USA > Massachusetts > Worcester County > West Boylston > Historical memorandum and genealogical register of the town of West Boylston, Massachusetts, from its early settlement to 1858; together with miscellaneous items and incidents > Part 7
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own class in society, in circumstances inferior to them? selves and with less means of improvement, struggling to overcome the difficulties and disadvantages with which he is surrounded ; endeavoring, by every means in his pow- er, (without injury to others) to better his condition, either in fortune or acquirements. Such an individual should surely be the object of universal esteem. It has been justly remarked, that although the disadvantages are great, of those who are obliged to begin their acquaint- ance with science late in life, yet all the chances of the race are not against them. The time they have lost, and are anxious to redeem, of itself gives a stimulus that will make up for many disadvantages.
Such was the case with the subject of this sketch, who was born at West Boylston, Mass. His time appeared of so much importance to him that he often denied himself the necessary time for sleep. As he did not apply him- self to a mechanical business until he was 20 years of age, he considered it a duty to redeem it if possible. The cause which prevented him until this age from following his favorite pursuit, was neither poverty nor inclination, but the wishes of his friends, who "not seeing as he saw," endeavored to check what they considered his wayward fancies, and to fix his mind upon the cultivation of the farm, of which he was to become a part possessor. Al-
though he appeared to yield to the wishes of his friends, yet he never could bring his mind to acquiesce in the idea of spending his life in a pursuit so contrary to his inclina- tions. While with his hands he cultivated the soil, his mind was panting for that knowledge which he knew as a mechanic he could practice. And, the time which was not occupied in labor on the farm, he spent in the cultiva- tion of his mind. Although he devoted himself to math- ematics, natural philosophy, and astronomy, yet his taste for music appears first to have shown itself; and the in- genuity displayed in his first attempt to gratify himself is worthy of notice, and is thus described by a friend : "the first known of his musical performances was upon an in- strument of his own manufacture while he was very young ; it was made of a shingle, with silk strings strained across in the manner of a violin, a small stick from an
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apple tree, and some hair from a horse's tail served for a bow; and upon this rude instrument the young performer has produced music which has been listened to with con- siderable pleasure." From this rude but successful at- tempt may probably be traced the first desire he had to make himself master of the art in which he afterwards became very proficient as a performer upon several instru- ments. Some time previous to his leaving the farm, his attention was attracted by a description of an organ in a cyclopedia to which he had access, and from the accurate account of the different parts there given, he formed the idea of making one himself, the parts of which were to be of wood. This was considerable of an undertaking to one situated as he was, without tools or materials, and many would probably have abandoned the scheme as im- practicable ; but his persevereance led him to devise means to obviate these difficulties, and by the friendly assistance of a cabinet maker who allowed him the use of his tools, he was enabled to accomplish his object to his perfect satisfaction.
But; with all the fascination and pleasure which natural- ly follows the study of music, it was made to give way to the more solid sciences. Of these, mathematics, (which is considered by some as the most dry and insipid of all studies,) held the first place in his esteem. It was con- sidered by him in its true light-as the only foundation on which the other sciences could be firmly built. He thought no time mispent, while engaged in solving the in- tricate and abstruse problems with which it abounds ; and I have often heard him observe, that "mechanics were not aware of the disadvantage of attending so little to this all-important science." It must certainly be confessed, that it has been very much neglected by this class of the community ; for if we look around and see how many have been rúined by schemes, which, with a little atten- tion to the truths explained in this science, they might have avoided, we cannot fail of being impressed with the necessity of urging it upon the candid consideration of mechanics. Let it but be realized, that this is the key stone by which the grand arch of science is secured, and on which the hopes of genius must be based, then will
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those difficulties which appear insurmountable, vanish- the abstruse will be simple, the useless important, and the tedious pleasing.
