USA > Vermont > Addison County > Bristol > History of Bristol, Vermont, 1762-1959, 2nd ed. > Part 6
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In the late 1890's Dr. Francis Briggs, a graduate of Bowdoin College and Baltimore Medical College settled in Bristol. He was aD skilled surgeon as well as a physician and built up a large practice. ve Dr. Briggs was a great lover of music and had a fine tenor voice which was available for his friends' service and for social functions in the m town at all times. He was a member of the Bristol Military Band for ti many years. He also served the town in a political capacity as rep- resentative to the legislature. Ill with diabetes for five years he refused
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based to consider his own health and attended his patients until within three weeks of his death which occured in June, 1924.
Dr. Harold Williamson was born in Huntington, Vermont and at- tended the University of Vermont where he graduated from the Medical College. He established himself as a physician in Bristol in 1906. He also served the town ably as a member of the school board, as health officer and as town representative and county senator. For several years before his death in 1953, he was the President of the First Nation- al Bank of Bristol.
Dr. Max Thompson, a graduate of the University of Vermont Med- ical College came to Bristol in the early 1920's where he remained for about three years, at the end of which time he settled in Rutland. Although here only for a short time Dr. Thompson built up a good sized practice and became quite popular.
Dr. Edward Lane came to Bristol in 1924 from North Ferrisburg where he had practiced for a number of years, establishing a practice treets he maintained here until the time of his death in March, 1939. Quiet moving and unassuming in his manner he made many friends and built up anding a large practice for himself.
Dr. Charles S. Paine, born and brought up in Randolph, graduated from the University of Vermont College of Medicine in 1932 and set- tled in Bristol in October, 1933 where he soon built up a large practice and made many friends. He was especially interested in music and when possible sang in the Baptist Church choir and played in the Bristol Band. He died suddenly in December, 1952.
Dr. A. Harry Roller, a native of Jersey City, who graduated from the University of Vermont Medical College in 1935, established him- self in Bristol in the summer of 1939 and very soon built up a sizable practice. He died suddenly in February, 1948.
In 1947, Dr. Harold E. Williamson took over the office used by his father, Dr. Harold Williamson, for so many years. A graduate of the University of Vermont College of Medicine, he had seen several years of service in the U. S. Navy. He was chosen to go on the Antarctic Expedition, "Operation High Jump" and served as Senior Medical Officer, Flight Surgeon, on the U. S. S. Pine Island. He left Norfolk, Va. in December 1946 and returned to San Francisco in December 1947. He not only has a large practice but serves the town as the Public Health Officer.
Dr. Charles K. Johnson came to Bristol about 1946. He is a professor emeritus of pediatrics at the University of Vermont Medical College. He was the first certified pediatrician in Vermont and continued his practice in Bristol until his health failed in 1958.
Dr. Lindsay Robinson, a graduate of Toronto Medical College, came to Bristol in 1952. He proved to be a very efficient doctor but his poor health finally forced him to give up his practice here.
owdo was whic in the In 1909 two dentists began the practice of their profession in Bristol. Dr. R. J. Bristol, who was born in the town, graduated from the Uni- actice versity of Pennsylvania Dental College and returned to practice in his na- tive town. Dr. Watson Morgan, a native of Lincoln, graduated from Balti- more Dental College and began his practice here at about the same nd for time. Both men built up large practices and were always willing sup- s rep porters of any moves for civic betterment. In 1924 Dr. Morgan's efuss office and equipment were burned and he moved to Burlington to prac-
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gan in edicine, e have en, Dr. know e time, ermont 884-86. se ever Henry "Acres
tice. Because of poor health, Dr. Bristol retired from his office in 1946 and died in 1955.
Dr. William Cardell, a native of Bristol, graduated from New York University Dental School and opened an office here in 1946. Since that date he has been the only dentist in town.
Homes
Gaige-Moor - On North Street next to the Bristol Inn stands the large white house, once used as a Community House, but now the home of Mr. James Tomasi and his family. Through an arrangement in 1939 with Mr. Kenneth Ives and the town of Bristol, this home was used as a meeting place for both the Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts, the Outlook Club, and other organizations. A special committee was in charge of the property. But when after a short time the heating and other expenses proved to be too high, the place reverted to its owners and was soon sold. Mr. Tomasi has modernized it but has kept the beautiful lines of the original.
