USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Merrimac > Town Annual Report of the Officers of the Town of Merrimac 1877 > Part 2
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78 26
Dolly Sargent,
66
78 26
-
$313 04
MILITARY SETTLEMENTS.
Margaret Laroche, 43 weeks,
$78 26
Richard
78 26
Fred
78 26
Annie E.
66
78 26
John Cooper, 4 weeks,
7 28
$320 32
of which Merrimac pays two-fifths, 128 . 13
$441 17
24
To cash paid on Judith Hoag's case per bill rendered, 116 50 To supplies furnished Wm. Bellel, 16 91
and med. att. furnished L. Warner's family per bill rendered, 35 11
$168 52
RECAPITULATION.
Total expenditures,
$24,764 26
" Receipts,
13,897 60
Balance,
$10 866 66
Two-fifths of balance due from Merrimac,
$4,346 66
Support of poor in Almshouse, 441 17
66 " out of Almshouse, 168 52
$4,956 35
Due from Amesbury on div. town property, $1,000 00
Three-fifths of S. Thompson's note and interest, $6,360
3,816 00
$4,816 00
Balance,
$140 35
Order drawn for above amount in settlement.
Statement for town of Amesbury and Merrimac.
The town is indebted as follows :-
Town bonds, $20,000 00
notes, 20,000 00
J. B. Barnard, note,
1,000 00
Ed. Rowell,
1,000 00
Jacob Huntington, note,
300 00
Nancy Morse,
203 50
25
Interest,
540 00
Claims, estimated,
400 00
Total,
$43,443 50
Cr.
By uncollected taxes in hands of E. M. Morse,
$1,192 56
" Bailey Sargent,
2,428 96
State, for paupers,
32 34
State for State Aid,
3,56 00
Collectors' bonds, 1867 and 1868,
1,041 75
D. M. Tukesbury, Adm. estate of A. Bagley,
64 50
City of Lynn,
8 00
Total,
$5,124 11
Total debt,
$43,443 50
" credits,
5,124 11
Balance,
$38,319 39
of which Merrimac should pay two-fifths,
$15,327 76
26
Report of Committee on division of Town Property.
A committee consisting of the board of Selectmen, E. M. Morse, and John S. Poyen chosen to arrange a settlement and division of property with the town of Amesbury have the honor to make the following report :-
After several meetings with the committee on the part of Amesbury, and making an inventory of all the public property, and estimating the value of the same, both committees united on the following terms :-
Merrimac and Amesbury to keep all the public property lo- cated within their respective town limits, and Amesbury to pay the town of Merrimac one thousand dollars, for excess of three- fifths of the property located in said town. Both towns have accepted the terms of settlement, and a committee chosen from each town, consisting of the Selectmen of Merrimac and the Selectmen with the Town Treasurer of Amesbury to give and receive deeds of all the above property.
We have conveyed to Amesbury all our right and title of the property situated in said town, and have received from Amesbury a deed of all the property located in the town of Merrimac.
The committee chosen by the town to survey and establish the line between Merrimac and Amesbury have performed that duty, and report the line established in accordance with the act
27
of incorporation. Bound-stones have been placed at the point on New Hampshire line, both shores of Kimball's Pond, and the highways.
In concluding this report, we feel it to be our duty, as it is most certainly our very great pleasure, to congratulate our fel- low-citizens upon the very pleasant and auspicious circum- stances under which we commence our career as a new town. Thanks to the liberality of our former fellow-townsman, Wil- liam P. Sargent, Esq., we are to-day in the enjoyment of the possession of a beautiful and commodious building, which for the purposes of a Town Hall and Public Library, will be ample for our need for many years to come. Let us hope that it may long be preserved, that in future years our children's children may point to it with pride as the noble gift of one of our noble sons. We recommend that the town cause a tablet to be pro- cured and placed in the vestibule of the building with a suita ble inscription thereon commemorative of the donor To those of our citizens who so generously provided the location, to Patten Sargent, Esq., for his valuable gift of a Tower Clock, also to Dr. James R. Nichols, another of our large hearted sons, for his very valuable and generous donation of books, and to all our friends, both far and near, who have aided us in the establishment of our much-needed Public Library, we feel that our town is under lasting obligations.
Let us, as a town, make our record such that we shall be deemed deserving of the benefits so generously bestowed.
All of which is respectfully submitted,
WILLIAM H. HASKELL, S. S. BLODGETT, of
Selectmen
ALEX. SMART, Merrimac.
ANNUAL REPORT
OF THE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
OF THE
TOWN OF MERRIMAC.
It is with pleasure that we present this, the first annual re- port of the schools of the towns, to the citizens of Merrimac.
The position a town occupies in the Commonwealth is decided in a great measure, by the opportunities it gives its children to make the most of themselves. During the past year we have had good teachers, and, as the result, good schools and good progress on the part of the scholars.
