A History of the Immigrants Who Came Here
In the Years 1880-1899, Inclusive
By William Barclay
(This history of the early Scotch settler in Barre, as compiled and prepared by William Barclay, necessitated much investigation over a period of years; and Mr. Barclay went to great effort in his purpose to make the history as complete and as authentic as possible. The articles will be printed in The Times on successive Saturdays until completed. Editor.)
Preliminary
In compiling for the Barre Historical Society the accompanying list (printed later) of those Scottish pioneers who came to Barre during their first decade, 1880-1889, inclusive, it is with the hope that those having more accurate information will co-operate in correcting existing errors.
The original plan was for a chronological list of the names and as that involved so much time and research I felt the additional information might be of value to posterity – hence the attempt at this brief historical sketch, and with this year of 1936 the 50th anniversary of our family’s arrival (September, 1886) it seems fitting that my spasmodic efforts should be brought to a culmination.
Late in the 70’s information began to reach some of the other granite centers about Barre but it was considered such an out-of-the-way spot, with extremely cold winters and the warmer weather conducive to fevers, there was little incentive for even the more restless granite cutters. Finally two of the foot-loose young Scots, John Duffus and James P. Marr, came and worked a short time in the summer of 1880; later purchasing the retail memorial business of Foster, Waterbury, Vt., but both returning to Barre several years later. Three others came and that same year, 1880, followed by a slightly larger group in 1881 and still larger the following year – mostly from Quincy, Mass., Westerly, R.I., South Ryegate, Vt., the state of Maine and Montreal.
The news continued to spread and despite the fever and other epidemics which can be better understood when recalling the non-existence of water and sewage systems – the Scottish influx grew space. Those who settled wrote their friends and relatives or gave the information personally – especially when revisiting Scotland. For there were numerous such journeys in those days – the benedicts to see their families and the bachelors their relatives and sweethearts. Not uncommon was the intention on such departures to remain permanently in the homeland – with good-byes here accordingly. But that was usually in the early winter with a complete right about face in the spring. Many a sudden decision then – the wanderlust developing over a weekend or even on the way to work on Monday morning. The announcement of that resolution to a fellow workman and by night it was all through the different yards (as the granite establishments are termed in Aberdeen) that so-and-so was going to America. Before the close of that week a group would likely be well on the broad Atlantic headed Barre-ward for they invariably traveled in groups both going and coming. One eleventh hour decision is told of a man rushing home from work, stepping over his wife who was scrubbing the stairs, remarking: “Well, Mary, I’m off!” – with just time enough to bundle up his things, bid hurried good-byes and join the group at Aberdeen Station.
The long voyage – invariably steerage then – was a holiday and relaxation to those vigorous young men.
The Story
A finer type of young Scotsmen would have been difficult to find. Born and bred on farms or in small country villages, they were imbued with the tradition of work, thrift and frugal living. And while self-reliant and confident in their ability as workmen, they combined that respect for authority and devotion to duty so characteristic of the Scottish ploughmen.
They were largely from Aberdeenshire, with the Dalbeattie district furnishing an important contribution. Of meagre schooling, their ambition took them to evening classes, which, with their interest in current event and politics – coupled with an innate love for debate – added materially to their practical education. They were well versed in European history, particularly the Napoleonic campaigns and the Franco-Prussian war – and need I add their knowledge of and interest in all activities of the Scottish Highland regiments in which some of them had served and in which many had relatives? Agriculture, construction, marine, political and transportation subjects were always ready topics for discussion – even astronomy had its place.
Many were the sacrifices and economies they practiced in furthering the plans to bring their loved ones across to this land of their adoption. And early were their efforts in obtaining citizenship papers.
Far be it for me to intimate that they were of that dour type sometimes ascribed to Caledonians. No, most of them were fond of fun and frolic as evidenced by their entertainments and picnics. Some were worthy followers of Tam O’Shanter and his drouthy cronies – possibly the granite dust in their throats being partly responsible. A holiday was sometimes taken on Saturday, for the ten-hour day, 60-hour week, was then the rule with the daily wage of journeymen granite cutters ranging from $2.50 to $3 – the so-called average being $2.70 for ten hours in 1889.
On one of these Saturday two butties hired a buggy – an occasional treat – and drove to an outlying home where John Barleycorn was known to abide. A hairpin turn, up a rather steep pitch, brought them from the main road to the dooryard. After several hours of conviviality they departed but found it impossible to turn the vehicle and finally losing patience they drove down the steep bank with the luck so often attending disciples of Bacchus – right side up.
Becoming Established
The cordial manner, in which the natives received the strangers and heartily welcomed them into the religious, social and fraternal life of the community, did much to create confidence.
One of the particularly pleasing features was the hospitality of private families in opening their homes, turning over their guest rooms and sharing their festive board.
Unquestionably, such a reception, coupled with the scenic resemblance to Auld Scotia and the prospect of fairly steady employment were powerful factors in establishing permanency.
Aside from the single fellows a fair proportion of the earlier arrivals were married but with families elsewhere; so large boarding houses were soon in evidence. After a while tenements were in growing demand and often families arrived before such provisions had been made. Doubling-up with friends resulted – the children thoroughly enjoying the shake-downs on the floor. Looking at some of those houses now one wonders how they ever housed so many.
How clearly I recall the happy first impression as a small boy – the unrestricted freedom of the fields and woods; the abundance of nuts and wild fruits; the greater variety of food -–it seemed a veritable juvenile paradise!
