Saturday, November 1, 2014

News from Bladensburg November 1, 1854 - Planters' Advocate

From Bladensburg
Planters' Advocate
November 1, 1854
Maryland Archives


FROM BLADENSBURG
                                    BLADENSBURG,  Oct. 31, 1854.
            This village has considerably improved since its incorporation. Several dwellings have been created or repaired—others are in progress or contemplated.  Nearly all of the houses are painted; and the pales along the streets are mostly new and whitewashed. Altogether, quite as favorable change has occurred within the last five months.
            The corporate authorities intend to improve the Spa Spring.  The water of the spring is said to be equal to any in this State; and is deservedly esteemed by the citizens of this District and the District of Columbia. The Spa Grove also sustains an enviable reputation, and is visited by thousands of "pleasure seeking-folks."  The bridges near the Spa are in a lamentable condition, notwithstanding the urgent petitions which have been directed to the proper authorities to repair them. It is my opinion they never will be repaired unless the citizens of this place to the work.
            If a responsible person was to build a large and good boarding-house near the, He Would Soon realize a handsome pile.  About 20 borders could be obtained throughout the warm months; and the expenses could be nearly defrayed by the sale of liquors and eatables to visitors.
            Mr. EDWARD W. DUVALL has nearly recovered from the effects of his frame with the two Germans. This affair is much to be lamented.
It has been very cool here for several days; and there have been some heavy frost.  The trees also owshtheir effect.  I think we will have a hard winter, if there is anything in signs.
            The crops are better than anticipated. The farmers have finished sewing their wheat, &c., and are now engaged in digging their potatoes, and in pulling or housing their corn.
                                                                                                                  L. U. AND  C.[1]


[1] Maryland State Archives. (Nov 1, 1854) Planter's Advocate Collection. MSA SC 3415. msa_sc3415_scm3597-0187  
Transcribed by John Peter Thompson, 1 November 2014.

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Beyond the Battle of Bladensburg - Symposium October 11, 2014




BEYOND THE BATTLE SYMPOSIUM
 
Bladensburg was more than a battlefield in the War of 1812.  What kind of place was Bladensburg during this era?  What was life like for its townspeople?  How did Bladensburg's residents, white and black, native born and foreign, interact in a time of dramatic political, social and economic change?  Find answers to these questions and more at the "Beyond the Battle: Bladensburg’s History in Context” symposium Saturday, October 11, 2014, 8:30am - 4:30pm at R. Lee Hornbake Library, University of Maryland, College Park.  Registration is $15 per person and includes lunch.
 
Register at 
http://pgheritage.wordpress.com/beyond-the-battle-symposium/
 
For more information please contact, 
dmcelrat@umd.edu or mike@arnoldandarnold.net
 
 
Scholars, community researchers and artists will share their work on Bladensburg in the era of the War of 1812.  Panel topics and speakers include: 
 
African Americans: Maya Davis, Mark Leone, Dennis Pogue
Archaeology: Richard Ervin, Donald Creveling, Noel Broadbent
Art and Interpretation: Peter Brice, Joanna Blake, Mark Hildebrand
Bladensburg in Detail: John Peter Thompson, Susan Pearl, Doug McElrath
Keynote Speaker: Alan Virta
 
A reception   will immediately follow the symposium at the new exhibit, Beyond the Batttle: Bladensburg Rediscovered, in the Hornbake Library Gallery.
 
This event is sponsored by Prince George's Heritage, Inc. with support from the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area.   Please visit our blog at 
http://pgheritage.wordpress.com/
Prince George's Heritage, Inc. is located at the Magruder House, 4703 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg, Md.  20710
 
Following the symposium, the Prince George's Philharmonic will perform music of the War of 1812 era on Saturday, October 11, 2014 - 8:00pm at the 
Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, Bowie, MD. at 8pm. Single price tickets are $20.  For more information please visit their website at www.pgphilharmonic.org

 

Sunday, October 5, 2014

Heroic Action near Upper Marlborough — The British on their retreat from Bladensburg October 4, 1814

From the political examiner (Frederick, Md.[1])

