TRADES AND MANUFACTURES
In the new settlements on the Massachusetts Bay, one of the prime
necessities was men skilled in the various trades, "an ingenious
Carpenter, a cunning Joyner, a handie Cooper, such a one as can make
strong ware for the use of the countrie, and a good brickmaker, a
Tyler, and a Smith, a Leather dresser, a Gardner, and a Taylor; one
that hath good skill in the trade of fishing, is of special use, and
so is a good Fowler."[43] The Company had sent over men to govern
and ministers to care for spiritual affairs and many of those who
came were skilled husbandmen.
[43] Wood, _New Englands Prospect_, London, 1634.
Many of the smaller towns found themselves without men skilled
in the mechanic trades and this was particularly the case with
blacksmiths, a very essential trade in every community. This led to
grants by towns of land and buildings as inducement for smiths to
settle and work their trade. Carpenters were found everywhere, and
brickmakers naturally gravitated to deposits of clay while the other
craftsmen became distributed in accordance with the law of supply
and demand, each taking on apprentices as had been customary in
their old homes in England.
The principal productions available for commerce were fish, lumber,
furs and foodstuffs, but the building of shipping and the importance
of the carrying trade must not be overlooked. In the way of domestic
manufactures the sawmill came first. The earliest were built on or
near the Piscataqua River, but wherever water power was available
they soon were set up replacing the laborious saw pits. As the
woodlands were cut off the sawmills moved farther up the stream
or logs were brought to the mill-sites by floating down with the
current. The best of the tall trees were marked with the King's
broad arrow and reserved for masts for the royal navy and mast ships
sailed for England from Portsmouth, N.H., at frequent intervals.
The shipbuilding industry required iron and shortly an iron works
was set up at Saugus, where bog iron from the neighboring swamps
and meadows was smelted. The enterprise was financed in London
and largely worked by Scotch prisoners sent over after the defeat
at Dunbar, but the quality of the product proved unsatisfactory,
save in the way of casting pots and kettles, and before long the
enterprise got into financial difficulties and was abandoned.
The high cost of imported iron forced the colonists to fashion wood
to serve their needs not only for agricultural implements but for
nearly all the utensils used in the household. Massachusetts staves
and hoops were important articles of export to the sugar islands in
the West Indies.
The raising of flax and the manufacture of linen were attempted
early to supply domestic needs in country households. Families in
seaport towns very generally bought their fabrics in the local shops
which imported their stocks from London or Bristol.
In 1642 it was estimated there were a thousand sheep in
Massachusetts and it was not long before the colony was sending wool
to France and Spain in exchange for wines, fruits and other luxuries.
The history of early American manufactures has been told in Edward
H. Knight's _American Mechanical Dictionary_, 3 volumes, Boston,
1876, and William B. Weeden's _Economic and Social History of
New England_ (1620-1789), 2 volumes, Boston, 1894, makes easily
available an immense amount of research. In the following pages are
printed gleanings from Boston newspapers and court records that
supplement these works and have the readable flavor of their period.
ANVILS. Samuel Bissel, anvil smith, lately come from England,
living at New-Port on Rhode Island, makes all sorts of Blacksmiths
and Gold-smiths' anvils, Brick-irons and stakes and new Faces old
ones, at reasonable Rates, and may be spoke with or wrote to, at
his House or Shop near the Topsaile Street in said Town.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Mar. 4-11, 1716-17.
APOTHECARY. William Woodcocke of Salem, apothecary, was licensed to
still strong water and sell at retail.--_Essex Co. Court Records_,
Mar. 25, 1662.
AQUÆDUCTS. For the Public Good, aquæducts made & sold by Rowland
Houghton which Instrument being properly applyed to the outside of
a Pump Tree, prevents said Pump from freezing tho' scituate in the
most bleak Place & sharpest Season.