Housing
A few of the property owners considered children undesirable in their houses. In one such case, but with the applicant unaware, a summer evening saw a family examining an available tenement in “Gospel” Village. With good daylight and not wishing the children around during inspection they were told to stay in the cemetery until their (parents) return. The owner, favorably impressed with the visitors, casually inquired if they had any children. Innocently enough the father replied: “They are in the cemetery.” Sympathetically misunderstanding the answer nothing further was said on the subject. Mutual explanations followed the “flitten” but with the family then established harmony prevailed.
By the close of this period the movement of buying or building – which was later to attain much greater volume – was well underway; bringing with it the realization of that universal ambition for home ownership and knitting them still closer to their chosen land. George C. Mackie was a leader in home building for his fellow countrymen.
Settling Down – Pranks
The new arrivals soon began to feel so well established as to regard with a patronizing air the “greenhorns” – those coming direct from Scotland. And many a prank occurred – particularly in the boarding houses. In one instance the conspirators passed the bowl of gravy to a newcomer with the explanation that it was a special treat for him. After depositing several potatoes therein he devoured the dish with relish, remarking: “That was fairly the best tattie soup I ever tasted.”
Carded sulphur matches were generally used – one of the many innovations to the Scot. One evening a “greenhorn” was sent into the grocer’s for matches – being told to ask for “spunks” as was the custom across. The waiting group were delighted when Jeck came fuming out saying “The bugger said he hidna ony and I saw them in rows like been cames!” (in rows like bone combs).
While granite workers predominated, other trades naturally appeared and among them a strapping young plumber. Soon after his arrival, while installing a water main at the bottom of a deep ditch, a passerby – one of the elder natives – with that interest an excavation invariably has, after due observation expressed himself favorably to the one in charge. “Yes,” said the latter, “and it’s a Scotchman who is doing the job!” “No!” replied the other incredulously, “I know the Scotch are good stone cutters but what do they know about plumbing?” Saying this he stepped across to get a better view and accidentally disturbed a chunk of dirt which landed with a resounding thud on the back of the perspiring workman. The burred accent, the genealogical tribute, which fairly sizzled out of the trench left no doubt of the nationality.
In this particular case the attachment which Barre held for those pioneers is well illustrated. Our young plumber, who had been employed in the larger Scottish cities and who followed two granite cutting brothers here, was not favorably impressed with our country village with its dimly lighted and indifferently kept streets and its poor water and sewage facilities. He gave promise in no uncertain terms of an early departure. But fully 47 years have passed with Robert Inglis still with us – active and capable in his chosen occupation.
He brings to mind the instance of three or more brothers who came during this decade, viz:
Barclay, Andrew, Peter, Robert and Willliam
Clark, Alexander S., Allan and John L.
Cordiner, Alexander, James and Robert
Edwards, David, George W., James, Robert and William
Gamble, Andrew H., Henry M., John and Robert; also their father Malcolm Gamble.
Imlah, James, Robert and William
Inglis, George, James and Robert
Lamont, Alexander, John and William
Scott, Ernest, James and William
Sherriffs, George, Thomas and William
Examples of two brothers were quite common.
Religion
As might be inferred the majority were Presbyterians. But with no organization of that denomination they generally attended the Congregational Church. An important factor in that was the energetic young Scottish born pastor, Peter McMillan, who came early in 1881 and who not only served fully eight years as capably as their spiritual advisor but who joined wholeheartedly in their social and fraternal activities – yes, in their athletics, too, and more than one good story is told of his activity on the football field. By the close of his pastorate a growing sentiment for the old faith resulted in the organization of the Presbyterian Church as explained in the following:
Program of Services
At the
Organization of the First
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Barre, Vt.
Monday eve, April 1st 1889
At 7:30 o’clock
At Thompson’s hall, Main St.
- Reception of members.
- Formal organization of the church.
- Election and installation of elders and deacons.
- Election of trustees.
- Election of pastor.
- Addresses by members of the Presbyterian commission and others.
All services will be public. You are cordially invited to attend.
N.B. The Rev. C. S. Dewing of Somerville, Mass., chairman of the commission, will preach, Providence permitting, Sabbath a.m., March 31st.
In the evening Elder John Gilchrist of Boston, a member of the commission will deliver an address on “How To Do It”.
COME AND HEAR THESE BRETHREN.
The first pastor, E. Wilmont Cummings, served for seven years. The other officials were: Elders, Robert Kynoch, James Duncan and Malcolm Gamble; precentor, James S. Black; Sunday school superintendent, George Aitken; teachers, Mr. & Mrs. T. C. Schutt, Mrs. W. S. Wyllie and Mrs. John Park.
At one of the preliminary meetings held in the home of John G. Leslie the visiting official called upon Mr. Leslie to lead in prayer. The wholly unexpected request was received in silence. After a second request the painful suspense was finally broken by the embarrassed host ejaculating: “Every man to his own trade; you’re a preacher, I’m a stonecutter!”
They participated in the local Y.M.C.A. and the interest in general community affairs is evidenced by George C. Mackie’s service as bailiff.
A number joined the fire department; in fact one company was composed almost entirely of these young Scots. The old hand tub was the only medium – pumping by strenuous muscular activity the water from streams, wells or designated tanks. An interesting sidelight of the conviviality of those rugged volunteers was the custom of enjoying “a barrel of beer” on the Saturday night following a fire.