            Heroic Action — The British on their retreat from Bladensburg left twenty-one men, who were not able to keep peace[sic] with the main army, a shot[sic] distance in the rear. Col. Cross[2], of Prince George's county, observing their isolated situation, hastily collected about 14 of the neighboring militia, and when he came up with the enemy ordered his men to fire and kill every damned rascal of thew stragling [sic] band. The British being panic struck with this order and the firmness with which it was uttered, laid down their arms, but as Col. Cross and his brave comrades advanced to seize them, they were hastily resumed and levelled[sic] with an intention to fire. This did not intimidate our men but on the contrary an impetus to their movements. — They boldly pushed forward when the enemy again laid down their arms. This had scarcely been done before they took them up. Conduct such as this so provoked Col. Cross, that he ordered his small but determined party to charge bayonet and gige[sic] the d____d rascals no quarters. They accordingly advanced with a steadiness and composure, which evinced their resolution to die or conquer; and when in the act of charging, the enemy again threw down their arms and begged lustily for mercy. This was granted and all made prisoners of war. Col. Cross then conducted them to his house, and entertained them at his hospitable board. — They afterwards told him they would have surrendered when he first them to be attacked, but from his fierce and threatening looks they expected nothing short of death. In this short affair, raw militia captured twenty-two of Wellington's choice troops, well armed and equipped. if our militia would generally act in this manner we should soon clear the land of a set of cut-throats abd plunderers.




[1] Green-Mountain Farmer Date: 10-04-1814; Volume: VI; Issue: 11; Page: [2]; Location: Bennington, Vermont.

Transcribed by John Peter Thompson [ October 5th, 2014].

[2] Perhaps: Joseph Cross or Fielder Cross of Prince George's County.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Bladensburg History Symposium, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, October 11, 2014

The Bladensburg History Symposium, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, October 11, 2014, to be held at the Hornbake Library, University of Maryland, College Park. The Symposium, highlighting Bladensburg in the period of the War of 1812, will feature panels on African Americans, Archaeology, and Art and Interpretation, as well as three presentations on historic Bladensburg in detail, and a keynote address on the Great Road to Bladensburg. (I am attaching to this e-mail a copy of the Symposium program.) The $15 registration fee will cover all sessions, coffee-break refreshments, lunch, and a reception and exhibit on "Bladensburg Rediscovered," also at the Hornbake Library. Free parking will be available in the Regents Drive Parking Structure next to Hornbake.

Registration must be received by Friday, October 3. You may register for the Symposium on-line, by going to the website :
http://groupspaces.com/PGH/item/662790

You may register by U.S. mail by sending your information plus a check for $15 (made out to Prince George's Heritage, Inc.) to Prince George's Heritage, 4703 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg, MD 20710. Registration fees will be accepted at the door, but only if you have already pre-registered by phone before October 3, by calling Mike Arnold at 301-908-5206.

This Symposium is sponsored by Maryland Milestones/StarSpangled 200. On the same evening, and also sponsored in part by Maryland Milestones/StarSpangled 200, a concert with special effects, and commemorating the War of 1812, will be presented by the Prince George's Philharmonic. The concert will be held at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie, at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, October 11, and will include music from the period of the War of 1812, as well as several selections illustrating the development of western music since that time. Symposium registrants may purchase half-price concert tickets at the Symposium.


We hope that you will circulate this information to members of your organization. If you have any further questions, please feel free send me an email at ipetrus1 "at" verizon.net. We hope to see you on October 11, both at the Symposium and at the concert that evening!

Sunday, August 3, 2014

A melancholy and very distressing accident in Bladensburg, Maryland July 31, 1814

A melancholy and very distressing accident occurred yesterday morning, a few miles north of the city. The excessive rains of Thursday night produced so great a flood the Eastern branch of the Potomac which passes the town of Bladensburg, as to overflow the banks to a considerable extent. One of the Baltimore stages only attempted to for this stream to the bridge, the railings of which were visible; driver on by the passengers, or unfortunately deeding the passage practicable, rashly proceeded, and in a minute the horses, driver & stage, containing five passengers, were all swept down the rapid current. The driver and four passengers, by their own exertions and the aid of boats, were rescued — the remaining passenger perished. Was a young gentlemen, we learn, of the name of Birchett son of Mr. Robert Birchett, president of the Petersburg branch of the Bank of Virginia, and was on his way to one of our Eastern colleges. His body has not been recovered. The driver attempted to preserve his horses by cutting them loose, but to save his own life was obliged to abandon them to their fate.[1]



[1] Delaware Gazette and State Journal, published as DELAWARE GAZETTE.; Date: 08-01-1814; Page: [3]; Location: Wilmington, Delaware
Transcribed by John Peter Thompson, 2nd August 2014

Sunday, July 6, 2014

The Battle and Burning of Washington August 1814

Citizenship - Better Late than Never - March 1828

New-Orleans Argus; Date: 03-10-1828 
NATURALIZATION.

