Chincoteague News From The Peninsula Enterprise in 1891

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 3 January 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the heading of "Neighborhood Notes:"

    "Chincoteague.

  Mrs. D. J. Whealton left Tuesday for Philadelphia, her future home.

  Some eight or ten boats from Norfolk are being loaded in our channel with oysters.

  Our shippers are sending to market daily from 300 to 400 bushels of oysters, and primes are selling at $4.50 per barrel, culls $3.50.

  Mrs. Lydia Hopkins, wife of John Hopkins, died of pneumonia, on the 24th ultimo, aged 27 years.  Her husband and four children survive her.

  Mr. Lionel Feddeman and Miss Clara Bloxom, of this place, were married in Philadelphia, on 24th ultimo.  They arrived home on day of their marriage. 

  Our new steamer arrived here last Monday.  She is an elegant craft, but drawing too much water for our bay, does not give the satisfaction anticipated.

  Wilson Branson, colored, died on the 25th ult., aged 80 years.  His father was one of the first negroes that moved to the Island, and the first owner of real estate here of his race.

  Mr. Leander Wilcox of Mystic Connecticut, spent several days with us last week and organized while here a stock company, to re open his fish factory.  The work of rebuilding will commence in a few days.

  Master Dennard Lewis, 16 years of age, son of Mrs. Eba Lewis, has accepted the situation of cashier in Wm. Boothby's large restaurant, Philadelphia.  The position is a lucrative one and the boy merits his good luck.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  A. Arnold, Phila.; Z. J. Galaway, Milford.  M. E. Selby, J. Turner, J. Stratton.  Wilmington: L. Wilcox. Mystic, Conn.: E. H. Benson, Pocomoke City: John H. Melvin, James Mumford, J. Sharpley, Accomac.

  Married  -  December 18th, 1890, Levin Lynch to Miss Rebecca Bowden:  December 26th, 1890, Frank B. Bowden to Miss Mary E. Jones:  December 26th, 1890, John W. Tindle to Miss Sarah A. Daisey; December 27th, 1890, J. H. Taylor to Miss Elizabeth Thornton  -  Rev. Geo. E. Wood, officiating.

  The pleasures that prosperity brings made this Christmas a very delightful one to the most of our people.  Church entertainments, midnight watch meetings, sociables,  weddings, sleighing, &c., contributed to "the feat of reason," and none of the delicacies were wanting which "the inner man" required.  The scatterers and the gatherers in of the "filthy lucre" each had the pleasures which it brings.  Our merchants say, that their Christmas sales were the largest in the history of the Island, and that such was the case, was a matter of surprise to no one, in addition to the various sources through which money is obtained here, some 300 oystermen had returned home after an absence of four months with the receipts of their labor during that time of $2 to $3 daily."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 10 January 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

   "Dr. Oscar F. Byrd, dentist, will be at Chincoteague Island, from January 12th to 14th, for the practice of his profession, and can be found at Atlantic hotel.   ...

  The people of Accomac [sic] sustained well their reputation as a marrying people in 1890.  Two hundred and sixty-seven marriages were solemnized in the county during the year, December taking the lead as the favorite month with 63 to its credit, and April with its 11 marriages occupying the lowest place on the roll of honor.  Scores of others besides took the vows in the neighboring Gretna Green, over the line in Maryland.  Since the New Year, two misses of 13 and 16 years, respectively, have been married, indicating that 1891 does not propose to be slow in the race for the first place."

   In column 3, under "Neighborhood Notes:"

   "Chincoteague.

  Schooners Peter J. Hart, Capt. Collins, and Recruit, Capt. Taylor, arrived this week loaded with coal, which sold quickly at $6 per ton.  

  Several prominent gentlemen from Maryland, stopping at the Atlantic, are having fine sport and good luck in shooting the wild fowl which abound in our waters.  

  Mrs. Ellen Collier and son, of Berlin, are guests of Mrs. S. J. Mumford  -  Mrs. Robery Scarborough, of Girdletree, of Mrs. N. Gordy  -  Misses Long and Derickson, of Frankford, Del., of Mrs. Charles West.

  An advance of two cents on 100 pounds of freight matter by Delaware division of P. W. & B. R. R., on January 1st, was received by our citizens with indignant protests.  They think they had too much tariff before this was imposed.

  Our young bloods had the first opportunity last Tuesday, in last two years, to try their skill in skating.  The ice houses are being filled up by those of a more practical turn of mind and will be filled with fine ice if the cold snap continues a day or so longer.

  Arrivals at Atlantic this week:  Hon. Morris A. Thomas, Hon. Geo. Shumaker, Dr. H. A. Hanck, Baltimore; Hon. W. S. Wilson, Snow Hill, A. J. Hudson, Stockton, Md.; James Short, Seaford, Del.; Elwood Coleburn, John Stratton, Wilmington, Del.; B. F. Jones, Wm. F. Burch, Wm. K. Collins, J. W. Edmonds, Accomac.

  The steamer Widgeon, recently rebuilt, draws too much water for her old route from Franklin City to Chincoteague, and is therefore a "dead" failure.  The evil is to be remedied, we are advised, by building another boat for the line - in fact, draughts- have been sent here by the railroad authority to submit plans for a boat of proper dimensions.

  A new bell, presented by members and friends of our M. E. Church as a New Year's gift, will call the worshippers at that church together to-morrow for the first time.  All our churches are now well equipped with bells, organs, lamps, etc.  -  in fact we have as handsome churches and as well furnished as will be found anywhere on Eastern Shore.

  Everyone on Chincoteague was the recipient of a present of some kind or description during Xmas - many of them handsome and valuable - but no one was so highly favored as Mr. Henry Timmons.  It was the first Christmas he had spent at home in the last eight years, and wishing to give his wife some token of a continuance of his youthful affection, he put a $5 gold piece under her plate Xmas morning - to find in exchange in turning over his, $100, the result of the labors and economy of an affectionate wife for many years."

   Seen in column 5, under the headline "County Court Proceedings.  December Term, 1890:"

  "...  Petition of Peter D. Corbin and others for public road on Chincoteague Island  -  report of Elijah Russell, surveyor, received, confirmed, and cause removed from the docket.  ..."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 17 January 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the heading of "Neighborhood Notes:"

   "Chincoteague.     

  A revival meeting now in progress at M. E. Church, promises to be attended with big results.

  Commercial tourists with lines of goods suitable for all seasons are "pouring" into our town daily.

  Quarterly Conference convened at our M. E. Church, Saturday, presided over by Rev. T. O. Ayres, P. E.

  Mr. Wm. M. Adams, express agent from Harrington to Chincoteague, will be placed on route from Delmar to Philadelphia - and Mr. Harry Mesick, will be his successor.

  Miss Ida Duncan of Fredericka, Del., is visiting Mrs. Z. B. Mumford  -  Mrs. E. T. Jones, of Pocomoke city, her son Archie Jones  -  and Mr. H. A. W. Corbin, his brother Peter.

  Mr. James Short, architect and mechanic, from Seaford, Del., having recently made a tour of the Peninsula for the purpose of selecting a home, decides in favor of Chincoteague, and will cast his lot with us.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  J. P. Baldwin, Washington, D. C.; Dr. H. J. Hauk, Snow Hill, Md.; James Short, Seaford, Del.; J. B. Thomas, C. C. Johnson, W. S. Holland, R. B. Fisher, Baltimore, Md.; Hon. Lemuel Only, Girtletree [sic], Md.; Dr. O. F. Byrd, H. J. Messick, Logan Henderson, Thomas, Joshua and Daniel Bowden, Accomac."

Missing 24 January 1891 issue.  

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 31 January 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the heading of "Neighborhood Notes:"

   "Chincoteague.   

  Mr. Thomas Watson has been granted a pension by the United States Government.

  James Short moved his family and furniture from Seaford, Del., to Chincoteague, this week.

  The remains of Jacob Godwin, colored, reported, drowned some weeks ago, have been found and buried on Cobbs Island.

  Revival services at our M. E., and Union Baptist Churches have closed with rather poor results.  Revival meeting was opened at M. P. Church, Sunday night.

  Our oysters are still bringing good prices despite the fact that the Northern markets are full of oysters.  Tom's Cove are selling at $1.20 per bushel, Willis, $1.10, bay oysters 65 cents.

  Mr. E. P. Timmons, one of our leading merchants, has bought the commission and shucking business of Mr. E. T. Nock, Philadelphia, and will leave on Monday, next, to take charge of same.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  Robt. Heburn, Jno. W. Cox, Phila.; James E. Fletcher, Wilmington; R. R. Stant, Jr., Baltimore; Thomas Waters, Stockton; James Scott, Scott's Beach; Miss Bettie Pruitt, S. L. Jarman, John W. Otwell, John Johnson, R. M. Moss, W. P. Bundick, John Watson, Accomac.

  Mr. David Lewis, a popular and prominent young man of or town, and Miss Mary Grimsley, the pretty and accomplished daughter of Rev. S. U. Grimsley, were married at Appomattox C. H., on the 21st inst., the father of the bride officiating.  The lady was a resident of our town for ten years and being universally popular with our people, received a cordial welcome on her return here, on last Friday, as a bride."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 7 February 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the "Local News" heading:

  "An article printed in ENTERPRISS [sic] last week, stating that Mr. E. T. Nock, Philadelphia, had sold his commission and shucking business to E. P. Timmons, Chincoteague, was a mistake.  Mr. Nock has not sold out but has associated with him in the business, Messrs D. J. Whealton and E. P. Timmons, under the firm name Nock, Whealton & Co.  We cheerfully make the correction and in connection therewith take pleasure in recommending the new firm to the large patronage of the public, which the old firm has so long enjoyed.  The old and new members of the firm, individually and collectively have our hearty endorsement, and are in all respects worthy of the favors of the public."

  And in column 2, under the heading of "Neighborhood Notes:"

   "Chincoteague. 

  Mrs. Bettie Holaway, the oldest inhabitant of the Island, died on the 1st, aged 98 years.

  Mr. Charles Dale, of Bishopville, Md., has accepted a clerkship with Mr. Archie Jones.

  The advance agent of the Rein family was here this week and "billed" the town for are [sic] entertainment on 16th inst.

  Miss Annie, daughter of Lambert Jester, after a sojourn of several years in Philadelphia, has made Chincoteague her home again. 

  Rev. J. W. Turner has resigned as pastor of Union Baptist Church, to the regret of all its members and at a meeting Monday night his resignation was accepted.  He will preach his farewell sermon Sunday night.  Roanoke is to be his next home.  

  The order of Heptasophs, 75 in number, had a grand feast on Wednesday night, at town hall, honored by the wives, sisters and sweethearts of the members, as guests.  It was voted a delightful affair by all in attendance.

  Arrivals at the Atlantic hotel, this week:  Louis Phillips, Phila.; W. H. Tidesdale, Rochester, N. Y.; J. D. Mears, Balto.; E. R. Sipple, Georgetown, Del.; Peter Scarborough & Son, Girdletree, Md.; D. D. Boggs, Dover; Alfred Chesser, Thos. C. Kellam, Accomac.

  Capt. Benj. Sharpley arrived here in his schooner, Monday, and reports that he found a valuable prize off Great Egg Harbor, on 23d ult.  The schooner Calvin S. Edmonds, bound from Norfolk to New York, loaded with lumber, with no one on board, was found and taken in charge and delivered by him to tug Idelwilde, to be taken to New York.

  The leading business men of the principal towns between here and Georgetown, Del., waited on the officials of the P. W. & B. R. R., a few days ago and demanded an extra passenger train.  It was shown that the business of the road entitled them to it.  Their demands were acceded to and an extra train is to be put on the route, to leave Franklin city, 1 p. m., at an early day."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 14 February 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  The order of Heptasophs will unite with the Ryan family in the entertainment to be given here on 16th of March.

  Rev. J. W. Turner, preached his farewell sermon, baptised [sic] and received into his church 13 members, last Sunday.

  Wm. Scott, surfman, Assateague Life Savage [sic] Station, has resigned and his place has been filled by Geo. E. Merritt.

  The Baptists here have harmonized and will hereafter have the same pastor.  A church is to be built by them at the foot of the new road.

  Our building boom continues despite the winter weather.  Handsome dwellings are in the course of construction for S. Doughty, A. Lewis, Eba Merritt and Mr. Gray.

  Miss Mollie Cordy, Snow Hill; Miss Bertie Miller, Newark, Md.; Miss Roop, Phila.; Miss Pauline Messick and Edgar Wilson, Georgetown, Del.; are visiting friends here.

  Schooner P. J. Hart, sloop J. M. Price and schooner Palestine, arrived in our port this week, the first two with cargoes of coal and the latter loaded with shingles, lathes &c.

  Rev. Avery Donovan, railroad agent at Franklin city, from the establishment of road until a few months ago, when he accepted a similar situation at Dover, Del., will, we are advised, enter the ministry soon.

  A successful revival is in progress at our M. P. Church.  to date there have been 55 converts, and to the churches 26 members have been added.  The pastor is being assisted by ministers of M. P., M. E. and Baptist Churches.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  A. W. Whittington, Baltimore; G. E. Fisher, Phila.; M. C. Smith, Pocomoke city; Logan Henderson, T. L. Disharoon, Capt. Wm. Collins, wife and son, James Mumford, Jr., Thos. Davis, Wm. Johnson, Accomac.

  The following transfers of vessel property have been made here of late:  Yacht Lulie Scott, by Waters & Scott, Stockton, Md., to Walter Hill & Bro., for $540  -  sloop Morris, from Messongo, to W. C. Bunting, for $600  -  sloop Little Tom, by L. C. Lewis to Walter Hudson, for $300  -  and sloop Wm. James, by K. J. Bunting to Wm. J. Adams, for $200."

     Found in column 3:

  "Public School Report For January.

  Number of schools in operation 110, number of graded schools 25, number of pupils enrolled 5,410, number of pupils in average daily attendance 4,380, number of schools visited by superintendent 34.  Lee district has the largest enrolment, Islands district the largest daily attendance.   ....