In the study of astronomy, which had engaged his at- tention during the latter part of his life, he found his knowledge of mathematics of the greatest service in mak- ing the numerous calculations which were necessary in the construction of apparatus, by the aid of which correct ideas could be conveyed to the minds of the youthful and uninformed, of this sublime and interesting science. Au Orrery, which he contrived for the purpose of illustrating the relative motions of the solar system, is very simple and economical, and when united with its correct calcula» tions and ease of management, forms one of the most useful instruments of the kind. To be used in connexion with his Orrery, he had in view an apparatus which was to embrace the Lunarium and Tellurium on a different plan from any at present known. But unfortunately the traces of the design which he has left are so obscure, that it is impossible for any one to understand his views suffi- ciently to complete it. A piece of board which he had prepared for the purpose of making a working draft of his plans, was not used, in consequence of his being taken ill with that disease, from which he never recovered.
In addition to the studies which have been mentioned, he likewise pursued that of drawing and painting ; the latter, however, occupied but a small share of his time. To his taste for painting, may be attributed an apparatus he contrived, a description of which, may not be uninter- esting ; an experiment in optics, which is no doubt famil- iar to many, and is performed by having a piece of circular board painted in equal proportions of blue, yellow and red, and made to revolve with great velocity. The board will appear while whirling of a dirty white. If the board were divided into twelve parts instead of three, and should have four series of the colors, blue, yellow, and red, one- fourth of the velocity would produce the same effect. The " camelcoscope' is the name of the machine contrived by Mr. Keyes, so called from the various changes of color produced by it while in motion. It is made by cutting out nine of the twelve parts of the board, and leaving but
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one series of colors equally divided. Then by making four such boards painted with various colors, revolve be- hind each other with different velocities, it will exhibit a continual change of color; and if by any means it could be stopped, when a pleasing shade presented itself, it might be known what colors had produced it. This was a scheme, which is probably more curious than useful .- But although it might not have been of any practical utili- ty, yet it might have contained hints which may hereafter be applied with advantage.
We may here regard a trait in the character of Mr. Keyes which is worthy of all imitation, that of communi- cating information to others freely, and especially those discoveries which we have made, and do not know to what purpose to apply them. A free communication of sentiment and opinion between different persons, is ac- knowledged to be of the greatest benefit. The institu- tion of Lyceums, and other societies, is but to assist in accomplishing this end. Mr. Keyes was fully aware of the advantage resulting from persons associating together for mutual instruction ; and acknowledged that he had been greatly assisted in the study of astronomy by being a member of a small society of individuals in his native village, who met together for mutual improvement in that science. At the head of this social club, was the venera- ble and respected astronomer and philosopher, Robert B. Thomas. To this gentleman Mr. Keyes looked up with reverence ; his kindness in furnishing books, and assist- ing him in his various studies, were favors which were never forgotten.
Let it not be urged, that a person who turns his atten- tion to many things can do nothing well; for, although it may be true in some degree, yet it is not without excep- tions. Sir William Jones, the greatest civilian of modern times, contended, "that no opportunity for improvement in any study, which presented itself, should be neglected;" and he himself, while studying the law, took advantage of vacations to peruse the light works of the French and Italians, besides making a favorite pursuit of dancing and fencing. And yet, all this variety, which would be thought to distract his attention, aided in making him
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the greatest lawyer and most profound scholar of his age. The whole object of all the studies of Mr. Keyes tended to one grand point-the acquisition of knowl- edge. If his pursuits are various, they were no less correct. As a cabinet maker, a clock maker, an ap- paratus maker, or a student, his work bore the stamp of a mathematical mechanic.
I have thus attempted to compile a few incidents of the life of one, worthy of the respect of all classes, but es- pecially of that of which he was the ornament. I will not pretend to say, that he was more of an ornament to mechanics that many others who have preceded him ; for there have been those, whose names have been suffered to moulder in oblivion, when they deserved to have been handed down for the admiration of posterity. But, if some have been neglected, it does not follow that we should neglect all. Instead of neglecting them, let us en- deavor hereafter, to perpetuate the remembrance of those whose lives afford an example worthy of imitation. The rapid march of intellect and improvement among the pro- ducing classes, within a few years past, awakens the fond- est hopes for its permanence and duration. If this state of things should continue, biographies and examples will be needless. And we can now apparently lift the veil of futurity and see the existence of that state, "when in the proud career of mind our country will seek her fame."
