USA > Massachusetts > Essex County > Ipswich > Town annual report of Ipswich 1931 > Part 6
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
the Board has not been able up to the present time to get to it, but hopes to a little later at the convenience of State Health Officer Dr. Archibald.
The largest expense account the Board has is for the care of tuberculosis. There are not only always sev- eral cases in various sanitoria, but there are more than 30 about town that require following up on the part of the Nurse. The State holds a roundup juvenile clinic once a year, following a ten-year program which they started several years ago. This has been of special value in a preventive way. A lot of work has to be carried on, of which the general public has very little idea.
The Board gives careful detailed attention to all cases falling within its jurisdiction, and wherever pre- ventive measures are in the opinion of the Board required, they are promptly applied.
The Board would respectfully ask that the same appropriation as given last year, $5,000, be granted for the year 1932.
Respectfully submitted,
GEO. E. MacARTHUR, M.D., CHARLES T. AMES, M.D., THOMAS G. GAULD,
Board of Health.
Ipswich, February 1st, 1932.
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
REPORT OF SANITARY INSPECTOR
To the Board of Health,
Gentlemen :
I beg to submit the following report for the year ending December 31, 1931:
Number of contagious disease cards posted 32
Number of complaints received and investigated 68
Number of hogs slaughtered and stamped 100
Number of calves slaughtered and stamped 45
Number of cows slaughtered and stamped
3
Number of animals condemned 0
Number of pasteurizing licenses issued 4
Number of cesspool and vault licenses issued 2
Number of garbage collector's registrations
1
Number of tallow and soap grease licenses issued 3
Number of bakeries registered 6
Respectfully submitted,
EBEN B. MOULTON,
Sanitary Inspector.
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
MILK INSPECTOR'S REPORT
This has been an unusually hard year for milk pro- ducers. Prices have been so low that many of the pro- ducers have sold milk at a loss. Milk from out of the state where it can be produced at a much lower price is shipped in here in competition with the nearby product thereby keeping the price of the local producers at a very low level. If laws are passed controlling this con- dition it would benefit the local producers. We have at present three outside dealers who are furnishing chain stores with milk which makes additional inspection neces- sarv. All milk is checked up as to the pasteurizing fats and solids, bacteria and sediment. At the present time milk and cream require more inspection than formerly. It is an established fact that no article of food is so sus- ceptible to disease as is milk and money expended in safeguarding this product is well spent.
Number of Milk Producer's permits issued 20
Number of Milk Dealer's licenses issued 55
Number of Ice Cream licenses issued 44
Number of Oleomargerine licenses issued 6
Respectfully submitted,
EBEN B. MOULTON,
Milk Inspector.
164
IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF MOTH SUPPRESSION
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen:
I herewith submit my annual report as Superinten- dent of Moth Suppression.
Work the past season has been carried along on the same general lines as in other years, which have been recommended and adopted by the State Department; ie., creasoting and spraying.
The Gypsy Moth situation locally is practically the same as for the past two years, not alarmingly abundant but still existant in appreciable quantity. The Browntail Dioth is a slight less abundant than a year ago. How- ever, the department has to date collected approximately a bushel and a half of webs with the heavier infested area untouched.
Other insect pests which do not come directly under this department but which are practically kept in con- trol by the usual spray program, are Satin Moth, Tent Caterpillar, and Elmleaf Beetle. The latter has for the last two summers been extremely abundant and will re- quire very careful and intensive spraying the coming sum- mer. A second spraying might help to a large extent in checking this insect. The Fall Webworm became very plentiful the past summer and should this increase con- tinue it may call for an additional program later in the summer. Several cities and towns have found this neces- sary the last two years.
Last spring the Town purchased for the Depart- ment's use a Dodge One and a half ton truck which has proved satisfactory in every way. I was fortunately able to purchase a wide body which had been used but very little and this has proved its worth especially when haul- ing brush. A tractor attachment was also made which
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
enabled us to haul the large sprayer with this truck thus eliminating the use of horses. The Department is con- tinuing to use the old truck as at times two are needed, especially during the spraying season, when otherwise an additional machine would have to be hired at an in- creased expense.