 J. E. MAPP, Co. Supt. Schools."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 21 February 1891, on page 3, column 4, under the heading of "Correspondence" in regards to 'the oyster question', two letters:

  "MR. EDITOR  -  I am glad to see the oyster question so ably discussed in your columns, and hope it will continue to be agitated until out of it comes some truths which will lead to the adoption of laws that will protect the natural beds from destruction and at the same time foster the increased culture of the oyster.  As Captain Browne says, the fleets of vessels that twenty years ago could be seen in our waters taking oysters are gone - and gone because the oysters are gone too.  That Pocomoke Sound and adjacent tributary streams are enjoying a prosperous season cannot be denied.  What is this due to?  It is not due to the fact that Pocomoke has been protected against dredging, and that tonging does not destroy the beds like dredging?  I have heard that tonging is like a good hoeing.  It is also true that much of this prosperity spoken of in the resolutions of the Messongo Neck meeting came along the line indicated in Capt. Browne's letter, viz: Waste bottoms have been staked off  and planted - lands that were of no use made to yield a handsome income.

  I agree with Capt. Browne, I don't believe the oystermen ought to be taxed directly any more than the miner for going down into the bowels of the earth and getting out its treasures, and one is about as hard as the other.  The State gets the benefit indirectly in increased property and general thrift of her people.  In all discussions of this question the welfare of the citizen is lost sight of in the eagerness of the State to get revenue.  It takes other things to constitute a wealthy State besides oyster beds and mountains of ore.  And it seems to me the most important question is not how the State can get money out of it directly, but how can she by wise legislation come to the assistance of her sons and help them develop this industry.

  One thing is certainly needed and that is the cull law.  The very small oysters ought not to be taken for market.  The State of Maryland has such a law -  and very often a boat goes into Crisfield with small oysters and evades the Maryland law by claiming they are Virginia oysters.  If you will take a map and look at the oyster planting grounds belonging to Accomac [sic] and Northampton counties, you will be astonished that so little has been done to utilize this means of wealth.  On our water courses there are many farms whose shores and planting grounds are worth more than the farms.  I presume Capt. B. is not far out of the way when he says, that about one-hundredth part is natural oyster beds.  The question is, how much has been taken up and is utilized as a source or revenue.

  I, for one, after twenty years' experience with oysters and oystermen, heartily endorse the proposition.  "Mark off, stake out, survey and record the flats of the natural oyster bed in the respective counties in which they are located, (there will be some work for the oyster Navy.)"  They need some.  Then grant  to the oystermen the bare grounds under the water, at the same price and on the same terms that all the other lands of the Commonwealth have been granted.  Have a good cull law.

  The hardship of the business is a sufficient restriction.  It is wrong to impose any direct tax on the hard working oysterman - he earns all he makes - if it is $50 per day.     NEXT."

   "MR. EDITOR:  -  Please permit me through your widely circulated paper to suggest to the oystermen and all directly interested in the oyster question in Accomac [sic] county, the advisability of holding mass-meetings at several convenient points, say, Chincoteague Island, Greenbackville, Horntown, Syke's Island, Atlantic, Messongo, Muddy Creek, Modestown, Guilford, Hunting Creek, Chesconnessix, Onancock, Hoffman's Wharf, Nandua, Craddockville, Tangier Island, Locustville and Wachapreague; said mass-meetings to appoint three delegates each, representing the different branches of the oyster industry, to attend a County Convention to be held at an early day, say first day of March court, next, said County Convention to elect at least seven delegates to attend a Tidewater Convention to be held at Cape Charles in May, next, Hampton, or some other convenient point, composed of delegates representing each and every county where there are oyster grounds said Tidewater Covention  to endeavor to formulate a law, to be presented to the next session of the Legislation [sic], and unite on a plan of action as satisfactory as possible to all concerned.

  The oyster question is being agitated in the newspapers more than ever before, and is looked upon as being the most important one to Tidewater Virginians that will claim the attention of the next Legislature.

  The maxim "In union there is strength" will readily apply in this connection.  If the various sections representing the oyster industry stand united on a definite plan, material results may follow, otherwise, no one can predict the outcome of future legislation on this oyster question.

  Yours truly,  JNO. D. GRANT."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 28 February 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Many of our people planted garden seeds, irish potatoes and other trucks this week.

  William Andrews, Sr. and Daniel Booth, Sr. both at  this writing are seriously ill.

  Mrs. Laura J. Davis, of Berlin, Md., is here on a visit to her sister, Mrs. S. E. Matthews.

  Mrs. Nancy Sharpley, wife of John Sharpley, died of dropsy on 24th inst., aged 20 years.

  Capt. T. H. Mahon, engineer of this Lighthouse district, has advertised for proposals for brick oil house to be erected soon on Assateague.

  A son of Mr. Charles Tarr, was thrown from a horse this week, receiving injuries about head and shoulders painful but not serious.

  The steamer Widgeon plying between this point and Franklin city, frequently has to make three trips daily, to take away the oysters now being sent to market.

  Mr. I. W. Mills, superintendent of D. M. & Va. R. R., has engaged Capt. John E. Burton to look after the boat property he has here now and as commander of a fine yacht he is having built for use in our waters.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  J. H. Feddeman, M. J. Byrd, J. Sommerfield, J. O. Hoskins, Baltimore; E. B. Davidson, Milford, Del.; J. W. Field, F. Maury, Phila.; G. W. Pruitt, A. P. Barnes, Snow Hill; R. M. Lord, H. W. Grant, Clayton, Del.; O. Beall, Roanoke, Va.; Wm. Lovenstein, Richmond, Va.

  The views of Mr. Jno. D. Grant, published in ENTERPRISE on oyster question, is concurred in by our people.  They recognize the necessity of a concert of action and are ready to appoint delegates to a Convention if one is called.  The oyster question is all important to us and for it to be properly presented before our next Legislature, we believe a definite plan of action must be marked out before the meeting of said body.

  The following transfers of vessel property were made this week:  Yacht General Selbridge, Trenton, N. J., to Isaac Savage, consideration $650; sloop Lizie Jane owned by Capt. J. D. Whealton to Taylor & Watson, consideration $800; schooner D. J. Whealton owned by Capt. Gaskins, Suffolk, Va., to John D. Whealton, Timothy Hill and John B. Whealton, consideration $2,200.

  The Hon. Wm. Lovenstein Grand Secretary of the Royal Arcanum of Virginia, paid an official visit to Hann Council of this place, on the evening of the 20th.  After a private consultation with the Council, he was invited to meet the members with their ladies at the Atlantic hotel, where an excellent collation was served.  The repast being over, his Honor was introduced as the speaker of the evening.  He gave a history of the organization of the Royal Arcanum, its wonderful growth in 14 years to a membership of 115,000, and of the millions distributed to widows and orphans of deceased members, Chincoteague having received the sum of $12,000.  After a vote of thanks and an invitation to the speaker to visit us again during the warm weather, the members adjourned, proud of the fact that they were members of an organization that has carried sunshine and gladness to so many hearts and homes."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 7 March 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

  "According to the announcement of the population of the counties of Virginia by races, made by census office, Washington, Accomac [sic] has 17,463 white persons, 9,814 colored  -  Northampton has 4,704 white persons, 5,608 colored."   [This is noteworthy because the 1890 Census was lost to fire.]

   Seen in column 2, under "Neighborhood Notes:"

  "Chincoteague.

  Commissioner Fletcher was in town this week, listing personal property for taxation.

  E. P. Timmons, D. J. Whealton and Wm. H. English, commission merchants, Philadelphia, are noted among the arrivals to our town this week.

  Schooner Nettie Ellen drifted from Franklin City, on Saturday night, to Chincoteague, and is now ashore on upper end of island.  She will be gotten off without much cost or damage.

  Rev. A. A. Williamson, of Baltimore, arrived here Tuesday, and will preach a series of sermons at Union Baptist Church during the week.  The indications are, that he will receive a call to that church.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  S. H. Bond, Boston, Mass.: Charles Snow, Jas. McAllen, Snow Hill, Md.; J. A. Elligood, Wm. L. English, Philadelphia; Harry Snow, Baltimore; Spencer D. Fletcher, Geo. Sturgis, Accomac. 

  Capt. John W. Bunting has given to each of his sons, Kendall and William, one-third interest in his fish factory and steamer.  The plant is to be enlarged, new machinery added, and to be run on much larger scale than ever before.

  Rev. Geo. E. Wood, of our M. E. Church, will preach his farewell sermon of present Conference year, on Sunday, 15th inst., to the regret of numerous admirers. He will be in attendance at Annual Conference of his church on 19th inst., held this year at Centreville, Md., and be subject to its orders.

  A birthday party of Miss Sarah Conkling, on 28th inst., was one of the most pleasing social events of the season.  Twenty-six young couples and numerous other relatives and friends were in attendance, to wish her many happy returns of the happy day and to partake of the elegant refreshments served with charming hospitality."

  

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 21 March 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  The receipts at the entertainment of the "Wrens" in our Town Hall, on Tuesday night, was $64.73.

  Capt. John W. Bunting received this week from New York, a cargo of ice, as fine as was ever seen, at $2.50 per ton.

  Miss Delia Bowden, daughter of Henry Bowden, died after a long illness, on 10th inst., of pneumonia, aged 16 years.

  Rev. G. R. Donalson, of M. P. Church, will preach his farewell sermon on next Sunday, and leaves on 27th for Conference, which meets in Baltimore, April 1st.

  Mr. Isaac Coffin, one of our oldest and wealthiest merchants, has closed out his stock of goods and will leave on next Wednesday for Adams county, Pa., to go into business with his son located at that place.

  Rev. Geo. E. Wood, of M. E. Church, preached his farewell sermon to a large and appreciative audience on Sunday, and left on Wednesday for Conference, which meets at Centreville, Md., on 19th inst.

  Commander Harrington of this Lighthouse district, made his quarterly visit this week, and reports Assateague and Killick lights in good order - and that a handsome cottage is to be erected for keeper of Assateague Light soon.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Commander Harrington, A. Vendig, Philadelphis; Jesse Robbitt, James Clark, Long Island; Geo. W. Rolph, T. J. Lecompt, Baltimore; M. E. Selby, Jas. Fletcher, Frank C. Hana, Wilmington; Edward Benston, Pocomoke; L. W. Childrey, Norfolk; Logan Henderson, W. K. Collins, James Mumford, Thos. Davis, Edward Shivers, Accomac; Joseph Rowley, Northampton.

  Mr. Parker Bowden died on 13th inst., aged 58 years.  His widow and large family of children, all grown, survive him.  He was a member of one of the two M. P. Churches built here by his father, Rev. Parker Bowden, who was the first native preacher of the island, and who in addition to providing places of worship, gave the members a free gospel, looking for his support to money earned by daily labor.

  The steamer Widgen [sic], plying between Chincoteague and Franklin City, passes over much of the best oyster planting ground of our citizens, and being of too heavy draught for our waters, has smothered and killed thousands of bushels of oysters, by scraping the beds over which she passes.  Our people are naturally indignant and in addition to making complaints to the officials of D. M. & V. R. R., have consulted several attorneys as to the remedy for the evil."

  Seen in column 3, under the heading of "Correspondence:"

  "MR. EDITOR:  -  I was highly pleased with the article of Mr. N. W. Nock in a recent issue of ENTERPRISE, relative to the protection of our seaside oyster industry.  Knowing the needs of proper protection, from my own personal knowledge and contact as a laborer  I certainly endorse every word he says, and more too, and I am sure it meets the endorsement of all who pretend to know anything about the needs and demands of the seaside oyster industry.  Cut off, and being isolated from the balance of the great oyster producing area of the State of Virginia, it requires a different police service.

  There should be a suitable police force for our "Sea Side Narrows" under a commissioner, who should be empowered to make arrests for violation of the laws, and who should be further commissioned to set apart lands for planting purposes, and whose duty it would be to keep a record of all lands granted, its location and eligibility, and parties should from year to year, make a sworn statement of how many planted; said commissioner to examine them and assess them at a fair valuation, and report such assessments to the treasurer of the counties for collection, same as taxes on any other personal property.  The commissioner should receive a suitable compensation for such service, in addition to fee for surveying and setting apart lands.  This would not only enhance the value of the industry, give protection to the citizens of this State, who are justly entitled to its benefits, but would enable the State to collect its proper proportion of the revenue from the industry, necessary for its demands, besides making the force self-sustaining, to say nothing about the enhancement of real estate contiguous to the creeks, bays, &c., from Chincoteague to the capes of Va.  As it now is, the industry, its protection, and mode of collecting the revenue is certainly very primitive, and does not speak well for our boasted intelligence and our notion of the progress of the times.

  Only a glance at the records, shows that the revenue derived from the vast industry, on our Sea Side is to [sic] paltry to be considered.  Our rocks are yearly being depleted, and a large percentage of their products carried to "My Maryland" to enrich the citizens of that State, at the expense of people, and revenue of Virginia, all for lack of suitable police force to look after the matter.

  This is a shame and should not longer be endured.  I know our representatives are intelligent, patriotic and home-loving enough to see that suitable laws be enacted for the preservation of the industry, now that it has been drawn to their attention.     SEA SIDER. "

  Seen in column 4, under the heading "MARRIED:"

  "BOWDEN-BLOXOM  -  March 5th, 1891, at Chincoteague, by Rev. Geo. E. Wood, George Bowden to Miss Manie Bloxom."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 4 April 1891, on page 3, column 3:

  "Supreme Lodge of Oystermen's Protective Union.

  The Rechabite Hall, Messongo, was filled to its utmost capacity on Wednesday, March 25th, for the purpose of organizing a Supreme Lodge of the Oystermen's Protective Union.  Every local Union of the county was represented.  On motion, Geo. W. Glenn was called to the chair, and Geo. N. Weaver was elected secretary.

