prominence given to the unjust attack which has called for it.
R. D. EVANS,
L. H., Inspector."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 27 March 1886, on page 3, column 4:
"Local Option Meeting on Chincoteague.
At a call meeting of the citizens of Chincoteague Island, Va., held in Temperance Hall, March 22nd, 1886, the following resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, The importation, manufacture, sale and supply of alcoholic beverages is everywhere shown to be promoting the cause of intemperance, with resulting crime, misery, ignorance and pauperism, imposing large and unjust taxation, for the support of penal and sheltering institutions, upon thrift, industry, manufacture and commerce.
Whereas, The fight we are engaged in is a fight of the "right against the wrong, good against bad, peace against riot," therefore
Resolved 1st, That it is the duty of all good citizens and especially all Christians to place themselves in the front ranks of the Grand Army that is waging an uncompromising warfare against the whole whiskey system.
Resolved 2nd, That the thanks of our community are hereby tendered the Friends of Temperance of our grand old Commonwealth, and members of our legislature (especially the Hon. T. T. Wescott,) for their untiring efforts and zeal in the passage of the Local Option Law, and to the Hon. George T. Garrison, judge of our court, for his promptness in ordering an election, giving us the opportunity to set our seal of condemnation upon the liquor license system.
Resolved 3rd, That a copy of these resolutions be published in our county papers.
J. T. KENNEY, Chairman.
C. O. DISBROW, Secretary."
From page 3, column 6:
"PUBLIC SALE On CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND, VA., OF BOATS, SEINES, ENGINES, BOILERS, ETC, ETC.
The following property will be sold at public auction, in front of Matthews' hotel, Chincoteague Island, Va., on Wednesday, March 31st, 1886, commencing at 1 p.m.:
SLOOP ANNIEHOMAN 22 TONS
SLOOP EUREKA 18 TONS,
SLOOP JOSIE 10 TONS,
(all complete and in good order,)
TWO PAIR SEINE BOATS,
TWO PAIR ALEWIFE SEINES,
(125 fathoms each,)
ONE ENGINE 40-horse power,
ONE UPRIGHT ENGINE 10-horse power,
TWO BOILERS
(engines and boilers nearly new,)
ONE HYDRAULIC PUMP,
60 BARRELS FISH OIL,
75 TON FISH SCRAP,
3 FISH FACTORY BUILDINGS,
20 ACRES LAND.
Terms stated day of sale.
By order Stock Holders,
J. T. KENNEY, Treas."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 3 April 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Turnip greens are selling with us at 40 cents per bushel.
Alewives, the first fish of the season were caught in our waters last week.
Dr. John W. Fields is home again after a lengthy visit to northern and eastern cities.
Mr. W. J. Matthews, has a "turnout" which our citizens describe as the finest ever seen in our town.
Potatoes, peas and onions are looking well with us - trucking prospects generally appear to be good.
Dr. Chas. L. Porter, of Seaford, Del., who has located here for the practice of his profession, dentistry, receives a cordial welcome at the hands of our citizens.
Prominent among the arrivals at the Atlantic last week were Thos. L. Wilbank, Chas. Abell, W. J. Crawford, Jno. Vogel, D. L. Clement, Phila.; C. Platt, New York; C. S. Crockwell, Washington; Sam'l Hecht, B. J. Thomas, Balto.; Dr. C. F. Hall, Snow Hill.
A building boom is anticipated here later in the spring. A handsome dwelling of Mr. Connant is now being finished and Messrs. Wm. Davis, Wm. Risley, Wm. C. Bunting and others are making preparations to have erected also large and ornamental dwellings.
The steam yacht Fisher, which was sent here some weeks ago by P. R. R. Co., to take the place of steamer Widgeon on route between Franklin City and Chincoteague and found to be unfit for that purpose, left here on 26th ult., for Oxford, Md., under command of Capt. Joshua Birch and 1st officer P. D. Corbin.
The ladies of the M. E. Church of Chincoteague gave a "Martha Washington tea party" on Thursday and Friday nights of last week at the town hall for the benefit of their pastor, Rev. J. D. Reese. George and Martha Washington were impersonated by Mr. and Mrs. Chas. G. Shearer, decked in the habiliments of an hundred years ago. - They presided at the table, loaded with all the delicacies of the season with an easy grace and dignity - while a bevy of pretty young ladies arrayed in Martha Washington costumes served the guests with succulent viands. A large crowd was in attendance each night, in fact, many were turned away for want of room. Mrs. D. J. Whealton and Miss Frank Babbitt deserve especial mention, being the prime movers and constant workers in the benevolent cause. Mr. Charles E. Murray acted as cashier and reports the gross receipts to be over $83 - net proceeds $40."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 10 April 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
"The committee on rivers and harbors of U. S. Congress has reported favorably a bill appropriating $25,000 for improving by dredging and otherwise the inland waterway from Chincoteague to Lewes, Del. ....
The sloop Wm. T. Sherman, belonging to Capt. Bunting of Chincoteague, was dismasted off Wachapreague on 8th inst., but prompt assistance being rendered by Capt. Savage and crew of Life Saving Service and Capt. Brown Le Cato, she was relieved without serious damage."
Column 2:
"Chincoteague.
It is reported that Maltby & Co., of Norfolk, will soon establish a porpoise oil factory here.
Capt. B. S. Rich was in town recently, and settled with the Life Saving crews for quarterly services.
Our shippers of oysters report northern markets good - primes selling at $3 to $4 per barrel, and culls at $2 to $2.50.
The Bingham House, Philadelphia, is supplied with oysters planted at Thomas' Cove by Capt. John W. Bunting, at $5 per barrel.
The Chincoteague Fish and Guano Co., sold their factories, boats, &c., as advertised on Wednesday, March 31st, the stockholders being the purchasers at about $4,000.
Two-thirds of our citizens engaged in the oyster business, are at present "down the bay" catching oysters for plants and for sale, and are making from $25 to $100 per month.
Sloop Rebecca J., owned by E. A. Jeffries, Chincoteague, heretofore reported a total loss at Wachapreague inlet, has been gotten up by Capt. E. J. Foote without any material damage to her.