Said Houghton has lately improv'd on his New Theodolate, by
which the Art of Surveying is rendered more plain & easy than
heretofore.--_Boston Gazette_, Jan. 17-24, 1737.
ASSAYER. If any Persons desire to know the true value of ores,
minerals or metals, of what kind soever, may have them justly
essay'd on reasonable terms, by Robert Baden, at Mrs. Jackson's,
Founder, at the Brazen Head in Cornhill, Boston.--_Boston Gazette_,
Sept. 27-Oct. 4, 1736.
BAKER. "John Webster the Baker was admonished for brewing and
tipleinge."--_Essex Co. Court Records_, June 30, 1640. James
Underwood, a baker, was living in Salem in 1655 and Obadiah Wood,
baker, was in Ipswich, before 1649.
BAKER. Any Persons wanting good brown Bisket fit either for the
Fishery or for Shipping Off, may be supplyed by _Lately Gee_ at the
Sign of the Bakers Arms in Hannover Street, at the following Rates,
_viz._ If Wheat be at 6 _s_, per Bushel, then Bread at 22 _s_ per
Hundred, if at 7 _s_, then 25 _s_, and if at 8 _s_, then Bread at
28 _s_, and so proportionable either for money or Good Wheat at the
Prices above said.--_New England Courant_, Sept. 10-17, 1722.
Whereas in the Courant of the 17th Instant, an Advertisement was
publish'd by _Lately Gee_ of Boston, Baker, offering brown Bisket at
lower Prices than usual. These are to give Notice, That Bread of the
same Courseness with the said _Gee's_, and with the same Quantity
of Bran remaining in it, may be had for the same Prices at other
Bakers in Town; but they being willing to avoid the Curse of the
Common Sailors, those employ'd in the Fishery, etc., generally make
their Bread better, and sell it for a better Price.--_New England
Courant_, Sept. 17-24, 1722.
BARBER'S UNION IN 1724. Boston, Dec. 7, on Tuesday the first
of this Instant in the Evening, Thirty-two Principal Barbers
of this Place, assembled at the Golden Ball, with a Trumpeter
attending them, to debate some important Articles relating to their
occupations; where it was propos'd, that they should raise their
Shaving from 8 to 10 _s._ per Quarter, and that they should advance
5 _s_, on the Price of making common Wiggs and 10 _s._ on their Tye
ones. It was also propos'd, that no one of their Faculty should
shave or dress Wiggs, on Sunday Mornings for the future, on Penalty
of forfeiting 10 Pounds for every such Offence: From whence it may
fairly be concluded, that in times past such a Practice has been too
common among them.--_New England Courant_, Nov. 3O-Dec. 7, 1724.
BARBER'S SHOP. To be Sold by Publick Vendue at the Sun Tavern in
Boston, on Tuesday next the 30th Instant at 4 of the Clock, P.M.
Sundry Goods belonging to the Estate of James Wright, Barber,
deceased, viz: Wiggs, Hair on the Pipes, Sash Lights and Shutters
fitting for a Barber's Shop, and also sundry other Goods.--_Boston
Gazette_, Oct. 20-27, 1729.
BARBER'S SHOP. To be Let in a pleasant Country Town on the Post Road
to Portsmouth, a Barber's Shop with proper Implements or Utensils
for that Business, where there is enough to keep two Hands employ'd.
Inquire of the Publisher.--_Boston Gazette_, May 7-14, 1739.
BELLOWS MAKER. Joseph Clough near the Charlestown Ferry in Boston,
makes and mends all sorts of Bellows for Furnaces, Refiners,
Blacksmiths, Braziers and Goldsmiths; and also Makes and Mends all
sorts of House Bellows after the best Manner; where all Gentlemen,
and others, in Town and Country may be served at very reasonable
Rates.--_Boston Gazette_, Dec. 15, 1741.