  The following officers were elected for the ensuing twelve months:  Geo. W. Glenn, supreme master workman; John H. Hopkins, assistant supreme master workman; John E. Anderton, supreme secretary; Dr. Frank Fletcher, supreme treasurer; Geo. N. Weaver, supreme organizer; Capt. P. H. Conorton, sergeant-at-arms; Charles M. Spencer, chaplain.

  The Committee on Credentials reported 19 delegates in attendance.

  A Committee on Laws was appointed and reported by-laws and constitution, which were adopted for the government of the order.

  A Committee of Conference was asked for by the Farmers' Alliance of the county, and the following were appointed: J. F. Terry, T. R. Chase and Walter J. Hall.

  The State organizer was instructed to begin the work of organizing at once on the Western Shore, and left for that purpose on Monday.

  The supreme master workman will begin the work of organization in Accomac [sic] and Northampton at once.  A committee of three was appointed to procure a meeting place at Accomac C. H., on April 27th, court-day, at which time and place the Supreme Union will be convened.

JAS. E. ANDERTON.  Supreme Secretary.    --------------

  At the meeting of oystermen at the Rechabite Hall, on 25th ult., for the purpose of organizing a Supreme Lodge, the local union reported a membership of five hundred and the two organizers appointed at said meeting, hope by the united efforts of the oystermen of the State to enrol [sic] 10,000 names in the different Unions now at work and hereafter to be instituted, by 1st of next December.

  We have been endorsed by the Farmers' Alliance of the county of Accomac [sic], and we ask the hearty cooperation of all persons interested in the oyster industry.  All persons in sympathy with us are cordially invited to be present at the meeting at Accomac C. H., on April 27th, court day.  The undersigned supreme master workman will be at Franklin city, April 17th, Chincoteague Island, April 18th, Greenbackville, April 20th, for the purpose of organizing Oyster Unions.  Other appointments will be made through ENTERPRISE.

   GEO. W. GLENN, Supreme Master Workman."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 11 April 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our bay is full of geese and brandt [sic] heading north, indicating that the winter is over.

  Capt. B. S. Rich, made his regular quarterly visit to our Life Saving Station, this week.

  Three oyster boats, carrying about 3,000 bushels, were loaded her Friday, for northern markets.

  Schooner Emma Robinson, arrived here, Monday, with 50 tons of ice for Wallop's Island Club House.

  Rev. J. W. Turner, has returned from Roanoke to accept a call at Union Baptist Church, with salary of $660.

  Our people, old and young, are delighted with the new price of sugar, due to taking tariff off of same.  One cent now buys two sticks of candy.

  Rev. G. P. Jones, who succeeds Rev. Geo. E. Wood, as pastor of M. E. Church, here, will preach his introductory sermon, Sunday, at 10. a. m.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Prof. Mahoney, Maryland; B. S. Kennedy, St. Louis; Harry Snow, Baltimore; Jas. H. McGlother, M. E. Selby, Wilmington; J. J. Boyce, Georgetown; Dr. O. F. Byrd, T. W. Blackstone, J. H. Wise, J. H. Fletcher, A. J. Lilliston, J. R. Riggs, D. F. White, Thos. Fletcher, Stanley Lewis, Accomac.

  A Norwegian bark came ashore 3 miles south of North Beach Life Saving Station, on 1st inst.  She was bound from Rio Janeiro to Halifax, under ballast, She is a total wreck, and was sold on 3rd inst., for $15.  Two of her crew of ten died during the voyage and were buried at sea.  She was 43 years old.

  On Monday, March 30th, a meeting was called for the purpose of organizing an Oyster League.  The meeting was attended with much success, and the Chincoteague Oyster League duly organized, with O. M. Jones, president, C. O. Disharoon, vice-president, J. T. Kenney, secretary, and J. W. Bunting, treasurer, with 106 members first night.  After the usual committees were appointed, a resolution was unanimously adopted by the League, pledging themselves to abide by the present oyster law as to the culling on natural rocks, and to inform on any one whom they may see violating said law."

   Seen in column 3, under the heading of "County Court Proceedings.  March Term, 1891:"

  " ...  Elva A. Jeffries was appointed inspector of oysters for district No. 1 [Chincoteague Island and surrounding waters]  .. and ... [he] qualified.   ...

 Application of Wm. J. Messick and others, for repair of public landing on Chincoteague Island.  Petition refused, first, because surveyor of roads is not required to make, repair or keep in condition a public landing, second, because, no authority is conferred upon the county court to make appropriations from the county fund for the repair of such landings.  ...."

  Found in column 4, under "Judges of Election at the Primary:"

  "....  Chincoteague  -  O. M. Jones, Geo. R. Coleburn.

    Notice To Judges of Election.

  Persons entitled to vote in the primary election to be held on Saturday, the 25th day of April, 1891:

1st  -  All white persons that voted for P. W. McKinney for Governor, or failed to do so for some good reason - such as absence from the county, sickness, or not being 21 years old.

2nd  -  All white Democrats that will be 21 years of age on the 4th Thursday in May, next.

  All voters must pledge themselves to support the nominee for any office at the general election, provided they vote for a candidate to fill that office at the primary.

   J. W. BOWDOIN,  County Chairman."

  And in column 5, under the heading "Church Notes:"

   " .... The Maryland Conference of M. P. Church, adjourned Wednesday, to meet in Pocomoke city, on the first Wednesday in April, 1892.  The following appointments were made for Accomac [sic]:  ... Chincoteague, Rev. J. F. Warden, ..."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 18 April 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

  "D. Frank White, deputy organizer of the "Oystermen's Protective Association,, [sic] has organized promising associations at Greenbackville and Chincoteague Island."

   In column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Corn very scarce with us and retailing for 90 cents, when for sale.

  John W. Fields returned home from school in Baltimore, Maryland.

  Our oystermen are quite busy at present in catching, planting and selling oysters.

  Our merchants say, that their cash sales have increased 50 per cent. daily for the past few weeks.

  The new superintendent of D. M. & Va. R. R. with other officials, made us a "flying visit" this week.

  Mrs. A. Hudson has returned home with her son, Isaac, from Westminster College, Md.  He is now convalescent from a serious illness.

  Our people are taking advantage of the low price of sugar and many who have been heretofore purchasing it by the pound are buying it by the barrel.

  The members of M. P. Church have rented and furnished a parsonage for the new pastor, Rev. J. F. Wooden, who together with his family is expected to arrive and occupy the same this week.  He will preach his introductory sermon next Sunday. [Last week's article said "Warden," this week's "Wooden."]

  Mr. Richard Lind, surfman in the life saving service for the last 12 years, and a very efficient one, has been compelled to resign his position on account of deficient hearing, brought on by exposure in the service, and retires on a pension.  He will move with his family to Wilmington, Del.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week: J. W. Fields, Phila.; T. C. McPherson, Buffalo, N. Y.; M. E. Selby, Frank C. Hanna, John Stratton, Wilmington; H. C. Simpson, Jersey City; Milton Porter and wife, Stockton, Md.; Col. Frank Hollis, Henry Ross, Capt. B. S. Rich, Lieut. Wadsworth, Dr. T. T. Taylor, T. F. Marshall, J. W. Broughton, L. J. Gunter, Jeff Jacobs, John Ireland, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 25 April 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our public schools closed on the 24th inst.

  Chincoteague, the banner Democratic precinct of Accomac [sic], will be the battle ground of the candidates, to-day.

  The life saving boys are expected home next Friday, for their 4 months vacation, and will receive a cordial welcome.

  Treasurer John E. Wise and Commissioner S. D. Fletcher made us a visit this week for the purpose of licensing merchants and and other business men for the coming year.

  Dr. E. L. Parramore, of California, is a welcome visitor here, as the guest of his uncle, Dr. N. S. Smith.  He was born in Accomac, leaving it for his adopted State when 3 years old.

  Ex-Governor Chas. Stockley, Judge J. C. Grubb and Hon. J. W. Causey, M. C., of Del., spent several days at the Atlantic hotel this week.  They were attracted here, they said, by the fine accommodations of the Atlantic, and pronounced it the best kept hotel south of Dover.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  G. J. Record, N. Stockett, P. G. Fogarth, Baltimore; A. G. Turner, G. W. Sands, Wilmington; J. W. Carsley, Milford; R. J. McAllen, Snow Hill; B. S. Jones, New York; M. W. Coston, Pocomoke; Dr. E. L. Parramore, California; S. K. Powell, S. W. Matthews, Thos. Savage; A. S. Matthews, Capt. W. T. P. Mister, Wm. D. Tunnell, J. E. Wise, S. D. Fletcher, J. W. Gladding, L. D. Watson, J. W. Matthews, Accomac."

  In column 3, under "Correspondence:"

MR. EDITOR:  -  In an old pamphlet, the title of which has been completely obliterated by use and age, I found the following mention therein referring to the Indians of the Eastern Shore of Virginia:

  "Indians of Eastern Virginia are almost wasted, but such towns and people as retain their names and live in bodies are hereunder set down, all of which together cannot raise 500 fighting men.  They live poorly and much in fear of the neighboring Indians.  Each town by the treaty of peace 1577, pays 3 Indian arrows for their land and 20 beaver skins for protection each year.

  Accomac:  -

1.  -  Metomkin, which was much decreased of late by small pox that was carried thither.

2.  -  Gingoteague, the few remains of this town all joined with a nation of Maryland Indians.

3.  -  Kicquotank is reduced to a very few men.

4.  -  Matchapungo has a small number yet living.

5.  -  Occahanock has a small number yet living.

6.  -  Pungoteague governed by a queen but a small nation.

7.  -  Onancock has for or five families.

8.  -  Chiconessex has very few who just keep the name.

9.  -  Nanduye, a seat of the empress, not above 20 families, but she has all the nations on the shore under tribute.

  Northampton:  -

Gangascoe, which is almost as numerous as all the foregoing put together."

   CLAY.  Craddockville, April 21, 1891."

  And in column 5, under "MARRIED:"

"WHEALTON- JESTER  - April 18th, 1891, at Chincoteague, by Rev. J. W. Turner, Wallace L. Whealton to Miss Annie Jester."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 2 May 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

  "Rt. Rev. A. A. Curtis, Catholic Bishop of Wilmington, will preach next week at the following places: Monday, May 4th, at Wachapreague; Tuesday, May 5th at Drummondtown court house; Thursday, May 7th, at Chincoteague hall.  The sermon will be at 8 p. m., at each place.  All are cordially invited."

   In column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our people are catching drum fish in abundance.

  Miss Elvira Timmons, of Box Iron, Ms., is visiting relatives here.

  Our public schools closed April 24, and pay schools have been opened by Miss Ida M. Matthews, Miss Ida V. Tracey and Miss Davis.

  Master Elmer Lewis arrived home from college, Westminster, Md., last week.  A throat trouble caused his return before the close of the session.

  P. W. & B. R. R. Co. had their pile driver and twenty hands here this week, putting down piles around steamboat wharf and fixing up their property generally.

  A three masted schooner loaded with ice, went ashore on Pope's Island, 2 1/2 miles south of  Life Saving Station of which Capt. Seal Bloxom is keeper, on last Tuesday night.

  The employees of the D. M. & Va. R. R. have presented ex-Superintendent Mills with a handsome gold watch and chain, as a token of the esteem in which they held him.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Selah T. Clock, Bay Shore, L. I.; J. H. Feddeman, J. B. Thomas, J.A. Hoskins, R. B. Fisher, Baltimore; J. G. Savage, Philadelphia; J. H. Price, Wilmington; E. B. Davidson, Milford; H. Serdies, Clayton; G. A. Miller, W. A. Carroll, E. B. Brinton, Dover, Del.; J. D. Jacob, J. H. Wise, L. F. J. Wilson, S. W. Matthews, J. W. Edmonds, S. D. Fletcher, J. H. Fletcher, Jr., A. J. Lilliston, M. E. Selby, Accomac."

   In columns 2 & 3:  "Primary Election.

The following is the official report of the Democratic County Chairman, of the Primary Election held April 25th, 1891:    County Officers.  

... Precinct :  Chincoteague  -

Commonwealth Attorney:  J. H. Fletcher, Jr.   107;  T. W. Russell     144

Sheriff :     J. H. Wise     173;   L. J. Gunter     4;    D. F. White    69

Commissioner of Revenue No. 1:     J. R. Riggs    34;    J. W. Broughton   159;    W. T. P. Mister   5;    T. E. Fletcher   59

Commissioner of Revenue No. 2:     J. D. Jacob    207;    W. D. Tunnell   3

Treasurer:     T. W. Blackstone   141;    A. J. Lilliston   1;    E. T. Powell   92"

[County winners were: J. H. Fletcher, Jr.;  J. H. Wise;  J. W. Broughton;  W. D. Tunnell; E. T. Powell.]

  In column 4, under the heading "MARRIED:"

"BIRCH-BLOXOM  -  April 22nd, 1891, at Chincoteague, by Rev. J. W. Turner, Charles H. Birch to Miss Jennie Bloxom.   ...

HUDSON-BISHOP  -  April 23rd, 1891, at Chincoteague, by Rev. E. H. Derrickson, James R. Hudson to  Miss Mary S. Bishop."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 9 May 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Marsh birds and eggs are plentiful on our marshes.

  Our tables are now bountifully supplied with strawberries, asparagus, radish and spring chickens.

  Our peas and round potatoes are in full bloom, and shipments of both are expected at an early day.

  Superintendent Holliday of our railroad has changed his headquarters from Clayton to Dover, Del.

  Rt. Rev. A. A. Curtis, Catholic bishop, of Wilmington, Del., lectured in our Town Hall, on Thursday night.

  Oysters are being shipped in larger quantities and are bringing better prices now than at any time this season.

  The Delaware and Chincoteague canal will, it is reported, be cut through from our bay to Rehoboth bay, this week.

  W. J. Matthews sold a handsome pair of match ponies, this week, to E. W. Smith & Bro., proprietors of the Weston House, Madison, Mo.

