In proof
of the attention of country gentlemen to the improvements of their breed of
Sheep, we learn that two young rams were shorn at Northampton, the seat of
Osborne Sprigg, Esq. [1] of
Prince George's Co. a few days since whose fleeces averged [sic] nine & a
half pounds and whose carcases [sic] 186 lbs. each. At the same time and place the fleeces of six
ewes, with twin lambs, averaged eight and a quarter pounds. The fleece of one of the ewes weighed 12lbs.;
the whole of the wool being of a remarkable fine fiber and length of staple. [2]
[1]
Reporter names the plantation as the seat of Osborne Sprigg whose son, Governor
Samuel Sprigg, was most likely responsible for the 1809 news. Samuel Sprigg
(c.1783– April 21, 1855) served as the 17th Governor of the state of Maryland
in the United States from 1819 to 1822.
"For nearly three
centuries Northampton was a tobacco plantation which also produced other crops.
Today the physical remains of the plantation include the ruins of the manor
house, its outbuildings and roads, and the remains of two slave quarters. The
latter are the focus of current archaeological excavations and historical
research. Excavations continue at the frame dwelling, while the foundation and
partial walls of the brick quarters have been reconstructed.
Historians and archaeologists
are working together to reconstruct the lives of the many slaves and tenant
farmers who lived at Northampton Plantation. Detailed information about the
life of one slave, Elizabeth Hawkins, was obtained from descendants who live in
the area and are active participants in the research and excavations relating
to this site.
Northampton is located at the
Northlake residential development in Lake Arbor, Maryland,in a community park." - The Maryland-National Capital Park and
Planning Commission
Department of Parks and
Recreation, Prince George's County. http://www.pgparks.com/places/eleganthistoric/northampton_intro.html
[2] The
Public Advertiser; Date: 05-25-1809; Volume: III; Issue: 744; Page: [2];
Location: New York, New York.
Transcribed by John Peter Thompson, May 26, 2013.
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