Capt. John W. Bunting, our enterprising manufacturer of oil, fish guano, &c., has recently delivered 100 tons of dry fish scrap at $28 per ton, to the Fidelity Manufacturing Co., Philadelphia, Pa.
Atlantic hotel arrivals this week are: S. D. Fletcher, Jenkins' Bridge; W. E. Doughty, Geo. E. Scott, W. H. Andrews, Baltimore; John Messick, Philadelphia; G. M. Phipps, Norfolk; N. S. Townsend, G. W. Carmine, Snow Hill, Md.; R. J. Saterfield, Milford, Del.; G. F. Parramore, Accomac C. H.
Cards are out for the marriage of Mr. D. T. Whealton and Miss Bettie Jones, on the 14th inst. A handsome reception will be given at the groom's residence on the day names, and on the following day the couple will leave for an extended tour to the northern cities. The music for the occasion will be under the management of Dr. Chas. L. Porter of Seaford, Delaware.
The sloop Julia A. Roe, commanded by Capt. Geo. W. Marshall, belonging to A. W. Miller & Co., Baltimore, was wrecked on Chincoteague bar, on 3rd inst. Her cargo consisted of 1300 bushels of oysters, and she was on her way from Deal Island, Md., to Morris river, N. J. The value of boat and cargo is estimated at $2,700. The wreck was sold in front of Atlantic hotel last Monday for $36, C. E. Babbit and son being the purchasers. The crew of the lost boat were rescued by Capt. Whealton and son of the Life Saving Service. Capt. Tracy and crew, also, of Assateague, were on hand and rendered effective service. The sea never ran higher at the time the rescue was made, and too much cannot be said in praise of the gallant services of the Life Saving crews."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 14 April 1886, on page 3, column 4:
"Local Option on Chincoteague.
At no time in the history of our Island has there been such an uprising of the people, such an agitation of the community, as that now going on over the question of local prohibition. On last Sabbath the Rev. John A. B. Wilson delivered four lectures in our churches during the day and night. Too much credit cannot be given the Rev. S. U. Grimsley for the fearless stand he has taken on the right side of this issue, and the immense amount of work he has accomplished during this crusade against the licensed liquor system. Meetings are being held, and will be, nightly, until the day of election. Yesterday, the ladies met in the M. P. Church, and organized for the campaign. Mrs. Dr. N. S. Smith was elected president, Mrs. D. J. Whealton , secretary, Mrs. J. W. Whealton, treasurer. Committees were appointed for various lines of work, a brigade of whom will attend at the polls on the day of the election. With these angels of mercy on the side of God and humanity, no one doubts the result. - The speeches of the Rev. John A. B. Wilson on the evils of the liquor license system, will be remembered by our citizens as the most scathing rebuke to the traffic ever delivered in our midst.
Our executive committee being notified that the liquor dealers wished to offer terms looking to a compromise sent to each saloon keeper the following letter:
"DEAR SIR: - It comes from Mr. Matthews through the Rev. Mr. Grimsley, that the gentlemen selling liquor wish to make a compromise with the temperance men and that it can be done before night. As we intend to treat every one fairly, we are willing to hear what you can say, and, without committing ourselves to any change in policy, invite you to meet us at Temperance Hall, today, at 5 p. m., that we may learn what you mean by a compromise, what you desire of us, and what terms, if any, you propose to offer.
Very respectfully,
J. T. KENNEY, D. J. WHEALTON, S. U. GRIMSLEY, JOHN A. B. WILSON."
The liquor men represented by Mr. Matthews met the above committee, and the compromise they had to offer was, that the committee should buy them out, buildings, good will, fixtures and stock. Seeing the hand writing on the wall, they were anxious to save the wreck. The committee not wishing to go into the business, declined the offer - and thus the battle goes on.
A host of speakers are engaged for the next ten days, among them that old war horse of temperance, Captain Sturtdevant of Maine, the man who of all others was instrumental in rescuing that apostle of temperance, Francis Murphy, from a drunkard's doom.
When our own contest shall have been settled, or temperance laborers have signified their willingness to visit any portion of our county during this war, and assist the brethren of the mainland in their efforts to protect their homes and firesides from the ravages of the rum traffic. Committees take notice.
J. T. KENNEY.
April 14th, 1886."
Two issues missing.
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 1 May 1886, on page 3, column 3:
"Local Option Election on Chincoteague.
The struggle that has been going on for four weeks between the friends of prohibition, who organized for the protection of their homes, and friends of the liquor license system, in defense of the saloons reached its height April 23rd, in a rousing open air meeting held opposite Matthew's hotel in opposition to one held by the liquor men on the hotel porch. One Mr. Weeks of Baltimore in a public speech backed by Dr. Derrickson of Berlin, Md., tried earnestly to show our people the beauties of the license system, the large revenue it paid the State and the United States, and that with its destruction would follow the annihilation of our business interests, the closing of our public schools and charitable institutions. The Dr. told us of the utter failure of the local option law in Worcester county, Md., and the repeal of the law by an overwhelming majority, but failed to enlighten us as to why the town of Bishopsville in that county and within sight of the smoke from his chimney, at an election held during the present week, gave a rousing majority for prohibition. Four weeks of earnest toil by our citizens, assisted by Rev. Robert Todd, Rev. John A. B. Wilson, Messrs. Warner and Schneider, of New Jersey, Captain Sturdtevant, Revs. A. S. Mowbray, and A. D. Davis, so aroused our people against the iniquitous license system, that the opposition speeches of the General and the Dr. fell like water on a wild fowl's back. Our streets were thronged until eleven o'clock at night with men, women and children, wild with excitement and hoarse from cheering the champions of the temperance cause. They bivouacked at midnight only to open the Waterloo of the liquor license system on the following morning. That morning, April 24, dawned on Chincoteague calm and clear. With the rising of the sun commenced the moving of the temperance columns. Men, women and children took their places in the line of battle and the fight went on. All day long the ladies crowded the vicinity of the polls, cheering the voters and pinning boquets [sic] to the lappels [sic] of their coats. They provided a banquet near by and dined, free, five hundred persons, white and colored. - "The colored troops fought bravely." - Under the leadership of the Rev. Mr. Cole of the Delaware Conference they assembled at their church, and at nine o'clock marched in solid column to the polls, and notwithstanding the boast of the liquor men that they would buy them all up, they cast their solid vote against the greatest enemy of their race: six colored votes only being cast against the temperance ticket. Music and song and the shouts of the victors rent the air as they rolled up the temperance majority. Many were influenced to vote right by the smiles and earnest pleadings of our ladies. The eyes of the "toilers of the sea" filled with tears as mothers clung to wayward boys and entreated them to cast their ballots against the enemy of God and home. - The going down of the sun witnessed the termination of the conflict, and the complete rout of the opposing forces. Two hundred and Sixty-four votes against, and only thirty-eight for license. The evening closed with a triumphant march of the victors through the principal street, keeping steps to the tunes of their battle songs."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 22 May 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"
"Rev. J. W. Ward will preach next Sunday morning at Chincoteague Baptist Church, Atlantic, and on the same day at Modestown at 7 1/2 p. m."