  Capt. Theodore Hall arrived here from Crisfield this week, with yacht Annie Homer, and has commenced work on fish factory to be established by him and others.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  T. J. LeCompt, Augustus Miller, H. Snow, Baltimore; Frank Mowbray, J. L. Gillespie, Phila.; Wm. Sepple, W. S. Johnson, J. H. Folk, F. F. Zingden, Georgetown; Wm. Sartorius, Pocomoke City; D. S. Hogg, Chesapeake City; S. A. Hallaman, Felton, Del.; Cas. West, Winter Quarter Light Ship; Dr. O. F. Byrd, Logan Henderson, Benjamin Jones, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 16 May 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Children's day will be observed in our M. E. Church, June 14th.

  Several prominent sportsmen of the Northern cities have been stopping at the Atlantic, this week.

  Mrs. Nancy Whealton, widow of Joshua Whealton, died on Sunday, 10th inst., of pneumonia, aged 61 years.

  Capt. Jno. W. Bunting, has sold over 800 tons of fish scrap this season at wholesale and large quantities also at retail.

  Mrs. James E. Matthews, is visiting the Northern cities, this week, for the purpose of purchasing new furniture for the Atlantic hotel.

  The Chincoteague and Delaware canal will be navigable in a few days, from Rehoboth bay to Isle of Wight bay, to crafts drawing 4 feet of water.

  The improvements at club house on Wallops Island, have been completed by Mr. Wm. Conant, the contractor, and several members of the club visited the Island this week, to receive the same.

  The schooner Kelsey, Jno. D. Whealton, captain, of Chincoteague, has been chartered by a New York firm, to make a trip to West Indies - the only vessel from this place for that port for years.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Geo Stephens and wife, Dr. Robert M. Smith, J. Nalle, Phila.; W. A. Rowe, C. M. Pinkard, San Francisco, Cal.; Frank C. Hanna, M. E. Selby, Wilmington, Del.; D. T. Clock, Bayshore, L. I.; A. E. Collins, Bishopville, Md.; W. S. Johnson, Georgetown, Del.; R. P. Custis, G. T. Gladding, Edgar V. Twyford, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 23 May 1891, on page 3, column 2 & 3, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mr. J. A. M. Whealton and wife are visiting friends in Brooklyn, N. Y.

  A lodge of Red Men was organized here last Saturday, with 66 members.

  A handsome steam launch arrived here this week, to be used as a pleasure boat by the Wallops Island Club, this season.

  Our town was visited during the week by excursionists in large crowds from Girdletree, Snow Hill and other points in Maryland.

  The representative of the Southern Merchants Commercial Agency was here last week, endeavoring to interest our business men in the matter.

  The first quarterly Conference of the year was held at our M. E. Church, Monday.  The salary of the minister in charge of same was increased from $550 to $600.  Rev. Mr. Cochran, P. E., conducted the exercises.

  Mr. E. P. Timmons was here this week accompanied by gentlemen from Philadelphia, to show them his Ragged Point property and stock thereon, with a view to the exchange of same for real estate in that city.

  Asher Walker, of this place, convicted of larceny and sentenced to two years in the penitentiary, at Snow Hill, last spring, was released by the Governor of Maryland, on Saturday, a petition having been forwarded to him requesting his release, and arrived here on Sunday.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Capt. A. Hudson, N. Y.; W. F. Stokes, Atlanta, Ga.; J. G. Minson, W. E. Doughty, Baltimore; J. E. Glouther, J. E. Fletcher, Wilmington, Del.; I. N. Mills, J. N. ALsop, Clayton, Del.; Capt. Thompson, Easton, Md.; L. H. Dulles, Wilson Erpress, C. Harrison, Phila.; Capt. W. F. Burch, U. S. Lightship; R. P. Custis, Geo. Burch, Logan Henderson, Albert Chesser, Miss Bettie Pruitt, Miss A. Collins, Accomac.

  The annual sheep-penning of Assateague comes off this year, Wednesday, June 3rd.  Extensive preparations are being made for the same, and always a big day with us, it is to be a bigger day this year than ever before.  The confectionery and refreshment stands, which will offer refreshments to the inner man, will be numerous and well stocked with all that could be desired.  Boats without number will be furnished for the accommodation of passengers.  Sheep, lambs and wool will be offered on the day at public and private sale."

    Continuing in column 3 is:

"Apportionment of School Funds.

   Apportionment of the balance of the county school levy for year 1890, as reported by county treasurer to superintendent of schools:

Total amount collected                     $1,063.69

Less 5% treasurer's commissions        -   53.18

Total amount to be distributed          $1,010.51

.....

District: Islands     School population: 802    Amount per capita  9.4833 cents    Amount  $76.03    Less Treasurer's Commission   $3.80      Amount Distributed   $$72.23.

    County treasurer and district clerks please copy.

Respectfully submitted,,

  JOHN E. MAPP,  Co. Supt. Schools."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 30 May 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

  "The annual sheep penning of Assateague comes off this year, Wednesday, June 3rd."

   In column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our privates schools closed Saturday, 23rd inst.

  Miss Sadie Messick, of Georgetown, Del., is here on a visit to her brother, William.

  The steamer Widgeon leaves here now at 6 a. m., instead of 5:15 a. m., and the change of schedule has the general approval of the travelling public.

  Our people have had a profiterble [sic] season this year in working the natural rocks and the time for catching and handling oysters having expired, (June 1st,) it is to be hoped, that the law will be respected and the rocks be allowed to rest and recuperate until September 1st.

  Hamilton Disston's steam yacht, arrived here Thursday, 21st inst., having on board U. S. Senator, Matthew Quay, M. H. Wright and other prominent politicians of Pennsylvania, and at this writing the distinguished visitors are still with us and will remain until repairs are made to yacht.  Hon. Quay since his arrival has been amusing himself in fishing for drums but he has been as much a failure  in that respect as in politics of late.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  W. H. Maxwell, Norfolk, Va.; Dr. Jenkins, Capt. J. W. Evans, N. Y.; G. G. Ratcliff, Clayton, Del.; Chas. H. Ames, R. S. Stant, M. Greenbaum, F. C. Toyer, Baltimore; J. W. Fields, J. J. English, Phila.; E. R. Sepple, W. J. Thoroughgood, Georgetown, Del.; E. B. Davidson, A. Hulsom, Milford, Del.; M. E. Selby, Wilmington, Del.; Chas. Richardson, Chas. Mason, Jno. Selby, Misses Sallie Rowley, W. Pruitt, Letitia Jones, Bettie Upshur, Florence Selby, Snow Hill, Md.; G. W. Nock, J. Hope, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 6 June 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Ham Disston's yacht, which arrived here some days ago with distinguished Pennsylvanians on board, Left on Thursday for Norfolk.

  A sufficient sum was raised at M. E. Church, last Sunday, to liquidate debt on church and to pay for new organ recently purchased at the price of $300.

  Rev. Mr. Wooden and family, of M. P. Church, who arrived here about a month ago, were "pounded" on Thursday of last week, by their friends and church members.

  The sheep-penning at Assateague, on Wednesday, was attended by some 500 or 600 people, the largest gathering ever known on a similar occasion and but for the distressing death elsewhere reported, the festival incident thereto would be considered the most enjoyable.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  F. C. Taylor, G. J. Record, A. J. LaFleur and daughter, J. B. Thomas, Baltimore; M. H. Pope, Wm. Sartorius, Pocomoke City; S. R. Lawson, S. H. Baynard, Benj. Price, Wilmington; John E. Wise, S. W. Matthews, Col. Frank Hollis, Logan Henderson, George Covington, Accomac.

  Mr. Wm. J. Daisey, while in attendance at sheep-penning at Assateague, on Wednesday, and apparently in perfect health, died suddenly of heart disease, aged 67 years.  His death was so unexpected and the shock was so great as to put an end to all the festivities of the occasion.  He was a very worthy man and held in high esteem by everyone who knew him for his sterling integrity of character."

   Seen in column 6:

  "Election Returns.

The following is the official vote at the election, held May 28th.

   COUNTY OFFICERS.

Precincts - Chincoteague:

Sheriff - John H. Wise  130;  Attorney for Commonwealth - Jas. H. Fletcher, Jr.   132;  Commissioner of Revenue No. 1 - Jas. W. Broughton   132;  Commissioner of Revenue No. 2 - Wm. D. Tunnell   132;  County Treasurer - Edwin T. Powell  132.

  DISTRICT OFFICERS.   ...

ISLAND DISTRICT.

For Supervisor  -  R. E. Swift, 109;  J. T. Kenney, 4.

For Constable  -  Emory Phipps, 71;  Joseph V. Jester, 73.

For Justice of the Peace  -  R. P. Reynolds, 71;  C. O. Disbrow, 53;  Emory Maffit, 85;  W. N. Conant, 100;  W. L. Watson, 14.

For Overseer of the Poor  -  W. N. Conant, 77;  Jas. E. Matthews, 61."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 13 June 1891, on page 3, column 3, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mrs. John Johnson, of Wachapreague, is here on a visit to numerous friends and acquaintances.

  Our round potato crop is being rapidly shipped to market and big money is being returned for them.

  Children's day will be observed here on Sunday, and extra preparations have been made to make the exercises interesting.

  Captain Harrington, Lighthouse inspector, made his quarterly visit to Chincoteague, this week, and found our lights in first class order.

  James Jones, a very worthy man and held in high esteem by all our citizens, died on 7th inst., of consumption, aged 39 years.  He was a constant and useful member of Baptist Church.  A wife and one child survive him.  He was a member of the Royal Arcanum.

  Mr. Jos. G. Savage, commission merchant, Philadelphia, made us a short visit this week, in the interest of his firm and we cannot too highly recommend him to the favor of all shippers.  With facilities unsurpassed, he can be relied on every time to give the best returns.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Ex-Gov. Milton Ponder, Milton, Del.; F. M. Rogers, J. G. Savage, Phila.; E. C. Hanna, Wilmington; Capt. A. Hudson, N. Y.; R. Bayne, Baltimore; Frank Lankford, M. H. Pope and daughter, Jas. Tull and wife, Pocomoke; A. B. Custis, Jos. Tatem, Dr. O. F. Byrd, Mrs. Morse and daughter, Accomac."

  In column 5, under "MARRIED:"

"THORNTON-DAISEY  -  June 9th, 1891, at Chincoteague Island, by Rev. Jos. W. Turner, Silas B. Thornton to Miss Eliza A. Daisey."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 20 June 1891, on page 3, column 1, under the heading of "Local News:"

  "Ministers of the Gospel are requested to be a little more definite in their certificates to marriage license as to place where the marriage is celebrated.  The certificate has to be put on record and it won't do simply to say "at the Parsonage", "along the road", or at bride's residence, without naming the county.

  John H. Wise, special commissioner, in the suit of Albert Lewis' committee vs. David W. Lewis and wife et als., and L. Floyd Nock, special commissioner, in suit of Florence M. Lewis, by next friend, vs. Joshua W. Whealton and wife, &c., will sell at public auction on Chincoteague, Friday, June 26th, real estate in pursuance with decrees in said suits."

   Found in column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Fish scarce and in demand with us.

  A large party of excursionists from Berlin, Snow Hill and Stockton, spent the day at the Atlantic hotel, Monday.

  Children's day services at our M. E. Church, last Sunday, was a grand success - creditable to the Island as well as the church.

  Caleb Bowden and sister Estata, William and Ansel Whealton, pupils at Westminster College, Md., this session, arrived home, Saturday.

  Children's day will be observed at our M. P. Church on Sunday, 28th inst., and extensive preparations are being made to interest the children and audience.

  Our truckers have been shipping daily for the last two weeks, from 100 to 200 barrels of round potatoes which have been sold from $5 to $6.50 per barrel.

  S. E. Matthews has just received a vessel load of North Carolina heart shingles, which he is offering for sale cheap - and keeps the best butter, fresh daily, for 25 cents per pound.

  Mrs. S. E. Matthews and son are visiting friends in Berlin  -  Mrs. Wm. F. R. Cropper is with her sister at Pleasantville, Md.  -  James M. Burch is at Pleasantville, N. J. on a visit to his sister Mrs. Wm. Risley.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Wm. Hayman, J. Taylor, George A. Wellman, E. C. Harrington, Wilmington, Del.; M. J. Byrd, Harry Snow, Jas. H. Feddeman, Baltimore; Jas. Fletcher, Wilmington, Del.; J. A. Elligood, Ellendale, Del.; R. P. Custis, Washington Mason, Accomac.

  Capt. Geo. K. Porter, commander of the largest schooner from this port, has been missing since 3rd inst.  He was put ashore in New York City, on that day by his crew, at his request, after schooner was ready for sea and has not since been heard from.  His wife and brother, for the last ten days, aided by detectives, have used all the means in their power to obtain some clue of his whereabouts but to no purpose.  He had a considerable sum of money on his person when he disappeared and it is feared that he has been foully dealt with.  He was highly esteemed by everyone in our community and the uncertainty of his fate has cast a gloom over all our people.

   Greenbackville.

...  The Greenbackville Oystermen's Protective Union, at this place, now numbers over sixty members and holds regular weekly meetings.  The Union expects to send delegates to the Supreme Oystermen's Protective Union, which will meet at Cape Charles, on July 7th, next.

  No reliable tidings have been heard of Capt. Porter, of Chincoteague Island, who left his vessel at Jersey City, on the first of this month, was seen in New York city, on West street, on the 3rd inst., and since which time nothing has been heard of him.  It is feared the Captain has been foully dealt with.

  On last Friday, during a thunder storm, the sloop Susie Derickson, belonging to Messrs. F. Elton Jones & Bro., of  Franklin City, had her top-mast broken off by lightning.  Levi H. Ellis and John U. Mason were at the time the lightning struck the sloop standing on the shore, near another boat that was on the railway for repairs, and both of them were knocked senseless, while several other persons nearby were badly shocked.  All of them soon recovered without serious damage."