There is an effort being made by the school committee and the teachers to thoroughly grade the schools of the town, so that every advancement of a scholar to the next grade shall mean not only that the scholar has been in school so long a time, but also that he has made a certain amount of progress in his studies.
.We have a desire that our schools shall stand among the best in the State. Money will make our schools equal to the best. The money that a town spends, year by year, upon her children, is not lost, but is an investment that yields large re-
29
turns. It cannot be expected that the scholars in our Interme- diate and Grammar schools shall make as great progress in eight months' as the scholars in the cities and larger towns make in ten months' instruction.
We trust that the town will see that many of the children have no need of four months' vacation, especially at an age when time is so valuable in laying a firm foundation for a good edu- cation. The town gives to the committee sixty-four little chil- dren, one room, and one teacher. How much progress do you expect in the scholars ? How much good air do you expect in the room ? How much good health do you expect in the chil - dren ?
During the past term five hundred and eighteen have visited our schools, aside from the great number that have crowded the various school-rooms during the days of their public examina- tions, thus revealing a commendable interest, on'the part of the town, in the welfare of her schools.
MERRIMAC HIGH SCHOOL.
MR. FRANK WIGGIN, TEACHER.
We have, as Principal of our High School, a man who takes a personal interest in each one of his scholars,-one who real- izes that something more is expected of a teacher than simply to go through the regular routine of school duties. With a teacher whose heart and mind are upon his work we may expect a successful school.
The course of study adopted for the High Schools is as ex- tensive as can be profitably pursued in the time allotted, and every pupil who honestly and conscientiously" completes the same, will be well-fitted for the ordinary business of life, or for entering other and more advanced schools. That scholars
30
realize the importance of mastering the higher studies of the course, is shown by the fact that twenty are studying Latin, an optional study, a like number are pursuing Algebra, and a fine class of six, Geometry.
The progress of the school during the year just past, has been satisfactory. Test examples in Arithmetic, the analysis of English sentences on the blackboard, the daily writing of compositions, and the illustrative experiments in Philosophy, are examples of correct methods of teaching pursued in this school. A class in Geology have completed Steele's text- book during the year, and display a familiarity with that branch of science not usually attained by persons of their age.
The lower branches have not been neglected, but reading, spelling, history, physiology,drawing and writing,have received all the attention that could possibly be given in a school where fifteen recitations must be heard in six hours.
MERRIMAC GRAMMAR SCHOOL.
Summer Term-MISS LINDA E. LADD, Teacher. Winter Term-MISS ANNIE W. KELLY, Teacher.
The summer term was somewhat interrupted by sickness on the part of the teacher, but otherwise the school year has been uniformly successful and prosperous. Both teachers followed Normal methods of instruction, and the scholars have learned to depend on themselves in recitation, succeed- ing or failing according to their comprehension of the prin- ciples involved. The analysis of the History lesson, and the method of teaching Geography by map-drawing and subsc- quent location of important rivers, towns, etc., should be specially commended. The adoption of Calisthenics and elocu- tionary exercises, are not only conducive to health, but have
31
served to relieve the monotony of school life, and have been a pleasant feature in connection with the school. Thorough - ness has been the aim of the teacher, and her education, training, and love of her avocation, render her amply compe- tent to fill her responsible position.
MERRIMAC INTERMEDIATE SCHOOLS.
Summer Term-MISS ANNIE W. KELLY, Teacher. Winter Term-MISS CARRIE P. MANNING, Teacher.
The school year just closed has been of unexceptional prosperity ; and that parents and friends have been interested in the school is abundantly proved by the fact that the names of one hundred and thirty visitors appear on the reg- ister, besides those present at the closing examination.
The teachers have labored assiduously, both in and out of school for its interests, and the success accompanying such diligent effort has been in a corresponding ratio. Here as in the Grammar school, exercises in Elocution and Calis- thenics have been introduced with like results. The disci- pline of the school has been maintained by kind measures, and all school work has been done with promptness and cheerfulness. Miss Manning is a graduate of Salem Normal School, and possesses the requisite qualifications for a suc- cessful teacher.
MERRIMAC PRIMARY SCHOOL.
MISS ANNIE E. EDWARDS, Teacher.
This school has been somewhat crowded in regard to numbers during the year just past. While the statute fixes fifty as the limit for a room, there have been in this school sixty-four for a part of the time. That the school should be
32
divided is evident to the committee and to those parents who have given any attention to the subject. The success of the teacher, who has had charge of the school for three years, when we consider the fact that she had no special training for her vocation, has been remarkable, and many kind wishes will accompany her to the Normal school, whither she has gone to fit herself for the teacher's profes- sion.