In column 2:
"Chincoteague.
Dr. Robert White has returned from a visit to Philadelphia.
Winter Quarter Light Ship, recently launched, reached this harbor on 16th inst.
Hamilton Disston and party of friends from Philadelphia arrived here a few days ago in Yacht Magnate, on a gunning tour.
The annual sheep penning on Assateague comes off this year on Friday, June 9th, at which time sheep and wool will be sold at public and private sale.
A new post office was established at upper end of the island a few days ago, with Charles Collins as postmaster. L. Hudson was awarded the contract to carry the mail to that point.
The evening train of the Va., Md., and Del. R. R. from Franklin City to Philadelphia, every Monday and Thursday, has been discontinued to the regret of our oyster shippers - because it did not pay to ran [sic] it.
Our fishermen say that never in the history of the Island were fish so abundant in our waters. The catch of shad has been larger than ever known before and trouts are so plentiful as to sell at 50 cents per hundred.
Rev. A. W. Mowbray sent as pastor to M. E. Church at this place didn't like his charge and has left for another field of labor. Rev. Clinton Wyatte of Bridgetown, Md., takes his place.
Our sportsmen report that birds are very plentiful, so much so that a man is a very poor sportsman who cannot "bag" a hundred or more a day and this is the time therefore for those fond of gunning to visit the Island.
Mr. Isaac Brittingham, one of our leading merchants was married on 13th inst., to Miss Eva Collins of Berlin, Md. A popular young lady of the Island is now in Baltimore having her trousseau prepared, and another marriage is therefore expected soon at this place.
The reporter from Atlantic postoffice to the Virginian is incorrect in the statement made in the last issue of that paper, that Ambrose B. Miles had received his appointment as keeper of Killick Shoal light. Wm. Parker, colored, is still the keeper and is likely to continue so. A petition does not mean an appointment by any means, as that reporter seemed to think.
Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week: J. H. Nicolson, M. H. Stevenson, Thos. S. Harrison, L. T. Dullies, Phila.; R. C. Loney, W. B. Meshon, N. Y.; T. P. Doughty, Samuel Hatch, J. S. Nock, W. J. Fitchett, Baltimore; M. Fitzgerald, Washington; U. M. Medford, Wilmington; Wm. Sartorius, E. G. Polk, W. S. Dryden, Pocomoke."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 29 May 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Public schools closed on Tuesday for want of funds to continue them longer.
Sunday was the finest day of spring, and our streets were thronged with promenaders.
Our town was enlivened on Tuesday by music, discoursed by a portion of our old brass band.
Several barrels of raw linseed oil have been found along our coast - supposed to be be from a distant wreck.
The stockholders have changed the time of Assateague sheep penning from June 9th, to Wednesday, June 2nd.
Early fruits and vegetables are very forward with us, excepting strawberries and peas. Mrs. Jas. E. Matthews is the only one who has been able to supply her table this season with the latter, as a home product.
Arrivals at hotel this week: H. P. Maxwell, Washington, D. C.; John W. Carroll, Princess Anne, Md.; J. A. Moore, S. H. Styles, Phila.; H. C. Doughty. J. A. Spillman, G. E. Scott, Henry Snow, J. D. Dowell, J. D. Jacob, Capt. James Asquire, Baltimore, Md.
Cards are out for the marriage of Corporal Arthur B. Crane and Miss Hallie Caulk, on the 31st inst. After a handsome reception at the home of the bride the happy couple will make a tour as far north as New York, and then return home via Norfolk and Old Point. Both are very popular here and will receive the heartiest congratulations and best wishes of numerous friends during their life as well as wedding journey."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 5 June 1886, on page 3, column 3, under the heading "Letters From the People:"
"MR. EDITOR. - The closing of the saloons of our Island has resulted as prophesied by many who took a hand in bringing about the result. Every day has the appearance of the Sabbath. Men who loafed at our bar-rooms have disappeared from their old haunts, and their wives and children bear testimony to happier homes. The ten thousand dollars that annually dropped in the tills of our saloons has been turned into other channels and the evidence of our merchants is "weekly cash sales have increased since the adoption of prohibition." The old story that "Chincoteague is dead" is true, so far as the whiskey business is concerned.
Our people realizing their indebtedness to the Rev. S. U. Grimsley of the Baptist church, for his untiring devotion to the cause of prohibition, quietly organized a surprise for him a few nights ago. An ox team had to be called into service to bear the immense load of contributions to his some. Such a piling up of good things of this life on an occasion of this kind we never before witnessed. The immense throng that gathered to do the Parson honor at this pounding, irrespective of church relationship, tell too plainly how he has won the hearts of our people by the bold stand he took in defense of the homes against the saloons. No danger of his starving while we have enough, and to spare. "X."
CHINCOTEAGUE,VA., June 2, '86."
Column 5:
"Marriage Bells.
The marriage of Mr. A. B. Crane to Miss Halcyone Caulk was solemnized at the M. E. Church, Chincoteague, on Monday, June 1st, 1886. Just as both hands of the large church clock were pointing to the zenith, The happy couple walked slowly and deliberately up the long isle [sic] and stood facing the Rev. S. U. Grimsley, who with an appropriate speech tied fast the connubial bands, which death alone can ever break. The ceremony was witnessed only by the immediate family and a few friends, as no cards were issued on account of the extreme illness of the bride's father, Capt. C. J. Caulk. The intended collation was dispensed with for the same reason. The happy couple were the recipients of many handsome presents. May their life shine with the brilliancy of the silver presents that decked the marble receiving pedestal, each year scintillating more and more as does the phosphorescence of the Italian waters. Mr. and Mrs. Crane left on the 1 p. m. steamer to visit the principal northern cities before their return home. C. G. S."
