Chronicles of Baltimore - Part 15



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1837. On the 12th of May, the banks of this city, following those of 
Philadelphia and New York, suspended specie payments. The interruption of 
specie payments during these disastrous years, gave opportunities for all 
sorts of speculations and inventions for the supply of what could or would 
pass among the people for money. This was the reign of foul rags, coarsely 
called "shin-plasters," which were as plentiful and as troublesome as the 
frogs in Egypt. The speculative inventors palmed them on the credulous 
public, and, of course, failing, inflicted serious losses on the 
community. "Orders" for money were issued also by the corporation of 
Baltimore and by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, and for a long 
time furnished the only reliable fractional currency during the specie 
suspension. But through all these perilous times, Baltimore sustained 
herself bravely and successfully, improving the city, and doing a fair 
share of general business, and, while other cities reeled before the 
storm, passed through it without serious calamity.

George Peabody, of Baltimore, was appointed by the Governor and 
Legislature of Maryland a commissioner to negociate the eight million 
loan, in the place of Samuel Jones, Jr., who declined to accept.

By far the most extensive and destructive calamity with which the city of 
Baltimore has ever been visited up to this time, was ex-

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on Wednesday night, July 14th. The heavy showers of rain which descended 
on that night caused a sudden rise of the waters of Jones Falls, tearing 
up the mill-dams and wooden bridges which cross the upper part of that 
stream, and bringing them down against the stone bridges within the city 
limits. That at Gay street had a single arch, that at Baltimore street had 
two arches, and that at Pratt street three arches. The last named was the 
first to become obstructed by the descending timbers, and that at 
Baltimore street was soon after in the same condition. The bridge at Gay 
street apparently passed all the smaller fragments, until the new wooden 
bridge at Centre street was swept bodily from its abutments and lodged 
against it. These obstructions forced the waters into new channels, and 
consequently rendered the destruction of property greater in the vicinity 
of the bridges. The first bridge of any consequence over the Falls was 
about two miles from the city, where the road crosses that stream, at the 
first turnpike gate. The gate-keeper, roused by the noise of the waters, 
left his house with his family, and immediately awakened the occupants of 
three frame-dwellings adjoining his own. He had scarcely succeeded in 
getting all the families out before the bridge was swept off, carrying 
with it the four dwellings. At the Lanvill cotton factory much damage was 
done by the rise of the water, and the mill-dam swept away. The dam at 
Belvedere bridge, which supplied the reservoirs of the Water Company, was 
carried away, but the bridge remained uninjured. The small mill at Madison 
street and several small tenements adjoining were immersed, but little 
damage was sustained. Adjoining them was the extensive mail coach factory 
of Messrs. Stockton and Stokes; the extensive tannery of Mr. George Appold 
was inundated, but sustained little injury. The abutments on each side of 
the Madison Street bridge were so much damaged that it was not considered 
safe to cross it. More or less damage was done to all the property binding 
on the Falls, by having the fences and out-houses carried away. At Centre 
street the large wooden bridge recently erected was swept off entire. The 
torrent here left its accustomed bed, and coming down in a direct line 
over the wall which ordinarily confined it, forced its way through some 
small tenements on the north side of Centre street, and thence directly 
across the street into the extensive distillery premises of Messrs. J. C. 
White and Sons. Considerable damage was done to the works, and some of the 
numerous buildings were prostrated; but the greatest loss was in the live-
stock--no less than thirty to forty valuable horses and fifty to sixty 
cows having been drowned. The waters rose to the floors of the second 
stories, and in the Falls the flood was here about twenty feet above its 
bed. At the intersection of Centre and North streets, a small wooden house 
standing by itself was swept away. The inmates, an elderly Irishman and 
his wife, were both drowned.

The water from Centre street spread over the low grounds as

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far west as Calvert street, inundating all that part of the city formerly 
known as the Meadow, and doing an immense deal of damage. The new 
Universalist Church at the corner of Calvert and Pleasant streets had a 
foot or two of water in its basement story. The City Spring was inundated 
about a foot above the paved footways within the enclosure; as were also 
the dwellings, &c., in the neighborhood. In the gas-house the water was 
about six feet. The African Protestant Episcopal Church at the corner of 
North and Saratoga streets had about five feet of water above the floor. 
The City Hall was visited with water in the offices on the first floor. 
The Presbyterian Church at the corner of Holliday and Saratoga streets was 
materially damaged in the interior. The water rose to the cushion on the 
pulpit desk, and a part of the pews were removed from their places. The 
sexton of the church, a German named John Wiest, lived in a small house 
adjoining it. The whole family, consisting of Wiest, his wife and three 
children, were asleep in a lower back apartment, and, sad to relate, were 
all drowned. The water rose to the ceiling of the room. The extensive soap 
and candle factories in this quarter, conducted respectively by Messrs. 
Francis Hyde & Son, Samuel G. Hyde, and T. N. Smith & Co., suffered 
extensive damage, as well from the derangement of their works as by the 
loss in raw material and finished stock. The Falls in the rear of the 
factory of the latter was about sixteen feet above the ordinary level. 
Bath street was under water from Calvert street to the Falls. The bridge 
at this point was carried away, and the banks on both sides swept. In Bath 
street near Holliday, a large mass of lumber, &c., collected, which caused 
the water to sweep away the fronts of the houses adjacent. At the corner 
of Bath and North streets the water was six or seven feet high. The bridge 
at Pleasant street was carried away.

Along Saratoga street, east of Holliday, the premises on the north side 
running back to the Falls were greatly damaged by the flood. The waters 
here were about ten feet high, and sought a channel towards Gay street, 
running with great velocity into Harrison and Frederick streets, and 
tearing the pavements into deep gullies. The occupants of houses in the 
vicinity of Gay street bridge were severe sufferers. Many of them had the 
goods in their stores totally ruined. The house of Mr. Roche, adjoining 
the bridge, was nearly demolished by the flood and floating timber. The 
water swept over the bridge. In Harrison street the water was about eight 
feet deep, and swept along with resistless fury. In Baltimore-street the 
water extended nearly to the bridge on the east, and above Frederick 
street on the west, filling the cellars and inundating the stores. An 
immense quantity of timber and fragments of bridges which came down the 
stream collected at Baltimore street bridge, and so choked up the arches 
that the water rose to within a few feet of the pavement. About four 
o'clock the accumulation became so great that the structure was

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unable to resist the tremendous pressure against it, and a portion of the 
upper side of the centre pier gave way and fell in to the distance of six 
or eight feet from the edge, carrying away the whole of the stone parapet 
and iron railing. The foot, bridge leading from the Bazaar in Harrison 
street across the Falls to Front street was swept away in the early part 
of the freshet. The timber, planks, &c., which were carried down the 
current of Harrison street made a lodgment in large quantities against the 
railing of the Centre Fountain, and finally tore a portion of the railing 
and overturned the marble fountain from which the springwater flowed. On 
both sides of Market Space all the stores were filled with water, and 
large quantities of merchandise injured. In many of the stores the water 
reached the ceilings, destroying completely every article in them. The 
foot-bridge leading across the Falls from the fish market was carried 
away. In Concord street the water was eight feet deep. On the Falls avenue 
the water stood about four feet deep. Between Water and Pratt streets a 
number of carts and drays and some lumber were swept away. The stone 
bridge at Pratt street being below all the wooden structures which were 
carried away, and being composed of three arches, intercepted everything 
brought down by the current, until an immense mass, consisting of 
fragments of mill-dams, bridges, fences, sheds, &c., was piled up against 
it. Like the stone bridge above, it could not resist the immense pressure, 
and nearly one-half of the structure gave way and fell.

On the eastern side of the Falls, directly on the banks, various out-
houses, &c., were carried away; and in the vicinity of Gay street bridge, 
the tannery of Wm. Miller was swept clean. A number of instances of 
providential escapes are related, which we have not space to insert. One 
of them, however, was the case of a boy five years of age who was 
discovered floating on a bed, and was rescued from the flood in North 
street; he was supposed to be the only survivor of a family who occupied a 
house that was entirely carried away. Another instance was that of a young 
man who was sleeping soundly in the basement under Washington Hall. He was 
awakened by the friendly paw of a faithful dog, when his bed was nearly 
afloat, the sudden rising of the flood leaving scarcely a minute of time 
for his escape from a watery grave. About two miles up the Falls, a family 
who had just finished a shanty for their residence were warned of their 
danger by kind neighbors, but they told their advisers to "mind their own 
business, that they would look out for themselves," and in a few moments 
afterwards the shanty with its inmates were carried off by the current, 
and it is supposed they were all drowned. A boy of twelve or fourteen 
years of age had fallen from the drift which clogged Baltimore street 
bridge, into the swollen and whirling current of the river, and being 
unable to swim was passing rapidly and helpless down the stream, only the 
top of his head above water, and had once entirely disappeared,

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when two young men bravely dashed into the stream, and just as the 
drowning youth was about to be drawn under the drift or lumber, &c., which 
clogged in like manner the bridge below on Pratt street, he was snatched, 
exhausted and almost lifeless, from death and restored to his family. The 
following persons lost their lives by the freshet as well as we can 
ascertain, viz: Christopher Wiest, wife and three children, Saratoga 
street; -- Dougherty, corner Concord and Water streets; Catharine 
Donnelly, Pratt street; James Doyle, Long Wharf; Jacob Ockley, Falls road; 
a woman and daughter, names unknown; James Kelly, Henry Linehan, Mr. 
Donnelly and five persons on the Falls road, names unknown.

On the 29th of June, the City Council of Baltimore passed an ordinance 
authorizing the issue of certificates for small sums to the amount of $350,
000. This in addition to the amount of $100,000, heretofore put in 
circulation. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company also commenced the 
issue of change notes on the 20th of June.

John McDonogh, of New Orleans, by letter under date of June 22d, sends his 
check for $500 to the relief of the sufferers by the late flood.

On the 1st of August, 1818, and the 29th of August, 1837, the city 
purchased the ground now known as the "Eastern Spring," for the sum of $15,
000; the improvements cost $11,651.29.

1838. On the 5th of February, articles of union were agreed upon and 
executed between the Wilmington and Susquehanna Railroad Company, the 
Baltimore and Port Deposit Railroad Company, and the Philadelphia, 
Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad Company--the three roads extending from 
Philadelphia to Baltimore--by which they became one corporation, under the 
name of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad Company.

The British steam packet City of Kingston left this port at noon on 
Sunday, May 20th, for London direct under the command of Captain Crane. 
The City of Kingston was sent out originally to the West Indies, and plied 
some time as a mail and passenger packet between Jamaica and Barbadoes, 
but the business having proved unprofitable to the owners in London, she 
was ordered back to that port. The City of Kingston was brig-rigged, and 
carried three hundred tons of coal, and was the first steam vessel from 
Baltimore to Europe direct.