Fraternal
Amongst the new arrivals were members of the fraternal Order of Scottish Clans – mostly from Clan MacGregor, No. 5 of Quincy, Mass. and Clan Farquharson, No. 8, of South Ryegate, Vt. Both places being of more importance as granite centers than Barre, in the early 80’s.
Realizing the benefits which that organization would have for the rapidly growing colony several of those members, John Dowers in particular (who later transferred his membership from MacGregor to Gordon), advocated with such persuasive powers the formation of a branch here that Clan Gordon No. 12, came into being May 23, 1884, in the G.A.R. Hall. A delegation from the South Ryegate clan composed of Deputy Robert Farquharson, Chieftain C. C. Stewart, Secretary William Terry and Clansman James D. Grant conducted the proceedings and installed the chosen officers, viz:
Chieftain, William Barclay
Tanist, James Ewen
Acting past chieftain, John Connon
Chaplain, Rev. Peter McMillan
Corresponding sect’y., Alexander Asher
Financial secretary, Donald McLeod
Treasurer, Alexander Connon.
Inside warden, Alexander Murray
Outside warden, Alexander E. Bruce.
At the same meeting the following committees were also elected:
Amusement, Messrs. Barclay, Asher, A. Connon, Emslie, Marr, Buchan and Scott.
Sick and Visiting, Messrs. Barclay, Ewen, McMillan, A. Connon, R. Cordiner, Mortimer and J. Duncan, 2nd.
Property, Messrs. Bruce, Imlah and J. Duncan, lst.
Auditing, Messrs. Marr and Dunbar.
While the framed charter gives but the first 18 of the following names, all 32 were recognized as charter members: William Barclay, Alex. Asher, James Ewen, Thomas Marr, John G. Leslie, William Emslie, James Duncan, 1st, Donald McLeod, Robert T. Cordiner, James Imlah, William P. Mortimer, Alex. Buchan, John R. McKenzie, James H. Cordiner, John Park, Alex. Murray, George McLeod, Alex. Connon, John Connon, Thomas Cable, William Dunbar, Charles Young, James Duncan, 2nd, Rev. Peter McMillan, Alex. E. Bruce, Malcolm Gamble, John P. Scott, Alex. Ross, William Paul, James Chalmers, James Glennie, James K. Pirie.
Surviving (September, 1936) are Charles Young and Rev. Peter McMillan. While most of those charter members were somewhat older, the average age of the rest who joined up to and including 1889 was under 25, mere boys from a modern viewpoint.
The recurring fever epidemics, and other serious illnesses to which the flesh is heir, were thereafter handled in a more systematic manner. With nurses a rarity and no hospital the custom during critical periods was for a couple of clansmen to sit all night with the patient – particularly in boarding houses. As those attendants were rotated it was common for them, with their wealth of youthful vitality, to perform their regular work the day following an all-night vigil.
In addition to this faithful attention in time of trial it would be difficult to fully estimate the value – financial and otherwise – of the Clan to the dependents of a deceased member. Regular life insurance had not been fully introduced and the Clan benefit was usually the only protection of that nature.
The social life of the colony, which had previously been confined to “good times” at various homes, now took on a broader aspect. Concert-dances and picnics became established Clan institutions. The former were held in Thompson’s hall (located behind the present Sanguinetti block where the Perry Auto Company now is) on Fast day eve and Thanksgiving day eve. While the annual picnics were customarily held on the first Saturday in August, the initial one was on Sept. 5, 1885, in the trotting park and the two following at the East Barre springhouse.
That native talent readily joined in these celebrations is evidenced by this program of the first concert held in the old town hall (now occupied by the Salvation Army) Oct. 20, 1884.
Clan Gordon Concert
Barre, Vt. Oct. 20, ’84
Programme
Chieftain’s Address Mr. Barclay
Male quartette Soldier’s Farewell
Messrs. McDonald, Foster, Perry, Bickford
Song Scottish Blue Bells
Mrs. J. Leslie
Duet Minute Gun At Sea
Messrs. Dickie and Cable
Song Within a Mile of Edinboro Town
Mrs. Batchelder
Recitation A Lancashire Story
Miss Florence Howard
Song Silver Bells
Mr. Dickie
Song Miss Wheelock
Song Mrs. Braley
Dance Highland Fling
Messrs. William Troup and William Barclay
Song Auld Robin Gray
Mrs. Batchelder
Dance Sword Dance
Mr. William Troup
Recitation Tam O’Shanter
William Barclay
Duet When Ye Gang Awa Jamie
Mr. & Mrs. Leslie
Song Mrs. Braley
Dance Hornpipe
Mr. R. Cordiner
Song I Wish Yer Mither Would Come
Mr. Cable
Song Mr. Ewen
Dance Scotch Reel
Messrs. Barclay, Cordiner, Imlah and Troup
Song By the audience
Pianist, Miss Beckley
How eagerly these entertainments were looked forward to – beginning as they did in the early evening with a concert followed by a clearing of the hall, the serving of refreshments and concluding with dancing – mostly square dances – until well into the “wee sma’ ‘oors.” Such a glorious time for the children after the refreshments and between dances – scampering here and there cross the floor, playing tag and other games.
And the picnics! Those gatherings of the families which in many cases owing to the long work days and the pressing domestic duties -- meant an annual opportunity for friends to meet.
The memories of youths, weeks beforehand practicing on the highways and byways for the apprentice and other races. Those more matured on some sequestered spot brushing up on throwing the hammer; putting the stone; jumping and even the sack race! Recollections of Aunt Sally, the “hairy wallops” and other attractions! The happy reunions of housewives, and the joy of the children.
