USA > Tennessee > Davidson County > Nashville > Nashville Business Directory, 1860-61 > Part 4
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Yong Seen Sang, . Chinese christian convert, in company with Rev. J. L. Shuck, an American missionary, preached in the First Baptist Church in August, 1846. The " Chinaman" attracted considerable at- tention ; and Mr. Shuck, at the request of several prominent citizens, delivered a lecture on the science, literature, manners, customs, &c., of China.
Maj. Joseph Norvell, who established the Nashville Whig in 1812, in connection with his brother, Moses Norvell, and who was for several years City Treasurer, and P. G. M. of the Masonic Grand Lodge, died the 7th of January, 1847.
A meeting for the relief of the starving population of Ireland, was held in the spring of 1847, and upwards of $3,600 contributed.
A freshet occurred in March, 1847, and another in December of the
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same year, which caused a good deal of suffering among the poor who lived on inundated territory. The March rise was two feet higher than the freshet of 1842, and almost as high as that of 1826. The December freshet was twenty inches higher than in 1826.
In May, 1847, about twenty tenements were destroyed by fire on the corner of Spring and Market streets and vicinity.
The corner-stone of Odd Fellows' Hall was laid with imposing cere- monies, on the 1st of June, 1847.
The returned volunteers were received with great demonstrations of joy, in June, and were welcomed home by Andrew Ewing, Esq., in an eloquent and thrilling speech, which was responded to by Gen. Anderson on behalf of the volunteers. A display of fire-works, rockets, trans- parencies and a torchlight procession, attested the joy of the people.
On the 12th of October, 1847, a powder magazine, situated west of Capitol Hill, was struck by lightning and exploded, by which four per- sons were killed and about twenty wounded. Fifty houses were de- molished, or rendered unfit for use, and the destruction of window-glass throughout the city and in the suburbs, was immense.
A large number of stables and out-houses were burnt by incendiaries in 1847, and the firemen were almost constantly on duty during the spring and autumn.
The first telegraphic dispatch received in Tennessee was in March, 1848, on Henry O'Reilly's line from Louisville to Nashville, and Mr. O'R. sent his respects to the people of Tennessee, among the first dispatches.
On the 14th of September, 1848, the First Presbyterian Church was a second time destroyed by fire ; and on this occasion, two dwelling hous- es adjoining were burnt.
POST OFFICE .- We do not know who was the first Postmaster at this place, but we do know that Robert B. Currey, Esq., was appointed by President Jefferson in 1801, and that he served through Mr. Jeffer- son's administration of eight years. He was retained by President Madison as Postmaster here through his two terms of the Presidency, and also by President Monroe for eight years more-making in all twenty-four consecutive years-a compliment rarely bestowed in an office of such labor and responsibility. and it is gratifying to know that it was worthily bestowed. In 1825, upon the incoming of J. Q. Adams as President, John P. Erwin, Esq., was appointed, who served during that administration, and soon after the inauguration of Gen. Jackson as Presi- dent in 1829, Gen. Robert Armstrong was appointed, who retained the office for sixteen years. In 1845, Col. L. P. Cheatham was ap; ointed by President Polk and in 1849, President Taylor appointed Dr. John Shelby, and in 1852, President Pierce appointed Gen. Samuel R. Anderson as
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Postmaster, who being retained by President Buchanan, is now in office. All these Postmasters were faithful in the performance of their official duties, and gave satisfaction to the people. In brief, the time of service of each of these gentlemen was as follows :
Robert B. Currey, from 1801 to 1825-24 years. John P. Erwin, from 1825 to 1829 -- 4 years.
Ghn. Robert Armstrong, from 1829 to 1845-16 years. Col. L. P. Cheatham, From 1845 to 1849-4 years.
Dr. John Shelby, from 1849 to 1853-4 years.
Gen. S. R. Anderson, from 1853 to 1860-8 years.