BELLS. This is to give notice to all Persons that have occasion for
a Bell or Bells in Churches or Meeting-houses, that in New York they
may be supplyed with New Bells, or if they have any old Bell broke
they may have it new cast at a reasonable Price, and warranted good
for Twelve Months, that if it Crack or Break it shall be new Cast
for nothing: And all New Bells shall be made of better mettal than
any other that comes out of Europe for Churches or Meeting-houses.
All Persons that have Occasion may apply themselves to Joseph
Phillips who is now building a Furnace for that purpose, and hath
already agreed with some Persons, and is ready to do the same with
any that are disposed.--_Boston News-Letter_, June 10-17, 1717.
BELL FOUNDER. John Whitear, of Fairfield [Conn.], Bell-Founder,
makes and sells all sorts of Bells from the lowest size to Two
Thousand Weight.--_Boston Gazette_, May 29-June 5, 1738.
BLACKSMITH'S WORK. This is to give Notice, that there is one
William Bryant, Blacksmith, that now keeps a shop adjoining to the
Presbyterian Meeting House in Long Lane, Boston, who makes and
mends Glaziers' Vises, Cloathers' Screws, and worsted Combs, and
makes, grinds and setts Cloathers' Shears; he also makes and mends
Smiths' Vises, Ship Carpenters', Blockmakers', Tanners', Glovers'
and Coopers' Tools, Braziers' and Tinsmens' Shears, and makes House
work, with many other things too tedious to mention here. He will
make and engage his work to any of his Employers according to the
value of them.--_Boston News-Letter_, July 6-13, 1732.
BLACKSMITH AND LOCKSMITH. Made and Sold by Robert Hendrey, on
Scarlet's Wharff in Boston, Horse Shoeer, Spinning Wheel Irons after
the best Manner, at _Ten Shillings_, old Tenor per sett: Also all
sorts of Locks are made and mended by the said Hendrey, who keeps
a Man that served his Time to the Lock Smith's Business.--_Boston
Gazette_, Dec. 10, 1751.
Four months later he also advertised "fine White-Smiths Work;
Also Spades and the best sort of Steel Shod Shovels made very
reasonably."--_Boston Gazette_, Apr. 21, 1752.
BOARDING SCHOOL. Any Gentlemen (Members of the Church of England)
that are desirous of having their Sons Educated after the Method
of Westminster School, may be further inform'd by applying to J.
Boydell. Conditions, To find their own Bed, Bedding, etc. and to
bring as Entrance, one pair of Sheets, six Towels, six Napkins,
one Silver Spoon value 10 s. Sterling, one Knife, Fork, and Pewter
Porringer; which Entrance on their leaving the School is not to be
returned. None to be admitted but such as can read well and write;
nor the Number of six to be exceeded.--_Boston Gazette_, Oct. 24-31,
1737.
BOOKKEEPER. Mr. _Brown Tymms_ Living at Mr. _Edward Oakes_
Shopkeeper in Newbury Street, at the South End in Boston, keeps
Merchants & Shopkeepers Books, also writes Bills, Bonds, Leases,
Licenses, Charter-parties, &c., for any Person that may have
Occasion, at reasonable Rates. And likewise teacheth Young Men
Arithmetick and Merchants Accounts.--_Boston News-Letter_, Feb.
17-24, 1717-18.
BRAZIER AND IRONMONGER. The late Mr. _Edward Jackson's_ Stock in
Trade, consisting of a great variety of Articles in the Braziery and
Ironmongery Way, in larger or smaller Lots as will best accommodate
Customers.--Lead, Shot, bloomery, brittle, refined and Guinea
Iron, Hollow Ware, best heart and clubb German Steel, best London
Steel in half Faggots, Blowers' best Wool Combs, Iron Hearths for
Ships, a Copper Furnace for ditto, Cannon shot, Iron Backs, Deck,
Sheathing and Drawing Nails, Newcastle Coals, &c. &c. Enquire at the
House where the Deceased's Family dwells, or at his Shop.--_Boston
Gazette_, Sept. 12, 1757.