J. M. W.
CONCLUDING REMARKS.
In closing the Historical Memorandum of West Boyls- ton, it may not be thought improper to inquire somewhat in regard to the past and respecting the future.
Where are those adventurous, enterprising men, together with those directly and intimately associated with them in life, who commenced the settlement of West Boylston, and others who followed and resided here from 1720 to
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1770, or a portion of that time, some in the maturity of life, others in childhood and youth, all looking forward with hope and anticipation ? None of that interesting and long to be remembered portion of our ancestors and prede- cessors are now living, all having paid the debt to nature due.
Where are those who commenced life in this town after the close of the first 50 years from the period when the original settlers located here and previous to 1808, the time when the town assumed a legal organized position ? Some 50 or 60 of that number are yet living and reside here, and perhaps about the same number are also living and reside elsewhere, thus showing that since the incorpor- ation of the town, now fifty years since, about five-sixths of those in life and residing here at that time, have found " the last of earth " and gone to participate in scenes be- yond this fleeting world.
What is in the future and will be developed to human view and observation during the next 50 years, is to a great extent, altogether beyond the stretch of the imagina- tion or conception of the far-seeing and accurate calcula- tor ; and what might now be suggested for consideration as a probable or possible occurrence, may not only be a demonstrable fact but an existing reality, before the close of the next half century. Events auspicious and desirable and also adverse and lamentable, will undoubtedly trans- pire, alternately causing joy and sorrow, not only to indi- viduals and to distinct families, but to the whole com- munity.
In 1908, when the centennial anniversary of this town shall be celebrated, perhaps some, how many cannot be conjectured, who are now here enjoying and participating in occurrent scenes and events, may be present with others yet unborn on that interesting occasion ; while much the larger portion of the present inhabitants of this town will - then be numbered with the silent dead.
What will then be said of us who are now here actively engaged in the busy scenes and transactions of life. Will our general course as social beings, residing and acting in this community, and our individual moral influence be such through life as to merit and elicit the grateful recol-
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lection and approval of our successors, who may chance then to hold and occupy these dwellings, which we must ere long vacate, and leave to be remodelled and become the residences of our descendants and others? Shall we rightfully deserve the same tribute of veneration and re- spect from those we leave behind, to which our ancestors and predecessors are justly entitled to from us ? Consid- erations like these might profitably occupy some of those leisure moments which occasionally overtake us, and may the effect be to cause our mark in life to be so made as not to prove a blot on our future memory.
ERRATA. On page 10,-4th line from the bottom, read Persis for Tersis.
On page 11 .- 9th line from the bottom, read Major Beaman for Mayor Beaman.
On page 25-last line in the sketch of Abiel Holt, read leading for lead. On page 29-5th line from the bottom, read Sabra for Sabia.
On page 37,-in the sketch of the life of Aaron Thomas,-3d line, read Dea. Jonas Mason instead of Dea. Ebenezer Mason.
A BRIEF NOTICE
OF LATE
THOMAS KEYES,
OF WEST BOYLSTON,
TOGETHER WITH A SHORT
HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF HIS DESCENDANTS,
AND ALSO OF HIS ANCESTRY;
WITH SOME INCIDENTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES CONNECTED THEREWITH. 1
WORCESTER: HENRY J. HOWLAND, PRINTER, . NO. 245 MAIN STREET. 1857.
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1
BRIEF NOTICE.
THOMAS KEYES was born at Westminster, Mass. Janu- ary 20, 1767, and died at West Boylston, June, 25, 1856, in the ninetieth year of his age. He was the eldest son of Thomas and Mary Keyes, who had settled in West- minster, but removed to the north-west part of Shrewsbury, afterwards Boylston, and now West Boylston, about six weeks after his birth.
His parents had to depend upon' their own active exer- tions, to obtain a living and get along in the world, conse- quently he was trained to habits of industry and frugality, to which he strictly adhered during the whole period of his life.