The Historical Society of Tennessee was established May 1st, 1849, and is now a regular depository of public documents, by an act of Con- gress. By the action of our General Assembly, the room in the Capitol 1
at present occupied by the Supreme Court, is to be . appropriated to the use of the Society, after being vacated by the Court, which will be done when the Custom House is erected: The effects of the Society, in com of its dissolution, go to the State of Tennessee.
The corner-stone of the present First Presbyterian Church was laid April 28th 1849.
Hon. James K. Polk, the tenth President of the United States, died at his residence, in this city, on the 15th of June, 1849, and was placed in the vault at the Cemetery, with Masonic ceremonies. The cholera pre- vailed here at that time, but nevertheless a very large assemblage atten- ded to pay a tribute of respect to their deceased fellow-citizen. Subse- quently, in November, (we believe) his remains were interred on his own grounds at Po.k Place, in front of his mansion, Vine street, with solemn and impressive ceremonies. Various meetings and testimonies of res- pect were held and adopted.
The question of establishing public schools was agitated in 1849, and entered largely into the municipal canvass of that year.
The Gas Company was organized in 1849, with Gen. W. Barrow, as President, and N. E. Alloway, Esq., as Secretary and Treasurer.
And now, having reached the notch of "three score and ten," in our brief and imperfect notes, we call a halt for the present, with the remark that any mention of many important public institutions and improve- ments and works, has been intentionally omitted. Some of them will be embraced in this work, in separate articles, prepared by abler hands. We make no mention of the Orphan Asylums, of our Railroads, of the Press, or many other things worthy of detailed account. Our sole ob- ject has been to gather up a lew of the " odds and ends" of local history, in the briefest possible manner, for the purpose of saving them from for- getfulness. Hundreds of other items could be obtained, as many old citi-
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sens are yet among us, in the vigor of health ; for metance, Samuel Boay, Esq., who came here in 1809, now the President of the Protection Insu- rance office, And it is hoped that abler and more competent hands will " write up" the history of our beautiful, healthy, intelligent and progres- Sive ITY OF ROCKS.
NOTE .- The enterprising Publishers of this work, in their researches for taformation in rela- tion to the Press of this city, have ascertained that there was a newspaper printed here in 1797. Hence, where we say that the " Impartial Review." was probably the first paper printed here, we were laboring under a misapprehension.
. The most prominent and interesting facts and incidents in the history of Nashville, from its settlement down through the first half of the nine- teenth century, is embodied in the foregoing, by the talented gentleman to whom the publishers are indebted for the compilation. Many very Important events have transpired in the past ten years, but they are .still fresh in the minds of most of our citizens, and their mention at this time may properly be dispensed with. We proceed now to give some idea of the business and interests of Nashville as it is. Although many of the articles which follow are not as complete and full in all particulars as we could wish, yet, from them may be gained something which approximates to the present importance of the city. PUBLISHERS,
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NASHVILLE AS IT IS.
NASEVILLE at present covers an area of about six square miles, and is about three miles long by two wide. The city and suburbs con- tain over 87,000 inhabitants. Within the past ten years her population has more than doubled, her commercial business has trebled, and it is safe to say that in point of wealth she is at least four times greater than che was at that date. So vast have the changes been which have trans- pired in ten years that these who were familiar with the city then, and have' not seen it since, can searoely recognize that it is the same place. Old and primitive buildings, have given place to elegant structures in the finest styles of modern architecture; railroads, and telegraphs have brought about a revolution in the general aspect of the place, and the genius of this "fast age" has impressed itself upon everything in and around the city.
There is, perhaps, no city in the Union, of the size and importance of Nashville, about which so little is known abroad. The fact of its exis- tence and that it is the Capital of Tennessee, is about all the information that a stranger, outside of the State, or beyond contiguous portions of border States, possesses in relation to it. A gentleman from a northern city, not long since, upon a business trip to this point, was shown some- thing of the improvementa, enterprises and business that can be seen in and about Nashville, and expressed much surprise. He knew Nashville only as she stood commercially at the east, and that it was a good place to sell goods to, but further, it had been a " sealed book."