            The new naturalization bill, reported to Congress from the Judiciary committee, provides—
            "any alien being a free white, who was residing within the limits and under the jurisdiction of the United States between 14th April, 1802, and 18th June, 1812, and who has continued to reside within the same, may be admitted to become a citizen of the U. States, without having made any previous declaration to become a citizen: Provided that whenever any person, without a certificate of such declaration of intention shall make application to be admitted a citizen of the U. States, it shall be proved to the satisfaction of the court, that the applicant was residing within the limits and under the jurisdiction of the. U. States before 18th June, 1812, and had continued to reside within the same, or he shall not he admitted. And the residence of the applicant within the limits and under the jurisdiction of the United States for at least five years immediately preceding the time of such application shall be proved by the oath or affirmation of citizens of the U. States, which citizen shall be named in the record as witnesses.— And such continued residence within the limits and under the jurisdiction of the U. States, when satisfactorily proved, and place or places where the applicant has resided for at least five years as aforesaid, shall be stated and set forth, together with the names of such citizens, and the record of the court, admitting the applicant; otherwise the same shall not entitle him to be considered and deemed to citizen of the. U. States.[1]




[1]  New-Orleans Argus; Date: 03-10-1828; Page: 2; Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
 Transcribed by John Peter Thompson. 6th July 2014.

Saturday, July 5, 2014

An act for the benefit of certain persons who emigrated into, or settled in this state of Maryland January 1814

Volume 632, Page 98
Maryland Archives
http://msa.maryland.gov/megafile/msa/speccol/sc2900/sc2908/000001/000632/html/am632--98.html


CHAPTER 105.
Passed Jan.
17, 1814.

Emigrants
before the a-
doption of the
constitution of
the U. States
to be entitled
to the privile-
ges, immuni-
ties &c. of citi-
zens.
An act for the benefit of certain persons who emigrated
into, or settled in this state before the adoption of the
Constitution of the United States.

Section 1. BE IT ENACTED by the General As-
sembly of Maryland, That all free white persons, who
emigrated into, or settled within the limits of this state
before the adoption of the constitution of the United States
of America, and who have continued and remained in-
habitants of this state, shall be deemed, construed and
taken to have been, and they hereby are declared to have
been and to be respectively entitled to all and singular
the immunities, privileges, rights and advantages of na-
tural born citizens so far as to enable such persons to
acquire right, title and interest in, and to hold, possess
and enjoy lands, tenements and real estate within this
state, and to transmit and transfer the same in the same
manner as natural born citizens of this state; and all
property real personal and mixed, acquired or transfer-
red by, from through or under the said persons or
any of them, or their or any of their descendants shall
be held, possessed, enjoyed and transferred in like man-
ner as if the said persons had respectively been and were
at the several times of acquiring and transferring such
property natural born citizens of this state; and all and
every person or persons whatsoever, being citizens of
this or some one of the United States claiming any real
estate by, from or under the said persons first herein be-
fore described or their or any of their descendants by
gilt, grant, purchase, descent or otherwise, shall hold
possess and enjoy the same in like manner as if the said
persons had respectively been and were at the several
times of acquiring and transferring such real estate na-
tural born citizens of this state; Provided, That nothing
herein contained shall be construed to interfere with or
affect the rights of any person or persons acquired before
the passage of this act.


Friday, July 4, 2014

Not paying debt results in prison time, Prince George's County, Maryland July 4, 1814

Prince George's County Court,
April Term, 1814.[1]