On Tuesday evening, May 23d, a dark cloud passed over the city from the 
west, attended by a copious shower of rain and a gust of wind. The latter 
was so violent as to prostrate chimneys and unroof houses in various 
portions of the city. Nearly the whole roof of Christ Church, corner of 
Fayette and Gay streets, was blown off and torn to pieces, as were also 
the roofs of the warehouses of Messrs. Joseph Robinson, Thomas Palmer & 
Co., C. W. Spilcker, Walter Crook, Jr., E. Jenkins & Sons, Jos. Taylor

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& Son, Isaac Reynolds, and the roofs of four warehouses in Eutaw street, 
belonging to Jacob Albert & Co., and the roof of the upper reservoir of 
the gas company on Liberty street. The Hollins street market house was 
blown down. Part of the roofs of the Baltimore Museum and the Eutaw House 
were blown off, and a portion of the wall of the Front Street Theatre, and 
many houses were blown down.

Died on the 9th of June, in the 72d year of his age, Thomas W. Griffith, 
Esq. Mr. Griffith had for many years been a highly respectable magistrate, 
first for the county and afterwards for the city of Baltimore. In 
discharging his duty as such, it is saying no more than truth to award him 
the praise of having uniformly followed, and that too with a zeal as 
intelligent as it was commendable, the path of rectitude. Upon his fellow-
citizens, both at home and abroad, he has other claims, having dedicated 
the leisure that was left him from the distracting calls of his public 
office, to the production of two books, by both of which the present 
generation is benefitted, and the future historian or annalist will find 
himself assisted. His "History of Maryland," and his "Annals of Baltimore" 
are meant. These productions were the fruit of an active mind abhorring 
indolence. Mr. G. was early in life appointed Consul to Havre by General 
Washington.

Between four and five o'clock on the morning of the 3d of February, the 
whole of the extensive building in Front street, known as the Baltimore 
Theatre and Circus, was entirely enveloped in flames, which burst in great 
fury from every window and door of the vast edifice. Before the fire was 
discovered it appeared to have reached every part of the building, and 
prevented the possibility of saving a single article. The building was 
occupied by the well-known company of Mr. Cooke, whose whole stock, 
fixtures, machinery, wardrobe, decorations and property of his extensive 
company were entirely consumed, including his stud of nearly fifty 
magnificent horses. The fire was supposed to have been the result of 
accident. On the south side, separated by an alley, stood an antiquated 
two-story brick house, known as "Gough's Mansion House," which was owned 
and occupied by Mr. Patrick Murphy as a tavern. This house caught fire and 
was entirely burnt, together with several old back buildings.

Mr. Isaac McKim, a member of the House of Representatives, died in this 
city on Sunday morning, April 1st. His commercial enterprises, were 
eminently successful, and he dispensed his great wealth with the most 
enlightened liberality; and especially in the erection and endowment of 
one of the most beautiful and permanent free schools in this or any other 
country. The public authorities of Baltimore, with a large number of 
senators and representatives and the Citizens generally, paid every 
respect to his memory, and all seemed impressed with the great loss that 
the community sustained by his death.

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The Convent of the Visitation, with the academy under its direction, was 
founded in November, 1838. Eleven sisters were transferred from the 
convent of Georgetown for the purpose of commencing the new establishment, 
and took possession of a house on the corner of Green and Mulberry 
streets. An extensive lot was shortly after procured on the corner of Park 
and Centre streets.

1839. On the 16th of December, a meeting of gentlemen desirous to 
establish, if possible, a manual labor school in the vicinity of 
Baltimore, was held in the First Baptist Church, at the corner of Sharp 
and Lombard streets. On motion of Mr. George W. Norris, Dr. Dunbar was 
called to the chair, and John L. Carey appointed secretary. Mr. Winston, 
Superintendent of the Boston Farm School, was present, and made a full and 
very interesting statement in regard to the establishment, history and 
results of the institution under his charge. The meeting was also 
addressed by C. Gilman.

The Mercantile Library Association was established on the 14th of 
November, with the following officers: J. Morrison Harris, President; 
George L. Wight, Vice-President; Geo. R. W. Allnutt, Secretary; F. 
Dunnington, Treasurer. Directors--Wm. M. Latimer, John S. Sumner, Josiah 
N. Jones, Henry J. Rogers, Laurence Thomsen, Wm. A. Dunnington, George 
Cliffe, O. B. Wight, John R. Davis, Librarian.

Gen. Samuel Smith, one of the most distinguished soldiers of the 
Revolution, died in this city on Monday afternoon, the 22d of April, 1839, 
in the 87th year of his age. He had been riding in his carriage, and on 
his return to his dwelling, lay upon the sofa with the view of resting 
himself, and when the servant who had been attending him entered the 
apartment a short time afterwards he was found dead. His career was 
glorious and useful, and he died full of years and honors. General Smith 
was born in Carlisle, on the 27th of July, 1752. His father being a 
merchant, he was destined for the same profession, and in early life 
(about 19) was sent to England to be educated in a counting-house; but not 
satisfied with the restraint imposed upon the clerks in the house in which 
he lived, he freighted the vessel in which he went out and sailed for a 
port in Italy. The vessel being cast away on that coast, he travelled over 
most of the Continent, and returned to the United States in the same 
vessel with the accomplished but unfortunate André. Gen. Smith, then a 
very young man, was solicited by the Committee of Safety of Baltimore to 
command a company sent by water to Annapolis to arrest or capture the 
Provincial Governor Eden. The Governor made his escape. Smith engaged in 
the Revolutionary struggle, and at its commencement entered the service as 
a captain in Colonel Smallwood's regiment. He was in the battles of 
Brandywine, Monmouth, White Plains, and Long Island, and his company 
covered the retreat of the army through the Jerseys. He commanded at Mud 
Fort, or Fort Mifflin, at the

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mouth of the Schuylkill, where such a gallant and desperate defence was 
made against the British fleet, resulting in the blowing up of two 
frigates. In this engagement he was disabled by a spent ball, which gave a 
shock to his frame from which he did not soon recover After the close of 
the Revolutionary struggle he entered actively into commercial pursuits, 
and may be said to have been the founder of the commerce of the city, and 
was the mainstay of the commercial interests of the whole country in 
Congress for forty years.

When Mr. Jefferson came into the Presidency he pressed Gen. Smith to 
accept the office of Secretary of the Navy, which he declined, consenting, 
however, to act in that capacity until some suitable person could be 
selected to fill it permanently. He served as Secretary for six months or 
more, but would not receive any compensation for his services. He 
generally while in Congress filled some high station, being chairman of 
the Committee of Ways and Means in the House, and of that of Finance in 
the Senate. When Baltimore was threatened with foreign invasion he 
accepted the command of the defending army, and pledged his own private 
fortune and that of a friend who went before him to his great account. 
During the whole term of his command here neither he nor his staff 
received any pay. His first term of service in Congress commenced in 1793, 
and he continued in the House or Senate till the 4th of March, 1833. 
Congress voted and presented him a sword for his gallant defence of the 
Mud Fort. His last public service was in the capacity of Mayor of this 
city.

On the 25th the funeral obsequies took place. The procession left the 
dwelling of the deceased in Exchange Place at the appointed hour (half-
past four), and moved up Gay to Baltimore street, the cavalry in front, 
followed by the infantry regiments and companies of artillery. In 
compliance with the invitations which had been sent to them by the 
municipal authorities, the President of the United States and heads of 
departments at Washington, his Excellency the Governor of Maryland, and 
other distinguished personages were in attendance, the President riding in 
an open barouche, accompanied by his Excellency Governor Grason, the Mayor 
of the city, and the Hon. Mr. Forsyth, Secretary of State of the United 
States. A second barouche followed, in which were seated the Hon. Levi 
Woodbury, Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, the Hon. J. R. 
Poinsett, Secretary of the Navy, and the Hon. Felix Grundy, Attorney-
General of the United States. The hearse containing the body was drawn by 
four white horses, and flanked on either side by mounted dragoons. It was 
followed by a long train of carriages containing the pall-bearers, the 
committee of arrangements of the City Council, the Cincinnati Society, and 
others. Following them were the City Guard of Baltimore without arms, 
after whom came members of the City Council, the officers of the 
corporation, the judges of the courts and

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members of the bar, the professors of the University of Maryland officers 
of the army and navy, officers of the customs, members of Congress, and 
members of the State Legislature, consuls and others. On entering 
Baltimore street that portion of the procession which had started from the 
late residence of the deceased was joined by the fire department, dressed 
in the uniform of their respective companies, the line being swelled as it 
proceeded westward by the addition of crowds of private citizens. During 
the ceremonies the bells of the churches were tolled, minute-guns were 
fired, and the flags of the shipping in the harbor and on the public 
edifices were displayed at half-mast throughout the day, as they had been 
the day preceding.

On Saturday, July 13th, Greenmount Cemetery was dedicated in the presence 
of the Mayor, the members of the City Council and a vast concourse of 
persons. At the appointed hour the ceremonies commenced with the 
performance of a beautiful and appropriate chorale, from the oratorio of 
St. Paul, beginning "Sleepers awake! a voice is calling," by the musical 
association, accompanied by a full orchestra. So soon as the sound of the 
music had died away, the Rev. Dr. Wyatt, rector of St. Paul's, arose, and 
whilst the attendant multitude stood uncovered, offered up to the throne 
of the Most High a prayer. The prayer was succeeded by a very beautiful 
hymn composed for the occasion by J. H. B. Latrobe, Esq. At, the 
termination of the hymn, Mr. J. P. Kennedy made an address, in 
commemoration of which it would be difficult to say too much. Mr. Kennedy 
having resumed his seat, a hymn was sung, composed for the occasion by F. 
H. Davidge, Esq. A benediction, pronounced by the Rev. Mr. Hammond, closed 
the impressive ceremonies of the occasion.

Great excitement was occasioned in Baltimore on Sunday the 18th day of 
August, in consequence of the escape of a nun from the Carmelite nunnery 
in Aisquith street, who took refuge in a neighboring house, and was from 
thence conveyed to the hospital department of the Washington Medical 
College, by the Mayor of the city, who had been called upon during the 
excitement occasioned by the event. In consequence of the exaggerated 
rumors which had arisen, it was feared by some that an attempt would be 
made during the night to destroy the nunnery, for a large crowd had 
collected in the afternoon, and there were some indications of a riotous 
spirit. But the Mayor with that promptitude and energy for which he was so 
justly distinguished, called upon the regiment of city guards, which 
promptly repaired to the vicinity of the spot, and held themselves in 
readiness to act on the first emergency. Their presence, and a proper 
disposition of the police, completely overawed all who were disposed for 
mischief, and the night passed away quietly. The following physicians 
afterwards signed a certificate establishing the insanity of the nun (Miss 
Isabella Neale), whose escape occasioned the excitement: J. H. Miller, M. 
D., president

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of the faculty of Washington University of Baltimore, P. Chatard, M. D., 
John C. S. Monkur, M. D., Samuel K. Jennings, M. D., Edward Foreman, M. 
D., and John R. W. Dunbar, M. D.