This lovely house, one of the early homes in Bristol, was built by Abram Gaige, who also helped to build the Bristol Inn in 1817. Mr. Gaige, as the story goes, was always singing. A verse from a poem in the Bristol Herald follows:
"Jack of all Trades was his title of rank,
And man about town his degree,
But the virtue in which he excelled other men-
His tune sung in buoyant glee.
Whether hammering nails while building Gaige-Moor
Or laying hearth-stones at the Inn,
His voice could be heard in rare melody Above the racket and din."
Susan, daughter of Abram Gaige, married a man named Moor, and Abram Moor was born at Gaige-Moor. His daughter, Rose Moor Ives, and two sons spent some time in Bristol, living in the old home- stead. To the memory of her father, Mrs. Ives has erected a sun dial in Greenwood Cemetery. Carved upon the brass dial are these words:
"Let others tell of storms and showers ;
I only mark your sunny hours."
The Bosworth Homestead - One of the charms of our New England villages has always been "the green," surrounded by its fine old houses and its white churches with their steeples pointing to the sky. Visitors to Bristol notice especially the dignified old house facing the park and bearing over its door the Latin motto: "Animus valet" - "All is well with the soul." Serene it stands behind its interesting wooden fence, as it has stood for so many years.
The Bosworth family, who occupied it so long, has long been prom- inent in Bristol and for many years owned the Bristol Manufacturing Company. A member of the family still owns the house. David Bosworth, Sr., was known as Elder Bosworth and was an Adventist.
It is interesting to note that the first Quarterly Conference of the Methodist Church was held in the Bosworth barn, since at that time the Methodists had no local church building. The weathervane now on the barn was formerly on the Baptist Church before it was remodeled in 1925.
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Bristol "Vermont
Bristol Common
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There were many log houses in town but perhaps the barn built soon after 1800 might have been the first frame building. The two big front parlors and the upstairs bedrooms with the hallways and staircase were added at a later date. The columned front porch was built at the same time. The present fireplace in the living room was
19 designed by Miss Helen Bosworth and was built about 1923 on the foundations of the ancient fireplace "with its stack of chimneys, its ovens, hanging crane, and various utensils used for all cooking and heating of house."
The former carriage house was converted into a studio for the use of Miss Grace Bosworth. The house is filled with many proofs of her
h artistic talents; the lovely oil paintings, the hand-painted china, and the murals in the dining room are among the most noteworthy. The house is also full of many antiques, whose family history has been written by Miss Helen Bosworth. The beautiful sketches are by her sister.
Near the studio is the charming and unusual garden designed by Madame Caroline Bosworth who was born November 1, 1840, and lived in this house for many years. The garden was fashioned into thirteen beds to represent the thirteen original colonies, with each bed en- circled by stone borders. Of historical interest is the peony bed whose original roots are said to have been brought from China by an ancestor who was a sea captain.
Much more might be said about this house. All in all, the Bos- worth homestead is of great historical interest, not only the house itself, but the fascinating and unusual furnishings and works of art with which it is filled.
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Lodges and Societies
Outlook Club - On the afternoon of June 19, 1900 a small group of eleven women met and organized a club, known for some time as the Literary Club. Later, when the Constitution was adopted, it was changed to the Outlook Club of Bristol, and has remained as such for six decades. The membership was limited to twenty-five with dues 25 cents annually.
For years the club had a miscellaneous program. It studied foreign countries, people and customs, the United States and Vermont. Mem- bers derived much pleasure and profit from the Bay View Course of Reading which continued for years. The social affairs of the Club were outstanding, as everyone was untiring in their efforts to make each occasion a success.
The Club has sponsored many worthwhile projects for village improvement thereby becoming an organized factor for the promo- tion of these things which make for betterment.