            ON the application, by petition in writing, of Charles L Gantt, of Prince George's county, to the Court for the benefit of the Act of Assembly, passed at November session, eighteen hundred and five, entitled "A Act for the relief of sundry insolvent debtors." And the several supplements thereto. — A schedule of his property and a list of his creditors on oath, as far as he can ascertain them, being and next to in said petition, and the court being satisfied by competent testimony, that the said prisoner is a citizen of the state of Maryland, and that he had resided therein but to last years preceding is application, and they also satisfied that the said Charles L. Gantt is now in actual confinement for debt, and the said petitioner having entered into bond with security for his appearance in this court, on the first Monday in September next, and then and there to answer such allegations as may be exhibited against him by his creditors. It is thereupon ordered and adjudged by the said court, that the said petitioner be discharged from imprisonment, and the said first Monday in September next is appointed for the said petitioner to deliver up his property and to have a trustee appointed for the benefit of his creditors. And it is ordered, that the said Charles L Gantt, by causing a copy of the foregoing to be published once a week for three months successfully in the National Intelligencer before the said first Monday in September next, give notice to his creditors that they be and appear before the court on the said day to recommend a trustee for their benefit.
            Test.
                                    JOHN READ MAGRUDER, Clerk
                                                of Prince George's County Court.

June 8 -v3m


[1] Daily National Intelligencer; Date: 07-04-1814; Page: [1]; Washington (DC), District of Columbia.

Transcribed by john Peter Thompson, July 4th, 2014.

n.b.: Incarceration of debtors was a common practice in the United States at this time

Thursday, July 3, 2014

The Story of the Star Spangled Banner and the Life of John S. Skinner, July 5, 1854

THE PLANTERS' ADVOCATE AND SOUTHERN ADVERTISER  
UPPER MARLBOROUGH, MARYLAND
jULY 5, 1854

The Story of the Star Spangled Banner and the Life of John S. Skinner[1]

JOHN S. SKINNER, Esq.

            We have received a biographical sketch of this distinguished son of Maryland, from which we make some extracts below, together with the prospectus of a plan for raising a monument to his memory, and for securing an annuity to his widow, who is said to be in destitute circumstances. The important services which Mr. Skinner rendered to the cause of agriculture in the State, as well as his advocacy of the intellectual improvement of our citizens, constitute a powerful appeal to their sympathy:

            John Stuart Skinner, (named after his uncle) was born on the 22nd day of February, 1788, and was reared upon his father's plantation. Often have we heard him relate, with particular yet mournful dust, his juvenile labors and picking cotton, or pulling blades, were journeying on a "tackey" with leather to the shoemaker, yarn to the weaver, or cloth to the tailor. Tobacco in corn were his father staple crops, but it was the old gentleman's rule to raze everything used on his plantation, with the exception of iron, sugar and coffee. The land thus became acquainted with the practical details of spinning, weaving, canning, distilling, milling, and blacksmithing, all of which were carried on at home. This impressed his mind, at an early age, with the axiom that all industral[sic] pursuits inclined to cluster around the plow, and that agriculture prospers as other occupations yield to its attraction. Among other excellent works put into his hands by his father, was a pamphlet showing the exhausting tendency of shallow plowing, written by a strong-minded Quaker, named Moore. It first led him to regard agriculture as an intellectual pursuit, replete with philosophy, and susceptible of being improved by the application of science.

In the fall of 1813, Mr. Skinner was ordered to remove his offices to Baltimore, and before he was fairly established there, he was offered a purser's commissioned by the Sec. of the Navy. This unexpected honor he at first declined, having no taste for a nautical life, and supposing that any moment he would be liable to be order to see. But he accepted, on being informed that the object of the government in appointing him was to secure his services at Baltimore, where two sloops of war and a flotilla of gunboats were fitted out. When the flotilla was equipped, the expenditures were very heavy, as Commodore Barney was upward of 1000 men under his command, but Mr. Skinner performed his arduous duties to the end of the war, and for years afterward, to the entire satisfaction of the government, as well as its counting officers. He was frequently detailed to act as a judge advocate on courts-martial, and one the warm friendship of the gallant defenders of our flagging that hour of peril.

            At the approach of the British forces upon Washington, Mr. Skinner Road 90 miles in the night, and first announced to the government their March, after having warned Commodore Barney, previously, of their hostile intentions. By way of retaliation, the "redcoats" earned the valuable buildings on St. Leonard's-creek estate, for which he never sought any reimbursement from Government, although compensation was granted for property destroyed on a neighboring plantation, at the same time, and by the same forces.