The mechanical equipment of the Department, trucks and sprayers, are all in excellent condition, and the latter have been thoroughly overhauled. I am very badly in need of small supplies such as hose and tools.
One of the buildings on the Green street property occupied by the Department has been reshingled, but additional repairs are very badly needed on both build- ings, not only as a protection from the weather but also free access of the public. I would also recommend that a water supply be installed in the lower shop and also a telephone.
I am recommending a slight increase in the appro- priation to care for the above recommendations.
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS C. WADE,
Superintendent.
166
IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
REPORT OF TREE WARDEN
To the Citizens of Ipswich :
I herewith submit my annual report as Tree Warden.
The work of this department has of a necessity been considerably curtailed the past two years due to the small appropriation. As it is a recognized fact that Trees prop- erly planted and cared for are an asset to a community I hope that this appropriation may be increased in the near future. I ask all citizens interested in community betterment to give this careful consideration.
Many people are of the opinion that the question of Shade Trees is a new fad, but this is a mistaken attitude. The large number of old and historic elms which adorn our streets and Commons testify that this part of the community welfare was given in the days of our ances- tors. To quote from Felts History of Ipswich at a time when the greater part of the country was in forest and the people were chiefly concerned with cutting trees, shows that even then they were giving thought to plant- ing. "1798 Lombardy Poplars begin to be set out in vari- ous parts of the town .- They were preceded by Weeping Willows-and by Pine and Spruce trees. One hundred and sixty years ago, Elm and Mulberry were favorite or- naments, -. Horsechestnut and Mountain Ash followed the Poplar. The Catalpa has been lately introduced. To the lover of nature, trees, clad with verdure and placed around dwellings and by the wayside, always afford a welcome prospect."
Several dead or dying trees have been removed the past year. Two hearings were held on tree removals and in both cases as all the requirements of law had been met and conditions seemed to warrant it the permits were granted. Five trees were planted, two Maples, two Elms 'and one Cork-barked Elm. Two of these trees were pur- chased and the others donated. I am quite convinced
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
that a yearly programme of tree planting should be car- ried out.
Other work that was done the past year was largely in the way of dead wood removal and such limbs as inter- fered with over-head wires and buildings. As usual the Tree Warden has worked with the Municipal Light De- partment and Telephone Company in co-operation with them in keeping their lines clear, with as little injury to the trees as possible.
In addition to the regular work of the department I have superintended a large amount of brush cutting by the men engaged by the Unemployment Committee. This work is of real benefit as it beautifies the roadsides if properly done, as well as aids in snow removal. How- ever I would point out that to spend a large sum of money on this work one vear and then to discontinue it for sev- eral years is expensive, as after the bushes are once cut they may be kept down by cutting each year at a much smaller expense.
I am recommending a much larger appropriation as there is much work that should be done on the trees.
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS C. WADE,
Tree Warden.
168
IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
REPORT OF PARK COMMISSIONERS
To the Citizens of Ipswich :
The Board of Park Commissioners herewith submit their annual report.
The work in this department varies but little from year to year. The normal amount of rain the past sum- mer helped greatly in keeping up the good appearance of the Commons, which had suffered greatly from the drought of the two previous years.
Practically no new work was attempted the past sea- son. Gradually as material was available a small amount of filling was done in the Giles Firmin Garden and the road around the same extended. The ditches were again cleaned out and slightly enlarged thus increasing the area available for skating for the smaller children.
Tulips have again been planted in the several flower beds and we again followed our policy of the last two years in planting all the beds to one variety, changing the color from year to year.
The Womans Club purchased shrubs which were planted on the lower part of the North Green. Miss Alice Smith contributed evergreens which were planted on the upper point of the W. R. C. plot, also German Iris for some of the hollows in the rear of the bandstand. The latter suffered somewhat from the attendance at band concerts, but we believe that these contributions are the beginning of a programme of civic improvement. We ex- tend the appreciation of the public to both parties. Un- fortunately the Christmas tree which was planted by the Rotary Club a few years ago had to be removed being a victim of circumstances.