He often admonished his descendants and others to adopt the assiduous habits, and pursue the economical course by which he had at all times been governed, and which had, apparently, resulted in his success and prosper- ity in the world, enabling him ever to possess and enjoy a competency of the the necessary comforts and luxuries of life, and also to accumulate, and leave a valuable patrimo- ny for those who should succeed and come after him.
Although his predominant feelings were somewhat of a parsimonious tendency, yet he often manifested a spirit of benevolence, by his acts of charity and kindness for the relief of want and suffering.
In his childhood, he was instructed by his parents in the principles of morality and religion, and he frequently spoke of the salutary effect produced on his mind by the
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admonitions and example of his pious mother, for whom he ever cherished a high respect and veneration.
Although, while young, he had received religious instruc- tions from his parents, and enjoyed the ministrations of a pious evangelical minister, and always cherished, and manifested a sacred regard for religion and its institutions, yet he did not allow himself to believe that his heart had been savingly changed, or his feelings brought into true submission to the character and government of God. In this situation he seemed to re nain for many years, until his only surviving daughter, on whom his hopes and ex- pectations for care and assistance for the remainder of his life were fondly placed, was taken from him by death.
This solemn event, severe and trying as it was, seemed eventually to result in the production of a decided change in his views and feelings. and in a short time he cherished a hope in the mercy of God, and after serious thought and careful reflection relative to his situation and duty, he made a public profession of his faith in Christ, and although he entertained views and sentiments of minor importance, thereby differing somewhat from christians of the present day, he clung to the cross, and always firmly adhered to the fundamental doctrines of the gospel ; and, it is believed by those who were well acquainted with the history of his life, that he has left this world of trial and sorrow, and gone to inherit that rest which remains for the faithful children of God.
He was a friend and advocate of such of the benevolent institutions of the age, as he had good reason to believe were based upon right premises, and managed in a judici- ous and proper manner, cheerfully contributing such aid and assistance, from time to time, as occasion and circum- stances seemed to demand.
He was an early friend and patron of the American Board of Missions, but for several of his last years, he steadily refused to contribute to its funds, on account of its connection with slavery, and its refusing to repudiate
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that vile system of oppression and wickedness, which curses and degrades our country.
He manifested a strong attachment to the American Missionary Association, more especially on account of its strictly anti-slavery haracter, having from the time of its organization, annually and on special occasions, contributed to its funds, and at his death, leaving a donation for its treasury.
He was deeply interested in the anti-slavery cause, in whatever aspect it might be viewed, whether religiously, morally, or politically considered, manifesting much teel- ing and sympathy for the poor slave in his wretchedness and degradation, frequently giving something for the benefit of down-trodden humanity. He justly appreciated his po- litical rights and privileges, and always attended the State and national elections, and voted. Although nearly ninety years of age, and destitute of sight, he was seen at the last annual State election, previous to his death, depositing his ballot in favor of liberty and freedom.
He was an original actor in the temperance movement, being among the first who declared in favor of total absti- nance ever afterwards denouncing intoxicating liqnor as a beverage, believing it to be injurious and destructive, and consequently immoral and pernicious.
On account of the loss of his sight, which suddenly occurred about eighteen years previous to his death, he was ever afterwards unable to read, and although this event in its effect was trying and severe, at once depriving him of a source of much satisfaction and enjoyment, yet it is believed that he never uttered a murmur or complaint on account of this affliction, but always seemed to manifest a cordial submission to his situation. He never became totally blind, but during several of his last years, he could only distinguish between day and night, and barely discern a brilliant light, as the sun or moon or burning candle.
He naturally possessed an active, vigorous mind, with firmness and decision of purpose and character, always ready after proper reflection, to express his opinion rela-
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tive to any subject presented for consideration, without reference to the judgment of others, ot waiting to ascer- tain whether his opinion or position would accord with the general feeling or otherwise. He was regarded by his fellow townsmen during the active portion of his life, not only as a man of honesty and integrity, but also possess- ing the requisite capabilities and qualifications for the faithful and proper discharge of duties of a social public character.