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But a few days since, another gentleman of capital, looking for a lo- cation to engage in an extensive manufacturing business, was induced to pay this city a visit, and was so favorably impressed that he expressed an entire willingness to locate, if suitable connections, purchases, &c., can be effected. Thousands, yes, millions of dollars, we believe, would be invested in lots and other property here, if the city was better known. If she would prosper to the extent that she should, her eligible location, her facilities as a great point of trade, for manufactures, for education, for health, &c., &c., must become familiar to people at a distance. Al- though her growth has not been as rapid as some other cities, particu- larly those of the north-west, still it has.been substantial and permanent. It is of that healthy character which augurs the best results.
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The far-seeing, public-spirited and judicious policy, which has for s few years past inspired the popular heart of the city, has brought already a goodly measure of reward and is carrying her on to a proud position and an enviable distinction among the cities of the Union.
HEALTH OF THE CITY.
THE bills of mortality, as shown by the report "of the City Sexton, and published in this work, prove that in a sanitary point of view Nash- ville is, indeed, highly favored. Compared with the vital statistics of other cities, those of Nashville show that none of whom we have any record, will compare with her in health. Situated in the interior valley of the continent, her geographical and climatical position furnishes ample security against various forms of disease which are common both to more southern and northern latitudes, while the distance at which she stands from the sea coast, renders her comparatively safe from the ravages of those fearful epidemics which are frequently the scourge of seaboard towns and lower countries.
The fact was first discovered by Forster, the naturalist, that the inter- ior valley of this continent was very singularly free from the extremes of temperature that prevail along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is this, doubtless, that exempts us from the yellow fever, which has repeat- edly prevailed in New York, Philadelphia, Norfolk, &c. We are also far below the line which marks the limit of the Typhus fever zone. Cases of consumption or any form of tubercular disease, are very rare here, while the diseases of children are as unfrequent and not more fatal, in proportion, than those of adults. In view of the general health of the city the conclusion is irresistable, that the climatical conditions that pro- duce disastrous sickness in various forms elsewhere are not present in this latitude.
NASHVILLE AN INTELLECTUAL CENTRE.
OUR readers will find in their appropriate places, notices of the various educational establishments of our growing metropolis, and will be struck with the amount and character of the intellectual element centred here. As an educational point, the fame of Nashville has been coeval with its origin by reason of the early establishment of its University and Female Academy which for more than half a century have attracted hither large numbers of youths of both sexes, who in turn have carried the reputa- tion of Nashville to every quarter of our land. These two institutions, which may be considered as the parents of all others in the city, and as models, indee , widely copied throughout the State, have now in their
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various departments more than 1000 young men and young ladies, mostly from distant counties and States. What a source of intellectual influ- ence. How indelibly are these two venerable seminaries of learning, im- printing the name of our beautiful city upon the young hearts of those who soon will be the influential men and women of the land.
In addition to these there are a number of first class private schools, male and female, well patronized, well conducted and highly useful, all faithfully contributing to the educational resources and renown of the city. The public school system of the city is another great intellectual feature of which we have just cause to be proud. We can safely aver that in this respect we are surpassed by no city in the Union. In point of elegant, suitable and attractive buildings ; of thoroughness and system in the plan of studies, of ability and faithfullness in the teachers, and of efficieney in the carrying forward of the schools, we think the Nashville plan of public instruction is worthy of the highest praise. The schools are divided into primary, intermediate, grammar and high ; taught by more than thirty teachers, attended by over two thousand scholars, ac- commodated by four large and handsome buildings; and supported at an expense of about thirty thousand dollars per annum from the public treasury, admission being entirely free to the scholars-a beautifully com. plete system, organized within a few years past, and speedily brought to a wonderful state of perfection through the enlightened efforts of the able Board of education entrusted with its administration.
Another great intellectual element in our city, is the governmental, of which the noble capitol is the proud emblem. As the seat of government of one of the leading States in this vast confederacy ; and of various State and Federal Courts, Nashville has long been renow ned in the polit- ical world. The biennial sessions of the Legislature and the terms of the different courts periodically bring hither many of the ablest men of the State, whose influence intellectually cannot but be felt, and to-day were it proper, we could give the names of eminent statesmen and jurists who are worthy successors of those who in time past have made glorious marks in our annals. .