   In column 5, under "MARRIED:"

"CHANDLER-BIRCH  -  June 14th, 1891, at Chincoteague, by Rev. J. W. Turner, Wm. J. Chandler to Miss Saida Birch."

   *** Note:  Capt. George K. Porter was never found.  This is a newspaper report from The Philadelphia Times of Saturday, 13 June 1891, in column 5 on the front page:

"A Sea Captain Disappears.

Special telegram to THE TIMES.  

Pleasantville, N. J., June 12.  -  The whereabouts of Captain George K. Porter, of the schooner William P. Davis, lying on the Jersey City flats, North river, is a deep mystery.  Captain Porter left his schooner on June 2 in charge of his crew, while he went ashore to transact some business with H. P. Havens, whose office is at 85 West street, New York, and he has not been heard of or seen since.  There is a suspicion of foul play as he had a large amount of money on his person when he left the Davis, and there is also some ground for him being drowned."

   I have been unable to find any mention of him in any other newspapers.  His wife, Amy Birch Porter, did not remarry.  There is a gravestone for both of them in Holy Ridge Cemetery on Chincoteague.  It reads:  "Amy Birch Porter, April 20, 1855  -  May 11, 1918      George K. Porter, July 18, 1843  -  June 3, 1891"  ***

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 27 June 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Best creamery butter 25 cents at Matthews' store.

  Children's Day services at our Baptist and M. P. Churches, to-morrow night, 28th inst.

  The bricks and cement for oil-house on Assateague, has arrived on schooner Palestine.

  Capt. John D. Whealton, Jr., of Chincoteague, has completed his trip from West Indies to New York.

  Children's Day services in M. E. Church, up the Island, last Sunday, was well attended and praised in the highest terms.

  Capt. Geo. Burch, keeper of Greenrun L. S. Station, has resigned the position, to take effect July 1st.  It is stated, that there are twenty applicants or more for the place.

  A festival will be held in front of the old Hurley hotel, July 3rd and 4th, by members of Baptist Church - proceeds for benefit of church.  The usual delicacies of the season will be served.

  Mr. E. A. Jeffries, the new oyster inspector, is taking steps to prevent the catching of small oysters in his jurisdiction during the summer months, and our citizens generally approve his action in the matter.

  The fish factory of Capt. Theodore Hall will begin operations next Monday.  He will give employment to quite a number of our citizens, and deserves and has the best wishes of our people for success in his enterprise.

  A catch of five hundred drum fish or more was made by Capt. Wm. Bunting, member of firm Bunting & Sons, at one haul, a few days ago.  They were sold at 25 cents each, and resold to parties from Atlantic, Va., to Dover, Del.

  Lieut. J. F. Wadsworth and G. F. Miller, U. S. Life Saving Station architect, spent a day with us last week, on their tour of inspection to the station.  Every station house in the district is to be renovated and new ones will be built at Ocean City and Fenwick Island.  A large boat house will also be built between Assateague and Popes Island.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel, this week:  Geo. Stephens and wife, S. White, Philadelphia; G. F. Miller, N. Y.; C. G. Turner, M. E. Selby, Wilmington; A. Greenbaum, Baltimore; Dr. J. Houck, Harry Houck, Capt. G. Truitt and family, Snow Hill, Md.; M. J. Hudson, Stockton; Chas. West, Winter Quarter Light Ship; Lieut. Wadsworth, B. F. Jones, O. J. Adams, Washington Mason, Accomac."

   In column 3, "Neighborhood Notes" continued:

  "Greenbackville. 

...  The clam market is a little flat just at this writing, clams having declined in price here, from $2.25 down to $1.25 per thousand, with but a limited demand at the latter figures.

 The schooner Peter J. Hart, Capt. Wm. K. Collins, is over-due here by 8 or 10 days and some little uneasiness is being felt by the people on that account, but it is to be hoped, that the schooner and crew  will turn up at the proper time, all right.

  No tidings have yet been received of Capt. Geo. K. Porter, who was reported in your last issue, as having so mysteriously disappeared from his schooner on the first of the month and was last seen in New York, on the 3rd inst., although every effort has been made by his friends to learn of his whereabouts.  ..."

 

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 4 July 1891, on page 3, column 4:

  "PROGRESS OF WORK ON THE INLAND PENINSULA WATERWAY.

The Chincoteague -Lewes Route.

 Snow Hill, Md., June 24. -  A letter has been received by Hon. George W. Covington from the engineer in charge of constructing the Chincoteague inlet, which reads in part as follows: "Having completed the connection of the waters of Assawoman bay and Indian river, I feel it my duty to write you in regard to the same.  A full construction was accomplished about noon on Friday, June 5.  A steady southwest current continued until Friday, 12.  During the afternoon the south wind changed the flow to a north current, since which time it has increased.  The strongest current has been about 66 feet per minute.  The fall between two ends at such times is nearly six inches.  The dredge is now cutting in White's creek, about one thousand feet above the mouth of the cut.  Only four hundred more feet are to be cut before the contract will be finished.  The flow through is much more favorable Than I was inclined to think it would be.  Quite a good circulation is kept up.  General Smith was here last week, and left an order to go down and survey Massey's shoals.  There are two shoals in the Little Assawoman bay that are about as bad as Massey's.  Were these taken out and some arrangements made to get under the bridge, small steam launches could pass entirely through from Indian river inlet to Chincoteague." 

  The people of this section particularly are to be congratulated upon the nearness to completion of a public work which has been for several years in progress.  The work was begun in 1886, when Congress granted an appropriation of  $25,000 for the "improvement by dredging and otherwise, of the inland waterway from Chincoteague bay, Va., to Delaware bay, near Lewes, Del., to be used from Chincoteague bay to Indian River bay."  The work was projected by Hon. George W. Covington, who was then in Congress, and who has always been an earnest advocate of it.  Little Assawoman bay and Big Assawoman bay were before continuous bodies of water.  By the canal just completed, 70 feet wide and running through 4 1/2 miles of low, marshy land, they become, together with Isle of Wight bay, Synepuxent bay and Chincoteague bay, one body of water.  This makes a bay about 53 miles long.  The next step is to improve by dredging from Indian River bay through Rehoboth bay and Lewes creek, a distance of 12 miles, to the Delaware bay above the Breakwater, which would make a continuous waterway of 73 miles from Chincoteague to the Delaware bay.  This work has received the indorsement of Colonel Craighill, and has been approved by the Secretary of War, but was afterwards referred back to Congress, as the estimates were much higher for that potion of the work than the preceding part.  So far $117,500 have been recured altogether for this work, and $5,000 remains in hand for its completion.  

  The benefits to commerce of such an inland waterway are manifest.  The smaller crafts plying between Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore or other southern ports can avoid the perils of the sea by taking this inland waterway, and almost without going out of a straight line.  In case of storm they will have a harbor  of refuge with the entrances 73 miles apart.  It's importance as a shelter from the enemy's ships in case of war also suggests itself.  But its local importance to the people of Worcester far exceeds any work of improvement every inaugurated in the county, while its advantages extend equally to the adjacent counties of Sussex, Del., and Accomac, Va.  The advantages expected to accrue in the growing of oysters can hardly be estimated.  Synepuxent bay has been styled the American Bay of Naples, but its utility is not second to its beauty.  It furnishes, from Chincoteague to Parker's bay, oysters unexcelled in flavor or delicacy.  The new inlet will extend the area of the oyster grounds above this point and by letting in salt water from above, according to the engineer's report, add "75 square miles or 48,000 acres of oyster grounds, capable of accommodating at present rate of planting an annual oyster crop of 40,000,000 bushels, worth at present at the landings about $20,000,000."  [$20 million in 1891 equals $654,309.890 today.]  From the same source we learn that the estimate of probable amount of freight that would be annually transported by water carriage is over one million dollars of exports, such as piling, railroad ties, ship timber, lumber, cordwood, oysters and grain, and imports about three-quarters of a million of dollars; that the total amount of navigable waters thus to be brought into safe communication with the markets by way of the Delaware bay will be 150 to 200 miles to the various landings along the creeks and bays, giving an outlet of 400 square miles of territory."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 11 July 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  The receipts of the Baptist fair held here on the 4th, was $180.

  Best creamery butter 25 cents at Matthews' store.

  Miss Mattie Smith arrived home from school in Philadelphia, last week.

  E. P. Timmons left here last Monday with two car loads of cattle for Philadelphia.

  Mr. Emory Maffitt and wife, for several weeks of late in Baltimore, to attend a family reunion, have returned home.

  Capt. Gabe DeWaal arrived here last week with a schooner load of ice from New York.  It was disposed of by him at $3 per ton.

  Mr. A. P. Sherritt and family, of Baltimore, have occupied the cottage recently built for them by Mr. Wm. Conant, our architect.

  Betsy Ewell, an old colored woman, received on 3rd inst., a pension of $1,935.65, and will get $13 per month during life.  Her son was a soldier in the late war.

  Schooner John Grant, with James Thornton, captain, arrived here on 4th, loaded with watermelons, the first of the season.  They were sold at 50 cents. each.

  All the prizes given in boat race at Public Landing, near Snow Hill, on the 4th, were won by Chincoteague boats.  The first prize was awarded to yacht Emma, owned by Timothy Hill, and second prize to yacht Elise, owned by Dr. N. S. Smith.

  The annual pony penning of Chincoteague, this year, takes place August 12th, and of Assateague on following day.  A large number of ponies, and from twenty to thirty Western horses will be sold at public auction on the occasion regardless of price. [Note: The 'Western horses' must be the 'Nevada ponies' that came in by rail earlier in the year.]  A regatta, to come off during the time, promises to be the biggest thing of the kind ever known on Chincoteague.  Handsome prizes will be awarded to winners.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  A. P. Shirk, Lancaster, Pa.; R. F. Goldsborough, E. Kohn, E. F. Taylor, Mrs. M. A. Ricord and son, Miss A. J. Ricord, J. N. Field, B. G. Bayly, Phila.; M.E. Selby, F. C. Hanna, J. T. Hyle, W. F. Thompson, E. W. Ricord and wife, Wilmington; C. H. Denny, Dover; Chas. McAllen, Snow Hill; A. Miller, Baltimore; J. H. Wise, W. H. Miles and son, Henry Ayres, E. K. Townshend, L. Massey, L. Townshend, Jos. Kellam, Thos. West, Accomac."

   In column 3, under "County Court Proceedings.  June Term, 1891:"

  "... Certificate to obtain license to manufacture oil from fish was granted to John W. Bunting, and to catch fish to be manufactured as head of gang controlling a seine, to William Bunting.  ...

  All county officers elected at May election qualified - all district officers qualified excepting one justice of the peace in district of Islands, and one justice of peace and overseer of poor in Pungoteague district. ..."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 18 July 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  About twenty of the Wallop's Island Club arrived here on Tuesday.

  Best creamery butter 25 cents at Matthews' store.

  The oil-house at Assateague Lighthouse has been completed by Mr. B. Bailey, the contractor.

  Mr. Wm. R. Williams died on 10th inst., of pneumonia, aged 63 years.  He was a native of Berlin.

  Rev. Mr. Wooden and wife left on Sunday for Richmond, to visit the sick mother of Mrs. Wooden.

  A dwelling now in course of erection for Capt. John D. Whealton, will be the handsomest on the Island.

  Six persons were baptized last Sunday, on eastern side of the Island, by Rev. A. J. Turner, and by him admitted to church membership.

  Mrs. J. G. Savage and children, of Philadelphia, are visiting friends here  -  Col. W. J. Aydelotte and wife, of Pocomoke City, are guests of their daughter.

  Services were held in the Beulah Baptist Church, just completed, last Sunday, and it was filled to the utmost capacity.  It is a handsome edifice and handsomely furnished.

  In the races at Public Landing near Snow Hill, on the 4th, the second prize was won by yacht John W. Kellam, owned by Capt. John E. Burton, and not by yacht of Dr. N. S. Smith, as heretofore stated. The latter won third prize.

  Two passenger trains now connect daily with steamer to Chincoteague, and excursion tickets are being sold at low rates from Philadelphia and other cities to this point - accommodations which will attract a great number of visitors to Chincoteague this summer.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  A. L. Ainscow, G. E. Taylor, H. F. Mullen, D. W. Johnson, W. H. Green, J. N. Wheeler, S. E. Hawkins, F. C. Hanna, M. E. Selby, J. T. Hyde, Wilmington; L. T. Russell, W. A. Rowley, K. J. Bamber, J. W. Fields, B. G. Baily, Philadelphia; G. J. Record, Baltimore; C. E. West, Frankford; J. J. Kellam, A. L. Mathews, U. Mason, W. C. Hurley, L. W. Massey, W. F. Burch, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 8 August 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our island at present is filled with visitors, too numerous to mention.

  Charles Coleburn, cashier of Pocomoke City National Bank, made us a short business visit last Monday.

  Rev. J. W. Turner baptized five persons and received eleven into membership at Beulah Baptist Church, last Sunday.

  A large party from Pocomoke City visited Assateague Life Saving Station last week and were hospitably received by Capt. Tracey.

  Capt. John D. Whealton, Sr., has been awarded the contract to supply all the stations with wood and coal from Wachapreague to Smith's Island.

  The largest catch of fish ever known here was made by crews of our fish factories last week.  Bunting & Sons filled 100 barrels with oil, and it is estimated that the catch was worth to them from $5,000 to $6,000.  Capt. Bunting will leave in a few days to purchase another large steamer for the business.

  The annual pony penning will take place here Wednesday, August 12th, and on Assateague on following day.  Large numbers of ponies and Western horses will be sold at public auction.  Boat race did not come off as expected, a sufficient purse not having been raised to induce owners of first-class boats to enter them.