He was frequently chosen by the town to fill important offices of trust, discharging the duties thereof to the satis- faction and acceptance of those who bestowed upon him their confidence and support.
He was originally a federalist, being an ardent friend and supporter of the administrations of Washington and John Adams, but decidedly opposed to the succeeding administrations and policy of Jefferson and Madison. He approved of the administration of John Quincy Adams, highly appreciating the patriotic course of that distin- guished and venerable statesman. He manifested a deep. feeling and interest in regard to national affairs, almost to the close of life; believing that an important crisis was approaching, and fearing that those whom he was about to leave, might be called to witness scenes and encounter diffi- culties of a serious and perplexing character.
As monuments that may serve to perpetuate a recollec- tion of him who had an existence here, but has now taken his departure and gone the way of all the earth, are two large elm trees, set out by him about sixty-five years ago, standing on the road side opposite the dwelling house, which he erected and occupied more than fifty years. Also on the same side of the road, a few rods distant, stands a large, handsome rock maple tree, set out by him in the spring of 1800, being taken up. before sun-rise and set out after sun-set, on the day of the annual fast, thus avoiding a desecration of the day consecrated to sacred purposes.
The farm on which he resided almost the entire period of his protracted life, was first taken up and occupied
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by Benjamin Bigelow, who became the legal proprietor thereof about the year 1735. Mr. Bigelow retained the possession of the farm and resided thereon about fifteen years, during which time, he erected a dwelling house and made other improvements, when he sold out to Ephraim Temple, who became the owner and occupant in 1750, or about that time. Mr. Temple erected a barn in 1753, and retained the possession of the farm until 1767, when he sold it to Thomas Keyes, who held it in possession and resided upon it until his decease in 1812, when by a pro- vision of his will, it became the property of his eldest son, the late Thomas Keyes, who continued to be the legal owner thereof until the close of his life, when by lawful inheritance, it descended to his son and only surviving child, Benjamin F. Keyes, whose residence has been on the homestead from the earliest period of his life.
The whole number of births on this farm since it was first settled, is thirty, and the number of deaths during the same period is twenty-three. Y grandes
A new dwelling house was erected on this farm in 1784, by Thomas Keyes, who was then the legal proprietor thereof, the frame being raised on the 9th day of June of that year. After the family had removed into the new house, the old one was taken down, having been occupied about forty-five years.
Y In 1791, another dwelling house was erected by the late Thomas Keyes, on the spot where the original one stood, for his own accommodation and occupancy.
In 1792, another building was erected erected for a granary, and other purposes, the frame being raised on the 14th day of September. This building was used for the purposes for which it was designed, until 1812, when it was taken down and a more spacious one erected in its place, for the double purpose of a granary and a cider mill, the frame of which was raised on the 4th day of June. Since that time the business of making and vending cider having become disreputable and immoral, the portion of
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the building designed for that purpose has been appropri- ated to other uses of a more beneficial tendency.
In 1797, the old barn being too small and much decay- ed, it was taken down and a larger and more commodious one erected nearly on the same ground.
Another small barn has been erected the past year, 1855, by the present occupant.
Thomas Keyes, of whom a brief sketch has already been given, was married to Lydia, daughter of Micah Harthan, of Boylston, May 26, 1791. She was born Feb. 18, 1765, and died Oct. 25th, 1824, in the sixtieth year of her age. She was an amiable woman, possessing a kind, sympathetic disposition, friendly to all, being one of the best of mothers, justly deserving the high esteem, and warm affection of her children, and others with whom she was associated and connected in life.
They had six children, three sons and three daughters, viz. : Benjamin Franklin, born April 15, 1793; Polly, born Jan. 13, 1795, died Sep. 18, 1800; Betsey, born Nov. 17, 1796, died May 11, 1839 ; Sally, born March 2, 1799, died Sep. 18, 1800 ; Thomas, born April 20, 1802, died Oct. 30, 1831 ; Jonathan, born Nov. 17, 1808, died Aug. 12, 1813.
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