D ac T
The Club joined the State Federation of Women's Clubs in 1912. This broadened its view and increased its activities. It has, through the Federation Extension, secured many fine speakers. The State Federation meetings are a source of inspiration to those who attend, and the visits of Federation Presidents have kept members in touch with the great work and given an incentive to move forward with a renewed zeal.
The club joined the General Federation in 1936. Its membership is limited now to sixty members, but the club hopes soon to increase that number .
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The future looks bright for the Outlook Club.
Country Club - In 1929 a small group of people organized for the s and purpose of securing a Golf Course and club house. A farm was pur- h was chased north of the village. The Clubhouse was opened October 1st, m wa 1930. The Country Club proved to be a big asset for Bristol for several ys, its g and on the years. However after a short time, due to the expensive upkeep, the Club was obligated to discontinue its activities and the house and golf course were sold.
Home Demonstration Club - A very active Home Demonstration Club has been meeting in Bristol for several years. The meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month in the homes of one of the members where a noon lunch is served. Many interesting subjects are discussed such as nutrition, home management, decoration, etc.
Grange - The first Grange was started soon after 1900. At first they held their meetings in the I. O. O. F. Hall. After a few years they purchased their own hall on Garfield Street. There were many interesting meetings with good attendance at first, but after a few years they surrendered their Charter. On June 9th, 1941, Henry A. Stoddard, Master of Vermont State Grange, organized Bristol Valley Grange #543 with thirty charter members. This grange is still active today.
Rotary Club - The Bristol Rotary Club was organized on March e Bos- 17, 1951. Meetings are held on Monday nights. They have shown their itself which interest and helped financially in many town and school projects. They sponsor the Boy Scouts. The grounds around the Lord's Prayer Rock have been greatly improved, and tables and fire places built by mem- bers of the Rotary Club.
P. T. A. - A Parent Teachers Association was organized in Bristol on October 21, 1919 with the following elected officers, President Mrs. group Lena Denio, Vice President, Mrs. E. W. Gould, Secretary, Miss Alta Cooley. The P. T. A. has continued an active part in raising the stand- ards of our schools and curriculum and in the betterment of mental and physical health and well being of our youth and community since that date. The P. T. A. was the first to sponsor school lunches and clinics for pre-school children.
In 1959 the officers are: President, Mr. Neil Frink; Vice President, Mrs. Francis Baslow; Sec., Mrs. Paul Jette; Treas., Mr. Graham Palmer. Masons - Libanus Lodge No. 71 F. & A. M. was consecrated Decem- ber 13, 1826, by the Grand Lodge of the State of Vermont.
The first petition for membership in this Lodge was received from Daniel Collins and he was elected to membership on January 10, 1827.
According to Grand Lodge proceedings, Libanus Lodge No. 71 was active in their records for the years 1827-28-29-30, and again in 1833. There is no record of activity in 1831 and 1832. The last meeting of Libanus Lodge No. 71 was held September 8, 1829. Due to the Anti-Masonic Era, the Lodge surrended its charter along with many other Lodges.
In September of 1858 several of the Freemasons of Bristol met d with and appointed H. Munsill to secure a dispensation under which they might meet until the next meeting of the Grand Lodge of Vermont. The dispensation was secured and the first meeting was held October 11, 1858. At this time, it was voted to meet the second Monday of each month at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon. The charter was granted
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January 13, 1859 by the Grand Lodge in session. On February 14, 1859 Libanus Lodge No. 47 was instituted.
In the year ending December 27, 1859 an all-time record of degrees were worked consisting of thirty-three (33) Entered Apprentice, thirty-two (32) Fellow Craft and thirty (30) Master Masons making a total of ninety-five (95) for the twelve months period or an average of eight (8) per month.
On May 13, 1861, the Lodge voted $65 to be expended to buy land for the use of building a lodge room. In the ensuing months the build- ing was erected on a site, the location of which is not positively known, but somewhere on the north side of Main Street. In January of 1872 the building was destroyed by fire. Meetings were held in the Dunshee block until another hall was built by the Masons which was finished for use about March 10, 1873. This new hall was dedicated by the Grand Lodge of Vermont on November 11, 1873. This hall was located on the third floor of the block owned by Mrs. D. A. Bisbee. The last meeting was held here October 24, 1898 due to a fire on October 26, 1898 which destroyed it along with several other buildings. Masonic meetings were then held for a time in the I. O. O. F. hall in the Hatch block and they used it until February, 1899.