  The race at Red Hills on 29th ult., between skiffs of Horntown Club and Capt. Thos Davis resulted in a "draw."  A second trial here of speed, on last Saturday, was in favor of the former and the Horntown Club "scooped" the pool of $50.  The race was an exciting one and witnessed by an immense crowd from Maryland, the island and main.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel this week:  J. D. Wallop, W. G. Miller, J. Preston, Baltimore; J. H. Huber, wife and children, M. E. Selby, J. H. McGlother, F. C. Hanna, Wilmington; J. J. Boyce, Georgetown, Del.; J. R. Steward, Orange, N. J.; Alex. McMichael, Parry McMichael, Philadelphia; Chas. Peters, Snow Hill; T. B. C. Gibb, Dr. J. W. Kellam, Thos. Ross, Edw. Watson, Thos. P. Evans, Thos. West, L. W. Massey, Wm. Otwell, Accomac."

   Seen in column 4, under "County Court Proceedings.  July Term, 1891:"

  "Inspectors of oysters reported as follows for the quarter ending May 31st, 1891:  Elva A. Jeffreys, 1st district, received from rent of planting grounds $44.50, due State $40.05; ... "

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 15 August 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  From thirty to forty Baptists from Chincoteague attended the Association at Hampton, this week.

  Theodore J. Young has been granted by U. S. Government a pension of $336 and $4 per month during life.

  Wm. Bowden, Sr., the son of Rev. Parker Bowden, the founder of the M. P. Church on this island, died on the 6th inst., aged 66 years.

  Rev. J. W. Turner baptized eight persons last Sunday, in channel on eastern side of the island, and received nine into church membership.

  A party of officeholders and politicians from Philadelphia arrived here this week on the fine yacht R. B. Leeds, of Mr. J. J. English, and after spending several days at the Atlantic hotel, left for Cobb's Island and Old Point.

  Arrivals at the Atlantic hotel this week:  J. J. English, Henry T. Boston, James Paul, F. C. Thomson, J. T. Pearsons, John Axford, Samuel Wood, Thos. Wood, Thos. Flavell, G. E. Keiton, Philadelphia; J. A. Titus and wife, Miss Bessie Titus, Lambertville, N. J.; C. F. Botts, Chester, Pa.; J. J. Boyce, Georgetown, Del.; E. H. Brown, Baltimore; J. C. Otwell, F. K. Townsend, George Short, M. T. West, L. W. Massey, J. D. Wallop, W. T. Otwell, Mrs. M. T. West, Mrs. L. Knowles, Miss Lillie Otwell, Miss Lillie West, Miss Mary Grande, Miss Mary Townsend, Miss Mollie Serman [Accomac]."

   Seen in column 3:

  "Annual Meeting of the County School Board.

The County School Board met at Accomac C. H., August 3rd, 1891, Dr. John E. Mapp presiding, and settled with the County Treasurer as follows:  ...

  District of Islands, No. 5.

Amount of Grandstaff fund   $830.31

Amount of State fund            $260.61

Total amount received from the state, all paid    $1,090.92

  County Fund.

Amount of fund, including commissions (all paid out)   $372.24

  District Fund.

Amount of fund    $315.40

Less insolvents and commissions  $17.96

All paid   $297.44   

- - - Recapitulation.

  The amount of public fund received by each district was as follows:

Pungoteague     $6,684.97

Lee                    $7,691.32

Metompkin       $4,848.25

Atlantic             $5,458.02

Islands              $1,778.56

Total               $26,461.12

Respectfully,

  J. D. PARSONS, Clerk County School Board"

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 22 August 1891, on page 3, column 1, under "Local News:"

  "The schooner Seth and Ishmael, owned by Capt. Wm. J. Marshall, bound from New York to West Point, Va., and loaded with coal, was sunk off Chincoteague several days ago.  No lives were lost.  ...

  The Board of Commissioners designated to open the poll books and declare the result of elections held in Accomac county, is composed of J. T. Kenney, Hiram Brittingham, Edward S. Wise, Henry R. Boggs and C. C. Dix.  This Board will have to assemble at the clerk's office, on Monday, September 7th, next, to open the poll books and declare the result of the local option election to be held in Atlantic district on the 5th day of September. ... "

Seen in column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mrs. Mary Williams, died on the 17th inst., aged 56 years.

  Rev. Mr. Wooden received 9 members into the M. P. Church, last Sunday morning.

  Dr. Edward Derickson arrived at this day of writing for the purpose of  examining the crews for Life Saving Service, who go on duty first of September.

  The brothers and sisters from Chincoteague, who attended the Association at Hampton, have returned home and have only kind words for the manner in which they were entertained by the people of Hampton.

  A pugilistic contest at the Atlantic hotel, Monday night, was attended by a large and appreciative audience.  The "bout" was intended to show the beauties of the manly art and when time was called was declared "a draw."

  Mrs. Josephine Risley, wife of Capt- [sic] William Risley, died on 16th inst., aged 47 years.  She had been a life-long member of the M. E. Church, and was highly esteemed for many excellent traits of character by all who knew her.

  People fond of first class sport would be sure to find it by visiting Chincoteague at this season of the year.  Fish never were so plentiful.  Some of our fishermen are catching from 500 to 600 a tide and selling them from $8 to $10.  Birds are also plentiful and fat as butter.

  Our mail arriving at Franklin City at night is not forwarded to us until the afternoon.  A little enterprise and industry is only needed to convince the Government that we deserve two mails a day, since it can be provided us at so little expense, and a petition to that effect is suggested by your correspondent.

  The pony-penning was never so well attended as it was this year and by persons who for the most part had never visited the Island before.  For the first time in the history of the Atlantic hotel all guests could not be accommodated, and enough were turned away to fill the other hotel and boarding houses too.  The pen of ponies was unusually large and many were sold at both public and private sale at higher prices than usual.  Many of the guests were so well pleased with the Atlantic, who came to see the penning, they still linger.  In fact, it was never so well patronized as at this season.

  Arrivals at Atlantic hotel August 13th:  S. Chipman & Bro., Fair Haven, Conn.; Wm. S. Brartham, John W. Marshall, Wm. Barnes, Smith Island, Md.; Phillip D. Outten, Geo. Purorance and wife, George Purerance, J. W. Fields, Wm. Evenhouse, Wm. Browne, Philadelphia; W. J. Young, Miss Nettie Lankford. James Blaine, George Clark, Miss Emma Sealford, R. H. Copes, Pocomoke; Mrs. Wm. Brister, Erie, Pa.; G. Guttingburg, Pittsburg, Pa.; W. S. Powell, wife and child, Whites, Md.; S. J. Harrington, S. Turam, Harrington, Del.; F. Dennis, J. Dennis, Roanoke, Va.; S. W. Matthews, A. S. Matthews, J. W. Jones, Rev. Mr. Hayes, Jno. E. Wise, J. S. Tyler, W. J. Holland, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 29 August 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  An infant child of Capt. John D. Whealton, Jr., died 23rd inst., aged 4 months.

  Two candidates were baptized by Rev. J. W. Turner, last Sunday, and received into church membership.

  A protracted meeting commenced at M. P. Church, last Sunday night, conducted by Rev. Mr. Wooden.  Rev. B. F. Jester preached Monday night.

  A news stand has been opened at our postoffice by Samuel Fields, Jr.  The leading dailies and books of current literature of the day will be kept constantly on hand for sale.

  Buoy steamer Lizard was in our port several days last week, subject to the orders of Commander Harrington, who came to inspect the "lights" and have new buoys located.

  Dr. E. J. Derickson, of Berlin, examined 21 surfmen at Atlantic hotel, on 22nd inst.  All passed and will enter upon their duties at the Life Stations to which assigned, on Tuesday next.

  Capt. Charles Babbitt left Chincoteague, Tuesday, for Thomas' wharf, Northampton.  He goes to that point with his diving apparatus, to patch bottom of schooner Bonetta, from Stockton, which was sunk some days ago by striking a "piling" at said wharf.

  The three masted schooner Seth & Ishmael, sunk last week in seven feet in about one mile of North Beach station, was bound from Philadelphia to Richmond with 100 tons of coal.  She was rebuilt near Eastville a few months ago at a cost of $7,500 by her present owners, Capt. Wm. Marshall & Bros.  She was not insured, and it is feared will be a total loss.  Capt. Marshall is here at this writing to secure help for the purpose of attempting to save the schooner.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  J. H. Miller, New York; E. Kohn, J. S. Gillespie and Son, S. L. Selby, wife and children, W. H. McCormack, Commander Harrington, Philadelphia; M. J. Byrd, E. D. Richards and wife, B. C. Silverthorn, wife and children, J. T. Wilson, Baltimore; O. H. McMold, Miss A. A. Brown, Wilmington, Del.; Capt. Geo. Price, Atlantic City; Dr. E. J. Derickson and wife, Berlin; Dr. S. K. Marshall, Snow Hill; Alfred Sharpley, Stockton; E. Rustan and son, R. S. McCulley, Georgetown; Chas. Dennis, Dover; G. B. Jones, J. H. Wise, Wm. Ross, John Johnson, S. Matthews, Capt. Ezra Young, Eba Whealton, Accomac."

   Seen in column 4:

  "School Notice.

  For the benefit of all applicants for schools, white and colored, who have not been examined or previously excused, an examination will be held at Horntown, on Wednesday, the 2nd day of September, to open at 9 a. m.

  J. E. MAPP,  Supt. Schools."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 5 September 1891, on page 3, column 1, under "Local News:"

  "The public schools of Accomac county will, as determined by the County School Board, open on Monday, October 5th.  ...

  Dr. Oscar F. Byrd, dentist, will be at Chincoteague Island, September 7th, 8th and 9th, for the practice of his profession.  Can be found at Atlantic hotel.  ..."

Seen in column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  The members of Wallop's Island Club visit Chincoteague every Sunday.

  In the Free-for-all race at Red Hills, on 26th ult., the prize offered the fastest sailer was won by the Dashing Wave, owned by Capt. Thos. Snead.

  Schooner Peter J. Hart arrived here Monday with 30 tons of ice for J. T. Kenney, at $3.50 per ton, and schooner Palestine arrived on same day with cargo of coal at $4.90 per ton.

  Inclement weather prevented the parade of Red Men, on Saturday, to the great disappointment of many of our citizens.  The Order here has 90 members and the occasion here promised to be an interesting one.

  Lambert Jester was the lowest bidder and has been awarded the contract to deliver lumber, necessary to the Life Saving Stations from North Beach to Smith's Island.  The sum to be paid him is $466.32.

  Mr. W. H. McCormack, wholesale fish dealer, of Philadelphia, has made the Atlantic hotel headquarters, for the purpose of buying the fish caught here this fall.  He will pay liberal prices and proposes to send them to market daily.

  Capt. B. S. Rich, Superintendent of 5th Life Saving District, was here for several days last week, with headquarters at the Atlantic, for the purpose of selecting a site for a boat house, between Assateague and Pope's Island stations.

  The one hundred members here, caught in the get-rich-quick concern, known as Progressive Endowment League, are not so happy at present owing to recent developments of the Order.  They will be willing hereafter to go slower in pursuit of the "filthy lucre."

  Monday was a busy day with us.  Before daylight the merchants were up to supply the 50 members of the Life Stations who reside here, with stores needed by them, and during the day one hundred sail boats or more leaving for the lower bays taxed their attention to the utmost.  A good oyster season is expected.  The plants are in a healthy condition and the outlook good for a heavy "catch" of oysters from the natural rocks which have been given a "rest" for several months.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  A. T. Hendershott, Dr. L. B. Kerr, Washington; C. P. Domey, G. J. Records, Harry Snow, J. R. Ross, J. E. Ross, O. W. Bird, Miss L. K. Wilson, Miss Mary Pettit, Miss A. Thier, F. E. Fisher, Baltimore; T. H. Sutcliffe, Chester, Pa.; Thos. Langdon and wife, J. A. Elligood, J. M. Kimsly, Philadelphia; C. L. Lee, N. Russ, J. Long, Harrisburg, Pa.; Mrs. J. Smith, Selbyville, Del.; E. L. Bullock, Anderville, Pa.; F. Breat, C. M. Dodson, Bethlehem, Pa.; Capt. B. S. Rich, L. F. J. Wilson, G. E. Jones, J. N. Mason, C. C. Jones, O. D. Henderson, Misses Daisey Wilson, Julia R. Melvin, Sadie Bailey, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 12 September 1891, on page 3, column 3:

  "County Court Proceedings.  August Term, 1891.

  Elva A. Jeffreys, inspector of oysters for 1st district, reported collections for quarter ending August 31st, 1891, from rent of planting grounds, $140.63; ...

  Charles E. Babbitt was appointed and qualified as ballast master for Chincoteague bay and Assateague sound. ..."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 26 September 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Corn and fodder crop here the largest ever known.

  Thos. Post and family, of New York, will arrive here shortly and make it their new home.

  Miss Cynthia Johnson, of Wachapreague, is at this writing on a visit to her many friends at this place.

  Masters Wm. and Lee Whealton, Caleb Bowden and Elmer Lewis left this week for Westminster College, Md.

  The Pawnee Medicine troupe is with us  and the entertainments daily given by them attract and please many of our people.

 Wm. J. Matthews, after an absence of several days in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland, "taking in the fairs," has returned home.

  Ailsie Logan, an old colored woman, while on a visit to her son here a few days ago, took a bottle of lye for soda water and drinking it, died from the effects on 16th inst.

  The graded school building has been improved by a new roof, shutters, &c., and a petition is in circulation for subscriptions looking to the building of a new school house down the Island.

  Very many of our people have had remunerative employment this season in sea fishing.  The aggregate daily receipts from that source have been from $100 to $200, and the catch of some of our fishermen has netted them each day from $6 to $8.

  A meeting was held her with Wm. J. Matthews, chairman, on Saturday, according to announcement to select delegates to the convention to be held on 28th inst.  -  and it was very harmonious, but the "slate" prepared for the occasion was badly broken.

  Our public schools will open on 5th inst., with following teachers:  D. P. Hudson, principal, and Misses Ida V. Matthews, Georgie V. Tracey and Josie Cropper, assistants, of graded school  -  Miss Florence Davis, of the school up the Island  -  and Miss Lydia Clayville, of the school on Assateasgue.