A third and most notable element of intellectual influence highly de- veloped in our city is the potent and wide-reaching press Here are pub- lished the leading journals of the various political parties ; also the re- cognized organs of several large ecclesiastical bodies ; and journals medi- cal, agricultural, literary and miscellaneous; many of them have very numerous and widely scattered subscribers. The immense agency these different periodicals have in extending the reputation and influence of our - city need not be urged. Our readers cannot but appreciate it at a glance.
The central location, the fertility and beauty of the surrounding coun- try and the salubrity and healthfulness of its climate, have doubtless
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been among the causes which have led to the concentration here of the intellectual elements above mentioned. To these must be added the liberality, energy and foresight of our citizens. Our greatest glory is our intellectual pre-eminence. It has been worthily attained, and we doubt not will be worthily maintained, and continue always the pride and glory of our city of Nashville.
THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM.
These schools are sustained by a direct tax for school purpose. All white children between the ages of six and eighteen years whose parents or guardians reside within the corporate limits of the city, are entitled to the privileges of the public schools. The charge of these schools is com- mitted to eight men, styled the " Board of Education," who are appoin- ted annually by the City Council.
The schools exist in four grades, viz. primary, intermediate, grammar and the high school. The latter recognizes three departments-the En- glish, Classical and Female High School. A course of study extending through four years, is prescribed for the high school-Young men are fitted for college, mercantile and agricultural pursuits. Young ladies are thoroughly educated in the common and higher English branches, French and Ancient languages, vocal music and in school policy for teaching. These schools have been in operation more than five years, gradually in- creasing in numbers and popularity, till they now number over two thousand pupils, taught by thirty teachers or more, under the direction of a Superintendent. This office during the five years existence of these schools, has been filled by J. T. Pearl, A. M., of Yale College, well known throughout the Southern States, as a pioneer in public schools for the past fifteen years.
The present Board of Education consists of F. B. Fogy, President ; R. J. Meigs, W. F. Bang, M. H. Howard, Secy's; Isaac Paul, J. B. Linds- ley, Wm. Stoekell, J. W. Hoyte.
No city in our country can boast of better school buildings than Nash- ville. The present Board of Education is a guaranty that no teacher of inferior merit can long be retained in these schools. The vast amount of property invested in buildings, grounds, apparatus, etc., is a sufficient guaranty that the City Council appoint none but suitable men to compose the Board of Education.
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UNIVERSITY OF NASHVILLE.
The University of Nashville stands upon one of the most commanding emineces in the city or surrounding country, known as "College Hill" --
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NASHVILLE UNIVERSIRY AND WESTERN MILITARY INSTITUTE.
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and the location is also one of the most attractive to be found here. This University has been in existence for a period of seventy-five years, and is therefore one of the oldest seats of learning in the Union. It is the Alma Mater of many of the ablest men in the various literary and scien- tific professiona, which this country has produced, and it has justly at- tained a distinction among the first institutions of the kind in the United States. In 1850, - Medical department was organized, the growth of which has far outstripped the most sanguine hopes or expectations of its projectors and friends, and is, we believe, entirely unparallelled in the history of Medical Colleges in this or any other country. Its . success, character and position are matters of peculiar interest.
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Nearly five years ago, the "Western Military Institute," (which was formerly located in Kentucky,) was, by articles of union, between the Board of Trustees of that institution and the Nashville University, in- corporated into the collegiate department of the latter, since which time a system of military rule and government in this department has been thoroughly tested, to the entire satisfaction of the Faculty and Trustees of the University, proving an effectual aid in moral, mental and physical culture. This military organization aids in governing and controlling the student, promotes his health, as well as his mental and physical de- velopment, and insures neatness, economy and equality. It is in no way s bar to the pursuit of a thorough classical course in connection with a full course of scientific studies, as some have supposed, but on the con- trary, has proved an invaluable aid in the successful prosecution of such course. As has been said by one of the Professors of the University, "it takes him from his books over which he has been bending for hours, brings him to an erect position, gives him a firm, manly, graceful carriage, expands his chest, puts into harmonious action every limb and muscle, and thus promotes a perfect physical developement, and a consequent in- crease of mental vigor."