BRAZIERS AND PEWTERERS. A Good Set of Sundry Sorts of Braziers and
Pewterers' Molds, and other Tools, as good as New, belonging to the
Estate of Mr. Thomas Thacher, deceased, To be sold by Oxenbridge
Thacher at his Shop near the Town Pump, Boston. And also almost all
sorts of Brass, Pewter and Iron Ware, viz. Nails, Locks, Hinges,
Pots, Kettles, &c....--_Boston News-Letter_, Sept. 17-24, 1724.
BRAZIERS' WARES. William Coffin, at the Ostrich, near the
Draw-Bridge, makes and sells Mill Brasses, Chambers for Pumps,
Brass Cocks of all Sizes, Knockers for Doors, Brasses for Chaises
and Sadlers, Brass Doggs of all Sorts, Candlesticks, Shovels and
Tongs, small Bells, and all sorts of Founders ware. Also, all sorts
of Braziers and Pewterers ware, small Stills and worms, and all
Sorts of Plumbers work; likewise Buys old copper, Brass, Pewter, and
Lead.--_Boston News-Letter_, Feb. 17-24, 1736-7.
BRAZIERS' SHOP. Thomas Russell, Brazier, near the Draw-Bridge in
Boston, Makes, Mends, and New-Tins, all sorts of Braziery ware,
viz. Kettles, Skillets, Frying-Pans, Kettle-Pots, Sauce Pans, Tea
Kettles, Warming Pans, Wash Basins, Skimmers, Ladles, Copper Pots,
Copper Funnels, Brass Scales, Gun Ladles, &c. makes all sorts of
Lead Work for Ships, Tobacco Cannisters, Ink Stands, &c. and buys
old Brass, Copper, Pewter, Lead and Iron.--_Boston News-Letter_,
Oct. 30-Nov. 6, 1740.
BRAZIERS' WARES. To be sold by Publick Vendue this Afternoon, at 3
o'Clock, at the House of the late Mr. Stephen Apthorpe, Brazier,
deceas'd, Codlines, Match, Warming-Pans, Frying-Pans, Kettle-Potts,
Brass-Kettles, Pewter Plates, Dishes, Spoons, &c. Locks of several
Sorts, Jacks, Knives of several sorts, Hinges of several sorts,
Snuff Boxes, Buttons, Trowells, Shod Shovels, Fire Shovel and Tongs,
Lanthorn Leaves, Brass Candlesticks, Chaffin-Dishes, Horn-Combs and
Wire with a great Variety of other Articles.--_Boston News-Letter_,
May 31, 1750.
Mary Jackson, at the Brazen-Head, Cornhill, Boston, advertised by
Wholesale and Retail, Brass Kettles and Skillets, etc. "N. B., Said
Mary makes and sells Tea-Kettles, and Coffee-Pots, Copper Drinking
Pots, Brass and Copper Sauce-Pans, Stew-Pans, and Baking-Pans,
Kettle-Pots and Fish-Kettles."--_Boston News-Letter_, June 21, 1750.
BUCKRAM. Any Person that has occasion to have any Linnen Cloth made
into Buckram, or to buy Buckram ready made, or Callendring any Silk,
Watering, Dying or Scouring: they may apply themselves to Samuel
Hall, lately from London, and Thomas Webber near the New North
Brick Meeting House, or at their Work-house near the Bowling-Green,
Boston.--_Boston News-Letter_, June 25-July 2, 1722.
BUTCHER. Humphrey Griffin, a butcher by trade, was living at Ipswich
as early as 1641.--_Essex Co. Court Records_, Sept., 1658.
CABINET MAKER. Edward Browne, cabinet maker, was living in
Ipswich as early as 1637 and at his death in 1659 left in his shop
unfinished chairs, spinning wheels, etc.--_Essex Co. Court Records_,
Nov., 1659.