After this, meetings were held in a new hall which had been built by Brother E. J. Bristol and Brother George A. Danforth. This hall was on the second story, and the first meeting was held on March 13, 1899. On March 1, 1909 the Lodge moved to rooms in the Dike Block on the north side of Main Street.
On February 6, 1922 Libanus Lodge bought the lots between the Farr block and Noah Lathrop block on the south side of Main Street but finally sold them, deciding the cost of building a hall here would be too much of a financial burden.
In August, 1948 Libanus Lodge bought the Congregational Church for their lodge room. There is a membership of 195 at this writing in April, 1959.
Order of Eastern Star - The Order of Eastern Star was installed in May, 1901 with forty seven charter members. There were 102 mem- bers in 1940.
At the rewriting of this history, Mrs. Minnie Smith, now residing in Rutland, Vermont is the only surviving charter member. There is a membership in this year 1959 of 123. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday evening of each month, except June, July and August, in the Masonic hall.
I. O. O. F. - Bristol Lodge No. 36 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows was instituted at Bristol, Vermont, July 8, 1898 with twenty-six Charter members. Within a few years the membership had increased to one hundred forty five.
The Lodge was so progressive that in the early part of the 1900's an Encampment was instituted taking in a great number of the sub- ordinate branch. In 1915 the members helped organize and institute other encampments in the district.
In 1916 a Canton was instituted which is the military branch of the order. Canton members were as active as the other branches, con- tributing to the community by participating in the Memorial and In- dependence Day Celebrations. They were always a gala unit with their uniforms and plumes.
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Split Rocks
Bristol, Vermont
Split Rock - 8 ft. 4 in. Clearance
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Both Encampment and Canton have surrendered their charters however and members remaining joined with either Murna Encamp- ment at Vergennes or Dunmore Encampment at Middlebury and Cantone Lafayette at Burlington.
The Odd Fellows Hall located on the top floor of the Hatch Block was purchased from R. F. Hatch, December 15, 1924.
Bristol Lodge members have always had a true community spirit, working always for the betterment of the community, sponsoring and lending whatever help possible to other local activities.
Onawa Rebekah Lodge - In the year 1900 on the 30th of October a charter was granted to Onawa Rebekah Lodge No. 43 and the Lodge was instituted on that date. Members names appear on the charter as follows :
R. F. Hatch
Bertha Stewart
Mrs. Frances Hatch
P. J. Bristol
F. T. Briggs
Mrs. P. J. Bristol
se
Mrs. Mable Briggs
N. D. Bissonet
Carrie E. Patterson E. N. Dike
At this meeting Grand Lodge Officers were present and conferred the the degree on twenty nine candidates after which officers were elected for an the following year. Mrs. Hatch was elected Noble Grand and Alice le Sumner, Vice Grand.
In the years that followed the membership increased rapidly. an Much of this prosperity was due to the cooperation and enthusiasm th shown by the members.
The records show that in 1902 Mr. Hatch gave the use of the be hall to the Lodge for the two years previous so that they might start the third year free from debt.
During the years that followed Mr. and Mrs. Hatch found many opportunities to be of help to the Order in which they were interested. Mr. Hatch was Degree Master for many years.
The first District meeting to be held in Bristol was in 1905. Mrs. Alice Sumner Sherwin was the District Deputy President.
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A Tri Theta Rho Girls Club was instituted May 5, 1951 with fifteen Charter Members. This was the third club to be instituted in the State. Its purpose is to teach unselfishness and patriotism, to encourage mental and physical development, and that obedience to the law is st necessary to the preservation of government and the protection of home and country. This club is affiliated with the Onawa Rebekah Lodge.