            A few weeks later, Mr. Skinner went down the bay on an official visit to Adm. Cockburn, to negotiate for the exchange of some gentlemen who had been captured from their plantations. He was accompanied [by] Francis S. Key, Esq., and they of course sailed under a flag of truce. But on reaching the squadron, they found the enemy on the point of sailing to attack Baltimore, and were politely informed that they could not return until the city was taken. Meanwhile, they would be welcome on board the flag–ship, or they could remain on board the yacht in which they came, on "parole." Choosing the latter the British commander took away their sales, and sent a card of sailors on board of the yacht. Here Mr. Skinner, and his friend remain during the bombardment of Fort McHenry, to the annoyance of their guard, who wish to dessert, but were restrained by the "prisoners." The British not succeeding in their attempt, the gentleman had their sales restored, and were permitted to return to Baltimore, with apologies at their detention. Immediately on landing, they went to the old "Fountain Inn," on Light street, where Mr. Key wrote that justly-admired song, the "Star-Spangled Banner."— It was a literal description of their feelings during the night of the bombardment, when the rockets and the bombs betokened the assaults of the enemy, and of their patriotic joy when in the gray light of early dawn they saw the starry ensign and waving in proud defiance. Mr. Skinner, ere the song was completed, saw its beauties, and obtaining Mr. Keyes permission to have it published, two copies of it to the printing offices of the morning papers. Ere long, it resounds through the public like a recovered echo of Thermopylæ — it's notes (like those of the Marsellaise hymn in France) finding in accompaniment in the throbbing of every American heart.

            In 1816, (being still and for years after purser on the station,) Pres. Madison appointed Mr. Skinner postmaster of Baltimore, then the third city in the Union. This office, which was one of labor and of high responsibility, he held for twenty-three years when he was removed by President Van Buren, in accordance with his "system." Meanwhile he declined the territorial judgeship from Mr. Madison, and the post of secretary of state of Arkansas from his warm personal friend Mr. Munroe[sic] — Messrs. Adams and Jackson each honored him with the appointment of visitor of the West Point Academy, and his re-nomination as postmaster of Baltimore by the latter, just before his term expired, and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate.

            Agriculture, at this period, was at a low ebb in the Middle States. After the conflicting armies of Europe wearied with the conflict had turned their swords into plough shares, the prices of American bread-stuff naturally declined. — The soil was becoming gradually exhausted, especially in Maryland, whose tobacco crops had paid so many of the drafts for foreign supplies during the revolution. No other Commonwealth in the world is so beneficially bounded and indented by navigable water — or so abounds in calcareousand other rich fertilizing substances  — where is so capable of easy culture and recuperation. Yet in a few years after the silver-toned trumpet of peace echoed along her shores, Maryland fell into an agricultural paralysis. Answer sons grow up, they moved away to "wear out" in its turn the fertile prairies of the West, and the old homestead mansions, often sadly out of repair, restore me with old maiden daughters, many of them were so beautiful and so excellent that no change could have improved them— save a change of name.

            An ardent lover of his native State, and sensibly alive to her stagnant condition, history Skinner had the sagacity to foresee that a continuation of this position of things must be productive of consequences not only ruinous but destructive. And able series of papers, signed "Arator," (from the pen of Col. John Taylor, of Carolina,) that him to investigate the subject, and the avidity with which these essays were red, the published in book form, addition after addition, led him to conceive the idea of establishing an agricultural paper. Happy thought! Every political party, every religious sect, every prominent business locality use the mighty engine of civilization— but the farmers, that immense majority of citizens, had no "organ." In supplying this want, Mr. Skinner supplied the first germ of modern agriculture, which thenceforth began to store up Phoenix-like, from the ashes of a wrong popular judgment.
   [2]



[1] Maryland State Archives. "Planter's Advocate", July 5, 1854. Collection. MSA SC 3415: msa_sc3415_scm3597-0115  [accessed on the web at http://mdhistory.net/msa_sc3415/msa_sc3415_scm3597/html/msa_sc3415_scm3597-0115.html]

Transcribed by John Peter Thompson, July 3rd, 2014.
[2] Maryland State Archives. "Planter's Advocate", July 5, 1854. Collection. MSA SC 3415: msa_sc3415_scm3597-0115  [accessed on the web at http://mdhistory.net/msa_sc3415/msa_sc3415_scm3597/html/msa_sc3415_scm3597-0115.html]

Transcribed by John Peter Thompson, July 3rd, 2014.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

A Privy Ordinance in Baltimore - July 2, 1814


Baltimore Privy Ordinance
Patriot & Evening Advertiser.;
07-02-1814


An Extract from the Ordinance to prevent Nuisances and re
enforce Useful Regulations within the City of Baltimore.