CABINET MAKER. Mr. John Davis, Cabinet-Maker in Summer-Street, has
for sale extraordinary good English Glew, by Wholesale or Retail, at
the cheapest Rate, for ready Cash.--_Boston News-Letter_, Apr. 8-15,
1736.
CALICO PRINTER. Francis Gray, Callicoe Printer, from Holland; Prints
all sorts of Callicoes of several Colours to hold Washing, at his
House in Roxbury near the Meeting-House.--_Boston Gazette_, June
16-23, 1735.
CARD MAKER. Francis Smith of Boston, cardmaker, probably came with
Winthrop in 1630.
CARD MAKER. Imported in the _Wilmington_, and to be sold in School
street, by Joseph Palmer, cardmaker from London, at his House next
above the French Meeting House viz. Broad cloths, the best steel
Wire, Exeter Fish Hooks, Buckles, Mettal & Horse Hair Buttons,
Tinplate Ware of several sorts, and other Goods; also the best
Wool and Cotton Cards are there made (as good as any brought from
England) by the said Palmer, and sold by Wholesale or Retail. N.
S. The said Palmer wants a servant Maid, and a Negro boy.--_Boston
Gazette_, Nov. 25, 1746.
CHANDLER AND SOAPBOILER. To be sold by _Edward Langdon_, in Fleet
Street, near the Old North Meeting House, A Quantity of Hard Soap
by the Box, soft Soap by the Barrel, and good old Candles both
Mould and Dipt, fit for Shipping or Families, also Mould Candles of
Bayberry Wax, all by the Box or by Retail.--_Boston Gazette_, July
24, 1750.
SPERMA-CETI CANDLES. To be sold on Minot's T. by James Clemens,
Sperma Ceti Candles, exceeding all others for Beauty, Sweetness of
Scent when extinguished; Duration, being more than double Tallow
Candles of equal size; Dimensions of Flame, nearly four Times more,
emitting a soft easy expanding Light, bringing the Object close to
the Sight, rather than causing the Eye to trace after them, as all
Tallow-Candles do, from a constant Dimness which they produce.--One
of these Candles serves the Use and Purpose of three Tallow Ones,
and upon the whole are much pleasanter and cheaper.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Mar. 30, 1748.
CHAPMAN OR PEDDLER. "On Thursday last Dyed at Boston, James Gray,
That used to go up and down the Country selling of Books, who left a
considerable Estate behind him."--_Boston News-Letter_, Apr. 9-16,
1705.
CHOCOLATE MILL. Salem, Sept. 3. By a Gentleman of this Town is
this Day bro't to perfection, an Engine to Grind Cocoa; it is a
Contrivance that cost much less than any commonly used; and will
effect all that which the Chocolate Grinders do with their Mills and
Stones without any or with very Inconsiderable Labour; and it may
be depended on for Truth, that it will in less than six Hours bring
one Hundred weight of Nuts to a consistance fit for the Mold. And
the Chocolate made by it, is finer and better, the Oyly Spirit of
the Nut being almost altogether preserved, and there is little or no
need of Fire in the making.--_Boston Gazette_, Sept. 5-12, 1737.
COFFIN FURNITURE. To be sold by Arthur Savage Tomorrow Evening at
his Vendue Room, about 50 Sett of neat Polished Coffin Furniture,
consisting of Breast-plates, Angels, Flowers, Posts, etc.--_Boston
Gazette_, May 29, 1758.
COOPER. John Henry Dyer, Cooper, lately arriv'd from London, living
on Mr. Henshaw's Wharffe, near the South Market House in Boston;
makes all sorts of Cooper's Ware, after the best manner, as Rum
Hogsheads, Barrels, Caggs, little Tubs and Trays, as cheap and good
as any in the Town.--_Boston Gazette_, July 30, 1751.