(This is the only issue from June 1886 available.)
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 17 July 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mrs. D. J. Whealton has returned from a long visit to Pocomoke City, Md.
Our market is now supplied with green corn, peaches and watermelons.
Professor Robert Williams of University at Tilton, N. H., is the guest of Mr. J. T. Kenney.
A party of thirty from Baltimore, visited us last week and made things lively while here.
Eight hundred barrels of Irish potatoes have been shipped from Chincoteague this season which netted $1,8000 [sic].
Red Hill summer resort was opened on Wednesday, with a big dance and many of our young people who like the "light fantastic" attended.
Our sportsmen report that game never was so plentiful with us and say that is due to the fact that the birds were unmolested when laying, this spring.
A baptizing of the colored people takes place at Birch's landing to-morrow and numerous witnesses of the interesting event will attend both from the Island and mainland.
In match games of base ball last week the Chincoteague nine was beaten by the "High Schools" of Horntown by a score of 19 to 7 and won in a contest with the Greenback nine , by a score of 18 to 11.
Mr. Wm. M. Holland, wife, sister and niece of Los Angeles, California, are stopping at the Atlantic Hotel. Mr. Holland and wife left Accomac for California in 1852, making the journey in a wagon in four months. Their return trip, this year, was made in six days and at a cost to each of thirty dollars.
Atlantic hotel arrivals: W. C. Hurley, Geo. Strat, New York; Geo. Stephens, Phila.; B. F. Dunton, Norfolk; F. R. Gunby, Dr. Richard Gunby, Geo. K. McGan, Balto.; Jno. Parker and wife, Wilmington, Del.; Wm. Sartorius, Wm. H. Pope, Pocomoke City; Mrs. Wm. J. Bender and Mrs. H. E. Gault, Los Angelos [sic], California.
Trout, spots, sheephead and soft crabs are plentiful with us and the menhaden have been caught in such abundance in the last ten days that the fish factories were over-stocked with them. The latter was sold on our street last week by the cart load, at 50 cents. The supply of the menhadden [sic] is so large that the Gum & Jeffries factory has already opened and Wilcox & Co., of Connecticutt [sic], will resume work at their factory this week. The owners of neither of these factories intended to resume operations when they closed last fall."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 24 July 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Dr. N. S. Smith has sold his fine trotter to Mr. Wm. J. Matthews, at the price of $300.
Mr. Harry White of Wilmington, Delaware, is visiting his brother, Dr. Robert White of this place.
The Union protracted meeting at Watson's Grove, commencing Sunday, 18th inst., has proven a grand success.
The Chincoteague nine were victors in the recent contest with the Horntown nine and not the latter as reported in your issue of last week.
Mr. Columbus Caulk, who has been in declining health for several years, died of pneumonia on the 18th inst. - He remains were taken to North East, Md., for interment.
The most exciting day of the season was the trotting race between Fred Waddy's Morrill and W. J. Matthews Bonnie Bird on the 17th inst. The race was given to Morrill "by a head," by the judges.
Capt. Jas. E. Matthews has returned from a visit to Atlantic City, N. J., and Mrs. E. W. Richardson from a visit to friends at Berlin, Md. Mrs. L. E. Munford of Cape Charles, was the guest of her sister Mrs. Brady Swift of this place last week.
The annual pony penning of Chincoteague and Assateague, comes off this year on the 17th and 18th of August, respectively. The exhibit of ponies is expected to be very large and of all ages from 1 to 30 years. They will be offered for sale on those days both privately and at public auction.
Atlantic hotel arrivals - R. H. Hilburn and wife, Philadelphia; Gabriel Duval, Samuel Hecht and W. H. Shackleford, Baltimore; W. H. Coulbourne, Seaford, Del.; C. E. Mumford and Samuel Murray, Berlin, Md.; R. J. Satterfield, Milford, Del.; L. W. Childrey, Norfolk; George F. Parramore, Accomac C. H. "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 7 August 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
"The annual horse pennings of Chincoteague and Assateague come off this year on the 17th and 18th of August, respectively."
In column 2:
"Chincoteague.
Miss Ida V. Tracy, has returned from a visit to the Quaker city.
Our fishermen caught last week, six hundred thousand menhadden [sic], or alewives.
A liberal use of paint is being applied to a score or more of houses, with a wonderfully beautifying effect.
Our physicians here report considerable sickness at present. Rev. M. W. Wyatt, Burtin Booth and A. L. Bloxom are very ill.
A sporting party from Berlin, Md., representing themselves as members of the Salvation army, entertained our town by songs, several evenings last week.
Guests of citizens of our town this week: Rev. M. Walton, Cape Charles; Misses Lizzie Hearn and Willie Pepper, Georgetown, Del.; Miss Kate Snead, of Philadelphia, and Miss Taylor of Berlin.
Oure [sic] lase [sic] ball nine won a victory at Red Hills, on the 28th ulto., over the Pocomoke nine, by a score of 22 to 0; have sent a challenge to the Onancock nine for the championship of Accomac, and after playing and beating them, propose to challenge the "crack" nine of Northampton.
Recent arrivals at Atlantic hotel: - Geo. A. Zinchel, Geo. E. Scott wife and daughter, Baltimore, Md; W. H. Stevenson, J. H. Morrow, E. T. Taylor, Dr. P. A. Barrett, S. M. Mitchell, Harry Scott, Philadelphia; A. S. Jones, Pocomoke city; Miss May Only, Susa Price, Agnes Price, Girdle Tree, Md.
The Union protracted meeting which commenced at Watson's grove, on the 18th of July, closed Tuesday, Aug. 3rd, and another meeting was opened at Union Baptist Church, on the 2nd inst. under the management of Rev. S. M. Grimsley. Twenty five persons were converted at the grove meeting.