The bandstand is a subject which will soon have to be given serious consideration. The present stand is fast
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
nearing the stage of decay and will either have to be re- built or a new one of more ornamental design construct- ed.
The power mower which has rendered valiant ser- vice for several seasons has again been overhauled and is in good condition for another season. The small equip- ment of the department such as rakes, rope for the flag- poles, etc. will need the usual seasonal replacement.
The Town has made a very valuable addition to its Park system the past year by accepting the gift of the late Arthur W. Dow of his land on Town Hill to be known as the Arthur W. Dow Park. This spot has a very com- manding view of the beaches and ocean. That this spot may be made a little more accessible we are asking for an additional sum of twenty-five dollars in our budget for the purpose of widening the road by cutting some of the bushes.
Other improvements which are much needed and should be started at such time as the financial condition of the Town warrants are : filling on both the South Com- mon and the old ballfield; gravelling the road to the South Cemetery and also on some of the paths on the North Green.
Respectfully submitted,
FRANCIS C. WADE, Chairman, ERNEST H. PICKARD, S. C. GORDON,
Park Commissioners.
170
IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
REPORT OF THE SEALER OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen,
Gentlemen :
I have the honor to submit to you the annual report of the Department of Weights and Measures for the year 1931:
Sealed Non-Sealed Condem'd
Platform scales over 5000 lbs.
4
......
Platform scales under 5000 lbs.
28
--
--
Counter scales over 100 lbs.
1
......
Counter scales under 100 lbs.
15
1
Spring scales over 100 lbs.
4
Spring scales under 100 lbs.
32
2
Computing scales under 100 lbs.
39
3
Personal weighing scales
9
Prescription scales
3
Avoirdupois weights
164
Apothecary weights
34
Metric weights
34
Liquid measures
47
Dry measures
3
Gasoline pumps
71
6
3
Kersosene pumps
18
1
Quantity measures on all pumps
397
Yard measures
12
..
..
Amount of sealing fees and adjustments collected and paid to Town Treasurer $95.06.
Respectfully submitted,
WILLIAM A. STONE,
Sealer of Weights and Measures.
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
PUBLIC WELFARE REPORT
1931 proved to be the hardest year since the depres- sion began. There were more calls for relief than in any other year and the relief extended covered in many in- stances a longer period of time. As a consequence, the ex- penditures for Temporary Aid were considerably in- creased over former years.
And such was the case notwithstanding the fact that the Board made every effort to conserve the appropria- tion. Recipients of aid were called before the Board every Friday evening, when their cases were reviewed and readjustments made in accordance with changing conditions. The work of investigation was continued by the Agent, settlements determined and financial condi- tions ascertained. Applicants for aid who were able to work were afforded employment at the Woodyard or the Infirmary and thus earned whatever they received.
Aid was extended during the year in two ways: 1. By orders, and 2. By checks. Where the case was of short duration, or the dependent could not be trusted to handle money, the aid was given in the form of orders. They were open orders and could be filled at any store that might be selected by the holders. Where the case was of longer duration, and the dependant could be entrusted with money, a check was given. It is an undisputed fact that it costs the town less to give checks than to give or- ders for supplies.
But while our neighboring cities and towns, as well as ourselves, found last year to be the hardest of all since the beginning of the depression, we are pleased to note that the increase in expenditures in Ipswich was lower than the average of other places, as shown by the figures compiled by Mayor Bates of Salem, a recognized authori- ty on municipal finance. This is especially gratifying when it is remembered that Ipswich, in the closing of the mills, suffered a greater comparative loss than any other town or city in the County, or perhaps the State itself. It is
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
fair to say 2500 persons out of our population of 6000 are wage-earners and that over 1200 of these were em- ployed in Ipswich Mills. Consequently, when the mills closed 50 percent of our laborers lost their means of live- lihood. No other place so far as we know and believe has suffered to a like extent.