  The fine weather of late has been favorable to the building boom "in our midst."  A handsome dwelling has just been completed, the finest on the Island, for Capt. John D. Whealton  -  a dwelling of Mr. Archie Jones  is nearing completion  -  another is in course of erection for Mr. George Booth  -  the storehouse of Capt. S. J. Mumford is being raised another story with other improvements, inside and out  -  the ring of the hammer is heard indeed on every hand.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  N. E. Spalding, A. Davidson, New York; G. J. Robinson, T. Robinson, Houston, Texas; W. M. Peters, Snow Hill; E. Fountaine, Pocomoke City; F. C. Hanna, O. Stuber and wife and daughter, M. E. Selby, F. Baily, E. B. Brintan, Jas. Fletcher, E. J. Downing, J. Wheeler.  S. Hauchen, J. H. McGloucher, Wilmington, Del,; S. E. Tull, M. J. Hudson, C. V. Shepherd, Stockton; R. C. Bonard, Dover; G. M. Godwin, Philadelphia; D. L. Shivers, Camden, N. J.; C. E. Stine, W. B. Storkloff, Dr. J. R. Smith, J. Greenbaum, Baltimore; E. C. Roach, N. Russ, Harrisburg, Pa.; D. W. Brendlinger and wife, Johnstown, Pa.; Dr. J. D. Brodwater, D. F. White, H. T. Scott, A. Jones, Capt. M. M. Ling, A. F. Byrd, L. W. Massey, Miss Maggie Gladding, E. Shivers, Dr. O. T. Byrd, W. Taylor, D. Burch, Accomac."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 3 October 1891, on page 3, column 1, under "Local News:"

  "Dr. Oscar F. Byrd, dentist, will be at Chincoteague Island, October 5th, 6th and 7th, for the practice of his profession.  Can be found at Atlantic hotel."

Seen in column 4, under the "Chincoteague Items" heading:

  "Master Wm. Burch left this week for Philadelphia to attend Business College there.

  The family of D. J. Whealton moved to Philadelphia this week, to spend the winter.

  Wm. Record, a photographer of Delaware, pitched his gallery here this week, and is doing good work in his line.

  E. P. Timmons paid us a flying visit this week for the purpose of accompanying his family to Philadelphia, their future home.

  Mr. Burton Dennis and family, of Ocean City, have moved to Chincoteague.  He will engage in boot and shoe making business here.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week: W. M. Cranmer, H. C. Mears, G. F. Garrett, D. Saville, J. Pearrie, Oxford, Md.; E. W. Purnell, Chas. P. Grice, J. Nutter, E. E. Starr, E. S. Richardson, J. W. Field, M. Abbott, Philadelphia; G. V. Sheppard, Jno. W. Sharpley, Stockton, Md.;  J. G. Minson, G. W. Rolph, E. M. Remsburg, Chas. L. Lober, J. D. Hopkins, J. H. Feddeman, Balto.; J. F. Hyde and wife, W. T. Mears, Wilmington, Del.; H. W. Grant, Clayton; P. S. Shockley, Salisbury; Capt. C. Risley, Atlantic City, N. J.; J. B. Hopkins and lady, Pocomoke City; A. F. Byrd, M. M. Lang, G. Gladding, J. T. Lilliston, Elsa Townshend, Accomac.

  Quite a sensation was produced here on 25th ult., by the arrival of the owner of the sloop yacht "Mab," and a detective in search of the yacht stolen by one Nelson from Jersey City, on the 15th ult.  The steamer Absecum, belonging to Capt. Bunting, being chartered and our constable taken on board the yacht was soon sighted at our inlet and was ordered to heave to, but instead of doing so, said Nelson put the boat ashore and took to his heels.  He was captured however and brought to Atlantic hotel, and consenting to go to New York without requisition, started with detective via Stockton, where he jumped from train at full speed and escaped."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 10 October 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Miss Bettie Wimbrough, of Snow Hill, is here on a visit to her uncle, Mr. W. F. R. Cropper.

  Our public schools opened on Monday, with an unusually large number of pupils in attendance.

  The ice cream and cold soda water signs of our restaurants and saloons have been reversed and now read "oysters in every style."

  Mr. Timothy Hill has purchased for his son, Joseph T., a very fine sailing vessel from parties in Milford, Del., at the price of $2,400.

  The Pawnee Indian Medicine Club here for last two weeks, with headquarters at Atlantic, have left for Temperanceville.  Their receipts at this point was about $300.

  Our enterprising merchant, Capt. Jno. W. Bunting, will soon open, it is stated, a bakery on a large scale - a long felt want here - deserving to be liberally patronized by our citizens and doubtless will be.

  Wm. J. Matthews offers for sale a large number of very fine ponies, of all colors, black, gray, bay, &c., to match or otherwise, some well-broken, others wild, from 3 to 5 years old, suitable for farm and road, cheap, as he does not wish to carry them through the winter.

  Mr. Jno. H. Miller, superintendent of construction of Life Saving Stations in this district, arrived at Atlantic hotel this week.  He is here to attend to the re-building of station in this locality and says $15,000 or more, will be spent in the district this year for the improvement of the stations.  

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  L. Strans, J. H. Miller, Walter Dryden, N. Y.; M. J. Byrd, Baltimore; F. C. Hanna, M. E. Selby, Wilmington; J. S. Godwin, Jno. Lewis, Dover; Richard Fox, H. Falnestock, Harrisburg, Pa.; J. H. Sheperd, Stockton, Md.; Dr. O. F. Byrd, S. J. James, J. B. Stubbins, O. M. Jones, Miss Eva R. Stubbins, J. N. Gladding, E. K. Townshend, W. C. Bunting, J. B. Mears, Jas. Broughton, Accomac; H J. White, T. Milburn, Pocomoke."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 17 October 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mrs. Dr. N. S. Smith and daughter returned home, Tuesday, from a visit of several weeks to friends in Wilmington, Del.

  For the past few days our oysters have improved very much, and the signs at present are bright for a profitable season in this industry.

  Capt. J. B. Whealton, of Wallop's Island Station, at this writing is home on the sick list for the first time since he has been in the service.

  Mr. S. C. Dale and Family, of Philadelphia, have moved to this place and the gentleman since his arrival has accepted a clerkship in Mr. E. P. Timmon's store.

  Mrs. Traney M. Burch, wife of Capt. Geo. Burch, late keeper of Green Run Life Saving Station, died on 6th inst., after a lingering illness of consumption, aged 58 years.

  Mr. Henry Fish, a popular and worthy citizen of this place, had his finger caught in the loop of the rein, by a horse which he was attempting to hitch to a post one day last week, and the horse drawing back at the time, the finger was pulled from the socket before assistance could be given him.  The sight was such a sickening one several of the bystanders fainted.  The finger was amputated by Dr. R. W. White, and at this writing he is doing well.

  A severe northeast storm has been raging here since the 10th to this writing (Wednesday).  The wind has been blowing at about 40 miles per hour, and the tide is the highest for past two years and has swept our meadows.  Many of the sloops and other craft have been blown up into the land to the inconvenience of the owners.  The oystermen say, however, that the storm is a blessing, as the oysterbeds have been thereby swept of grass to the great benefit of the oysters.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  R. A. King, Suffolk, Va.; H. S. Brown, New York; L. H. Vaudy, Philadelphia; A. P. Shirk, Lancaster, Pa.; F. C. Hanna, Jas. Fletcher, Wilmington, Del.; G. W. Hancock, Pocomoke City; Jas. McAllen, John Ayres and son, Geo. Bishop, Syd Wimbrough, E. Mumford, Snow Hill; W. C. Humphreys, R. S. Shockley, Salisbury; B. T. Jones, M. T. West, Thos. Davis, J. W. Broughton, Edw. Mason, E. O. F. Custis, F. P. Brent, B. S. Rich, Lieut. G. F. Wadsworth, Accomac.

  The U. S. Steamer Despatch, Lieut. Cowles commander, with six officers and sixty-eight marines, went ashore on 10th inst.,  3 a. m., one mile north of Assateague Life Saving Station.  A signal of distress from steamer was promptly answered by Capt. James Tracey and crew of Life Saving Station, and in less than one hour all officers and crew of Despatch were safely landed at Station, where they remained and were kindly cared for until Wednesday, when in obedience to an order of Secretary Tracy, all of them except Lieutenants Cowles and Mullen and two cooks left by train for Philadelphia.  The Despatch is a total loss, nothing now to be seen but her mainmast and smokestack, and nothing was saved except what drifted ashore in a damaged condition - everything was lost, not only the $30,000 worth of silverware, which, it is reported, was on board, but the clothes even of the sailors, many of them being in bed at the time she struck the shoals, who escaped in their night clothes.  In this connection, too much cannot be said of Capt. Tracey and his crew, as to their efficiency the officers and crew of Despatch owe their lives.  Since the disaster many reporters have appeared on the scene of action and some of them, notably some of the New York correspondents have shown themselves the possessors of vivid imaginations.  Assateague is not a barren Island, as they reported, nor did the Despatch have to be guarded against Chincoteaguers, the same being a lie out of the whole cloth."

U. S. S. Despatch  (1873 - 1891)

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 24 October 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Our physicians state, it is depressingly healthy with us, at present.

  Oysters are being shipped to market from this place and the returns have been satisfactory.

  Two oyster shucking houses opened here last week, which are giving employment to quite a number of our citizens.

  The largest amount, to wit: $405.48, ever paid at our office in one day for tickets, was paid by the crew of Despatch, on their way to Philadelphia.

  The artist located here received $50 from the crew of the Despatch for photographs taken of them, and an equal amount from the citizens for work in same line.

  Some twenty-five or more of the circus troupe, lately at Snow Hill, paid us a flying visit, and the large proportions of our town was to them a matter of great surprise.

  Mr. G. H. Ross, of Modestown, has rented a dwelling here, which he, together with his family will occupy next week.  He is a clever gentleman and will receive a cordial welcome.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  J. H. Miller, New York; L. S. Askew, M. E. Selby, Wilmington;  G. Shepard, Stockton; R. J. Dryden, Pocomoke City; W. J. Norman, Lewes, Del.; E. B. Davidson, Milford; W. S. Cowles, Commander U. S. Dispatch, Lieut. B. T. Snelligan, S. L. Heap and servants, U. S. Dispatch; Sam'l Crocket, G. H. Ross, W. K. Collins, Accomac.

  W. S. Cowles, late commander of U. S. steamer Despatch, S. L. Heaps, paymaster, and Lieut. B. T. Mulligan, on their way home, made the Atlantic hotel their headquarters and spoke of it in the most flattering terms.  They said, they did not not think there was such a well kept hotel on the Eastern Shore.  They left Monday for Washington, in obedience to an order of Secretary Tracey [sic].

  Koskey, better known as the Johnstown Jew, is again the county with headquarters at Temperanceville.  He has with him a larger assortment than ever before of overcoats, pants, vests, suits, ladies' cloaks, etc., at prices ranging from $2.50 to 75 cents  - and says, if these prices do not suit the lean pocket books due to the present hard times, he will allow purchasers to set their own prices.

  Capt. R. E. Swift had a narrow escape from drowning on last Saturday.  He and his wife started on that day in a skiff with a monitor in tow having on board a horse, wagon, etc., for Wishert's point, and while abreast of our inlet, the monitor capsized, throwing him, horse, wagon, etc., underneath her.  Happily for him some boatsmen near at hand went to his rescue and arrived just in time to pull him out of water.  His horse and wagon also were saved harness and many other articles were lost."  [Note:  What about his wife?]

Halloween issue of newspaper not available.

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 7 November 1891, on page 4, column 1, under "Local News:"

  "The Advisory Board of the Oystermen's Union, meets in Hampton, on 18th inst.  Mr. J. T. Sharples, as representative of the tongers, requests to be advised by them of their wants, so that he may act intelligently, and Mr. G. W. Glenn, S. M. W., requests the Unions to have "their needs ready" to be presented to the Board.

  L. Floyd Nock, special commissioner, will sell on Thursday, November 19th, at 10 a. m., in front of the "Island Hotel," on Chincoteague, the land of which Eba Jester, died seized and possessed  -  on Saturday, November 21st, at Savageville, at 3 o'clock p. m., the land of Louis H. Parker, died seized and possessed, situated near Savageville, adjoining the land of George W. Mason, Jno. S. Martin's heirs and others."

In column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Miss Florence Selby, of Girdletree, Md., is visiting Miss E. A. Jeffries.

  Several of our vessels are loading with oysters for Norfolk, this week.

  Our milliners are returning from the city with large supply of winter goods.

  Capt. Wm. Burton, Locustville, has spent several days here of late, on a visit to his children.

  Quite a number of our vessels "are running" plants from James River to waters the of Maryland.

  Our oysters are selling in Northern markets, this week, at following prices: primes $4.50, culls $3.50 per barrel.

  Schooners J. M. Price and Peter J. Hart arrived here this week, loaded with coal, which was sold at $5.50 per ton.

  A lodge of the Order of Golden Chain was organized here on 5th inst., by Mr. W. U. Schoolfield with 35 members.

  Capt. Geo. Mallett, of Green Run, Md., has bought dwelling of Capt. Geo. Burch and will occupy same this week.

  Capt. Sealmore Bloxom, was ordered to Washington by Secretary Tracey [sic], last week, to tell what he knew about, the weather, sea, &c., during the night Steamer Despatch was lost.

  Mr. Elmer Lewis, one of our Sportsmen's guides, in answer to a telegram from Boss Quay, of Pennsylvania, left on this day of writing for Washington, to accompany him on a fishing and gunning trip to Florida, this winter.

  Matrimonially speaking, a young man here who is a monthly visitor to Middletown, and the largest and prettiest young lady from the Island who has a frequent visitor from abroad, are in the lead.  Who can name them?  Guesses limited to 100.