Our enterprising wreckers, C. E. Babbitt & son, have gotten off the English vessel Bertha Watts, which went ashore in the surf near Pope's Island station, the first of May, and was condemned and sold soon thereafter, at less than a hundred dollars. She is now being repaired and will soon be ready for sea: her value being enhanced, contrary to expectation, by small repairs, from a hundred to thousands of dollars."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 14 August 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
" ... The annual pony pennings of Assateague and Chincoteague , come off respectively on the 17th and 18th inst. - next Tuesday and Wednesday. ...
The Atlantic hotel of Chincoteague has been filled with guests this season from Philadelphia, Wilmington and other points. The excellent table of mine host Matthews and courteous attention to guests, together with the superior facilities provided for those fond of gunning, fishing, are attractions not usually slighted by the average pleasure seeker, Chincoteague as a summer resort will become more popular when better known. ..."
In column 2:
"Chincoteague.
A meeting of the colored Baptists here, commencing on the 7th inst., closed last Tuesday.
One hundred thousand alewives were caught by crews at our factories last week.
Col. Lemuel Showell and a party of jolly excursionists arrived here on Sunday on the yacht Anna Powell.
Manie, infant, and only child of Mr. O. M. Jones, died on the 7th inst., aged 9 months.
A prosperous meeting is now being held at Oysterville grove under the supervision of the pastor of the M. E. Church.
Schooner Jane Harris, commanded by Capt. Duvall, arrived here on Thursday, with a party of one hundred or more excursionists.
The Baptist protracted meeting which commenced on the 2nd of August, is still in progress. Some converts at the meeting were baptized Sunday afternoon at Birch's landing.
Lieutenant Wild arrived here Sunday, in sloop Report, as the successor of Lieutenant Baldwin. He will make his headquarters here, instead of Onancock, as he considers Chincoteague much more convenient as a "port of entry" - Our citizens are very glad to have the cutter again with us, and all extend to the lieutenant and his crew a hearty welcome.
Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week - John Mesick, W. J. Fisher and son, G. W. Pearson, H. W. Wise, C. R. Nooman, Geo. Fox, H. H. Dolman, Geo. Rafferty, A. D. O'Leary, Jno. Metcalf, E. Henderson, H. Ferren and others, Philadelphia; Thos. Gardner, Providence, Rhode Island; Wilmer Purnell, Florida; John Parker and wife, Harry White, Wilmington, Del.; 10 from Baltimore and 30 from the Eastern Shore.
The schooner, Edwin J. Palmer, Thos. Gardner, Capt., bound from Providence, R. I., to Philadelphia, loaded with 80 tons of scrap iron and 900 coal oil barrels, went ashore on Chincoteague bar on Thursday, 5th inst., and is a complete wreck. She was valued at $3,000 and there was no insurance on her. Her crew was saved by Capt. Jno. W. Bunting and the anchors, chains, cabin furniture, coal oil barrels, &c., saved from the wreck by him, were sold at public auction at his factory, on Wednesday."
In column 4:
"MARRIED.
... MERRITT - BIRCH -- July 22nd, 1886, by Rev. S. U. Grimsley, at Chincoteague, Geo. E. Merritt to Mrs. Mary C. Birch. ... "
(Missing last two August issues.)
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 4 September 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
"A big revival is now in progress on Chincoteague Island, at the churches of each of the three denominations represented there. Eighteen more persons were baptized by Rev. S. U. Grimsley, last Sunday. The interest in the other churches is also very great, and many converts are reported."
At the bottom of column 2:
"Examination of Teachers.
Applicants for schools in Atlantic, Metompkin and Chincoteague Island Districts, are hereby notified to meet me at Temperanceville, on the 10th of September, at 9 a. m.
Colored applicants in same districts, are requested to meet me on the following day, (11th Sept.,) at 9 a. m."
Found in column 3:
"Earthquake on Eastern Shore.
Throughout the Eastern Shore the earthquake shock of Tuesday night was very distinct. Persons who were in bed, or in upper rooms, felt it more sensibly. At Eastville, the rocking was very severe - so much so that it was with difficulty some kept their seats. At Craddockville, mantels were stripped of their ornaments, crockery smashed, and chairs toppled over. At this place {Accomac} the rumble and vibrations were very distinct. In one case a rocking chair moved with rapid impulse, and in another a man was aroused who believed his companion was endeavoring to lift him out of his bed. In two instances the shock was so severe that it was believed by the inmates of the homes burgulars [sic] had broken in. All the way up the Peninsula it was clearly felt - and at no place above more distinctly than at Franklin City. The clocks along the railway line all stopped promptly at 9:53 p. m. thus fixing accurately the hour of the shock. - Since the event the mercury has fallen, and we are enjoying old October weather. No other shock has been felt here."
(No other September issues are available.)
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 9 October 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Many of our sportsmen will attend the trotting races at Snow Hill on the 13th inst.
Capt. B. S. Rich was in town this week, disbursing funds due the crews of Life Saving Service.
Mr. Peter E. Corbin is having a handsome dwelling erected on his lot, recently purchased of Capt. C. E. Babbitt.
Mrs. John B. Whealton, Miss Ida Tracey and Miss Ida Whealton and mother left on Tuesday on a visit of several weeks for the Quaker City.
Rev. B. F. Jester of M. P. Church arrived here from Franklin City last Saturday, baptized 3 persons - married three couples, preached a sermon and returned home same day.
Mrs. Clara E. Wilcox and daughter, who for several weeks have been visiting friends in the county, returned to their home at Mystic, Connecticutt [sic], on Tuesday.
The protracted meetings which commenced here on the 17th of July and continued since without intermission, closed Sunday. Three hundred persons or more were converted during the meetings.
Schooner Peter J. Hart, Jos. Pruitt, commander, arrived here on Saturday last loaded with coal, which was sold at $5.25 per ton. Schooners Dewall and Hastings also arrived on same day, with 51 and 44 tons for Old Dominion Steamship Co., and Life Saving Stations, respectively.
Recent arrivals at the Atlantic: E. Bramel, Phila.; Wm. Hemsley, Balto.; S. S. Nambo, Lane Brig, Wilmington, Del.; Wm. P. Tubbs, Williamsville, Del.; G. F. Parramore, Accomac C. H.; Miss Mamie Waddy, Eastville; Jno. F. Powell, Franklin City; Ed. Benson, Pocomoke.