It having been determined by the military and citizens of Baltimore to 
erect a monument, of appropriate size and material, upon the ground on 
which the battle was fought, in defence of the city on the 12th of 
September, 1814, the twenty-fifth anniversary of the engagement was fixed 
upon as a suitable period for laying the corner-stone of the structure. 
About 9 o'clock the military moved upon Baltimore street, with their right 
resting on Calvert street, where the line of procession was formed, under 
the orders of Maj. Gen. George H. Steuart, chief marshal, the commanding 
and other officers of the third division, Maryland militia, on the right 
of whom were placed the officers and soldiers of the Revolution; officers 
and soldiers wounded at North Point and Fort McHenry; officers and 
soldiers who served in defence of Baltimore; officers of the militia of 
Maryland, in uniform; the Mayor of the city, orator, and officiating 
clergyman; the reverend clergy; the Governor of Maryland; heads of 
departments of State government; Judges of the United States; Judges of 
Maryland; Senators and members of Congress; Senators and delegates of 
Maryland; members of City Council and officers of corporation; strangers 
of distinction; officers of the army and navy; the various military corps 
comprising the first light division with other corps present, and 
citizens. Thus formed and constituted, the procession was put in motion 
about ten o'clock and marched to Fell's Point, and embarked on board the 
steamers Carroll, the Rappahannock, the Alabama, the Relief, the Virginia, 
the Fredericksburg and the Georgia. As the boats passed Fort McHenry, over 
whose walls the stars and stripes floated, the bands struck up the Star-
Spangled Banner, and the welkin rang with cheers. The steamers soon 
entered Bear Creek and reached the landing, and then commenced the 
debarkation of the troops and citizens; this was soon accomplished and all 
repaired to the battle ground. The ceremony of laying the corner-stone was 
finished by some appropriate remarks made by Gen. William McDonald, then 
the oration by Gen. B. C. Howard, and a neat and devout prayer to the 
throne of grace by Rev. Dr. Johns.

On the reception of the news of the suspension of specie payments by the 
Philadelphia banks, the officers of the Baltimore banks met on the 10th of 
October and resolved to adopt the same plan to ward off the danger that 
threatened them by heavy drafts from other cities.

1840. On the 4th of May, the hotels, boarding houses, and many private 
houses of Baltimore were crammed from cellar to roof to accommodate the 
influx of strangers attending the Whig convention. At an early hour the 
people began to gather in the neighborhood of Baltimore street, and a 
moving mass might be seen from the General Wayne Inn down to the bridge 
over Jones

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Falls. At a few minutes after ten o'clock the procession commenced moving 
from the upper part of Baltimore street, led by several barouches, each 
drawn by four white horses, the foremost containing Gen. S. C. Leakin, 
Mayor of the city, Hon. Daniel Webster, and other distinguished 
personages. Then followed the delegations from the different States, 
commencing with the Northern States, each having their appropriate 
banners, trophies, &c. There were several log-cabins, decorated with all 
the fixtures belonging to the mansions of the pioneers of the West--such 
as stags' antlers, beaver traps, &c. Hard cider flowed freely, and hunting-
shirts were everywhere visible. In a short time they all arrived at 
Canton, the place of destination. The first order of meeting, after being 
fully assembled upon the ground, was the formal introduction of 
distinguished men from the different States. After this, it was regularly 
opened by a most eloquent prayer from the Rev. Dr. Bascomb. The assembly 
was then addressed by the Hon. Daniel Webster, Henry Clay, John Sargeant, 
William C. Preston, Henry A. Wise, and other distinguished gentlemen. The 
assembly was one of much show, flying banners, clashing cymbals, restive 
horses, pretty girls, whole-souled politicians, log-cabins, and hard 
cider. Judging from the general appearance the number of persons assembled 
were twenty thousand.

On Monday night, February 10th, the Cathedral was robbed of one pair of 
silver candlesticks, two silver crucifixes, two gold chalices, and a 
"monstrance," or glory of gold and silver.

In May, the "Fourth Provincial Council" of the Catholic Church was held in 
this city.

The steamboat Paul Jones, Capt. McNally, arrived at her wharf on Tuesday 
evening, June 2d, from Havre de Grace, having in tow the canal boats Judge 
Porter, Capt. Glass, of Louisburg; Judge Burnsides, Capt. Kellot, of 
Howard; and Baltimore, Capt. Norton, of Columbia, all of which were fully 
laden with wheat, flour, bacon, &c. These were the first boats which 
arrived here by the completion of the Tide-Water Canal.

The National Democratic Convention met in this city on the 5th of May at 
the Assembly Rooms, and nominated as their candidate for President Martin 
Van Buren; the Vice-President was left to the States.

The ceremony of placing the corner-stone of the "Church of the Ascension" 
devoted to the Protestant Episcopal service, was performed on the evening 
of Monday, June 15th. This church is situated in Lexington near Pine 
street. The ceremony of laying the stone was opened by the Rev. Mr. 
Kepler, followed by Rev. Mr. Peck, and he by Rev. Dr. Henshaw, who 
performed the ceremony of placing the stone. The ceremonies were concluded 
by a hymn, and fervent prayer by Rev. Dr. Johns, the devout and eloquent 
pastor of Christ Church.

On Thursday morning, July 9th, eleven of the prisoners confined

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fined in the jail attempted to make their escape, by removing a portion of 
the brick chimney or fire-places from rooms 1, 2, 3.

In July Miss Fanny Ellsler appeared at the Holliday Street Theatre and 
created great excitement; some of the single seats brought as high as 
$3.50 each, being a premium of $2.50. On one occasion the horses were 
taken from her carriage, and she was drawn to her lodgings by enthusiastic 
young men.

During the year the following banking institutions suspended operations: 
Real Estate Savings Institution, Foreign Domestic Exchange Institution, 
Patapsco, Savings, Mechanics, Baltimore Savings Institution, Central 
Savings and City Trust.

The corner-stone of St. Vincent de Paul's Church was laid with much 
ceremony by Archbishop Eccleston, assisted by other bishops and priests, 
on the 21st of May, and was dedicated to service Sunday, November 7th, 
1841.

Since the days of Jefferson and the eider Adams, there had not been, in 
all probability, an election so warmly and stubbornly contested as that 
between Harrison and Van Buren. From the confines of the Union to its very 
centre, the note of preparation was heard; the parties arraying themselves 
with unusual system and precision, and a maddening excitement appeared to 
have existed which has never yet met with a parallel in the history of our 
country. Business appeared to be paralyzed; the most important commercial 
transactions were suspended until after the contest; the public 
institutions, lyceums, places of amusement and recreation were neglected, 
and even the sanctity of the domestic hearth was invaded by the monster, 
party rancor! On Monday, the 2d of November, the great political question 
which so long had agitated the country was brought to a close; never, 
since the establishment of our constitution, had this mighty land 
experienced so much commotion and excitement. Van Buren's majority in this 
city was 31, but Harrison carried the State and was elected President. On 
the evening of the 3d of November a serious riot took place in the 
neighborhood of the Patriot office by which a number of respectable 
citizens were severely injured. The Whigs, as usual, collected in front of 
the Patriot office, when the alarm of fire was given. This was the signal; 
the engines rattled down Baltimore street towards Old Town, and on their 
return they attempted to force their way through the crowd, which attempt 
was resisted, and a regular brick-batting then commenced, and a number of 
firearms were discharged. After the riot had partially subsided, Mr. 
Brady, the Mayor, appeared and publicly addressed the people, advising 
them to return to their homes and observe the peace of the city. His 
advice was promptly obeyed. Gen. S. C. Leakin, Dr. Deloughery, and several 
other gentlemen were severely hurt.

At about half-past 3 o'clock on Monday morning, March 30th, the 
inhabitants in the neighborhood of Gay street were alarmed by the cry of 
fire. The flames at the time of the alarm were breaking

Page 503

through the roof and windows of the workshop in the rear of Edwin S. 
Tarr's cabinet warerooms, in North Gay street, next to the German Lutheran 
Church. In a short time the roof of the church caught fire from the 
intense heat, and the venerable edifice soon became a heap of ruins. Owing 
to a heavy fall of rain which prevailed during the whole time the fire was 
raging, the fire did not extend. The church was built in 1808, and cost 
$40,000. An organ valued at $1400 was destroyed.

During the year "Old Christ Church," situated on the north-west corner of 
Front and Baltimore streets, was torn down and the old materials sold at 
auction to the highest bidder.

On Wednesday, May 13th, the President and Directors of the Susquehanna 
railroad, besides a large number of citizens, celebrated the completion of 
said railroad to Wrightsville, Pa.

1841. In consequence of difficulties with the Mechanics' Bank, the 
Franklin Bank, on the 2d of January, 1841, suspended business; but resumed 
some time after with great loss to the stockholders.

A town meeting was held on the 12th of April in the rotunda of the 
Exchange, to adopt measures to testify respect for the character of the 
late President, Wm. Henry Harrison. Columbus O'Donnell called the meeting 
to order, and nominated Col. Samuel Moore as president, who was 
unanimously chosen. Robert Gilmor and Col. Solomon Hillen, Jr., were 
appointed vice-presidents, and Samuel T. Thompson and William H. Cole, 
Jr., secretaries. It was resolved that a committee, consisting of one from 
each ward, be appointed to retire and draft resolutions. The committee was 
appointed and retired, and on its return, read a number of resolutions 
expressive of the feelings of the citizens of Baltimore for the melancholy 
bereavement sustained in the death of the illustrious President. It was 
also resolved that a committee be appointed by the chair consisting of two 
from each ward, to compose the committee of arrangements for a public, 
civic, and military procession, bearing all the insignia of mourning and 
commemorative of his death, &c.; and that the procession and funeral 
ceremonies take place on Monday, the 26th of April. The procession far 
exceeded general expectation, surpassing any procession heretofore 
witnessed in this city. The feeling which impelled this honorable 
manifestation was universal. The people of Baltimore appeared as but one 
family, testifying their sorrow for a recent bereavement. Not only were 
the individuals decorated with appropriate badges of mourning, but nearly 
the whole city was clothed in black. Most of the public edifices, the 
engine houses, and the stores and dwellings throughout the whole extent of 
Baltimore and other streets through which the procession passed, had their 
fronts shrouded in mourning. The colors of the shipping and various public 
edifices were hoisted at half-mast, and the bells tolled throughout the 
ceremonies, whilst minute-guns were fired from detachments of artillery. 
The stores throughout the city were closed, and there

Page 504

was an entire cessation of business of every kind. The procession was 
formed on Baltimore street, the right resting on Charles street. The 
number of persons in line has been variously estimated at from ten to 
fifteen thousand. After passing through the several streets designated, it 
arrived at Mount Vernon place. Within the railing of the Washington 
Monument a stand had been erected for the officiating clergymen and the 
orator. The ceremonies were opened by a fervent prayer by the Rev. Mr. 
Johns, who was succeeded by Jonathan Meredith, who delivered an 
appropriate and eloquent funeral oration; then followed the requiem, and 
the closing prayer by the Rev. Mr. Sargent. The concourse of strangers was 
great, and the assemblage at Mount Vernon Place was immense.

On Monday evening, January 25th, twenty-two of the criminal prisoners 
confined in the jail attempted to make their escape.

On Monday, February 1st, the banks resumed specie payments; and after a 
resumption of six days, again suspended on Monday, February 7th.