            Sec. XI. And be it enacted and ordained, That if any person shall open or clean                   any vault or privy, or cause the same to be opened or cleaned   between the first day of June, and the first day of October, without permission of a Commissioner of Health, every person so offending, shall forfeit and pay Twenty Dollars.[1]
            June 15.                                                                       eo7t






[1] Patriot & Evening Advertiser.; Date: 07-02-1814; Volume: 3; Issue: 156; Page: [4]; Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Transcribed by john Peter Thompson, 2 July 2014.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Political Conspiracies are Nothing New - June 28, 1814 Barney and the Dems Conspire to Harm Federalists Party in Maryland



            It is currently reported and believed in St. Mary's, Charles and Calvert counties, and in the exposed parts of Prince George's, that Barney's flotilla into the Patuxent for no other purpose than to bring the war into those federal counties, and thus to divert the attention of the enemy from Baltimore and Washington.[1] The circumstances mentioned to support this statement are strong, if not conclusive. In the first place the flotilla was equipped to defend Baltimore harbor, and it was understood not to leave there. Secondly, Barney ran into the Patuxent when it had been in his power to get into the Potomac, if he was ordered their. Thirdly, instead of running into St. Leonard's Creek, if he had proceeded up to Nottingham or pinpoint, a small place 7 miles higher up, he might then have defended himself  effectually, sloops of war being unable to follow him. And, if necessary, he might have carried barges across on rollers from pinpoint to the Chesapeake, only 9 miles. It would not have been the first time that gunboats were seen in cornfields. But they could have been left in safety. If Barney was ordered to the Patuxent for the purpose suppose it, it was a most wicked and wanton act the executive. —[2]




[1] Hoey, John B. Copyright 1995-2014.  "Federalist Opposition To The War Of 1812
Engaged in a War That Was To End In A Stalemate, Did America's Founders Miscalculate Its Military Institutions?" {accessed from the web June 28, 2014: http://www.earlyamerica.com/review/winter2000/federalist.html]

The Federalists opposed the war for several specific reasons. For one thing, they saw it as a party war designed to further the interests of Republicans and to silence the opposition ~n a view that was reinforced by the Baltimore Riots in 1812 and the refusal of the administration to accept Federalists into the Cabinet in1814. "I regard this war, as a war of party, and not of the country," said Rufus King in 1812. "The people are no more obliged "O to approve and applaud the measure," added the United States' Gazette, "than "O any other party project."

The Federalists also feared that the war would throw the nation into the arms of Napoleon, who was variously described as "the great destroyer," "the little tyrant," the "monster of human depravity," and "the arch-fiend who has long been the curse and scourge of the European World." The initial protests against the war, particularly in New England, often expressed greater fear of a French alliance than of the war itself. "The horrors of war, compared with it, are mere amusement," said Timothy Dwight. "The touch of France is pollution. Her embrace is death." French Dominion, added William Ellery Channing, threatened not just the wealth, but "the minds, character, morals, and the religion of our entire nation."

Even after the danger of a French alliance had receded, Federalists continued to oppose the war because they considered it an "offensive" war aimed at Canada. Although willing to support a war to protect American commerce or to defend the nation's frontiers, they refused to sanction the conquest of Canada. "Let it not be said," Congressman Morris Miller of New York told the Republicans in 1813, "that we refuse you the means of defense. For that we have always been ~n we still are ready to pen the treasure of the nation. We will give you millions for defense; but not a cent for the conquest of Canada ~n not the ninety-ninth part of a cent for the extermination of its inhabitants."

[2]  Salem Gazette.; Date: 06-28-1814; Volume: XXVIII; Issue: 51; Page: [2]; Location: Salem, Mass
Transcribed by john Peter Thompson, 28th June 2014.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