The business outlook here is first-class and our merchants in view of the fact are in the cities making extensive purchases. From 20 to 30 bbls. of oysters are sent to market daily by every shipper for which good prices are being realized. Oysters were never sent to market in such large quantities from here so early in the season."
Near bottom of column 4:
"MARRIED.
SNEAD-MUNGER - October 2nd, 1886; on Chincoteague Island, by Rev. B. F. Jester, James Snead to Miss Dolly Munger.
BOOL-FENWICK - October 2nd, 1886; on Chincoteague Island, by Rev. B. F. Jester, Fisher Bool to Miss Johanna Fenwick.
ELLIS-LINDSEY - On Thursday, 30th of September, near Girdletree, Md., Levy H. Ellis of Greenback, Va., to Miss Maggie Lindsey of Baltimore.
CHERRICKS-DAISEY - October 2nd, 1886; on Chincoteague Island, by Rev. B. F. Jester, Charles H. Cherricks to Miss Ellen Daisey."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 23 October 1886, on page 3, column 1, under the heading "Local News:"
"A correspondent of the Baltimore Sun at Salisbury, Md., says that Col. Lemuel Showell, president of the Wicomico and Pocomoke Railroad, is thinking seriously of placing a steamer on the bay to make trips from Chincoteague Island up to Ocean City. The oystermen in the bay now have to carry their oysters a long distance to a railroad, and he thinks if a steamer is placed on the route hundreds of barrels of oysters would be carried each trip to Ocean City, where they would be placed on cars and carried over the Wicomico and Pocomoke Railroad to Salisbury."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 30 October 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Many of our sportsmen will attend the races at Pocomoke City next Wednesday.
The Lodge of Knights of Honor here contributed $10 to relieve the Charleston sufferers.
A literary society was organized at the Atlantic hotel on the 18th inst., with 20 members.
Fewer persons registered this year than ever was known before - only three of both political parties.
Rev. S. U. Grimsley baptised [sic] on 10th inst., seven persons and on 17th, eleven more in the presence of a large audience.
Our fish factories are still running and are doing a flourishing business. The catch of fish last week was over 300,000.
Our public schools opened on the 4th inst., with 6 teachers, 5 white and 1 colored and with 350 white pupils and 20 colored.
Capt. R. R. Stant is having a handsome storehouse built at Nashville, with funds received from paid up insurance policy of $1,750.
A few years ago there was not a millinery store in our town - now there are four well filled with as select a stock as you will find anywhere.
Mr. D. J. Whealton is home from Philadelphia with new goods and while there purchased on Front St., a brick store for which he paid $8,000.
Mr. Jackson mate on Winter Quarter Light ship, No. 37 has been promoted keeper, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Capt. Lindeman. He will receive for his services per annum $1,000 and board.
Our people are vere [sic] despondent at the prospects of the oyster business. - The weather is so warm that oysters will not sell in the city and if they would it has been so dry and warm here that they have become "green gilled" in upper part of the island and are poor in other parts.
Arrivals at Atlantic hotel last week: A. J. Taw, Phila.; Wm. H. Stevens, Chas. Lehman, A. H. Howard, Balto.; S. H. Willey, editor of Messenger, Snow Hill; Col. Wm. Selby, Stockton; Wm. H. Medford, Wilmington; W. F. Bulien, Troy, N. Y.; E. J. Sprindle, Madison county, Va.; E. S. Carter, Prince William county, Va.; Thos. H. Bayley Browne, Accomac C. H.
Hon. Chas. Gibson, representative in Congress from First District in Maryland spent last week at Atlantic hotel on Chincoteague. While here he bagged considerable game - from 40 to 60 yellow legs daily and says he enjoyed the sport so much he will return again shortly. He was very agreeable and made many friends among our people. He says that Hon. Thos. Croxton is a hard working representative, and is always active in the interests of his constituents.
Lusty cheers went up from hundreds of our citizens on Saturday, the 16th inst., when the schooner formerly known as Bertha A. Watt passed by our wharves commanded by Capt. C. E. Babbitt and son, owner. She is the largest boat ever seen in our waters, and is the same which went ashore last March on Pope's Island, and was afterwards sold at public auction for $85. She has since been rebuilt and now has the name of one of her enterprising owners, C. E. Babbitt. Her length is 90 feet, depth of hold 12 feet, and carrying capacity 260 tons. Too much cannot be said in praise of the enterprising owners, who have converted what was almost a worthless hulk into a magnificent schooner, worth as many thousands of dollars as they have spent hundreds of dollars in repairs."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 6 November 1886, on page 3, column 4:
"Official Vote.
The following is the official vote in the counties of Accomac and Northampton, at the Congressional election last Tuesday:
ACCOMAC.
Precinct Croxton Browne
Chincoteague 160 82
Greenbackville 80 9
...
Totals: 2,173 873
..... "
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 13 November 1886, on page 3, column 4:
"MARRIED.
COLONNA-ANDREWS - November 6th inst., by Rev. S. U. Grimsley, Everett Colonna to Miss Annie Andrews, both of Chincoteague, Accomac county."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 20 November 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Sergeant Arthur B. Crane, is stopping at the Atlantic hotel.
Sea fishing now engages the attention of many of our citizens and many fine fish are being caught.
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, 25th instant, will be properly observed by our teachers and their pupils.
Mr. James Cherricks and Miss Alice Russell, were married on the 13th inst. Rev. S. U. Grimsley officiating.
Schr. P. J. Hart and Sloop Gertrude, arrived here Tuesday, loaded with coal, which was sold at $5,35 [sic] per ton.
The agent of Geo. E. Wilcox, & Co., Mystic, Conn., is here to supervise improvements in the fish factory of the firm, preparatory to next season's work.
Mrs. Margaret M. Sank, died on the 16th inst. of consumption, aged 67 years. Her remains were taken to East New Market, Cecil county, Md., for interment.
Hon. J. B. Sener, ex-congressman from this district, spent several days in our town last week. He was here to attend to the shipment of cattle, in which he has an interest, from Wallop's beach to New York.