Truly the pleasure far more than compensated for the resultant problem of gathering the scattered flocks and getting them safely home in the growing dusk. Many walked as no electric cars then.
In the Masonic fraternity, James K. Pirie had the honor of being the first initiated, Dec. 2, 1881, followed by John R. McKenzie, Alex. E. Bruce, William Troup, Donald McLeod, George Marr, William Cruden and George Mutch with James D. Reid completing the list for that period.
The so-called Foreign Masons held their first annual celebration, St. John’s night in December, 1887 – another thoroughly enjoyable get-together.
Labor
Just as practically all of the first comers had been employed elsewhere in America, many of those in the later 80’s came direct from Scotland. And like all migrations there were the scouts whose youthful restlessness took them hither and thither – blazing the way for others to follow. Those scouts were aggressive – confident in their ability and capable of readily adjusting themselves to the different granites and different working and living conditions. None of the few who came in 1880 settled then; so it is to the arrivals of 1881 and later to whom due credit must be given for founding the permanent colony. Mostly granite cutters – or stone cutters as commonly termed then – they had contacted the Granite Cutters’ National union, which was established in 1877. In fact, some of them were members, thus gradually paving the way for the branch which formed here in 1886 – a branch which grew from the small original group to the largest in the organization.
The charter, issued in 1886 and signed by James Duncan as secretary-treasurer, unfortunately does not give the local officers’ names. The only two who can be definitely recalled are Robert Knox as treasurer and William McDonald as financial secretary.
One of the 1880 pioneers, Robert Shanks, now residing (September, 1936) in Broughty Ferry, Scotland, at the age of 82, and who was accompanied here by Robert Garrow and Robert Gordon, writes entertainingly of his stay in Barre from August 1880 to the spring of 1881 and relates incidents which occurred then, including a murder trial in the September, 1880, term of county court. When seeking work in a neighboring town the employer answered affirmatively but stipulated that Mr. Shanks must live with him. Having had a similar experience before coming to Vermont, which ended unpleasantly, the applicant demurred, whereupon the employer queried: “Perhaps you are one of those trade unionists.” And, upon the ready admission, he continued: “I would as soon have the Devil himself in my house!” The workman countered with: “I have a better character amongst those who know me than that usually attributed to his Satanic majesty,” and left. This pioneer humorously recalls his first experiences with the mosquito and the natural defense of the polecat.
Illustrative of the efforts for a shorter workday on Saturdays than the established ten hours, is the following quotation from the Barre Enterprise (weekly) of April 5, 1887:
“The committee appointed to get up the petition for shorter hours on Saturdays, return their thanks to the granite manufacturers of Barre for their prompt and courteous reply. They also deem it best to publish the same in The Enterprise, so that all interested may have a correct report.
(Signed)
Joseph Carter
William McDonald
James Reid
Barre, April 2, 1887
Messrs. Joseph Carter, Wm. McDonald and James Reid:
Gentlemen: A meeting of the granite manufacturers of Barre was held this evening to consider your request for shorter hours of labor on Saturdays. There was a full attendance, nearly every firm in town being represented. Your petition
Was read and fully discussed by everyone present. In looking at the matter as a demand for an increase in pay (which it practically is) the manufacturers decided almost unanimously that they could not afford to grant it in any form. The proposition to quit work at 4 o’clock was deemed impracticable on account of the stone teams coming in and having to be unloaded after that hour. They are willing, however, that the works be closed at 5 o’clock p.m. on Saturdays, and the following resolutions were passed; First, that we grant the request of the workmen to quit work on Saturdays of each week at 5 o’clock p.m., but that we respectfully decline to pay for the time not actually spent; or in other words, that they lose the time; second, that we will commence work at five minutes before 7 a.m., and five minutes before 1 p.m. each day, thus making up the hour and quit work at 5 on Saturdays.
(Signed)
Alex Gordon
Secretary protem.”
It is of interest to remember that the nine-hour day was established in 1890 and the eight hours in 1900. There were neither pneumatic hand tools nor surfacing machines in the 80’s and as the power driven grindstones and derricks were generally introduced later, it was essentially a period of hand labor – hard labor, too, with all those large stones.
Speaking of pneumatic tools and the difficulty now-a-days of even considering the production of fine work without them: The statue on the Alonzo G. Fisher memorial near the northwest corner of our Elmwood cemetery is a striking example of all hand labor. It is the first figure sculptured in Barre – the handiwork of George C. Mackie early in the 80’s.
Barre has always been a monumental center and with the newcomers, building cutters – trained to cut granite for buildings – the numerous migrations are better understood. Even after the arrival of their families the lure of a building job, with its more familiar work, the rapidity of production and – need I add the usually increased compensation – proved irresistible to some.
A favorite diversion of those young chaps – as evidenced by the many examples – was to visit Montpelier on a Saturday or holiday to have their “likeness teen.” And while the avowed purpose was to “send them home” I wonder if the photographer’s two pretty and vivacious daughters – who were invariably present to assist on such occasions – were not the principal reason.
Employers
Natural energy and ambition soon took some of them into the sphere of employers. A sphere in which their dominant aggressiveness, their integrity and handicraft, were powerful factors in helping to lay the foundation of our Barre Granite industry and making it internationally famous. They were mostly employers in name only so far as a change in occupation was concerned. They continued working alongside their former butties with the evenings taking care of such office work as that period required (Pardon the diversion, but I have often wondered if the World War “buddy” is an outgrowth of the word “butty” – used in the same sense – so common in the granite industry for decades?)