CURRIER. The Trade of a Currier is very much wanted in _Middletown_
the Metropolis of Connecticut: any Prudent person that is Master
of that Trade may get a pretty Estate in a few Years.--_Boston
Gazette_, Nov. 6, 1758.
DYER. Alexander Fleming, Dyer, lately from Great Britain, has set
up said Business in Boston, in a House of Mr. Arthen's near Dr.
Gardner's in Marlborough Street, on the same side of the Way, who
can dye all sorts of Colours, after the best Manner and Cheapest
Rate, viz. Scarletts, Crimsons, Pinks, Purples, Straws, Wine
Colours, Sea-Greens, Saxon ditto, common Blues, shearing, dressing
and watering of clothes: Also he can dye linnen Yarn either red,
blue, green, yellow or cloth colours, and all Colours on silks, and
cleaning of Cloths.--_Boston Gazette_, May 14, 1754.
DUTCH TILES. Several sorts of Neat Dutch Tiles, to be set in
chimneys, to be sold by Mr. Richard Draper; at the lower end of
Cornhill, Boston.--_Boston News-Letter_, May 6-13, 1725.
DUTCH TILES. To be sold at Capt. Stephen Richard's in Queen Street,
Boston. All sorts of Dutch Tyles, viz. Scripture (round and square),
Landskips of divers sorts, sea monsters, horsemen, soldiers,
diamonds, etc., and sets of brushes; London quart bottles; and a
chest of Delph ware.--_Boston Gazette_, Feb. 6-13, 1738.
EARTHEN WARE. To be sold by Capt. Arthur Savage at the White
House near Mr. Coleman's Church, Boston, Earthen Ware and Glasses
per the Hogshead, fine Holland Tiles, Earthen and Stone Ware
in Parcels, likewise the long London Tobacco Pipes, all very
Reasonable.--_Boston News-Letter_, Apr. 23-30, 1716.
FELLMONGER. Edmond Farrington of Lynn, fellmonger [dealer in hides]
arrived in Massachusetts in 1635.
FIRE ENGINE. To be sold, a Large and extraordinary good Copper
Fire-Engine, newly fixed, that works well, and will be of excellent
Use in Time of Fire, in any populous Place. Enquire of Mr. James
Read, Blockmaker, near Oliver's Bridge in Boston.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Feb. 19-26, 1735-6.
GLAZIERS' DIAMONDS. To be sold by Gershom Flagg, in Hanover Street
near the Orange Tree, viz. Spanish Whiten, and choice Diamonds fit
for Glazier's use, English Sole Pieces for Shoes and Boots, fine
Jelly Glasses and Crewits of double Flint, all sorts of Coffin Gear,
silvered, plain and lackered, and sundry other Articles.--_Boston
Gazette_, Aug. 6, 1745.
GLASS was being manufactured in Salem as early as 1639, the main
product being bottles and beads used in barter with the Indians. The
glass made was a dark-colored brownish-black.
CROWN GLASS. To be sold by Alexander Middleton at Warehouse Number
3, in Butlers' Row, Crown Glass in Cases uncut, Ditto in Chests
cut in Squares, ordinary ditto cut in squares per the Chest, Bar
& Sheet Lead, white & brown Earthen ware, Glass Bottles, Quarts &
Pints, bottled Ale in Hampers, ... Pipes, glaz'd and ordinary ditto.
And best Sunderland Coal on board the ship _Betty_, William Foster,
Commander, lying at the North side of the Long Wharff.--_Boston
Gazette_, June 4-11, 1739.
GLASS MAKING. Tuesday last a ship arrived here from Holland, with
about 300 Germans, Men, Women & Children, some of whom are going
to settle at Germantown, (a Part of Braintree) and the others in
the Eastern Parts of this Province.--Among the Artificers come
over in this ship, there are Numbers of Men skilled in making
of Glass, of various sorts, and a House proper for carrying on
that useful manufacture, will be erected at Germantown as soon as
possible.--_Boston Gazette_, Sept. 26, 1752.