Rain and low tides here, greatly improved our oysters of late and the indications at present are that the luscious bivalves here, will soon compare favorably with the best on the Eastern Shore.
Several sportsmen from New York, Philadelphia and Wilmington are now stopping at the Atlantic Hotel, and are pleased with its accommodations and the guides furnished them, as well as their success in killing lots of wild geese, ducks, brandt [sic], &c.
Capt. G. B. White, inspector of this district, made his last tour of inspection of Assateague and Killick Shoals Lights this week. Commander Fred. Rogers, a staunch Democrat succeeded him and will be heartily welcomed by our people.
Major John E. Wise, deputy treasurer of the county, spent several days here this week and many of our tax-payers paid up, as it was about the last opportunity they would have to save the 5 per cent which is added December 1st.
The Railroad authorities have abandoned the idea for the present of building a handsome steel steamer to ply between this port and Franklin city, on account of the poor outlook in the oyster business. The steamer Widgeon will continue to run as heretofore until May 10th, next.
Recent arrivals at Atlantic: - J. W. Anchinchoss, S. H. Russell, L. E. Noel, L. Verdenberg, N. Y.; Thos. M. Woodruff, Washington, D. C.; J. S. Hocht, R.W. Ingram, B. Wooten, Phila.; Jno. Tarbert, San Antonio, Texas; S. S. Rames, Wilmington, Del.; Jno. W. Smith, Clayton Purnell, V. S. Townslend, Snow Hill, Md.; W. F. Knox, Talbert Ford, Balto., Md."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 27 November 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
The annual slaughter of the porkers has commenced with us.
Our fish factories have closed for the season and with satisfactory results.
Extensive preparations are being made for the observance of Xmas in our churches.
It is said rabbits are plentiful with us. Our local sportsman, Mr. George R. Coleburn killed 5 in two days.
Mr. Parker Daisey of John, and Miss Elizabeth Booth were married on 20th inst., Rev. S. U. Grimsley officiating.
Thanksgiving services, conducted by Rev. J. Clinton Wyatte, were held in church at upper end of island on Thursday.
Mr. L. N. Mills, superintendent of Delaware R. R., was in our town Thursday, of last week, on business pertaining to his road.
Capt. Joseph M. Feddeman, after a sojourn of several months in the Eastern States, has returned home for the winter.
Dr. Robert White has purchased a lot on Main street, and proposes to have a handsome dwelling erected thereon at an early day.
Photographers from Atlantic City, N. J., have pitched a tent here, and the field having been unoccupied in that line for the last two years, - are doing a thrifty business.
Our Union Baptist Church is being remodeled and repaired under the supervision of Mr. Joseph P. Baker, contractor. In the meantime services are being held in Bunting's Baptist Church.
John Hopkins, a citizen of this place, had a narrow escape from drowning this week. His boat was capsized while gunning. He was rescued just "in the nick of time" but lost his valuable breach loading gun.
Recent arrivals at Atlantic: R. Trimble and J. W. Wharton, Phila.; John R. Franklin, Snow Hill, Md.; Ed Ogden, Wilmington, Del.; Henry Doughty, S. H. Lucas, Baltimore; Charles Myers, Fredericksburg, Va.; John J. Gunter, S. W. Matthews, Accomac.
Our dramatic association will give an entertainment during Christmas, which promises to be of a high order. No pains or expense will be spared to make the event of the season in our county. A string band from Philadelphia has been engaged for the occasion.
Mr. George Stephens, general freight agent of P., W. & B. R. R., was in our town this week. The object of his visit was to make a deal with our factorymen in the shipment of their fish oil. Satisfactory arrangements were made by reducing the freight per barrel from 82 cents to 60 cents to Philadelphia, and 65 cents to New York.
Twelve hundred dollars worth of confectioneries and toys were sold in our town last week by Mr. Andrews, of Clarke, Jones & Co. In these hard times this may seem extravagant, but we have more than a thousand children here, and what child cannot consume a dollar's worth during the Xmas festivities?"
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 11 December 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
During this freeze wild fowl have been plentiful and many have been killed by our sportsmen.
Mrs. Wm. Risley of Atlantic City and Miss Eliza A. Jester of Philadelphia, arrived here this week, to spend the winter.
Mr. Charles F. Dickens of Indian Territory, spent several days in our town last week, looking after his matrimonial interests.
The old M. P. Church building is soon to be pulled down and a new one, and the handsomest in our town, is to be erected in its place.
John H. Lingo, of Georgetown, Del., and Miss A. Hill of this place were married on the 27th ult., Rev. S. U. Grimsley, officiating. They will make Chincoteague their home.
Recent arrivals at Atlantic: George C. Scott, C. W. Corbin, J. D. Dowell, Baltimore; George V. Slate, N. Y.; Capt. J. C. Mallory, G. A. Gresham, H. W. Wise, W. Whealen, Phila.
Capt. Mallory of Philadelphia, U. S. engineer, has been here to inspect the bell of Killick Shoal Light. It can only be heard such a short distance, that another probably will take its place, shortly.
Capt. George C. Lewis, a competent man and Democrat of the first water, has received his appointment of 1st assistant keeper of Winter Quarter Light Ship. He had the endorsement of leading Democrats of our town and county.
The steamer Widgeon was furnished with a new propeller last Saturday, and placed again on the line. A sloop made her trips while she was disabled. We did not properly appreciate the value of our little steamer, until she was laid up for repairs.
The schooner Emma A. Bartle of Philadelphia, M. B. Lawrence, captain, bound from New York to York river, went ashore on Wallop's beach in a storm on the 5th inst. The captain and crew were rescued by Capt. J. B. Whealton and force of life saving service. - When the boat first struck the bar, an effort was made by Capt. Whealton to reach them in the life boat, which proved unavailing, as it was found that the sea was too rough for the boat "to live in." A life line was then thrown to them, and when arrangements were made to take them ashore in that way, the schooner floated far enough in for the crew to be rescued by the crew of Capt. Whealton in the life boat. Capt. Lawrence and crew were kindly cared for by the life saving crew, and are unsparing in their praises of the bravery and kindness of Capt. Whealton and his force. The schooner was valued at $3,000, and was insured for one third her value.
.... Greenbackville.
Several new buildings are going up in this town.