One reason why the Board has been able to keep the expenditures to a comparatively low figure is because of the very considerable help that has been rendered by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children un- der the efficient management of Mrs. Joseph W. Ross. The benefactions of this organization are whollly private in nature, and therefore an itemized report cannot be given to the public; but the reader may rest assured that they are many in number and are extended to all classes regardless of race or creed.
In general, it may be said that there are two classes of Temporary Aid cases: 1. Those whose distress has come upon them through no fault of their own; and 2. Those whose trouble is caused entirely by themselves. And these classes need different treatment. The first may be given sympathy to the fullest extent and may be aided in accordance with their need. The second may be aided, if their folly has brought suffering upon children or other innocent persons, but they themselves need wholesome advice and sometimes the application of a lit- tle law: Of course, no one likes to listen to unpalatable truths about themselves, and when an applicant for aid has been admonished, firmly yet kindly, he may take it to heart and vent his grievance to his friends on the street corner. Sometimes he may talk like this: "My father paid taxes in this town for many years, and I have lived here all my life, yet when I need help I can't get it. But the Poles and Greeks get all they want." This has been said so often that the time has come when it should be refuted. Here is the plain truth: Though the two nationalities mentioned form about 50 perecent of our population, they have had less than 15 percent of the public aid distributed during the past year. We say this to their credit. Only four Polish and six Greek families have been helped so, if the Poles and Greeks get all they want, it is apparent that they don't want anywhere near as much as some others.
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
In connection with the foregoing let it be said that much unjust because unfounded criticism of the Board of Public Welfare and the unfortunate persons whom they are called upon to assist would be rendered harmless if the law permitted the publication of the list of town de- pendents. The list would undoubtedly be somewhat shorter as well. The cases, however, will be reviewed by the Finance Committee and the full facts be made known to them. The Friday evenings meetings of the Board are public, and the interested tax payer is invited to attend and witness the members in action. They are your ser- vants and their earnest endeavor is to administer the duties of the office in a manner that will win your ap- proval. Therefore, they urge you to come and see what they do and how they do it.
The Mothers' Aid cases, of which there are three in town, have remained unchanged throughout the year, save for a reduction of three dollars weekly in one case that was recommended by the State. A former Mothers' Aid case which when taken care of in Ipswich cost the town $8.00 per week, having removed to Salem during the year was increased by the Public Welfare Department of that city to $20.00 per week, and this we were helpless to prevent although the strongest protest was made. There is certainly a flaw in the Mothers' Aid Statute when it permits one town to spend the money of another town and denies that other town any voice whatever in the transaction. Under the law the local Board cannot re- move the family from Salem to Ipswich, as would be possible if it were a Temporary Aid case.
In regard to Soldiers' Relief, it should be said that the Public Welfare Department cannot disburse this form of assistance to the needy, as some suppose. This can be done only by the Board of Selectmen. Therefore. all applications for Soldiers' Relief are turned over by this department to the Selectmen. If, however, the Sol- dier for any misconduct has been discredited he cannot be aided by the Selectmen but may come to Public Wel- fare.