Another attempt to escape was made on the afternoon of Saturday, March 
6th, by fifteen persons confined in one of the wards of the jail. The 
sewer extending under ground to the Falls was the means of egress that 
they first selected--this sewer being necessarily accessible to the 
occupants of the prison apartments--but the attempt to escape through that 
outlet was detected by the warden, Mr. Disney, before they could effect an 
entrance into its interior. Being foiled in this attempt, they retreated 
to their ward, the inner door of which they strongly barricaded by means 
of a bench and spikes, and bade defiance to the officers, threatening 
death to any who might enter, and fiercely declaring their determination 
to persist in their efforts to escape until they should succeed. Boiling 
water and missiles, thrown through the gratings, were also employed by 
them to prevent an entrance of the officers. The warden dispatched a 
messenger for a portion of the city police, whose arrival had no effect in 
calming the tumult and excitement of the prisoners, which had now extended 
to the inmates of the adjacent wards, and, as the only means of quelling 
the revolt, it became necessary to fire upon the chief insurgents, and one 
of the number was killed. The others then yielded, and were securely 
ironed.

One of the most ancient houses, perhaps, in the city was that known as the 
"mud house," which was situated on East Lombard street, near Albemarle. 
"The date of its erection cannot probably be ascertained, but some idea 
may be formed of its antiquity from the circumstance of its being tenanted 
more than sixty years ago, by an old ferryman, who lived by carrying 
passengers from that vicinity across the river, which, in those days, 
reached as high up as Baltimore street. It was subsequently inhabited for 
a long time by an aged man, known by the sobriquet of 'Mud Jim,' which was 
given him in respect to the character of the material

Page 505

of which his dwelling was constructed." After breasting the storms of more 
than threescore winters, this rudely constructed mansion at last was 
compelled to yield to the "spirit of improvement," and was, on Wednesday, 
March 31st, removed to make way for another more in accordance with the 
genius and luxurious habits of the present day.

On Sunday morning, April 11th, three prisoners confined in the jail 
effected their escape by breaking through the wall and getting into the 
sewer, as on former occasions, thereby passing towards the Falls, where 
their final release was obtained by making a hole through the wall and 
passing out.

The Baltimore City Fire Department had a grand parade on Thursday, 
November 18th, in which the following companies participated: Mechanical, 
instituted 1763, incorporated 1828; Union, Friendship, Deptford, Liberty, 
Independent, Vigilant, New Market, Columbian, First Baltimore, United, 
Franklin, Washington, Patapsco, Howard, and Watchman.

1842. The ceremony of laying the corner-stone of St. Alphonsus' Church was 
performed on May 1st, by Archbishop Eccleston, assisted by Rev. Messrs. 
Coskery, White, and others. It was dedicated on the 14th of March, 1845. 
On Sunday, August 1st, 1869, the church being out of debt, it was 
consecrated.

The Baltimore Steam Packet Company, on Thursday the 15th of April, had 
just finished a beautiful steamboat called the Medora, and her engine 
having been completed, she was to have started on a trial excursion down 
the bay. The boat was a model of workmanship, and her engine of great 
power. She was intended to run in the line of boats between Baltimore and 
Norfolk. The boat was lying at the wharf on the south side of the basin, 
attached to the establishment of Mr. John Watchman, and at 3 o'clock, the 
hour for starting on the excursion, a number of citizens, including the 
officers of the boat, had assembled on board. With a view to prevent too 
great a crowd on board, the boat had been hauled out about thirty feet 
from the wharf, and those who were invited to the excursion were conveyed 
to her in small boats. About half-past three o'clock the bell rung and the 
engine was started. At this moment, and when the wheels had only made two 
revolutions, the boiler exploded, throwing the smoke-pipes, the forepart 
of the upper deck and the persons who stood on it, some forty or fifty 
feet in the air, tearing open the sides of the vessel round the boiler, 
and scattering fragments of the wood and iron all around, and raising the 
immense iron boiler up and throwing it crosswise on the deck. The scene 
presented by the boat afforded at once a mournful evidence of the immense 
power of steam, and of the ruin of which it can be the instrument. Large 
oak beams were splintered to pieces; iron bars that would have withstood 
the strength of a hundred men, were broken and wrenched into many shapes; 
the lighter wood-work of the deck was blown almost to atoms. As

Page 506

soon as the explosion took place, the boat was enveloped in a cloud of 
scalding steam, and it was from inhaling this that many were killed, and 
to this danger those in the forward part of the vessel were all exposed. 
Others were killed by the flying timbers, and many seriously hurt by being 
externally scalded by the steam. Those who were on the upper deck, aft of 
the engine, escaped entirely from the effects of the explosion; but in the 
consternation which the explosion caused, several of those, thus safe from 
the steam, jumped overboard. Another great cause of the loss of life was 
the sudden sinking of the boat. The sides of the boat around the boilers 
having been blown away, the water rushed in, and she sunk about sixty feet 
from the wharf, the water reaching to near the upper deck. With 
commendable speed the physicians and surgeons of the city hastened to the 
place as soon as they heard of the disaster, and among those who were 
present there were observed Drs. Collins, Smith, Whitridge, Baxley, 
Dunbar, Theobold, Roberts, Riche, Miller, Hintze, Buckler, Bryerly, 
Monkur, McGuire, Riley, Kinneman, Albers, Baker, Cohen, Chew, and there 
were doubtless many others. Col. S. Hillen, the Mayor of the city, was 
among the first to reach the scene, and with the high constable and other 
city officers, rendered most efficient aid in rescuing the survivors and 
in getting the killed from the wreck and water. The following list 
comprises the names of the dead as far as we can learn: John C. Moale, 
general agent of the company, William Moale his son, Joseph Lecompte, 
Capt. John Vickers, John Young, Benjamin French, John Boon, John Burns, 
Andrew F. Henderson, Richard Linthicum, Robert Doyle, John Speddy, George 
Endley, Thomas Eldridge, John Harper, John Haley, John Boston, William 
Lewis, George Geddes, S.W. Hackney, M.D., James W. Lavers, James Mitchell, 
John Kemp, John Yeager, Jackson Reeder and Duncan Ferguson. The following 
are the names of those who were more or less injured, many of whom were in 
a very dangerous state: Captain Sutton, Francis Bezyt, -- Stripple, Joseph 
Craig, John Mitchell, James Crawford, R. H. Middleton, George Reynolds, 
John Henderson, Levin Boston, Albert Ramsay, George Hoofnagle, Zechariah 
Nichols, Thomas Smith, Alexander Spavin, George Hyde, Samuel Glenn, Henry 
Snyder, Wesley Culley, George Clarey, John Kaylor, William Binion, -- 
Brenan, James Wilson, William Roberts, William Tumbleson, James Ridgely, 
Lawrenson Reigan, James Clark, George. Hyam, Thomas Eldridge, Darnel 
Stevens, Isaiah Wagner, Louis Wagner, brothers, David Frazier, Martin 
Hickley, Patrick Collins, James Montgomery, William Allen, and two sons, 
Captain Coffee, steamboat Georgia. Summary account of those on board: 
Dead, 27; wounded, 40; uninjured, 15; making in all on board 82.

Our city was visited by a severe easterly storm of wind and rain on 
Wednesday, August 24th, which, commenced in the morning and continued with 
but little intermission throughout the day and

Page 507

night. Towards night the violence of the storm increased, accompanied by a 
good deal of lightning and thunder. About the middle of the night it 
cleared off, but the change was of short duration. Towards the morning of 
Thursday, the sky was again veiled by heavy clouds which soon discharged 
their waters in torrents. The wind, which had by this time shifted to the 
southeast, and the tide, which was on the rise, came in with such 
rapidity, that in a short time it began to overflow the wharves in the 
vicinity of Pratt street. It covered all the wharves bordering on Pratt 
street, from Light street down to Marsh Market Space, from the lower end 
nearly up to Pratt street, and on each side to a level with the sills of 
the store doors. Jones Falls overflowed in several places. At one time the 
water in Pratt street near the head of the basin where the Philadelphia 
cars passed, was nearly level with the floors.

On the 4th of July the Baltimore Committee, numbering about forty 
gentlemen, bearing the flag to be presented to the "Fencibles," escorted 
by two companies from Baltimore, the Independent Greys and the National 
Guards, arrived in Lancaster, Pa., and were handsomely received by the 
military of that city.

On Thursday, the 10th of November, a train of cars containing the 
president and directors of the Baltimore and Ohio R. R., and a few 
gentlemen invited to accompany them, left the depot in Pratt street at 7 
o'clock A. M., to traverse the entire length of the road from Baltimore to 
Cumberland, the road being completed to that point. The day was pleasant, 
and the expedition throughout proved to be very agreeable.

On Sunday, October 23d, in accordance with an invitation given by Messrs. 
G. W. Webb, Wm. J. Heuisler and others, the following gentlemen assembled 
at St. Peter's Schoolhouse on Poppleton street for the purpose of forming 
a Young Catholic Friend's Society:--Rev. E. McColgan, Owen O'Brien, George 
N. Rosensteel, Michael J. Kelly, Wm. J. Heuisler, John A. McGreevy, George 
W. Webb, C. H. Raborg, M. D., L. A. Puzenent, Joseph A. Sawyer, C. E. J. 
Gebhard, Daniel Saxton, Joseph Victory, Joseph Cappeau, Jr. Mr. Heuisler 
having explained the abject contemplated, on motion of Mr. Kelly the Rev. 
Mr. McColgan was called to the chair, and Mr. Cappeau appointed secretary. 
The following gentlemen were then appointed a committee to draft a 
constitution and by-laws:--Messrs. M. J. Kelly, Owen O'Brien, George W. 
Webb, William J. Heuisler, and J. A. Sawyer. The meeting then adjourned, 
subject to the call of the above committee. In November the society was 
organized with the following officers:--President, John A. McGreevy; Vice-
President, Owen O'Brien; Recording Secretary, John E. Toole; Corresponding 
Secretary, Joseph Victory; Treasurer, Edward F. Brady; Bookkeeper, Joseph 
Cappeau, Jr.; Steward, Francis X. Lipp; Trustees, William J. Heuisler, 
Lawrence A. Puzenent, Dr. Christopher H. Raborg, John Fox, and James F. 
Neale.

Page 508

Robert Smith was educated as a lawyer, and filled many important offices, 
and in 1788 was chosen one of the electors of the first President and Vice-
President of the United States, and was the last survivor of that 
electoral college. In 1793 he was elected to the Senate of Maryland, and 
in 1796 to the House of Delegates. In 1801 he was appointed Secretary of 
the Navy, and during part of the year 1805 he held the office of Attorney-
General of the United States, but he returned to the Navy Department. In 
1806 he was appointed Chancellor of the State of Maryland and Chief Judge 
of the District of Baltimore, but declined. In 1809 he was made Secretary 
of State. He resigned on the 1st of April, 1811, and was then offered the 
embassy to Russia, which he declined. In 1813 he was elected Provost of 
the University of Maryland, but resigned the office not long afterward. He 
was chosen President of the American Bible Society in 1813. In 1818 the 
first agricultural society formed in Baltimore was established, with Mr. 
Smith as president. This was the last public function which he exercised. 
He died in the full enjoyment of well-earned honors and ample fortune in 
December, 1842, aged 84 years.

1843. Agreeably to announcement, a splendid dinner was given to the Hen. 
Daniel Webster on the 18th of May by the merchants of the city. It was 
prepared by Mr. Coleman of the Exchange Hotel, in the very best manner. 
Mr. Webster being toasted, he rose and spoke about an hour in vindication 
of agriculture, commerce, and the protection of home industry, and 
concluded by declaring that in the great matter of commerce with the world 
we might have rivals, but certainly no superior, and that this could only 
be made more prosperous, successful and perpetual by protecting home 
industry and commerce.