Some of the offices were but a dusty loft in the end of the plant.
The activity of those youthful crews probably created the phrase: “They couldna be seen for stu and sma steens!” (dust and small chips). And it was humorously said of one employer that he always took a turn around after quitting time to see that one of his workmen had dropped beside their bankers. (The trade term “banker” means the place, including the blocking supporting the stone, where a cutter work.)
When a firm comprised two or more, usually one was recognised as boss – assigning and “passing" the stones, holding the bull-set, getting the mail and so on. In one such concern the cutting partner, when finishing the sharp peak of a finial, had the misfortune to develop a “start” – causing a strain or fine crack near the point. Following his partner’s departure for the mail, a liquid cement was being carefully applied to the defect: but the boss returning early and unobserved, realized what was happening and with that quick temper which many of the race have, strode over and with a powerful thrust of his foot sent the stone flying against the wall – almost taking the kneeling partner along. Without a word the aggressor turned on his heel, while the culprit, picking himself up, remarked ruefully to his butty: “I guess I’m fired!” It was the following morning before he was assigned another stone.
Two employees in cutting a large base had finished the top, or bed, and before turning it with the derrick, decided to bull-set off the excess size themselves rather than wait the boss’ return. A hole resulted – one of the large displaced chips dipping below the line. While busy measuring the actual depth of the fracture with square and rule, the employer appeared and immediately understanding what had occurred seized the square and sent it flying across the yard. Upon one of the cutters protesting such violent treatment, the retort quickly came: “Ye bugger, I should ca ye baith after’t for knockin’ in sic a hole!”
These brain storms were usually of short duration – as evidenced by cases where a workman was discharged and, before his kit was carried in and bush-hammers ground, would be told to go back to his banker again.
The employers had many cares and responsibilities – starting business with very limited capital, wholly lacking in business training, working day and night to progress – thus feeling keenly anything in the nature of a loss.
The first to enter the business ranks were Robert Garrow and James Rose in 1881 – the firm being Garrow and Rose. The latter’s death in April 1882, at the age of 21 (first death in the colony) brought his brother, George Rose, from Westerly, R.I., who continued the business and became sole owner. Ambitious to become a doctor (attained and practiced long and successfully in Aberdeen), he sold in 1883 to Alexander Gordon, who with Charles Marr, about that same time, founded the firm of Marr and Gordon – William Marr entering in 1888. Also early in the 80’s were Gamble and Young, Mortimer and McKenzie, Mackie and Simpson, McDonald and Buchan and Bruce Brothers.
Probably the earliest quarrier was James K. Pirie, who as a member of Wells, Lamson and company, soon went to live near the quarries and developed the property now being ably conducted by his sons as “The J.K. Pirie Estate.” Following after Gamble and Young (later the Tayntor quarry), Mackie and Simpson (now the Jones Brothers’ dark quarry), Marr and Gordon, Alex. E. Bruce (Vermont Granite Company) and Milne and Wyllie – the last three now part of the Rock of Ages corporation property.
Gentler Sex
Mrs. Alexander Connon and Mrs. John Park, with their respective families were the first of the gentler sex – arriving from Maine in the summer of 1882. The former at the age of 92 (September, 1936) and residing with daughters in Watertown, Mass., is still active and keen of memory.
Although somewhat beyond my depth, a word about the housewives may not be amiss. They had genuine problems to face as both the food and manner of cooking were so much different – also the names of dishes and articles. Accustomed to open coal-burning grates, they found the ranges, with wood in summer and coal fittings in winter, considerable of a mystery. And the customary two pumps – one for the hard spring water and one for the soft roof-caught rain water from a cistern in the cellar for washing – were also different. The kerosene lamps, in general use at that time, they were more familiar with, although those from the city of Aberdeen had been accustomed to gas lighting. The heat of summer, with lack of refrigerators, and the intense cold of winter, without furnaces, were also new experiences and brought attendant difficulties.
One of these good wives, when arriving at Montpelier Junction and fearing to be carried past her destination, accosted a fur-clad bystander with: “Hey you wi the hairy bonnet, is this Montypeeler?”
When returning from a celebration at the then commodious hotel in Williamstown gulf, one of the conveyances made too sharp a turn and spilled the occupants. A woman in the one directly following, when observing the accident, ejaculated: “Fa cowpit the cairtie?” (Who tipped the vehicle?) Possibly it was at this same year-end gathering that one of the young Scots asked his fair companion (a native lass for, with so many single lads and so few Scottish families, the masculine proportion was by far the greater) if she knew what Hogmanay was? She replied: “I’m not sure but I guess it is something about many hogs.” And was his face red?
Vital Statistics
That joy and sorrow were soon to enter the young colony is evidenced by these early records:
Marriages
1882 Dec. James K. Pirie to Mary Farnsowrth (native).
1882 Dec. Robert Cordiner to Barbara Alexander.
1884 July John Wilson (Canadian) to Annie Thom
1884 Aug.. Alex. J. Stephen to Mary Ann McDonald (Canadian).
1885 Feb. William Dunbar to Isabella Will
1885 March James Mutch to Barbara Brown
1886 June Alexander Gordon to Lizzie A. Jeffrey.
Births
- July Roy A. McMillan
- John Park
- April William J. Troup
- May Lenora E. Leslie
1883 June James A. Cordiner
1883 Sept. Emma C. Whitehead
- Edith W. Connon
Deaths
April 1882 James Rose, ae 21
Sept. 1884 Mrs. Barbara Simpson, ae 30
April 1886 George Barron, ae 41
Sept. 1886 John D. Miller, ae 23
Feb. 1887 John Scott, ae 37
March 1887 Anna L. Ewen, ae 3
June 1887 Willie Leslie, ae 6
Conclusion
A record of this decade would be incomplete without a tribute to one who labored during its later portion and for many years thereafter; one who never spared himself in the service of others; one who during the wildest night of the winter might be plunging through drifted snow to some far outlying farm, or leaving his sleigh to struggle on afoot in this efforts to relieve suffering; one who probably brought more of our local population into the world than any other man. In profound respect to the memory of Doctor W. D. Reid, I close this brief history.