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Interesting Spots
Lord's Prayer Rock - When Joseph C. Greene was a boy and lived lit at South Starksboro, one of his tasks was to take the logs from the mountain top to the sawmill in Bristol. The Nine Bridge Road, or
be Drake Woods Road, in those days was a terrific ride. Not only were there nine bridges to cross, but the logs were big and apt to slide off. M When he arrived at the "Big Rock," he knew his problems were over, ac so he said a little prayer, and breathed a sigh of relief knowing hecho would once more get his logs to the mill safely.
Years later, when he was a practicing physician in Buffalo, New of York, he and his brother Dr. S. S. Greene, took a trip around the world, an and after seeing the hieroglyphics in Egypt, he decided to come home sn
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hartersand have the Lord's Prayer chiseled on the rock that had given him atcamp peace of mind and a feeling of security when he was a boy so many Cantorarears ago.
This was told by his daughter, Mrs. Julia Greene Willard (Mrs. Frederick B.) of Buffalo, New York to his granddaughter Juliet Greene Villard.
Money Diggings - The story of the buried treasure at the foot of the South Mountain in Bristol starts about 1800 when an old Spaniard, hamed DeGrau, appeared in Bristol. Having procured the necessary supplies he took up his residence near the foot of South Mountain where he began digging among the rocks. At first he refused to ac- count for himself, but when forced he claimed that as a small boy le accompanied his father and a group of other people to this same spot where they mined a quantity of silver bars. When winter came they had to leave but had no way of transporting the silver so they secreted it in a nearby cave which they closed up with stones and clay. They were to return the next year but events occurred which prevent- ed their ever returning. They were now all dead except DeGrau and red thehe had come to claim the treasure. His story seemed accurate in detail ted forand he spent some time digging, but he finally became discouraged and d Aliceleft, saying that he must have been mistaken in the location.
A few years later an odd looking vessel was found near this spot rapidly and some people thought that it might have belonged to the party usiasmaschat DeGrau told about. From that time on various parties started ligging there, one group would give up discouraged and another would of thebegin. About 1840 a group of a dozen men came from the Canadian t star Border and began to work with system and diligence. They formed a stock company, inviting the public to join them. Every dollar that . many rested . Mrs a person invested in the company entitled him to $100 worth of the treasure, when it was found. The leading spirit of the enterprise was a man named Simeon Corser, who, being a salesman of great ability, talked many people into buying stock. This group worked 12 years on the project and spent $10,000 tunnelling in the rock but finally gave it up as hopeless. In 1860 Corser came back but gave up after two fifteen months digging.
To Franklin Harvey who died in 1893 that was the end of the story, but that people are still gullible regarding buried treasure is shown by fact that in 1934 a man from the nearby town of New Haven went to the same spot, where he began digging and dynamiting until little remains of the original cave and the excavations made by the party who started digging there in 1840. This man did not go to conjurors for advice, as did the early seekers, but used a "divining rod" which he believed would find the treasure for him. This man's luck was the same as that of all the previous searchers and there is little doubt that DeGrau was mistaken in his site, for silver has never been found in this vicinity.
Rattlesnake Den - Near the center of the west side of South Mountain, not far above the "Money Diggings," is an area of several acres of what appears from a distance to be smooth, naked rock but on closer inspection proves to be a mass of broken stones piled promis- cuously upon one another as if heaped by some giant hand. This heap New of stones can be seen from Bristol Flats and other places in Bristol world and adjoining towns. In early days it was thickly infested with rattle- home snakes and consequently has always borne the name of "Rattlesnake
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In the early days people in Bristol and adjoining towns mad a practice of hunting the snakes early in the spring when they firs came out of their dens to curl themselves upon the warm rocks il the warm rays of the sun. At this season they are very sluggish an are easily captured. It was not uncommon for a hundred or mor to be killed in a day. A letter from John Stewart of Royalton, Ohio, sol of Samuel Stewart, one of the very first settlers in Bristol, state that his father with Captain Cyprian Eastman, Captain Gurdon Mun sill and a few others whose names he had forgotten once went to the den in the spring of the year and killed 180 snakes. They were piled up like a cock of hay after they were killed and left there as at tha time no use was made of their skins.
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