A great deal of ice made in the bay on last Friday night, but the bay did not freeze over entirely.
The steamer Widgeon, resumed her regular trips between Franklin City and the Island, on last Saturday.
There is but little sickness in our town or vicinity, Greenbackville and Franklin City are so favorably situated, that the doctors call them "the watering places."
Mr. James E. W. Figgs of Franklin City, and Mrs. Ida A. Harman of this place, were married at the residence of the bride on Wednesday evening, 2nd inst., by Rev. B. F. Jester.
The body of the young man, E. Chapman Marriner, who was drowned in Chincoteague Bay, near Greenbackville, more than a week ago, had not been recovered up to this writing."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 18 December 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Recent arrivals at the Atlantic: Jos. J. English, Jas. Hazard, H. A. Tarr, Chas. Murphy, Philadelphia.
Schooner P. J. Hart arrived here on the 10th inst., with 50 tons of coal for steamer Widgeon of O. D. S. Co.
Mr. J. D. Hardee of Franklin, Delaware, has located here and will engage in the "goose feather cleaning business."
The ladies of the M. E. Church have organized a Mite Society, divided into two factions, known as the high and low tariff.
Mrs. E. Sank, lately deceased, in her will devised a handsome house and lot to Mrs. Dr. N. S. Smith and Mrs. J. T. Kenney.
Many of our people will avail themselves of the reduced rates over the P., W. & B. R. R. during Xmas, to visit relatives and friends at Philadelphia and other points.
The sloop Lizzie Jane of Chincoteague, loaded with oysters, became disabled Sunday, off Chincoteague bar, and was taken into safe harbor by the Assateague life saving crew.
The three-masted schooner, Ruth T. Carlisle of Philadelphia, from Fernandina, Florida, loaded with pine lumber, went ashore in the gale last Sunday, 4 miles north of Ocean City. The life saving crew at that point acted promptly and all on board of boat were rescued.
Since the late cold weather we have had quite a boom in the oyster business. Many commission men have visited us and say they are compelled to have our oysters. Of late 4 vessels have been loaded in our waters at 65 cents per bushel and the steamer Widgeon is carrying away daily from 300 to 400 barrels, netting the shippers from $3 to $4 per barrel.
The rigging, sails, cabin furniture, &c., saved from the schooner Emily A. Bartle, which went ashore recently on Wallop's Beach, by Messrs. C. E. Babbitt & Son, were sold at public auction in front of the Atlantic hotel on the 15th inst. The riggin [sic] &c., of the schooner Banoverd, ashore on Metompkin Beach, is being removed by Messrs. Wm. F. Birch and Selby Jester and will be sold in our town shortly.
Mr. G. A. Gusler, U. S. surveyor, was in our town this week for the purpose of locating the government land on which Assateague lighthouse stands. Lands adjacent to it, heretofore supposed to belong to the government, are now claimed by parties residing here and in Baltimore. Their conflicting claims will doubtless have to be settled by the courts.
The captain of the schooner Bartle is profuse in his thanks and loud in his praises of the skill, bravery and self-sacrificing efforts of Capt. J. B. Whealton and crew of the life saving service for saving his schooner and rescuing his men. He also expresses thanks to Capt. Tracy and crew, who gallantly came to his rescue also during a severe snow storm, and did all in their power to assist them."
From The Peninsula Enterprise of Saturday, 25 December 1886, on page 3, column 2, under the heading "Local News:"
"Chincoteague.
Mr. J. P. Baker is being urged by some friends here to be a candidate for the next legislature.
Wild fowl are plentiful with us. On Tuesday, Mr. D. Fluharty of Baltimore, in four hours bagged 34 34 red heads and black ducks.
The failure of President Cleveland to mention the Life Saving Service in his message, is noted and commented upon by the crews stationed here.
A steam yacht now being built a few miles above this place for New York sportsmen, is nearly completed and is expected shortly in our port.
Capt. Joseph M. Feddeman of Accomac, and Miss Cora V. Twyford of Belair, Md., were married in Episcopal Church at the bride's home, on Wednesday, 15th inst.
From 500 to 600 barrels of oysters were shipped from here on Monday by steamer Widgeon - the largest shipment made from here in one day in many years, if not ever before.
The sound of the bell at Killick Shoals was not improved by the "tinkering" it received at the hands of the U. S. Engineer who was here recently to inspect and remedy its defects.
Mr. Brady Swift, an officer of the steamer Widgeon, after an absence of several weeks in New York, under medical treatment, returned here on Monday greatly improved in health.
Recent hotel arrivals: Joseph G. Savage, Frank Callahan, Phila.; D. G. Fluharty, J. H. Feddeman, Baltimore; M. M. Medford, Milford, Del.; K. Luker, N. Y.; G. F. Parramore, Accomac C. H.
Rigging, cabin furniture, &c., of the schooner Mary A. Bartle, was sold in front of Atlantic, on 15th inst., for $393.38 - and of schooner Vandoverd (wrecked on Metompkin beach,) on 18th inst., for $240.38.
Sunday school entertainments of Baptist and M. P. Churches came off yesterday. Elaborate preparations have been made for a festival under the auspices of members of M. E. Church, at Town Hall on Monday night.
The Baptist Church, which has been closed for repairs for several weeks will be re-opened during Christmas. It has been papered, painted and enlarged by change in vestibule. It is now one of the neatest and handsomest churches on Eastern Shore.
Capt. M. B. Lawrence of the ship-wrecked schooner Bartle, has concluded to locate here and engage in business. - He proposes to repair his misfortunes on the high seas, it is said, by selling fancy cigars and tobacco - which being interpreted by some to mean "old red eye," has created quite a commotion among the local option brethren.
The schooner C. E. Babbitt, which as the owner's name, now in our port, will soon be ready again for service. - She is by far the largest, handsomest and most valuable vessel ever seen in our waters, and speaks volumes of praise for the enterprise and pluck of her owner. She was stranded on our shores some months ago and shortly after was buried in 14 feet of sand. In that condition Capt. Babbitt purchased her and at an expense of $5,000 has restored her to the splendid boat she once was, and is worth three times the money she has cost him. She is 93 feet long on deck, 24 feet beam, and 11 feet depth of hole."
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