Preliminary to Name Schedule
The objective in compiling this record of the Scottish pioneers, 1880-1889, inclusive, has been to include those of Scottish birth and upbringing who had reached man’s estate – able to do a man’s work – when coming to Barre. This necessarily and regretfully eliminates boys too young to be so classed when arriving but who were grown up before the periods close.
To someone more capable and who knew them better, I must leave the recording of that fine body of Highland Scottish people who came from Canada and settled mostly on the “hill” – as the quarrying district is locally termed.
Supplementing individual information from interviews and correspondence and with an earnest endeavor to attain accuracy when arranging the yearly rosters – numerous sources of information were examined. Among them histories, biographies and gazeteers, tax and vital statistics, the membership lists of Clan Gordon, No. 12, O.S.C., Granite Lodge, No. 35, F. and A.M., the churches and the local branch of Granite Cutters. The Cutters’ headquarters in Quincy have also cooperated. To the representatives of those institutions I am greatly indebted.
Material assistance was furnished by these who have “gone on before”; George Marr ’86, George Troup ’85, also Alexander Milne ’84, John Paul ’86, Dr. George Rose ’82 of Aberdeen, Scotland.
These survivors (September 1936) have also given freely of their time and memory: Aberdeen, Scotland, George Gray ’86, James Inglis ’85, and John Morgan ’87; Broughty Ferry, Scotland, Robert Shanks ’80; Atlanta, Ga., Charles Young ’82; Kingston, N.Y., John F. Murray ’86; Springfield, Mass., George P. Milne ’86; Wharton, N.J. Rev. Peter McMillan ’81; Barre and vicinity, Robert Barclay ’89, John Brechin ’88, William T. Calder ’88, James Henry ’87 (Williamstown), Robert Inglis ’89, Robert Knox ’85, James McDonald ’87, James Mitchell ’89 (Montpelier), Andrew J. Young ’86 (Burlington), Arthur D. Young ’89.
Particular credit is due Robert Knox and Charles Young whose recollections of names, incidents and dates of 50 odd years ago are truly remarkable.
I would be remiss indeed if failing to mention those ladies who have given such cordial advancement to this undertaking. And while not all Scottish, their associations vouch for their knowledge: Mrs. George Angus, Mrs. Alexander Bruce, Mrs. Alexander Connon, Mrs. James Coutts, Mrs. John G. Leslie, Mrs. John Lillie, Mrs. George C. Mackie, Mrs. James Mackay, Mrs. John McDonald, Mrs. Donald McLeod*, Mrs. James S. Milne, Mrs. David Mortimer, Mrs. William P. Mortimer, Mrs. John Park*, Mrs. Alex J. Ritchie, Mrs. Donald Smith, Mrs. Joseph Wood, not forgetting my own mother, Mrs. William Barclay. (*Deceased)
To all those survivors and to others who have so cheerfully assisted I extend most hearty thanks.
Helpful too have been time books and group photographs of workmen – of which more of the latter doubtless exist as they were frequently taken in those times. Even the once popular autograph album has yielded its store.
While the utmost care has been exercised to avoid duplication with those bearing the same name, errors are probably. The year of first arrival may also vary in cases for it has not been easy to obtain positive information after all these years. So, again, I will welcome corrections.
Of the five listed in 1880, Robert Shanks survives at 82. He spent several years in this country, then after a considerable period in South Africa returned to his native Scotland. John Duffus and James P. Marr ended their days in our local Williamstown. Robert Garrow, not of rugged health, died in the middle west along in the 80’s. Robert Gordon, who went back to Aberdeen, died there many years ago as the result of a minor accident.
Rev. Peter McMillan of 1881, who occasionally visits Barre was last with us September, 1936. Charles Young, residing in Atlanta, Ga., spent most of the summer of 1934 here.
There are thus, so far as my researches have gone, those three survivors of the three initial years.
Scottish Pioneers Who Came to Barre During
Their First Decade, 1880-1889,
Inclusive
1880
John Duffus, Robert Garrow, Robert Gordon, James P. Marr, Robert Shanks
1881
Alex E. Bruce, George Cassie, Leslie Henderson, Wm. Imlah, George C. Mackie, (Rev.) Peter McMillan, James K. Pirie, James Rose, James C. Simpson
1882
Alex. Connon, John Connon, James Cordiner, Robert Cordiner, Andrew H. Gamble, George Gibb, James Greig, James Imlah, James Ingram, John G. Leslie, John R. McKenzie, John F. Milne, Alex. Mortimer, Wm. P. Mortimer, Alex. F. Murray, John Park, James Pope, George Rose, Andrew Whitehead, Charles Young.