GLASS MANUFACTORY AT GERMANTOWN. Notice is hereby given, That
for the future none will be admitted to see the new manufactory
at Germantown [Braintree], unless they pay at least one shilling
lawfull money; and they are desired not to ask above three or four
Questions, and not to be offended if they have not a satisfactory
answer to all or any of them.
_Note._--The manufactory has received considerable Damage, and
been very much retarded by the great Number of People which are
constantly resorting to the House.--_Boston Gazette_, Sept. 4, 1753.
KNOT GLASS. To be sold by Arthur Savage, To-morrow Evening, at his
Vendue-Room on the North side of the Town Dock. Twelve Crates of
Knot Glass of various sizes, large and small Looking Glasses, ...
Leather Breeches, Desks, Tables, etc. Also, a Camera Obscura with
Prints.--_Boston Gazette_, Jan. 24, 1757.
WINDOW GLASS. To be sold by Jonathan Bradish in Charlestown near the
Sign of the Buck, sundry sorts of Window Glass, viz., 8 by 10, 8 by
6, 7 by 9, etc. Also Painters' Colours and Linseed oyl.--_Boston
Gazette_, Nov. 12, 1751.
GLOVER. To be sold by the Maker, Ph. Freeman, who arrived in the
last Ship from London, at Mr. Irish's in Bridge's Lane near Mr.
Welsteed's Meeting-House, A Large Parcel of Gloves of all Sorts,
viz. Men's and Women's Buck and Doe, Kid and Lamb, for Mourning and
all other Sorts.--_Boston News-Letter_, Sept. 30-Oct. 7, 1742.
GLOVE MAKER. Just Imported and Sold by Philip Freeman, Norway Doe
Gloves, and Makes and Sells Winter Gloves, for Men and Women: and
lines Gloves with Fur, after the best Manner.--_Boston Gazette_,
Nov. 26, 1754.
GUNSMITH. To be sold by John Pim of Boston, Gunsmith, at the Sign
of the Cross Guns, in Anne-Street near the Draw Bridge, at very
Reasonable Rates, sundry sorts of choice Arms lately arrived
from London, viz. Handy Muskets, Buccaneer-Guns, Fowling pieces,
Hunting Guns, Carabines, several sorts of Pistols, Brass and Iron,
fashionable Swords, &c.--_Boston News-Letter_, July 4-11, 1720.
GUNSMITH. Newly imported, and sold by Samuel Miller, Gunsmith, at
the Sign of the cross Guns near the Draw-Bridge, Boston: Neat Fire
Arms of all sorts, Pistols, Swords, Hangers, Cutlasses, Flasks for
Horsemen, Firelocks, &c.--_Boston Gazette_, May 11, 1742.
HALBERTS. A Set of Halberts for a foot Company to be sold on
reasonable Terms, by Nicholas Boone Bookseller, to be seen at his
House near School-House Lane, Boston.--_Boston News-Letter_, Apr.
22-29, 1706. "A Set of New-Halbards" were offered for sale in the
June 3-10, 1706, issue.
HAND ENGINES. Hand Engines made after the best manner, fitted
with Brass Clappers, very useful in all Families, convenient for
extinguishing Fire in Chimneys, or in any Room in a House; Also very
proper for Coasters to carry to sea to wet the Sails in small Winds
to preserve them from Mildews; said Engine throws Water with ease 40
Feet perpendicular. Sold by Rowland Houghton, on the North side of
the Town House at 25s. each.--_Boston Gazette_, June 10-17, 1734.
HATS. Daniel Jones, at the _Hat & Helmit_, South-End, Boston, ...
makes and sells Beaver, Beaveret, and Castor-Hats: and has also a
good Assortment of English Castor and Beaveret Hats, English and
Felt ditto; Hat Linings and Trimmings of all sorts: Red Wool, Coney
Wool, Camels Hair: Logwood by the 100 Wt. by Wholesale or Retail,
cheap for Cash or Treasurer's Notes.--_Boston Gazette_, Dec. 10,
1759.