June 27th 1814 BARNEY VICTORIOUS!, Deserters, and Sales - Baltimore Patriot


POSTSCRIPT
Sunday Night , 9 o'clock.
            We stop the press to publish the following interesting information, just received from our correspondent at Benedict - - Nat. Int.
            BENEDICT,  JUNE 26
            Sunday morning 6 o'clock
            "There has been since day–break they continued firing in St. Leonard's creek.   Having been this morning on a high hill above this place, I have both seen and heard it.
            The mass of several very large British vessels are distinctly seen with a glass over the land which intervenes, and the smoke of every gun is visible as it rises above the trees.
            We are in fear for Barney, the British having been greatly reinforced, as appears by the number of vessels there. On the first news which reaches us of the results, I will write you."
_________________________
Postscript No. 2. 
BARNEY VICTORIOUS!
Patriot office, 3 o'clock Monday.
            We have just seen a gentleman from St. Leonard's Creek, whose date, that
On Sunday morning Com. BARNEY attacked the enemy, consisting of a razee and frigate, and after an action of one hour and a half, compelled them to set sail and stand down the River —  the Commodore then come [sic] out of St. Leonard's Creek and stood up the Patuxent.
            On their way down, off point patients, the British part Dr. Somerville's house. The British were set fire to three times by hotshot.— Three killed and eight wounded on board the Flotilla.
_________________________
MARSHALL'S SALE.
                                        United States,
Maryland District.
By virtue and pursuance of an order to me directed, from the Hon. James Houston Esq.  judge of the District Court of the United States, in and for Maryland District, will be exposed to Public Sale, at the lower end of Frederick–street Dock, on FRIDAY, the first day of July next, at 11 o'clock, for cash,
The Schooner
MIRA,
her Tackle, Apparel, and furniture, as she now lives.
THOS. RUTTER,  Marshall.
June 24
_________________________
SALE BY AUCTION.
On TUESDAY, the 28th inst. at 10:30 o'clock, at the Auction Room head of Frederick Street Dock
A Variety of Dry Goods,
And at 12 o'clock,
10 pipes French Brandy (high proof & well flavoured, warranted pure, as imported)
50 cases Old Claret, imported in 1810
11/2 pipes Teneriffe Wine
15 cases Martinique Cordial
five have pipes Madeira Wine
12 hhds Muscovado Sugar
50 bags St. Domingo Coffee
10 tierces fresh Rice
three chests Hyson Skin Tea.
                                    Wm. VANCE & Co, Auc'ts
June 25
_________________________
Charitable Marine Society of Baltimore.
The Stated Yearly Meeting of this Society, for the election of officers, collection of dues, and the transaction of other important business, will be held on MONDAY, the 27th instant, at 7 o'clock, P. M. At Pamphillion's Hotel, Fell's Point.
            Punctual attendance of the members is respectfully requested on this occasion; and the payment of all arrearages and dues is most earnestly solicited.
            By order of the Pres.,
NATHANIEL KNIGHT, Sect.
June 23
_________________________
50 Dollars Reward.
DESERTED on the 23d inst. in full uniform, which he may have since changed, WILLIAM HUTTON, born in Cumberland county,Penn aged 27 years, 5 feet, 10 1-2 inches high, fair complexion, grey eyes, black hair and by profession a Shoe Maker, but is fond of driving horses, and has been hired for a siege driver; as a mother and several relatives in Baltimore, where it is supposed he is now lurking. The above reward will be given to any person who will take up said deserter and deliver him to the commanding officer of this place, or by any other officer to whom he may be delivered, who commands a post, Garrison or district.
                             F. EVANS Capt. Art.
Fort M'Henry.
June 24
_________________________
100 DOLLARS REWARD.
On Friday Evening, t10th inst. a White Trunk marked G. Paul, Baltimore, with leather straps buckled on each in, was missed from our store, containing very valuable Goods.
            It may have been delivered to some person in mistake, in which case a generous reward will be given for its return, if required; but is stolen and any of the articles enumerated below offered for sale, we caution the public against purchasing them, and offer a large reward for the chief if convicted of the act, or $100 for the recovery of the goods— contents as follows:

22        India Mulmul embroidered Dresses
16        do                    do        Children's Frocks
7          pieces colored cambric Shawls
2 1-2   do 8-4 Levantine Shawls
5          do embroidered        do        do
8          doz. Ladies' short white Kid Gloves
6          do        Silk Handkerchief
3          band–boxes fringed playing Ribbons, Nos. 3,4, and  4-7
1          band–box Silk Cords, 35 pieces.
                        WM. M'DONALD & SON.
            The National Intelligencer, at Washington will please copy the above eight times, daily.[1]



                       






[1] Baltimore Patriot, published as Baltimore Patriot & Evening Advertiser.; Date: 06-27-1814; Volume: 3; Issue: 151;Page: [3]; Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Column six right side of page complete trasncribed by John Peter Thompson, 25th June 2014

Monday, June 23, 2014

Ravages of the Enemy In Maryland June 24th 1814 - The Weekly Messenger, Boston, Mass.