A quiet, unwearying faithfulness has ever characterized the teacher's work in connection with her school, and the little people have been happy and contented, The closing exam- ination was very satisfactory, and demonstrated the thorough- ness and efficiency of the teaching. The names of one hun- dred and fourteen visitors on the register show the interest manifested by parents and friends in this school.
MERRIMACPORT SCHOOLS.
HIGH-J. W. CHENEY, JR., TEACHER.
This school has been particularly fortunate for several years in having the services of good teachers. Mr. Cheney who commenced at the beginning of the fall term is a graduate of Dartmouth College. He brings to his work a valuable experi- ence of six years' academic labor, and also a natural adapted ness to and love for his calling. He is a good scholar, and as an instructor is thorough, efficient, and popular. He was most cordially welcomed at the outset, and by his kind and gentle- manly bearing has gained the confidence and esteem of all.
His prompt, earnest, and self-sacrificing spirit, his superior musical education, his appreciation of art and familiarity with
33
the principles of science and literature eminently fit him for his responsible position.
There has been introduced a classification somewhat new and improved, and a system of grading whereby the number of daily recitations for each scholar has been reduced to three,
Speaking and composition have received more attention. Written examinations more frequent, and especially at the close of each text-book.
The committee notice also the improved methods of present- ing the subjects of percentage and interest.
Seventy-seven per cent of the school engage in the study of Latin. Three or four contemplate a collegiate education.
In scholarship and deportment commendable advancement has been made. Whispering without permission has been al- most entirely eradicated. The new marking system has aroused an esprit de corps throughout the school, three-fourths of the pupils already belong to the " self-governing class." Two electrical machines are in process of construction by some of the members of the class in Physics. These, together with the valuable cabinet of geological specimens collected and ar- ranged by the former principal, the three hundred and fifty spec- imens of insects, the philosophical and chemical apparatus are important contributions to the resources of the school and should be duly appreciated and carefully preserved.
GRAMMAR .- MISS NELLY F. WORTHEN, TEACHER.
This school has been for several years under the same teacher, who has sustained her well-earned reputation for thorough and faithful methods of instruction. Miss Worthen is of an amiable and kind disposition, prompt and ready, and labors as- siduously to promote the best interests of her pupils. The at- tendance during the year has been good, and steady progress
-
34
made in the various branches of study. The classes in arith- metic, geography, and grammar acquitted themselves well. In penmanship and drawing much credit is due both to teacher and pupil ; the motto being " Not how much, but how well." Some of the young lads have not always been as mindful as they ought of what is expected of them in the matter of prompt obedience and proper decorum. This is becoming a somewhat serious hindrance to the prosperity of the school, demanding the especial attention of parents, and all concerned. Bad example is contagious. Good order and wholesome discipline are indispensable, and should be secured, at whatever cost.
The closing exercises of the school were made interesting to the large number of visitors present by being interspersed with good reading, recitations, music, and an original paper of su- perior merit.
PRIMARY-MARY A. TUSON, TEACHER.
As one visits this school and looks upon the smiling grougs of little folks that crowd the none too-capacious school-room, the first impression is the cheerful and happy appearance of things ; but we should remember that it is no easy matter to take care of fifty small children day after day, week after week, and month after month, and never get nervous, cross, . or out of patience.
Mrs. Tuson has, by her matronly bearing, kind and gen- erous spirit, perfect self-control under all circumstances, acom- plished a work for which the parents and guardians owe a great debt of gratitude. The exercises on the outline maps in geography were very creditable, the reading and spelling excellent, and the singing very good.
The committee noticed with pleasure the unusual pains- taking in writing and drawing. The specimens of penman-
35
ship were worthy of scholars of a more advanced grade. This teacher has a happy faculty of keeping the young minds employed either by drawing on the blackboard or with slate and pencil, making letters and figures, or doing little sums.
BIRCH MEADOW SCHOOL.
MISS HATTIE E. SARGENT, TEACHER.
This school has been fortunate in having the same teacher who taught so satisfactorily last year, and equally gratifying results have crowned her efforts. The discipline has been per- fect and the instructions thorough and systematic. The ex- amination showed that good progress had been made during the year in the various studies pursued. It was pleasant to note the increase from seven scholars in the spring term to fourteen in the winter term .. The average attendance was very good.
LANDING SCHOOL.
MISS NELLIE M. FOWLER, TEACHER.
This is one of our smaller schools numbering but fifteen scholars, but it has been highly successful. A good degree of interest has been maintained in the several studies pursued. Satisfactory progress was made in reading, spelling, and arith- metic. The order of the school was all that could be de- sired.
The kindest and most pleasant relations appeared to exist between teacher and pupil.
By methods original and otherwise the younger pupils were amused and entertained in their leisure moments and thereby kept out of mischief.