On the 23d of May, Rev. Bishop Hughes of New York, assisted by the Right 
Rev. Bishop Kendrick of Philadelphia, laid the corner-stone of St. Peter's 
Roman Catholic Church, situated on the corner of Hollins and Poppleton 
streets. This church was dedicated Sunday, September 22d, 1844. Most Rev. 
Archbishop Eccleston, and Bishops J. J. Chance, John Hughes, and other 
reverend gentlemen, participated in the ceremonies.

In conformity with arrangements previously announced, the dedication of 
the new Odd-Fellows' Hall took place on the 18th of September, and was a 
most imposing and brilliant ceremony throughout. The States of Delaware, 
of Pennsylvania, of Virginia, and of Connecticut, of New Jersey, and of 
New York, with lodges from the District of Columbia and various towns in 
our own State, were present with their rich regalia, splendid banners, 
elegant trappings, symbols, devices, &c., all dancing in the bright rays 
of the sun, presenting a magnificent array.

A most bold and daring attempt was made on Thursday, August 1st, in the 
presence of a large number of passengers, to assassinate the Hon. Charles 
A. Wickliffe, Postmaster-General, who was on his

Page 509

return from Old Point to this city on board the steamboat Georgia, Capt. 
Coffee. It seems that Mr. Wickliffe, his two daughters, and a niece, and a 
young man named J. Clayton Gardner, a son of Col. Gardner, of Washington, 
came on board at Old Point on their way to Washington, via this city. 
During the passage between that place and the mouth of the Potomac river, 
Mr. Wickliffe and Gardner (who was represented as a disappointed office-
seeker) were seen in casual conversation, which soon terminated without 
attracting any attention from the passengers. When the boat was off the 
mouth of the Potomac, dinner was announced. Mr. W. then took his niece by 
the arm to go to dinner, his two daughters walking immediately in front; 
and just as he was about passing Gardner, who was lying down asleep, he 
touched Gardner with his hand, and said "Dinner," for the purpose of 
waking him, when that individual sprang to his feet, drew a large dirk 
knife, and plunged it into the right breast of Mr. W., the blade striking 
against the bone, and turning downwards about an inch, but most 
fortunately not striking deep enough to prove dangerous. Immediately on 
the wound being inflicted, A. K. Wooley, of Kentucky, seized Gardner and 
prevented his doing further injury, and with the aid of other passengers 
had him immediately confined. Upon the arrival of the boat he was arrested 
for examination.

A dreadful accident occurred on the Susquehanna railroad on Tuesday, 
September 12th, as the cars were proceeding to York, Pa., containing the 
Old Defenders and their escort. The axle of the second car broke, causing 
the others to lap over and throwing two from the track. Seven persons were 
severely wounded, and others slightly. Mr. McCabe, one of the wounded, 
died a few days afterwards.

Commodore Alexander Claxton, who died on the 7th of March, 1841, at 
Talcahuana, on board of the United States ship Constitution, while in 
command of the U. S. squadron in the Pacific ocean, and whose remains were 
brought home in the ship-of-war Dale, was buried in Greenmount Cemetery, 
in the city of Baltimore, on Monday morning, October 29th, with every mark 
of respect due to a sincere and devoted friend of his country, an honor to 
her navy, a chivalrous soldier, and a high-minded and generous citizen.

The ceremonies on November 6th, attending the embarkation of about eighty 
colored emigrants, male and female, sent out by the Maryland Colonization 
Society, to the Colony of Cape Palmas, in the new and beautiful barque 
Latrobe, Capt. John E. Allen, were of a most impressive and solemn 
character.

On Tuesday, November 21st, the court-house was densely crowded to witness 
the prosecution of the case of the State vs. Adam Horn, alias Andrew 
Hellman, indicted for the murder of his with Malinda Horn, in Baltimore 
county, on or about the 23d of March, 1843; Mr. I. Nevitt Steele 
prosecuting attorney for the State, with Messrs. J. M. Buchanan, C. F. 
Mayer, C. Z. Lucas, and

Page 510

John Snyder for the defence. This important trial ended on Monday evening, 
November 27th. The jury, after an absence of only twenty minutes, rendered 
a verdict of guilty of murder in the first degree. The scene in the court-
room at the time of its rendition was exciting in the highest degree; the 
immense throng, in their eager desire to give vent to their feelings of 
joy at the result, evinced their approbation in loud tokens of applause. 
Sentence of death was pronounced by Judge Magruder on Monday, December 
4th, 1843. He was hung Friday, January 12th, 1844.

In November, Mr. Samuel M. Shoemaker, of Baltimore, entered into 
partnership with Mr. Alvin Adams, of Boston, Mr. W. B. Dinsmore, of New 
York, and Edward S. Sanford, of Philadelphia, to organize an express line 
between the above named cities and Baltimore. This they succeeded in 
doing, and opened their office on Light, near Baltimore street, and 
conducted the business under the name of Adams & Co's Express, though 
Messrs. Sanford and Shoemaker were the real proprietors. In a few months 
after they had started their line between Philadelphia and Baltimore, Mr. 
Shoemaker and his associates extended their arrangements so as to include 
Richmond, Virginia, and Charleston, South Carolina. Shortly after, in 
conjunction with Messrs. Green & Co., who owned an express line between 
Baltimore and Wheeling, they organized the great Western Express between 
Baltimore and St. Louis, Missouri. In 1854 they entered into arrangements 
with the proprietors of other express lines between Boston and 
Philadelphia, which finally resulted in the formation of one great 
company, organized under the laws of the State of New York, and which has 
since borne the familiar name of The Adams Express Company." The extent of 
the business which this company transacts, North, South, East, and West, 
needs no explanation.

William Jenkins was born at "Long Green," Harford county, in 1767, and 
died in Baltimore on the 21st of February, 1843, from the results of a 
paralytic attack. For over a half century he carried on in Baltimore the 
tanning business with great success, and he is justly spoken of as "the 
father of the leather trade of this city."

1844. A meeting took place on the 27th of January, in the Colonization 
Society rooms, in what was known at that day as the "Post Office
Building," at the northeast corner of Fayette and North streets, for the 
purpose of forming a Historical Society, John J. Donaldson in the chair, 
and F. W. Brune, Jr., secretary. A committee consisting of Messrs. Brantz 
Mayer, Fielding Lucas, Jr., Robert Leslie, Sebastian F. Streeter, and Dr. 
S. Collins was appointed, who reported a constitution and by-laws for the 
Society, which were adopted. Messrs. J. H. B. Latrobe, Geo. W. Brown, and 
Robert Leslie were appointed a committee to nominate officers to be chosen 
at a subsequent meeting.

At the first regular meeting of the Historical Society of Maryland,

Page 511

held on Thursday, February 1st, the following gentlemen were elected to 
serve as officers during the ensuing year:--Gen. J. Spear Smith, 
President; J. V. L. McMahon, Esq., Vice-President; Brantz Mayer, Esq., 
Corresponding Secretary; Sebastian F. Streeter, Esq., Recording Secretary; 
J. J. Donaldson, Esq., Treasurer; Dr. Stephen Collins, Librarian.

Agreeably to the announcement previously given, the dedication of the 
Methodist church, corner of Charles and Fayette streets, took place on the 
25th of March. The services were commenced by the singing of a hymn, given 
out by Bishop Waugh. Bishop Soule then addressed the congregation, taking 
for his text the first four verses of the first ch pter of the Second 
Epistle of Peter. Bishop Waugh closed the ceremonies by a most fervent 
prayer.

The Whig National Nominating Convention assembled on May 1st in the 
Universalist Church, Calvert street. Henry Clay of Kentucky was nominated 
by acclamation the Whig candidate for the Presidency, and Theodore 
Frelinghuysen of New Jersey as candidate for the Vice-Presidency. May 2d 
was a gala day in the Monumental City--a great Whig national jubilee. The 
grand civic procession of the Whig Young Men's National Convention of 
Ratification was truly a magnificent and highly imposing affair, far 
surpassing any similar popular demonstration ever made in our country. The 
great and mighty throng which had for more than a week previous been 
pouring into our city like an irresistible avalanche, from the sunny 
fields of the South, the far distant prairies of the West, the green 
mountains and rural towns, hamlets and villages of the North and East, the 
industrious farmer from his plough, the worthy and ingenious mechanic and 
artizan from his workshop and bench, the generous merchant and shopkeeper 
from his counting room and store, the hardy and brave sons of the ocean--
in a word, all classes and conditions of society which go to constitute 
this republic one of the noblest and greatest in the world, were on the 
move at an early hour, making preparations for the ceremonies of the day, 
and wending their way to Baltimore street, the great point of attraction, 
in order to obtain a view of the procession, if not to join it. The 
multitude, like a swelling tide, was so great that every window, balcony, 
porch, and every accessible eminence were literally crammed and jammed. 
Still the mighty mass continued to increase; male and female, the 
venerable patriarch bending beneath the snows of threescore and ten years, 
with the light-hearted and lisping child by his side, the blooming maid 
and the staid mother, all continued to pour forth in one universal stream, 
and to swell into an innumerable throng the great and mighty multitude. 
The decorations on Baltimore street were on a grand scale; a most 
beautiful arch had been erected at the intersection of Calvert street, and 
also one at Hanover street. We cannot describe the grandeur and the 
magnificence

Page 512

of the scene as the procession passed down Baltimore street amidst the 
enthusiastic and prolonged shouts of acclamation from the assembled 
multitude. The beautiful ship "Tariff" full-rigged and manned, with her 
colors flying at her masthead, the implements of husbandry, and the 
machinery of the manufacturing and other industrial interests, busily 
occupied in their respective vocations, all combined to add to the 
magnificence of the scene. Upon arriving at Canton the vast concourse 
ratified the nominations made the day before, and were then addressed by 
the Hon. Daniel Webster, Thomas Ewing, Messrs. Crittenden, Metcalf, 
Reynolds, Reverdy Johnson, T. Yates Walsh, Clayton Botts, and others.

On the 29th of May the Democratic National Convention, then in session in 
this city at the Odd-Fellows' Hall, Gay street, nominated James K. Polk as 
their candidate for President, and the next day nominated George M. Dallas 
for Vice-President, in the place of Mr. Silas Wright, who was nominated, 
but refused to accept.

The Tyler National Convention assembled on the 27th of May at Calvert 
Hall, which had been fitted up for the occasion, and nominated John Tyler 
as their candidate for President.

On the 10th of September Messrs. Coates & Glenn's lumberyard and several 
stores and dwellings were destroyed by fire.

Hon. Richard B. Magruder, one of the associate judges of the Sixth 
Judicial District of Baltimore County Court, died suddenly Monday morning, 
February 12th.

The interesting ceremonies of laying the corner-stone of the Third German 
Reformed Church, situated on the corner of Paca and Saratoga streets, was 
celebrated on Tuesday afternoon, April 9th, in the presence of a large 
concourse of people, by the Rev. S. Gutelius, assisted by the Rev. Mr. 
Heiner. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Berg of Philadelphia, and 
Rev. Mr. Heiner of this city.

The aged and highly esteemed citizen David Barnum, proprietor of the City 
Hotel, died on Friday morning, May 10th.