The University grounds take in an area of seventeen acres. From them is had not only a view of the entire city, but also a very large scope · of beautiful country, with its varied and imposing scenery. The build- ings which are four in number, (including the Medical College) are large, commodious, and admirably adapted to the various uses for which they are set apart. The large stone structure contains lecture, recitation and society rooms, libraries and offices ; its cost was $45,000. The impo- sing brick building-the quarters of the matriculants-is three stories high, and having been erected with special care for the comfort and con- venience of its occupants, its plan, construction and appliances, even to the most minute details, constitute it a model. The residenco of the Professors is also a large, fine and convenient edifice. Attached to the letter is a wing containing the dining hall, kitchen, store, laundry, and shops for the accommodation of the professors and students. That very
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useful motor, and agent of man, steam, performs an important office in the regulations of this institution. Its uses and services here are various and diversified, not the least of which is warming the dormitories of the students. The Medical College is a stately edifice, (a view of which may be found in this work,) and was erected at a cost of $40,000.
The entire property of the University, in lands, funds and buildings, is estimated at $500,000. Libraries containing about 14,000 volumes, a large amount of chemical and philosophical apparatus, a cabinet of min- erals, specimens of natural history, together with casts, maps, globes, etc., are possessed by the University and afford the student great facilities and aid in the prosecution of his studies. In point of health, no institu- tion anywhere can show a better record than the University of Nashville, while the number of students which annually flock here, show that it is one of the best sustained institutions in the land. What higher evidence need be wanted of its standing and usefulness, or that the faculties of both departments are composed of gentlemen eminently qualified for the respective stations which they fill.
- As a community, we may justly feel proud of this institution. From it have gone out, men who have filled the highest places, not only in the walks of science, but in the councils of the nation. It has dispensed its beneficial influence far and wide, and its name is written in characters over this broad land which are far more enduring than " monuments of iron or brass."
SHELBY MEDICAL COLLEGE.
THIS institution is situated on Broadway, near where it intersects the Franklin Turnpike, or. Vine street. The location is very fine, as will be perceived by every one familiar with the topography of the city, while the buildings are large and perfectly adapted to the purposes for which they are designed. This school was chartered in 1857-8, and the first session commenced November 1st, 1858. Although comparatively in its infancy, the Shelby Medical College occupies a very credital position and with its able faculty as well as the great facilities it offers for the study of medieine, it will hardly fail to become eminently successful. Connected with this institution is a hospital, where indigent sick of the city, and United States marine patients, are accommodated.
NASHVILLE FEMALE ACADEMY.
THIS popular institution is one of the oldest and most renowned in the Union. It was established in 1816 and has ever since enjoyed uninter- rupted prosperity. It is located upon a tract of ground comprising about
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six acres in the western part of the city, well enclosed, and in regard to privacy, shade, fresh air, good water, and health, is equal to any situation in the country, yet enjoying every advantage furnished by the city. The buildings are large, commodious and convenient, containing one hundred and twenty-five rooms for personal use, including the chapel 74x50 feet and the exercise Hall 120x40 feet, all heated with steam and lighted with gas. Thus there is no danger from fire. Porticos and corridors, and covered pavements have been provided, which furnish ample means for recreation in all kinds of weather. For health, convenience, comfort and extent, these buildings, for school purposes are not equalled in the United States.
The Academy belongs to fifty gentlemen, and is controlled by seven of their number as Trustees. The Principal is the Rev. C. D. Elliott, who is assisted by a corps of twelve teachers, than whom none .more compe- tent, in the various departments over which they preside, can be found. This number does not include instructors in some of the ornamental branches. In all, the Academy employs more than thirty teachers.
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