36
The teacher is not so demonstrative as some, but through her quiet and persevering efforts day by day, the best of re- sults are reached.
Some repairs have been made during the year in and about the school building, and it is hoped that those persons who, during the vacation, maliciously or otherwise break windows and wantonly commit other depredations will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The committee would suggest to the people of this dis- trict to look after their school property; and to the parents to visit the school more and encourage prompt and punctual attendance. This advice is not limited to this neighborhood, but is equally applicable to other sections.
BEAR HILL SCHOOL.
MISS ANNA G. PEABODY, TEACHER.
This school was very fortunate in securing the services of Miss Peabody, a graduate of Salem Normal school, who labored faithfully and earnestly to make this a school second to none in town, and she was, to a considerable degree, successful. The examination was very satisfactory, some of the classes acquitting themselves admirably. The school has fully sus- tained the position it occupied one year ago.
The number of scholars in the spring term was larger than for several years past. The average attendance in the winter term was very much reduced by causes entirely outside of the school.
HIGHLANDS SCHOOL.
MISS MARIA G. SMILEY, TEACHER.
This school has been under the care of the same teacher as last year, who has labored earnestly and faithfully to in-
37
terest and instruct her scholars, but perhaps greater progress would have been made if there had been more regular and punctual attendance. The school was closed without an ex- amination, owing to there being so few scholars the last three weeks of the term. For three days in succession near the close of the term, but one scholar was present. It seems al- most a useless expenditure of money to maintain a school where there is not sufficient interest manifested by parents and scholars to ensure a reasonably regular attendance.
The general progress and management of the school has been in the main satisfactory.
Most respectfully submitted,
E. M. DINSMORE, O. F. SEAVEY. Committee. WM. H. HUBBARD, )
1
38
LIST OF GRADUATES
FOR THE YEAR ENDING MARCH FIRST, 1877.
EDWARD WALLACE MORSE.
LOIS COLBY EDWARDS.
EMMA LOUISE SEAVEY.
LIZZIE SOPHIA BARTLETT.
LIZZIE HOOD NICHOLS.
EMMA CLARK FOSTER.
ANNIE LARKIN BATCHELDER.
EMILIE HUDSON SCOFIELD.
TABLE NO. I. STATISTICS OF SUMMER SCHOOLS.
Schools.
of
Scholars.
Average
number of
Scholars.
Average Attendance.
Per cent
Attendance.
Number
Days
in Term.
Number
Days
Day4
Absence.
Number
Number
15.
Number
der 5.
Number
Visitors,
Teachers'
wages per
month.
Merrimac High,
47
47
43
.92
60
2615
205
31
36
18
$105 26
Grammar,
37
36
32
.88
60
1658
562
74
29
40
Inter.,
45
44
41
.93
60
2496
204
64
35
30
Primary,
56
53
46
.87
60
2802
558
60
4
39
30
Merrimacp't High,
24
21
19
.90
60
1159
281
16
6
17
105 26
Grammar,
26
26
22
.85
60
1370
190
36
00
35
Primary,
44
42
39
.93
60
2180
460
38
3
10
30
Birch Meadow Dist.
7
7
6
.86
60
334
86
17
2
1
19
22
Landing District,
14
00
co
.93
60
754
86
66
1
00
22
Bear Hill District,
49
47
42
.89
60
2574
366
83
44
40
Highlands District,
18
16
14
.88
60
801
279
19
1
14
22
Attendance.
Number
Times Late.
Scholars over
Scholars un-
of
of
Number
.
68
TABLE NO. 2.
STATISTICS OF WINTER SCHOOLS.
Schools.
of
47
40
38
.95
130
5006
1104 |109
24
33
$105 26
Grammar,
CO
29
26
.87
110
2856
554
113
1
60
40
66
Inter.,
47
45
43
.95
110
4516
654
147
94
30
Primary,
64
63
42
.70
100
4205
2395
62
00
74
30
Merrimacp't High,
22
22
20
.91
130
2553
346
51
10
64
84 21
Grammar,
25
24
22
.92
110
2392
358
120
43
35
Primary,
50
47
41
.87
110
3943
557
50
40
30
Birch Meadow Dist.
14
12
10
.83
85
817
373
00
3
40
22
Landing District,
19
14
13
93
85
1074
601
36
1
19
22
Bear Hill District,
42
39
27
:. 70
110
3525
1095
175
1
23
40
Highlands District,
18
10
8 .80
20
624
336
10
2
18
22
Number
Scholars.
Average
number of
Scholars.
Average
Attendance.
Per cent
Attendance.
Number
Days
in Term.
Number
Attendance.
Number
Absence.
Number
Number
Scholars over
Number
Scholars un-
Number
Visitors.
Teachers'
wages per
month.
Days
Days
Times Late .
15.
der 5.
of
of
Merrimac High,
40
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