The convenient, comfortable, and cheap vehicles, "Omnibuses," commenced 
running in May from one extremity of the city to the other.

The magnetic telegraph running from Washington city to the railroad depot 
in Pratt street, was completed on or about the 20th of May. The wire was 
secured against the weather by a covering of rope-yarn and tar. The 
nominations made, May 29th, in the Democratic National Convention, were 
forwarded to Washington by means of this telegraph. The following alphabet 
was used:

Page 513

The first exhibition of Laughing Gas took place at the Assembly Rooms on 
Wednesday evening, May 29th, under the charge of Dr. Colton, as applied in 
dentistry in extracting teeth without pain.

The corner-stone of Mount Calvary Protestant Episcopal Church was laid on 
Tuesday, September 10th, on the north-west corner of Eutaw and Madison 
streets. The ceremonies were conducted by the Right Reverend Bishop 
Whittingham, assisted by Other clergymen.

On the 3d of December "Jackson Square" was donated to the city.

1845. Tuesday the 1st of July was the day especially set apart by the 
people of Baltimore for the observance of the funeral obsequies of the 
departed ex-President Andrew Jackson. The occasion was one of deep 
solemnity, and it was marked throughout with all those evidences of 
appropriate proceeding which imparted to it s character imposing and 
solemn in the highest degree. Everywhere along the route designated by the 
chief marshal, the houses were in mourning. All party distinctions seemed 
to be forgotten in the common desire to honor the memory and services of 
the distinguished deceased, and the request that a general suspension of 
business should take place, was universally regarded. The procession moved 
to Mount Vernon Place, where an immense stand was erected, and after an 
eloquent prayer by the Rev. Dr. Wyatt, the orator of the day, the Hon. 
Benjamin Chew Howard, delivered an eloquent and powerful address. When 
Gen. Howard resumed his seat, one of the bands played an appropriate 
solemn air. Then followed a dirge composed for the occasion by the Rev. J. 
N. McJilton, which was sung by the Baltimore Musical Association. A 
benediction pronounced by the Rev. G. D. Purviance, and volleys of 
musketry, closed the ceremonies of the day.

Died, on the 18th of August, General William McDonald, in the 87th year of 
his age. General McDonald commanded the sixth regiment at the battle of 
Baltimore in 1814, and received the warm commendations of the commanding 
General for his intrepid and soldier-like conduct on that occasion. He was 
also a soldier of the Revolution, and distinguished himself in several 
engagements with the enemy.

Mr. Benjamin I. Cohen, well known throughout the country as one of the 
firm of J. I. Cohen, Jr., & Brothers, bankers and stock brokers, died in 
September after a long illness.

The splendid and commodious hotel, the "Eutaw House," was sold at auction 
on Thursday, October 16th, at the Exchange, for $58,500, exclusive of the 
furniture. Purchasers, Messrs. Robert Garrett & Sons.

The Savings Bank of Baltimore purchased the residence of the late Colonel 
Thomas Tenant, at the northwest corner of Gay and Second streets, in 
October, for $10,000.

Page 514

The Baltimore Shot Tower in North Gay street, above Fayette, was taken 
down in January.

The following message was transmitted through the telegraph on Friday, 
February 14th, from Washington by Prof. Morse, to his agent, Mr. Rogers, 
in this city: "Please express my regrets to the editors of the papers for 
whom the telegraph has reported, that the appropriation being expended, I 
am compelled to stop operation. We shall all be without pay after the 15th 
inst."

St. Alphonsus Church was dedicated on Friday morning, March 14th, with 
imposing ceremonies, by the Most Rev. Archbishop Eccleston, assisted by 
several of the clergy, in the presence of a large and crowded auditory.

Richard Caton, Esq., who married the eldest daughter of Chas. Carroll, of 
Carrollton, departed this life Monday, May 19th, in the 83d year of his 
age.

The steamboat Paul Jones, Capt. Moffitt, from Havre-de-Grace, bound for 
this port, and having in tow eight canal boats, exploded her boiler 
Tuesday morning, June 3d, between North Point and Bear Creek, and four 
persons were killed.

Judge Brice, in the Baltimore City Court on Tuesday, March 18th, 
pronounced sentence of death upon Henry McCurry, recently convicted of the 
murder of Mr. Paul Roux, while temporarily stopping in this city, and on 
Friday, Jane 27th, he was hung in tho jail yard.

On the 5th of March, "Franklin Square" was purchased by the Mayor and City 
Council from Mr. Canby for $10,000.

1846. Judge Elias Glenn, one of our oldest and most respected citizens, 
died on Tuesday, January 6th, in the 77th year of his age. He was long and 
favorably known as one of the brightest ornaments of the Baltimore bar.

The Roman Amphitheatre, in North Calvert street, was opened for the first 
time on Monday, October 26th, by the equestrian troop of Messrs. Sands, 
Lent & Co. The house was full from pit to dome, many having to go away 
unable to obtain an entrance. The building was erected for Messrs. Sands, 
Lent & Co. by R. C. Long, architect, H. & J. Reynolds, builders, E. Dryer 
& Lewis, decorators and painters. It was capable of holding 5000 persons 
comfortably.

Ellen Webb; familiarly known to all who visited the court-house in her 
day, as "Aunt Nelly," died on Sunday afternoon, November 22d. "Nelly Webb" 
came to the United States during the Revolutionary war, the with of a 
sergeant in the British army under Lord Cornwallis. She was at that time 
but seventeen years of age, and was present at the battle of the Cowpens, 
January 16th, 1781, Guilford Court-house, N. C., March 15th, 1781, and at 
Yorktown, Va., October 19th, 1781, at the latter battle of which she, with 
the rest of the British army, were made prisoners of war. At what time she 
came to Baltimore it is not possible to learn

Page 515

but for over half a century she had been known as the "Aunt Nelly" of the 
court-house. She was a most eminent and eccentric vender of pies, apples, 
cakes, and nuts.

Mount Calvary Church. This beautiful edifice, situated at the corner of 
Madison and Eutaw streets, was consecrated Thursday morning, February 
19th, the Right Rev. Bishop Whittingham officiating on the occasion. The 
sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr. Atkinson. The music was by the choir 
of St. Paul's Church. The installation of the pastor, the Rev. Mr. Miller, 
took place the day following, with the usual impressive services of the 
Episcopal Church. The lot on which the church is built was given for the 
purpose by John B. Morris, Esq.

On Wednesday evening, May 13th, 1846, in pursuance of a call in the public 
prints for a meeting of the citizens of Baltimore, favorable to the 
raising of volunteers to reinforce Gen. Taylor, &c., an immense concourse 
of persons assembled at "Union Hall," corner of Baltimore street and 
Tripolett's alley, (now Post-Office avenue), the place designated for the 
meeting. On motion of Capt. James Stewart, the meeting was organized by 
calling Capt. B. F. Mauldin to the chair, and appointing Capt. B. F. Owen 
secretary. A series of resolutions were offered and adopted; at this 
point, the meeting having become so immense, the whole street being 
blocked up, a motion was made and carried to adjourn to Monument Square. 
As soon as they arrived in the Square, they were addressed by Coleman 
Yellott, Francis Gallagher, and William P. Preston, Esqs., in eloquent and 
soul-stirring speeches.

The distinguished gentleman and ripe scholar, Mr. William George Read, was 
the youngest son of Jacob Read, of Charleston, South Carolina. He was born 
September 11th, 1800, and in 1820, in a class fifty-seven, graduated at 
the Harvard University with the first honors. In 1822 he removed to 
Baltimore and studied law in the office of Robert Goodloe Harper. He 
married on the 7th of May, 1825, Miss Sophia Catherine Howard, second 
daughter of Colonel John E. Howard. From 1827 Mr. Read became a permanent 
resident of Baltimore, devoting himself to his professional and literary 
pursuits. He also took an ardent interest in politics, and for fifteen 
years his interest in political questions never flagged, and it was his 
voice that was ever the first to proclaim from the windows of the office 
of the old Republican and Argus paper the news of some great victory, to 
the assembled crowds of cheering and enthusiastic Democrats; yet he never 
consented to accept office from the people, asking only to be permitted to 
serve and advise them, thus presenting the rare spectacle of a 
disinterested politician. Mr. Read's personal courage was unquestioned. 
During the dangerous riots of 1835 he placed himself at the head of a few 
brave spirits who volunteered to defend the Convent of the Carmelite Nuns, 
in Aisquith street, which was threatened with an attack by a fanatical 
mob. Summoned as a witness in the matter

Page 516

before the House of Delegates, he was questioned: "What did you intend 
doing if the mob had broken into the Convent?" and the late Judge Glenn 
described the effect as "electric," produced by his firm reply--" to have 
died on the threshold!" He was a devoted Roman Catholic, a brilliant 
lawyer and an accomplished scholar, a warm friend and a humble Christian. 
He died on the 7th of April, 1846.

The Baltimore shipmasters and builders, mates and pilots, send an address 
to President James K. Polk, asking that Baltimore be selected as the 
location for building ships of war. The address was borne to Washington on 
the 18th of May, by Captains Wm. Mason, Matthew Kelly, Philip M. Hale, 
Michael McDonald and Geo. Baker, the committee appointed for the purpose.

On Saturday afternoon, May 23d, an immense "war meeting" was held in 
Monument Square. The meeting was called to order by Jacob I. Cohen, Jr., 
Esq., who nominated his Honor Mayor Davies as chairman, and T. Parkin 
Scott and Thomas Yates Walsh, Esqs., as secretaries. The following named 
gentlemen were appointed vice-presidents: 1st Ward, Capt. James Frazier; 
2d, Col. John E. Stansbury; 3d, Capt. Robert Hutson; 4th, Joshua Vansant; 
5th, Col. Sol. Hillen; 6th, Henry McElderry; 7th, Henry F. Turner; 8th, 
Marcus Wolf; 9th, Gen. John Spear Smith; 10th, Nathaniel Williams; 11th, 
Hon. John P. Kennedy; 12th, Chas M. Keyser; 13th, Hugh Birkhead; 14th, 
John King; 15th, William J. Wight; 16th, Geo. W. Krebs; 17th, Charles 
Reeder, Jr.; 18th, Gen. Geo. H. Steuart; 19th, David Stewart; 20th, Geo. 
K. Dodge; from the county Samuel Brady, William Tagert, William P. Preston 
and William G. Howard, Esqs. Col. Davies, in a short and appropriate 
address, stated the object of the meeting; after which Robert M. McLane, 
Esq., offered a preamble and resolutions, which he prefaced by a patriotic 
speech. The resolutions were unanimously adopted. After the adoption of 
the resolutions the Hon. Reverdy Johnson took the stand, and delivered one 
of the most eloquent and patriotic addresses that was ever listened to. At 
the conclusion of Mr. Johnson's address, his Honor the Mayor introduced to 
the meeting Gen. Samuel Houston, United States Senator from the State of 
Texas. The announcement of the name of the hero of "San Jacinto" was 
received by the meeting with prolonged cheers. Hon. Wm. L. Yancey, member 
of Congress from Alabama, closed the meeting by an eloquent address. 
During the delivery of the address of Gen. Houston, news from Mexico was 
received and read to the meeting by Col. Davies. At the mention of the 
death of the gallant Ringgold, every head was uncovered, and many a manly 
cheek was suffused with tears.