RAVAGES OF THE ENEMY.

ALEXANDRIA, JUNE 18 — By a gentleman direct from the neighborhood of Barney's Flotilla and the British squadron, who arrived  here  last evening, we have the ,most distressing account of the  situation of the inhabitants of that section of Maryland — A brig of 12 guns and 15 barges were as high up  the Patuxent on Thursday at Benedict — the barges had progressed to Nottingham, a considerable distance  above Benedict.  He states that a number of houses were burnt by them, and other enormities committed — among those were on belonging to Captain Mackall, and one to Mr. Broom — On crossing the ferry at a place called Pig Point  yesterday morning he distinctly saw the barges at Nottingham, and smoke issuing from a house which he was told belonged to General Bowie, and it is probable the whole village is burnt  — A tobacco warehouse has been burnt by them on the St. Mary's side of the Patuxent containing a quantity of tobacco.  He represents the distress of the citizens as extreme  — ­ the  woods and roads full of women and children flying in all directions from their homes. The British lay all the night before last at Lower Marlbro'.[1]



from: Christopher T. George's War of 1812 Blog
American and British Routes August to September 1814.  The broad yellow arrow shows American troop movements from Washington to the defense of Baltimore: General Ross's British Army returned to their troopships on the Patuxent for the trip up to the city on the Patapsco for a combined land-sea attack (turquoise and brown arrows).




[1] The Weekly Messenger; Date: 06-24-1814; Volume: 3; Issue: 36; Page: [3]; Location: Boston, Massachusetts.

Transcribed by John Peter Thompson: June 14th, 2013.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

"Springs at Home" --- Bladensburg vs. Rockville. June 21st, 1854

"Springs at Home" --- Bladensburg vs. Rockville.
            Considerable improvements are going on in Rockville. Our town will shortly present quite a renovated appearance. Strangers who are now here, to spend the summer months, seem to be delighted with the village, it's society, scenery and the beauty of the surrounding country. The health of our village, and indeed, of the whole County, never was better.

            The above nice little electioneering puffs is of course, from the Rockville Journal. We do not wish to detract in the least from that agreeable village, and doubt not the summer months could be safely pass there, although FAHRENHEIT will stand at as high a figure there has any where else — our own village of Bladensburg is destined to "take the wind out of its sail" completely.

            It is in contemplation to erect at the latter place a large and commodious Hotel, where families can be handsomely and comfortably accommodated. If this be done, there can be no earthly doubt that Bladensburg will absorb the patronage of all those persons in the country surrounding — and there [sic] name is Legion — who would like to of veil themselves for some weeks or months of an extremely healthy location, without the great expense, trouble, and loss of time incident to a regular trip to the "Springs." For our part we hope our friends there will keep the ball rolling, for the realization of this project will be a source of very great convenience.

            The reasons why Bladensburg is preferable to Rockville and all other neighboring places, will readily suggest themselves. In the first place, its famous SPA WATER is an invaluable qualification and inducement. In the second place, it is just as healthy and locality as Rockville. Thirdly, it is immediately on the railroad, between Washington and Baltimore, and consequently convenient to either place. We might enumerate many other points of excellence, such as the hospitality of its citizens, &c., content ourselves with urging, as a final argument, that it is renowned as the field of a famous battle. It has thus a "national reputation," and those patriotic citizens who may tarry there, while enjoying the walks through the village, the SPA WATER, the health, the propinquity to the two cities, the hospitality of the people, &c., &c., will have the proud consciousness of knowing in the language of a native poet, that they are

            "Standing, without dread,
            Where their fathers fought and fled."

            We think the idea of "Bladensburg Springs" a decided "card."[1]
        

           




[1] The Planters' Advocate and Southern Maryland Advertiser. June 21, 1854. Maryland State Archives. [accessed on the web from msa_sc3415_scm3597-0106 - http://mdhistory.net/msa_sc3415/msa_sc3415_scm3597/html/msa_sc3415_scm3597-0106.html]
Transcribed by John  Peter Thompson, June 22nd, 2014.