  Clams, only a few years ago a "side issue" with us, and sold only in small quantities during the spring and summer, from 60 to 80 cents per thousand, now are bought during the summer in large quantities at $1.00 per thousand and held for the fall and winter trade.  Their market value this fall has been from $3.50 to $4 per thousand.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  J. V. Gillespie, Phila.; J. H. Feddeman, Baltimore; Joseph Verdon, W. Holland, W. J. Norman and wife, Miss N. Norman, Lewis [sic], Del.; George Wilson, Georgetown, Del.; M. J. Hudson, Stockton, Md.; Mrs. C. E. Wilcox and daughter, Mystic, Conn.; L. F. J. Wilson, J. T. Otwell, John Fletcher, Accomac; Hon. S. S. Wilkins, Northampton.

  The outlook for business here seems to be flattering, judging by the new lines opened this week, to wit: Clothing store by three jews from Philadelphia, same by Selby & Rowley, of Girdletree, Md., large confectionery by M. J. Hodson, Girdletree, butcher shop and green grocery by Tull & Taylor, of Stockton, Md., bakery and confectionery by Henry Haag, of  Dover, with Capt. J. W. Bunting, music school by Miss Manie Watson, Girdletree, restaurant and confectionery by E. F. Laws."

   

 From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 14 November 1891, on page 3, column 1, under "Local News:"

  "Dr. Oscar F. Byrd, dentist, will be at Atlantic Hotel, Chincoteague Island, November 16th, 17th and 18th, for the practice of his profession.  ...

  The Advisory Committee of the Oystermen's Protective Union, meets at Hampton, next Wednesday.  The members of same from Accomac are:  J. T. Kenney, L. F. J. Wilson, Dr. Frank Fletcher, George W. Glenn, T. R. Chase, J. C. Justice, George B. Hoffman, James A. Hall, A. J. Lewis, and J. T. Sharpley - from Northampton, S. S. Wilkins, B. T. Kellogg and Dr. Charles Smith."

  Seen in column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading: 

  "Chincoteague.

  Our Thanksgiving turkeys are up fattening.

  Good Tidings day will be observed here, on Sunday, at M. E. Church.

  Our churches are already making big preparations for Xmas entertainments.

  John W. Bunting & Sons have closed their fish factory for the season with good results.

  The wrecked steamer Despatch was sold at public auction in Washington on 10th inst.  Several parties were here to take a view of her before the sale.

  Three new butchers have been added to our list of old ones in the last 30 days, and still they come.  Another will arrive here from Wilmington in a few days.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  J. J. Edghill, J. H. Miller, N. Y.; G. Stevens and wife, G. Schultz, Phila.; J. H. Minson, R. Fisher, Baltimore; M. E. Selby, Wilmington; C. West, L. E. Miller, Frankford, Del.; Levin Townshend and Dr. T. T. Taylor, Accomac.

  Mr. Zackary Taylor, born here in 1815, but absent from the Island since a young man, locating in Baltimore after 20 years of seafaring life, was brought home by his cousin, John A. M. Whealton. last week, to spend the remainder of his life here with his relatives and friends.  Of late years he has been an invalid, and during the time has been reduced from affluence to poverty.  He was at one time owner of valuable real estate."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 21 November 1891, on page 3, columns 2 & 3, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Presiding Elder Cockran [sic] will preach at M. E. Church, Sunday.

  Mrs. Charles Corbin, of Bayview, is here, the guest of Mrs. R. E. Swift.

  Mrs. Charles Russell and Miss Phipps, are visiting friends in Philadelphia.

  Chincoteague is being visited, for the last time this year, by several of the commercial tourists.

  Mince and pumpkin pies, with all their old time charms have come again to us - reminders that winter is nigh.

  A grand entertainment, under the auspices of the M. E. Church, will be held in the Town Hall, during Xmas week.

  Charles Smith and wife, of Wilmington, Del., are here on a visit to Mrs. N. S. Smith and Mrs. Jos. T. Kenney.

  Mrs. Eliza Cherricks, an aged lady, of this place, has been granted a pension of $100 cash and $8 per month during life.

  Good Tidings day at M. E. Church, last Sunday, was a grand success.  Music, vocal and instrumental.  children's recitations &c., excellent.  The house was filled to its utmost capacity.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  G. J. Ricord, John L. Westhoff, Harry Snow, Baltimore; J. H. Weaver and Mrs. J. Weaver, Wilmington, Del.; E. B. Davidson, Milford, Del.; W. H. Rider, Salisbury, Md.; E. H. Benson, Pocomoke; John Davis, J. Hern, Dr. O. F. Byrd, Accomac.

  Our building boom still progressing, and likely to continue through the winter.  New dwellings of Archie Jones and Capt. J. B. Whealton, finished  -  another for George Booth nearly completed  -  work soon to begin on one for Reubin Jester and a large storehouse and undertakers shop in course of erection for W. N. Conant.

  Dr. N. S. Smith received a telegram from his sister in Gilroy, Calif., on the 8th inst., that her husband, Dr. Edward L. Parramore, formerly of this county, died of heart failure at that place on 6th inst.  Mrs. Parramore was also a native of Accomac, and has a host of friends in the county, who will sympathize with her, in her great bereavement.  The deceased was highly esteemed both at his old and adopted home."

   Seen in column 4, under the heading "Circuit Court Proceedings:"

  "... Joshua W. Whealton and wife vs. Demetrius Lewis and others.  Referred to Master Commissioner.  ..."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 28 November 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mrs. Rev. B. T. Pruitt, of Hurlock, Md., is here on a visit to relatives and friends.

  Several vessels were loaded in our port this week, for Norfolk and Northern cities.

  Miss Mollie B. Wallop, of Horntown, and Miss L. J. Byrd, of Baltimore, were guests of friends at the Atlantic, last week.

  Dr. E. E. Derickson was at the Atlantic hotel, this week, to examine applicants, to enter the Life Saving Service, December 1st.

  Miss Ida V. Tracey is visiting friends in Philadelphia  -  Miss Mollie Smith is in Wilmington, on a visit to her aunt, Mrs. Charles Smith.

  According to madame rumor, a society young lady here and a favorite with our people, now in a northern city, is there for the purpose of buying a wedding outfit.

  Our stores are filled to their utmost capacity and other signs here indicate, however hard the times may be elsewhere in the county, that it is to be a merry Christmas with us.

  Commander Harrington, inspector of 4th Lighthouse district, was here this week, to look after Assateague and Killick Shoals Lights, and reports them in proper trim and keepers in good shape.

Commander Purnell F. Harrington was the Inspector of the 4th 

Lighthouse District from 1883 through 1893.  he retired from

the US Navy in 1906 as a Rear-Admiral.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  Abraham Lyon, G. A. Kelsey, N. Y.; Commander Harrington, George D. Johnson, J. W. Fields, Phila.; C. H. Ames, C. C. Johnson, J. B. Thomas, C. B. Pruitt, W. W. Cator, Balto.; E. R. Sipple, Georgetown, Del.; Dr. E. J. Derickson, Berlin, Md.; R. J. McAllen, Snow Hill, Md.; A. Hudson, Stockton; Capt. John Mears, Accomac.

  Mr. Jno. B. Thomas, head of the firm of  Thomas, McDowell & Pyle, Baltimore, was here last week, and the sale of confectioneries made by him was the largest ever made on Chincoteague.  He came here to sell them, and being a live man, they could not resist the inducements offered.  Many a child will rise up to bless him on the Xmas morn, for placing in easy reach of Santa Claus, the many gifts they will receive from him, on that occasion.  He left behind him also many souvenirs, such as music boxes, gold watches &c. - presents to the purchasers of his goods."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 5 December 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mr. O. M. Jones is in Baltimore, this week, purchasing Christmas stock.

  Charles Dale left this week to attend business College in Philadelphia.

  Skating and sleighing are the amusements of our people at this writing.

  Cargo of coal, unloaded from schooner John M. Price, this week, was sold at $6 per ton.

  Mr. G. H. Ross and family, of Modestown, arrived here last week, to make their home with us.

  Our afternoon daily train has been changed to a tri-weekly - leaving at the usual hour now, only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

  Our merchants have begun to display their Xmas stock, and in a few days every window and centre table in our stores and shops will be "things of beauty."

  The receipts of the Adams Express office here, some three or four years ago did not exceed $20 per month - during the month of October they were over $300.

  The shipment of oysters, from this point, during the recent cold snap, increased from 25 to 30 barrels, daily, to 200 barrels.  Some of our shippers have refused $1.25 per bushel for best stock.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  John L. Leber, C. P. Pruitt, Charles Listhoff, Baltimore; Dr. J. Hack, H. Hack, Snow Hill, Md.; J. A. Elligood, Philadelphia; M. E. Selby, Wilmington; O. M. Jones, Capt. Wm. K. Collins, H.S. Scott, Accomac

  Thanksgiving day was observed here by the suspension of all business.  The stores, schools and all the churches even were closed.  It was enjoyed though in feasting, if not in prayers, big dinners being the order of the day in every household.

  At the regular Baptist Church meeting, last Saturday, the members agreed to release Rev. J. W. Turner, as soon as he could secure another place, and he agreed to resign as soon as they could get another pastor, with whom, they are negotiating and expect to secure.

  Capt. John W. Bunting and son have just arrived home from a tour of the Northern and Western states, made for the purpose of placing orders for oysters.  They are enlarging their business annually, and in addition to their orders for barrel stock by rail, load their boats weekly for the Northern markets.

  Sunday was a desolate day with us.  The heaviest snow storm for the last five years began here on Sunday, 3 a. m. and lasted to 8 p.m.  The wind blew at about 30 miles an hour, and snow fell to the average depth of six inches.  The day was so disagreeable everybody seemed contented beneath their "own vine and fig tree."  Our vesselmen reported "no storm" along coast a few miles above us."

     Seen in column 4:
"School Trustees Elected.

  At the regular annual meeting of the County Electoral School Board, held at the Court House, December 1st.  1891, the following school trustees were elected and re-appointed for the school districts of the county, for a term of three years from the 20th day of November, 1891:  

  Pungoteague district, George S. Mapp; Lee district, Frank M. Boggs; Metompkin district, Dr. John W. Bowdoin; Atlantic district, Dr. Jos. E. Brodwater; Islands district, James M. Burch.

  Thomas C. Kellam, of Locustville, was elected to fill the vacancy in Lee district, caused by the removal of A. M. Nottingham from Accomac to Norfolk.

   JOHN E. MAPP, Clerk."

From The Peninsula Enterprise newspaper, edition of Saturday, 12 December 1891, on page 3, column 2, under the "Neighborhood Notes" heading:

    "Chincoteague.

  Mr. S. E. Matthews and wife are in the Northern cities this week, on a business trip.

  Joseph Reed and Miss Nancy Hall were married on 26th ult., Rev. J. W. Turner officiating.

  Ducks, brandt [sic] and other wild fowl plentiful in our bays, and now is the time for sportsmen to visit us.

  Mrs. Annie M. Clark, wife of Capt. Thos. Clark, died on 7th inst., after a long illness of consumption, aged 32 years.

  Robert Hudson and family, of Fenwick Island, have located here and receive a cordial welcome to their new home.

  Rev. J. W. Turner is in New York city, this week, looking after a pastoral charge, which, it is stated, has been tendered him.

  Uncle Thomas L. Burch was in luck last week.  On his way to the Cove for the purpose of taking up oysters, he found two bolts of Navy blue flannel, worth from $50 to $60.

  Mr. Percy Hudson, teacher in our public school, has resigned to accept a more lucrative position in New York, to the regret of all our people.  As a teacher he was surely the right man in the right place.

  Arrivals at Atlantic Hotel this week:  James Tull and wife, Pocomoke City; Thomas Post, New York; Alfred Sharpley, Stockton; Frank Hanna, Wilmington; Wilson R. Byrd, Salisbury; E. B. Davidson, Milford; J. W. Kensey, Philadelphia; Levin T. Parker, Accomac.

  Advices just received here, are to the effect, that Mr. Jos. G. Savage, of Philadelphia, is quite sick.  He was a former citizen of this place, was very popular with our citizens and has the best wishes of everyone for his speedy restoration to health.

  Messrs. G. W. Schultz & Co., Philadelphia, bought the wrecked steamer Dispatch, sold at auction in Washington a few days ago, for the sum of $160, and are negotiating with Capt. C. E. Babbitt to work for a share of everything of value, which can be gotten out of the wreck.

  Several railroad officials, accompanied by U. S. Engineer Smith, visited us this week.  They came to make inquiries as to the quantity of oysters which will probably be shipped from this place, this season, with the view of "putting on" sail boats to assist steamer Widgeon in carrying the freight to Franklin City and to take soundings, looking to a new steamer, in the sweet bye and bye, in place of Widgeon.

  A royal welcome was extended to Quigley & Mullen's clever knight of the road, Major E. Selby, on his Xmas tour to this place, last week. Our business men did not wait for him to call but went in search of him  -  and he sold 28 out of 32 of them and was paid every dollar they owed his firm.  He and his goods have won such a place in their affections, that no here hardly disputes with him the right to take their "orders." "   [Quigley & Mullen was a grocery supplier based in Wilmington, Delaware.]

   Seen in column 3:

"Apportionment of School Funds.

  Accomac county apportionment of State school funds for pay of teachers for session 1891-'92, at the rate of 31 cents per capita of the school population as fixed by the census of 1890.  

  Total amount to be apportioned $3,478.20.   ...

District: Islands    School population: 802    Per capita: 31 cents     Amount: $248.62    Treasurer's Commission: $4.97    Amount to District: $243.65  ....

  County treasurer and clerks of the respective school districts will please capy [sic].

JNO. E. MAPP,  Supt. Schools

   - School Notice -

  The teachers of the public schools of Accomac county, will please close their third month on Thursday, the 24th day of December, and begin the fourth month on Monday, the 4th day of January, 1892.  Wishing for you and your schools a most delightful Xmas holiday recreation, I am,

  Very truly yours,

  JNO. E. MAPP,  Supt. Schools."

Last two December 1891 issues are missing.