On Thursday morning, June 4th, the company called "Baltimore's Own" left 
this city in the 9 o'clock train of cars for Washington, where they were 
mustered in the District battalion, Col. W. H. Watson. They elected the 
following officers: Captain,

Page 517

John R. Kenly; F. B. Schaeffer, 1st Lieutenant; Oden Bowie, 2d Lieutenant; 
Sergeants, E. W. Aisquith, Wm. H. Hickman, G. Oliver Lansdale, and Thomas 
Tyson. They were escorted to the cars by the Eagle Artillery, Capt. Kane, 
accompanied by the band of the "Greys," and moved off from the depot amid 
the deafening cheers of the crowd congregated to see them depart. Previous 
to their departure, Capt. Kenly was presented with a beautiful pair of 
epaulettes by G. D. Spurrier, in behalf of the officers of the third 
division of Maryland militia. He was also subsequently presented with a 
handsome sword by Capt. Geo. P. Kane, on the part of the Eagle Artillery, 
as a testimonial of their respect and esteem.

The news from Mexico was received in this city on the 11th of October, 
that Monterey, after three days' hard fighting, had capitulated. The 
rejoicing for this great victory was alloyed by the mournful intelligence 
of the death of so many brave officers and men, among the former the 
gallant Col. Watson of the Baltimore battalion. He fell fighting bravely 
at the head of his men, in attempting to storm a battery of artillery and 
musketry, which was pouring a deluge of grape and cannister shot at the 
distance of sixty yards. The announcement of the death of Col. Watson cast 
a gloom over the entire city. In the gallant Watson our State suffered the 
loss of as brave a heart as ever beat, and the Baltimore bar, of which he 
was one of the brightest ornaments, a valuable member.

The mortal remains of Maj. Samuel Ringgold were brought to this city on 
the 17th of December and placed on a catafalque at the Exchange, under 
military escort; and on the 22d he was buried with grand and imposing 
military honors. He died on the field of Palo Alto, at the moment of a 
victory which his skill and courage contributed to achieve. Almost his 
last words were uttered to exhort others to perform their duty. In the 
death of Maj. Ringgold, Maryland lost one of her brightest and most 
chivalric sons, and his country the services of as brave a heart as ever 
palpitated, and as true a patriot. The annunciation of his death cast a 
gloom over our city and State, and, with praiseworthy unanimity, it was 
resolved to pay to his remains the highest mark of respect. For the few 
days which his body remained in the rotunda of the Exchange it was visited 
by thousands of both sexes, who pressed eagerly to drop the sympathizing 
tear over the bier of one who, whilst lying, was all that was manly, 
brave, generous, and patriotic. Citizens from a distance vied with those 
of Baltimore in testifying their respect to the deceased; and the streets, 
during the procession on the 22d, presented a throng of spectators and a 
parade of military seldom before witnessed. It was a grand and imposing 
spectacle, worthy of the heroic spirit to whom it was offered, as the 
tribute of grateful hearts.

Official report of Captain James E. Stewart, commanding officer of the 
battallion of Baltimore and Washington volunteers:

Page 518

"Camp Near Monterey, Mexico, September 26th, 1846.

"The battalion of Maryland and D. C. volunteers, under the command of 
Lieut.-Colonel Watson, connected with the first regiment of infantry, the 
whole under the command of Lieut.-Colonel Watson, were ordered to march at 
about 8 o'clock on the morning of the 21st, for the attack on Monterey. 
The battalion were out 'in their full strength, save Company C, Captain 
Bronaugh, which was ordered to remain on guard-duty at camp, and Lieut. 
Owen, of Company A, with a detachment of twelve men, were ordered on 
picket-guard by General Twiggs. The battalion marched towards the city, 
and charged in the most gallant manner on a battery under a galling fire, 
in which it sustained some loss. The point of attack was then changed by 
order of Colonel Garland, and we entered the city exposed to a destructive 
fire from several batteries, supported by a large number of infantry, 
which raked the streets. We remained in the city for nearly half an hour, 
when we were ordered to retire. In doing so, the battalion became 
separated. Colonel Watson fell by a musket-shot whilst gallantly leading 
on to a second assault on the city. A portion of the battalion was then 
formed under Captain Kenly, and remained on the field of battle until it 
was ordered back to camp by General Twiggs, having been under a heavy fire 
nearly nine hours, losing in action, killed six, wounded eighteen. I take 
pleasure in noticing the gallant conduct of the battalion throughout.

"James E. Stewart, Captain Commanding."

We will here add that Captain Kenly, after the battalion came out of the 
town, finding himself the senior officer present, assumed command, and 
kept it in action and fought with it until ordered at nightfall to return 
to camp. The battalion lost nine killed. General Taylor speaking of this 
battle in his congratulatory order, says: "The General begs to return his 
thanks to his commanders, and to all his officers and men, both of the 
regular and volunteer forces, for the skill, the courage, and the 
perseverance with which they have overcome manifold difficulties, and 
finally achieved a victory shedding lustre upon the American arms. A great 
result has been obtained, but not without the loss of many gallant and 
accomplished officers and bravo men. The army and country will deeply 
sympathize with the families and friends of those who have thus sealed 
their devotion with their lives."

On the 24th of November, Brevet-Major Robert C. Buchanan, of the Fourth 
Infantry U. S. A., a native of Baltimore and a citizen of Washington, was 
assigned by order of General Twiggs to the command of the battalion of 
Baltimore and Washington volunteers. The battalion having distinguished 
itself in many hardfought battles, and gained a name worthy of the State 
from which it came, and the term of enlistment having expired, was 
honorably

Page 519

discharged at Tampico on the 30th of May, 1847. The following letter was 
written at the time to the Mayor of Baltimore by Major Buchanan:

"Tampico, May 31st, 1847.

"Dear Sir:--The term of service of the Baltimore Battalion having expired, 
it becomes necessary to make a suitable disposition of the flag under 
whose folds it so gallantly fought and so faithfully sustained the toils 
and privations incident to the last twelve months' campaign. The officers 
of the battalion desire that it should be presented to the corporation of 
the city, to be kept in the City Hall as a memorial of their regard for 
Baltimore. In this arrangement I most heartily concur. It therefore 
becomes my agreeable duty to forward the flag to you, the chief magistrate 
of the city, with the request that it may be disposed of in accordance to 
the wishes of the donors. By our fellow-citizens it may well be regarded 
with feelings of pride, as having been the standard of a body of their 
friends which, for good discipline, soldierly deportment, and efficiency 
for hard service, stood-in a most enviable position. The Rio Grande, 
Monterey, Victoria, and Tampico will all bear witness to the services of 
the battalion. Sergeant-Major William T. Lennox, who carried the flag in 
the battle of Monterey, after Hart was wounded, and who has been the color-
bearer since that time, will be intrusted with the duty of delivering it 
to you. I am, Sir, with much respect,
"Robert C. Buchanan,

"Brevet-Major Fourth Infantry, commanding Battalion. "To Hon. Jacob G. 
Davies, Mayor of Baltimore, Maryland."

In Brevet Major. General John R. Kenly's "Memoirs of a Maryland Volunteer 
in the War with Mexico," we find the following letter from Major-General 
William H. Emery, United States Army:

"Headquarters Department of The Gulf, "New Orleans, September 30, 1872.

"My Dear General Kenly:--Your letter of the 16th September, and that 
preceding, followed me as far as Syracuse, New York, and back to this 
place, where they only reached me to-day. I hasten to reply, and take 
great pleasure in stating that the Maryland regiment for the time it was 
under my command, daring and toward the close of the war with Mexico, 
acted uniformly with great gallantry, steadiness, and good conduct. When I 
took command of the regiment as Lieutenant-Colonel I had just returned 
from the expedition engaged in the conquest of New Mexico and California, 
under the lamented General James W. Kearney. There I served with what was 
then considered one of the crack regiments of the army, the old First 
Dragoons, and of course my ideas of discipline and efficiency were pitched 
pretty high; yet I was not

Page 520

disappointed in either the discipline or the efficiency of the gallant 
Maryland regiment, with which your name is so honorably identified. Excuse 
the shortness of this note. Believe me, very faithfully yours,

W. H. Emory,
"Brevet Major-General U. S. A.

"General John R. Kenly, Baltimore, Md."

On the 12th of January, 1847, the Legislature adopted resolutions 
expressive of the loss sustained by Maryland of Col. Trueman Cross, of 
Major Samuel Ringgold, of Colonel William H. Watson, of Major William 
Lear, of Captain Randolph Ridgely, of Passed Midshipman John Ringgold 
Hynson, and her other brave sons who fell in conflict with Mexico. These 
mighty suns have run their course--have sunk to rise no more forever; but 
the brilliancy of their parting rays shall fade away only when Maryland's 
proud escutcheon shall become too tarnished to reflect them. Deeply do we 
mourn their loss, and yet such is our selfishness, such our pride, that if 
to us were given by a breath the honor won to our name must needs be 
blotted out, who is there among Us but would pause; and if in such a 
moment it were possible their own proud spirits might decide, would they 
not with one voice and one breath exclaim, Touch not the honor now sacred 
to old Mary]and, we rest in peace! Amid the din of battle and the clash of 
arms death came without a sting, the grave without a victory. Of the 
living we speak not--their names are stamped on Mexico and Monterey. Their 
own brave deeds will ever tell their proudest eulogy, and all the efforts 
of fancy would but cast a veil over their brilliancy.

In this year the grounds of the "Marine Hospital" were purchased for $2500.

1847. On Sunday, the 31st of January, the brig C. H. Rogers, Capt. Wilson, 
arrived with the remains of Col. William H. Watson, Capt. Randolph 
Ridgely, Lieut. Eugene Boyle, Lieut. Graham, and Messrs. George W. Pearson 
and Herman S. Thomas, under the charge of Lieut. Samuel S. Mills. The 
intelligence soon spread throughout the city, and hundreds were seen 
hastening down to the wharves, while several of the bells in the city 
commenced tolling. A salute was fired by the Junior Artillerists, Capt. 
McDowell, and various other demonstrations of respect, especially on the 
part of the military, who immediately assembled at their respective 
armories to make arrangements for escorting the remains of the gallant 
dead from the boat. The funeral obsequies on the 8th of February, in honor 
of the lamented Watson and the gallant Ridgely, were a magnificent but 
melancholy pageant. The national flag, shrouded in mourning, was hoisted 
at half-mast at sunrise, from all the public buildings, in the city, the 
principal shipping in port, the observatory on Federal Hill, the several 
armories of the military, the engine-houses of the fire companies, and 
from various

Page 521

other places, while in numerous instances appropriate inscriptions in 
honor of the gallant dead were to be seen suspended from the windows of 
the houses on the line of procession; in addition to which the booming 
cannon of the Eagle Artillerists, fired at intervals by a detachment of 
that corps detailed for the purpose, added no little to the sublimity of 
the mournful occasion.

Joseph Alexander (colored) was executed on the 26th of February, in the 
jail-yard, for the murder of the colored boy Washington Sheppard.