The fact is now quite well established that there is no such thing as an old age pension and that the proper
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
term is old age assistance. Under the law assistance may be rendered to needy and deserving persons 70 years of age and over, provided their children are unable to care for them. The only practical difference between this law and the one that has been on the books for many gen- erations is that the State now has a voice in the matter to whom this aid shall be given and the State reimburses the town to the extent of one-third of the aid that is given -- that is, after first collecting an equal or greater amount from the town through the collection of an extra tax. Thus the town in reality pays it all. Let those who would ask aid of the town, or of the state or nation, whether as a pension or in any other form, remember that the town, state or nation has no money to give except that which comes from the people through direct or indirect taxa- tion. There is no mystery as to where the money comes from. It comes from the pockets of the people. So, when a person receives money which he has not earned, he receives it as a bounty from other persons who have had to earn it. It is the duty of every individual in the com- munity to do his utmost to guard against the possibility of ever being reduced to that condition of poverty where- in he will be compelled to ask others whose opportunities have been no greater than his to help him. Undue pride in early or middle life, often leads to something very dif- ferent, very humiliating, later on. Those who in self- gratification or in the attempt to "keep up with the Jones's" spend every cent they earn from week to week, are traveling the road that in old age leads to the home over the hills or to some other place or condition provid- ed by the generosity of those who have manifested wis- dom during the productive years of their lives. It is as- sumed to be true that, while all good citizens are willing to be taxed to the limit to help those who have fallen into distress through circumstances which they could not con- trol, they are wholly unwilling to submit to taxation to help those who fail to help themselves, or who, through egregious folly, bring poverty and distress upon their own heads. Besides this, it must be apparent that one-half of the people cannot support themselves and at the same time provide for the other half. and this part of the coun- try seems to be moving rapidly in that direction. Dis- bursements through Public Welfare Departments have increased in many of our neighboring communities more
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
than 200 percent during the past few years. Appeals for aid are changing to demands, and these are occasionally coupled with threats. Contributory old age pensions would conduce to economy and thrift, but the non-con- tributory variety would lead straight to pauperism. The situation is really becoming serious and is in need of in- stant attention on the part of thoughtful citizens. The Legislature is to be commended for its action thus far during the present session in refusing to broaden the scope of the old age assistance law. As it is, in two years time this law will have increased the expense of the local Public Welfare Department more than 100 percent. No son or daughter of an aged or needy parent should feel that their filial obligation has ceased because they fancy that something resembling a pension has been provided, but should themselves, in all good conscience, provide for that parent as long as they can possibly do so, even to the point of extreme self-sacrifice. On the other hand, no aged and needy person whose kith and kin are honestly unable to assist him in his declining years should hesitate through over-sensitiveness or undue pride to ask for that which all good citizens are pleased to give. The number now receiving old age assistance here is 21. By next July, judging from the number of applications yet to be passed upon, we shall have 50 or more. While other places have organized a separate bureau at considerable added expense to have charge of this branch of charitable work, the local Board has assumed this extra duty with- out extra cost.
Our people should understand that the local Hospi- tal is not a free institution. Treatment there must be paid for or the doors be closed. It is true that the town has a $1500 contract with the Hospital to care for patients who in all honesty and sincerity cannot pay for their own treatment; but this contract does not cover owners of real estate, those with bank deposits or secreted hoard- ings, owners of motor vehicles operated for pleasure, those who maintain electric radios, those who sport be- vond their means, those who refuse work when it is of- fered to them or who willfully misspend a large portion of what they do earn, children who neglect to provide for needy parents, expectant mothers who make no pro- vision for their own care in confinement, those who leave
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IPSWICH TOWN REPORT
the Hospital without paying for their treatment and af- terwards buy De Luxe automobiles. These statements are not hypothetical, but are drawn from concrete in- stances. Hospital and doctors' bills are just as binding upon the patients who contract them as are food, fuel, clothing or rent bills, and the patients should pay the Hospital and doctor just as they pay others who give them credit, and not attempt to roll these burdens upon the shoulders of tax-payers who are bending beneath the weight of well-nigh unbearable responsibilities.
As to the Town Infirmary, let us say that this insti- tution is now in good and careful hands and the members of the Board are relieved of anxiety on that score. Mr. and Mrs. Dorr are proving to be most efficient in their varying lines of duty.
The Home is clean, sweet and wholesome through- out, the inmates are well fed and well clad and are al- together contented and happy. They are lifted above want and worry-a condition unknown to most of our citizenship in these days of economic depression.
Outside the Home, there is no clutter about the grounds and the barn and stock are as neat and tidy as hands can make them. The crops raised were of good quality and sufficient in quantity to meet the needs of the Home and yet leave some to market.
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