1883
John Allan, Alex. Asher, Wm. Barclay, Alex. Cameron, James Chalmers, Alex. Cordiner, David Edwards, Wm. Emslie, Alex. Gordon, James Mackay, Charles Marr, Wm. McKay, Donald McLeod, Charles W. McMillan, John C. Mercer, William Paul, John Scott, John Troup, Charles Urquhart.
1884
Alex. Buchan, Thos. Cable, Jonathan Carson, George Chalmers, John L. Clark, Alex. Coburn, John P. Corskie, Wm. Dickie, Alex. Dobie, John R. Dower, Wm. Dunbar, James Duncan (dark), James Duncan (fair), Wm. Edwards, James Ewen, Daniel Fraser, James Fraser, Henry M. Gamble, John Gamble, Malcolm Gamble, Robert Gamble, Walter Gamble, James Glennie, James Jamieson, Wm. Kelman, Charles W. Laing, Wm. Leslie, John Lillie, Wm. S. Littlejohn, Thos. Marr, John McDonald, Wm. McDonald, Geroge McLeod, Peter McPhail, Alex. Milne, George B. Milne, James K. Milne, John Milne (1st), John Milne, Wm. Morrison, James Mutch, James Oswald, Robert Reaside, Wm. Reaside, Alex. Riddoch, Alex. Ross, Wm. Scott, Robert Simpson, Alex. J. Stephen, Wm. Stephen, Clark Thom, Thos. Wishart, Wm. S. Wyllie, Alex. Youngson.
1885
James Adie, Alex. Alexander, James Anderson, George Barron, Alex Beattie, John Berry, John Brown, Wm. Bruce, James Cadger, Robert Calder, Alex. S. Clark, Alex. Cooper, James Cruickshank, John Cruickshank, James Daniel, Wm. Davidson, Wm. R. Dickie, Wm. Donald, Alex. Dowers, Robert Fraser, Wm. Geddes, James Gill, Wm. Grant, George Greig, James Inglis, Wm. Jamieson, Robert Knox, James Mathieson, James McBain, Wm. McBain, Alex. McHardy, Andrew McKay, George McKay, James McKenzie, John N. McKenzie, Wm. McKeowin, Wm. A Milne, Robert D. Munro, George B. Robertson, George Ruddimen, James Scott, John Smith, George Troup, George Warrender, Joseph Wood, Wm. Wright.
1886
Wm. Able, Alex. Adams, James Adams, Wm. A. Anderson, James Bainbridge, David Beattie, Alex. Bird, Wm. Brown, Robert Cable, John Campbell, David Chapman, John Christie, Wm. Christie, Alex. Clarihew, Alex. Cluness, David Cowieson, Wm. Cruden, Lewis Cruickshank, John C. Davidson, Robert Davidson, James Dean, Charles Dunbar, Alex. W. Duncan, Edward Duthie, George W. Edwards, Peter B. Fraser, James Gerrard, James Gillies, Joseph Graham, Alex. Grant, David Grant, James Grant, Wm. S. Grant, George Gray, Alex. Guthrie, James C. Hadden, Robert Harper, James Hillyard, John Hutcheon, John Jamieson, Charles Johnston, Wm. K. Johnston, James R. Kennedy, Alex. Lamont, Robert Lamont, Robert Maitland, George Marr, Alex. Marshall, Alex. Mathieson, Malcolm McAulay, James McConachie, James McDonald (1st), James McDonald, John McDonald, Thos. A. McIntosh, George McKenzie, Wm. McKessock, John McLennan, George P. Milne, James S. Milne, George Mitchell, Robert Morgan, David Mortimer, Alex. Morton, David Morton, John F. Murray, Wm. F. Murray, George Mutch, Wm. Nicol, Charles Norrie, Alex. Ogston, John Paul, Alex. Peter, George Philip, Adam Powrie, James D. Reid, Alex. S. Robertson, John H. Shaw, James Simpson, Robert M. Singer, George M. Smith, James Stevenson, George H. Stuart, John Summers, Robert Troup, James Willox, James Wilson, John Wilson, Alex. Wood, Andrew J. Young, Charles Young, sr., George Younie.
1887
James K. Anderson, George Angus, James Bain, Andrew Barclay, John Beattie, Peter Blackhall, Wm. Blake, Wm. Broddie, Robert Buchanan, Peter E. Burnett, Kenneth Campbell, Wm. Cassie, Wm. Charles, Allan Clark, Harry Clark, Robert Connell, Wm. Connell, Alex. Cooper, Wm. D. Coutts, Henry Cruickshank, Wm. Cruickshank, George Delgarno, Wm. Daniel, Robert Diack, Joseph Dombrouskie, Wm. Douglass, James Dow, James W. Duncan, Robert Duncan, John Duncan, Alex. Finnie, John Forbes, Robert Fraser, Peter Fyfe, John Gallow, James Garmony, John Gibb, George Gibson, James Gibson, John Gilbertson, Wm. Glendenning, Alex. Glennie, James Grant, John Grant, James H. Gray, Wm. K. Grierson, Alex. Grubb, Alex. Hadden, John Hadden, James Henderson, James Henry, Duncan Holmes, James Holmes, Ross Hunter, George Inglis, John Ingram, George H. Jamieson, Robert Kynoch, John Lamont, James Levie, George McBain, Frank McDonald, John McGregor, Ewen McKenzie, Gordon A. McLeod, Duncan McMillan, Arthur McPhee, Donald McPhee, Findlay McRae, James Melvin, Robert Merchant, Alex. Milne, Charles Milne, David Moir, Wm. A. Moir, John Morgan, John Muiry, Wm. Murray, James O’Brien, Murdoch Patterson, John Pressly, (Dr.) Wm. D. Reid, Alex J. Ritchie, James Robertson, David Ross, George Ruddiman, James Rust, George Ruxton, James Scott, Robert Scott, James Smart, Wm. H. Smith, George Walker, Adam Wood, Wm. Wyness, Alex. J. Young.