The illumination on the evening of the 21st of April in honor of the 
victories achieved by our gallant army and navy in every quarter of the 
Republic of Mexico, was one of the most brilliant and beautiful scenes 
which had been witnessed in Baltimore since the memorable reception of 
General La Fayette when he visited this country in 1824. The streets were 
thronged with an almost uninterrupted mass of human beings, especially 
Baltimore street, which was the great centre of attraction. From the 
windows streamed forth thousands of lights; public buildings and private 
houses were resplendent with beautiful and showy transparencies and 
appropriate mottoes; from every flag-staff and from the shipping in the 
port floated the "Star-Spangled Banner," the victorious flag of a free 
people; from the top of Washington Monument and Washington College shot 
forth the glittering, dazzling, and brilliant Drummond light, lighting up 
all parts of the city within the focus of its rays.

On the 29th of April a meeting of merchants and business men favorable to 
the formation of a company to construct two steam tow-boats for the use of 
the trade between this city and the Tide-Water Canal at Havre-de-Grace, 
was held at Franklin Hall. Mr Richard Lemmon, on motion of William Bose, 
was called to the chair, and Mr. William Peterkin appointed secretary. 
After the object of the meeting was stated, Mr. Thomas Wilson presented a 
preamble and resolutions, providing for the immediate formation of a 
company, which were unanimously adopted.

On the 1st of June the Metamora Tribe No. 1, of the improved order of Red 
Men, laid the corner-stone of their new hall on Lombard near Hanover 
street. The ceremonies were quite interesting, and attracted a large 
number of persons. This hall was dedicated on Thursday, September 30.

The venerable old colored man, known to every man, woman, and child in the 
city at this time as "Old Moses," died on Wednesday morning, June 16th, at 
his residence in Front street, very suddenly. He was quite aged, and was 
much respected by every person who knew him.

Dr Palmer. in an article published in Lippincott's Magazine, says: "Moses" 
was a negro of unmixed African blood, and with a complexion dear to the 
pride of Dahomey; burly too and of imposing stature, swathed in a vast 
white apron, Old Moses was a conspicuous

Page 522

presence, not to be overlooked by housekeeper or cook with hospitable 
thoughts intent on oysters or ice-cream. In his declining years he 
affected a red wig, very ropy as to its texture and streaky as to its hue, 
which, by an effect to be felt rather than defined, imparted to his 
general make-up a spurious Choctaw aspect, thus conveying to many of his 
friends the erroneous impression that some Juan of the noble line of "Lo" 
had been surreptitiously concerned in his parentage. He had a great gift 
of whistle, whereat we boys did whistle and admire, for he whistled with 
his tongue out, and the tongue was half folded like a leaf. I have studied 
it patiently by the hour, and practised it passionately by the day; and 
he, gravely complaisant, gratified by the appreciation my fine ambition 
evinced, condescended again and again to explain to me his method, and 
demonstrate the acoustic advantage of what I may term the lingual 
attachment. But in vain--I could never get the hang of it; and to-day, 
contemplating my honorable defeat, my consolation is that in all these 
post-Moses years I have found but one individual who could whistle with 
the lingual attachment, and he was a red-headed negro, also named Moses, 
who doubtless came by the gift in the natural way. His music was commonly 
of the sacred order, derived from the familiar and rousing psalmody of the 
Methodist practice; but he occasionally diversified this with robust 
performances in the patriotic or sentimental-domestic line, and his 
rendition of a medley (dreadfully popular at that time) from such purely 
national works as "Hail Columbia," "The Star-Spangled Banner," "Yankee 
Doodle," "Home, Sweet Home," "Old Grimes," "Days of Absence," and "Away 
with Melancholy!" was effective and inspiring. His cry was a rapture of 
advertisement at once original and irresistible, and at the sound of it 
from porches and garden-gates and alleys out came the children as to the 
fatal piping of the pied wizard of Hamelin:

"Out came the children running;
All the little boys and girls,
With rosy cheeks and flaxen curls,
And sparkling eyes and teeth like pearls,
Tripping sad skipping, ran merrily after
The wonderful music with shouting and laughter."
"La, lilla, lilla, lilla, lilla, lilla, lilla, I--a, lemon ice-cream! 
lemon i--ce curreem!" (Here a few bars of "Old Hundred," vocal, piano.) 
"Lemon ice-cream! curreem, curreem! La, lilla, lilla, lilla, lilla, lilla, 
lilla, I-a-a-a-a!" (shake.) "Lemon ice-cream!" ("Blow ye the Trumpet, 
Blow!" sifflement with attachment, forte, followed by a fantastic melange 
of "Hail Columbia," "Old Oaken Bucket," and "Polly, put de Kirtle On," 
vocal and instrumental, ad lib.) "Poor old Moses! poor old fellah! Jist
a-comin' roun' onet moah to e--commerdate de ladies and gentlum wid de 
elegint nice oysters! Oysh, oysh, shock oy--sh! Oh, my charmin' oysters! 
my 'lightful fresh oysters!

Page 523

"My oysters are fresh,
An' jis' from de shell;
I can't tell de reason
My oysters won't sell."
"Sho--hock oysters! My charmin', nice oysters!" But alack! poor human 
nature! Alas! that a life so useful, so cheerful, so melodious, a spirit 
wherein all the graces of piety, patriotism and domestic peace were 
sweetly blended should have licked his wife! "Every morning, whether she 
had offended or not," that was the shocking scandal. Every morning ere he 
took up literally the yoke and burden of the day, and with the 
professional freezers or cans, and dippers and pint-pots, went forth on 
the professional circuit, he conscientiously strapped the tough partner of 
his joys. He did it "on principle," he explained, as a preventive measure. 
"It warn't as ef he had anything agin her, not to say wishus; but him a-
shufflin' roun' all day, and she a lone 'ooman, onpertected, and a lot o' 
ornery niggahs from de alley triflin' roun' de back doah, dere warn't no 
knowin' what kind of deblish spells dey might put on to de feeble-minded 
critter to make her disgrace de fam'ly, and she wid quality washin' took 
in, ef he didn't adwise her."

On the 10th of July the flag of the Baltimore battalion--the flag that was 
first planted on the walls of Monterey--was formally presented to the 
corporation by Captain James E. Stewart. The ceremony took place in front 
of the City Hall, and was witnessed by a large number of citizens and 
strangers. The Mayor, Jacob G. Davies, received the flag in a very 
appropriate address, and at its conclusion, loud calls were made for Capt. 
Kenly, who addressed the crowd in a soul-stirring speech of some twenty 
minutes.

We will here remark that never before were there so many acts of 
incendiarism and firemen's riots as at this time. Scarcely a paper is 
issued in which is not contained an account of one or more fires, 
evidently the act of some vile incendiary. There were no less than five on 
November 28th, all in the same hour and at different points of the city. 
These fires were evidently designed for the purpose of causing disgraceful 
riots between rival fire companies. On Saturday night, the 25th of 
September, the apparatus of the New Market and United fire companies 
proceeded towards Federal Hill at an alarm of fire; when at the corner of 
Light and York streets a collision took place between parties running with 
the New Market and United combined, on one side, and the Watchman fire 
company on the other side. The fight was continued from 101/2 to 12 
o'clock--along Light street, from York to Camden, and along Barre street, 
from Light to Sharp streets, during which bricks were torn up from the 
side-walks and showered like hail, pistols were fired in every direction. 
The New Market reel and suction were captured, and the former thrown into 
the dock from the east end of York street; the suction was

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rescued from those who had it in possession, who were about tumbling it 
into the dock also. The officers of the Baltimore United Fire Department, 
with Joshua Vansant, Esq., at their head, assisted the city police and 
night-watch in suppressing the riot.

On the evening of the 1st of December, a meeting was held at Washington 
Hall for the purpose of forming an association for the promotion of the 
"Mechanic Arts." It was organized by the appointment of Mr. Jesse Hunt 
chairman, and Mr. Jno. B. Easton secretary. John H. B. Latrobe, Esq., then 
addressed the meeting in an eloquent manner, in which he alluded to the 
history of the former associations for the promotion of the mechanic arts 
which existed in our city from 1826 to 1834, and brought forward many 
excellent reasons why a similar institution should be formed now. Mr. 
James Milholland offered resolutions, which were unanimously adopted.

The Presbyterian church at the northwest corner of Franklin and Cathedral 
streets was dedicated on Sunday, February 21st. The dedication sermon was 
preached by Dr. Backus, and by the pastor elect, Rev. Dr. Plummer, in the 
evening.

A gloom was thrown over the city of Baltimore on Sunday, June 6th, on the 
announcement that the esteemed citizen, Major James O. Law, was dead. The 
deceased, aside from his great personal popularity among all classes of 
society, had filled with becoming dignity the office of Mayor of this 
city, was formerly a prominent merchant, and at the time of his death, 
flour inspector general. He was born in this city on the 14th day of 
March, A.D. 1809.

The Seventh Baptist church was dedicated Sunday, August 2d, Rev. Dr. 
Fuller, the pastor, preaching on the occasion.

The Belair market-house was commenced in June.

On the 5th of July an alarming riot took place between the citizens of 
Annapolis and a portion of the passengers of the steamer Jewess. The 
steamer left Baltimore on an excursion to St. Michael's; when about twenty 
miles down the river it was found that in consequence of the crowded state 
of the boat, it would be dangerous to cross the bay to the Eastern Shore, 
and accordingly, after consultation, it was determined to run into 
Annapolis. After a short time a fight was started on the wharf between 
some citizens of the town and some of the young men who were on the boat. 
In a few minutes the fight became general, and for the time assumed a 
fearful character. Stones, bricks, and missiles in abundance were thrown 
indiscriminately upon the boat, striking ladies and children as well as 
others. This so incensed the male portion of the passengers that they 
broke into the room in which the rifles of Capt. McAllister's company were 
placed, and loading them with ball cartridges, fired among the crowd upon 
the wharf, wounding five persons. The citizens of Annapolis, seeing their 
friends thus shot down, procured two small cannon, one a

Page 525

six and the other a four-pounder, and, after placing them on the common 
near the wharf, were about to discharge them at the boat, when Col. Kane, 
with General Watkins and Judge Brewer, succeeded in preventing it by 
placing themselves before them. This proved a fortunate circumstance, as 
the boat immediately started for Baltimore.

Mr. Solomon Etting died on the 6th of August, in the 83d year of his age. 
He was a native of York, Pa., but had been a resident of Baltimore for 
sixty years.

On the 4th of February, 1847, an Act of Incorporation was passed by the 
General Assembly of Maryland, "That Samuel F. B. Morse, B. B. French, 
George C. Penniman, Henry J. Rogers, John S. McKim, J. R. Trimble, William 
M. Swain, John O. Sterns, A. Sidney Doane, and their associates, who have 
acquired from said Morse the right to contract and carry on the Electro 
Magnetic Telegraph, by him invented and patented, through this State on 
the route leading from the city of Washington to the city of New York, are 
hereby created a body politic for the purpose of erecting and maintaining 
a line of said telegraph on the route aforesaid, and transmitting 
intelligence by means thereof, under the name and style of the Magnetic 
Telegraph Company."

On the 10th of May, "Union Square" was donated to the city of Baltimore by 
the Messrs. Donnells; a short time after, the waste water from the spring 
was sold to the Baltimore and Ohio railroad company, for $4,000.