1888
George Aitken, Andrew Alexander, Peter Alexander, Wm. S. Alexander, Alex. Anderson (1st), Alex. Anderson, George Anderson, Robert Arthur, C. A. Baird, Thoomas Baird, Fred S. Barron, Wm. Barron, John S. Berry, James Bissett, James S. Black, Charles Blackhall, John Brechin, Alex. Brown, John Burnett, Wm. T. Calder, James Campbell, George K. Carle, James Carson, Samuel Carswell, James Caven, John Chesser, Wm. Chesser, Alex. Christie, George Christie, Alex. G. Clark, David Clark, James Clark, George Cruden, George Cruickshank, Wm. Donald, Thos. Donaldson, Wm. Donaldson, David Drummond, David Dunbar, Alex. Dundas, James Edwards, Robert Edwards, Charles Ferguson, Alex. Forbes, James Fowlie, Alex. Fraser, John Gall, Wm. Gamble, Duncan Gordon, Peter Gordon, Alex. Greig, Charles Harmon, Alex. Innes, Alex. Jarvis, John Johnston, James N. Kennedy, Thomas Kesson, Charles Laughlan, John B. Lindsay, James Low, John Manson, Wm. Marr, Archibald Mathieson, Ewen McBain, Wm. McBain, Kenneth McCondach, James E. McDonald, Wm. McDonald, John McIntosh, David McKnight, Wm. D. McKnight, Wm. McQueen, Henry McRobb, Wm. McTurk, Alex. Mearns, Charles Melvin, Wm. Melvin, George Moir, Michael Morgan, James Mortimer, John Mortimer, Wm. Murdoch, George Murray, Robert Newall, Harry O’Neil, John Oswald, A. M. Petrie, Wm. Petrie (1st), Wm. Petrie, Wm. Pyper, Alex Reid, George F. Reid, John Farquhar Reid, George Riach, James M. Robb, Wm. Robertson, James Ross (1st) James Ross, Wm. Ross, Henry Scott, George Sherriffs, Wm. Singer, Alex. M. Smith, Thos. C. Smollet, Robert Souter, John Spence, Wm. Stephens, John Stewart, Alex. Strachan, Robert Swanson, Wm. Thompson, James Trail, James Will, Wm. Will, George Wyllie, Alex. Young, Geo. Innes, Wm. B. Lindsay, Thomas Sherriffs, Wm. S. Sherriffs.
1889
John Aitkin, John Albert, John Alcorn, George Allan, Wm. Allan, Andrew Angus, Hugh Anderson, John Anderson, Andrew Angus, Martin Angus, Wm. Angus, James Baigrie, Wm. Baird, Peter Barclay, Robert Barclay, John Barron, James Beattie, Wm. Beattie, James Benzie, Robert Berry, James M. Birnie, John Bissett, Thos. Bissett, John M. Bonnyman, James Booth, George Brown, James Brown, John Bruce, Frank Calder, Archibald Campbell, Eben W. Carle, Frank Cassie, Charles Clark, Thos. Cooper, Alex. Coutts, John Crichton, Alex. S. Cruickshank, Alex. Daniel, Alex. Dick, George Dickie, John Docherty, John Donald, Wm. Downie, George Duncan, Wm. Elrick, Charles Farquharson, Frank Forbes, George Forbes, Charles Forsythe, Alex. Fowlie, Alex. Garmony, George Gerrard, James Glass, Lewis Gordon, Robert Gordon, William Gordon, George Gray, Wm. S. Gray, George Hall, Alex. Hay, Henry Hay, Wm. Hendry, John Henry, Robert Imlah, Robert Inglis, Wm. Ingram, John Irvin, Wm. Jack, Robert E. Jamieson, Robert G. Jamieson, Duncan Johnston, George Johnston, Wm. Kesson, Alex. Kindness, Wm. Lamont, James Lovie, Wm. Lovie, George Lyon, Alex. Mackie, James Mackie, John Mackie, Alex. Marshall, John McCaskill, Wm. McFarlane, James McGregor, Alex. McIntosh, John J. McKenzie, Robert McKenzie, sr., John McKiser, Robert McKnight, James McRobb, Robert Michael, John Middleton, John Miller, John Milton, Alex. Mitchell, Edwin Mitchell, James Mitchell, Forbes A. Morgan, Peter Morgan, George Morrison, Wm. Munro, Wm. D. Murray, Alex. Ogg, Archibald Ogg, George Panton, Charles Patterson, John Rae, Charles Reid, James W. Reid, Alex. Rettie, Charles Robb, Wm. Robb, Alex. Robertson, George Scrimiger, James Sector, James Sievewright, Wm. Smart, James Smith, Alex. Stephen, James Stephen, James Strachan, George Straiton, Peter Sutherland, Robert Sutherland, Wm. Swanson, Wm. S. Taylor, James Thom, John Thom, Alex. Thompson, James Thompson, James Thores, Wm. Walker, John S. Wallace, Gordon Wilson, Arthur D. Young, Alex. Younie, Joseph Alcorn.
Typed: February 12, 2004