HOUR GLASSES. All sorts of Hour-Glasses to be made or mended on
Reasonable terms, by _James Maxwell_, at his House in Water Street,
near the Town House in Boston.--_Boston News-Letter_, Sept. 17-24,
1716.
IRON MONGER. To be sold by _John Winslow_, at his Warehouse, in
Newbury-Street, near Summer Street: Best refined and blommery Iron,
Ploughshare Moulds, Anchor Palms, Coohorns, Swivel Guns, Ten Inch
Mortars and Shells, 6, 4, & 3 pound Swivel and Grape Shot.--_Boston
Gazette_, Apr. 25, 1757.
IRON HEARTH. On the 11th Instant, early in the Morning, a Fire broke
out at _Mr. Pierpont's_ House near the Fortification, occasioned by
the Heat of the Iron Hearth of one of the newly invented Fireplaces,
whereby the Floor was set on Fire; the People being in Bed,
perceived a great Smoke, got up, and happily discover'd and timely
distinguished [_sic_] the Fire.--_Boston Gazette_, Dec. 22, 1747.
IRON FOUNDRY. Any Person that has occasion for Forge Hammers,
anvils, or Plates, Smiths' Anvils, Clothiers' Plates, Chimney Backs,
Potts, Kettles, Skillets, Cart Boxes, Chaise Boxes, Dog-Irons, or
any other Cast Iron Ware, may be provided with them by Richard
Clarke, at his Furnace in the Gore, giving speedy Notice (of the
Sizes and Quantity they want) to him there, or to Oliver, Clarke,
and Lee, at their Warehouse in King Street, Boston; where they may
be supplied with Swivel Guns.--_Boston Gazette_, July 13-20, 1741.
JEWELLER. This is to inform the Publick, That Mr. _James Boyer_,
Jeweller, from London, living at Mr. Eustone's, a Dancing Master in
King Street, Boston, setts all manner of Stones in Rings, &c. and
performes every thing belonging to that Trade. N.B. Said Mr. Boyer
is lately recovered of a fit of Sickness.--_New England Courant_,
Dec. 31-Jan. 7, 1722-3.
JOYNER. Richard Lambert of Salem, the joyner, was living there as
early as 1637, and four years later was fined for drinking and also
sat in the stocks for two hours.--_Essex Co. Court Records_, Feb.,
1641.
LINEN PRINTER. The Printer hereof Prints Linens, Callicoes, Silks,
&c. in good Figures, very lively and durable Colours, and without
the offensive smell which commonly attends the Linens Printed
here.--_Boston Gazette_, Apr. 18-25, 1720.
LINEN PRINTER AND DYER. John Hickey, linen-printer and dyer, from
Dublin, is now settled in this town, at the linen manufactory, where
he follows the business of blue and white printing, and silk or
cloth dying; and takes all manner of spots out of silk or cloths,
cleans gold and silver lace, and scarlet cloth, dyes linnen and
cotton of a blue or London red, and all manner of country stuffs,
worsteds, camlets, tammies, or leather; he dyes blacks so as they
shall be sound and clean as any other colour; also dyes ribbons
and makes them up again as well as ever, and English thick sets
after they have been worn or faded, and blue yarn for one shilling
a pound. N.B. as there has been several who have imposed upon this
country in telling that they were printers; I engage myself that
if my colours be not as good and as lasting as any that comes from
Europe, to satisfy my employers with all charges or damages that
shall be justly laid against me.
All the above articles done with expedition at the most reasonable
price, by JOHN HICKEY.--_Boston Gazette_, (sup.) May 7, 1759.
LINEN MANUFACTORY. The Massachusetts General Court at its session
held in the summer of 1753, passed an "Act for granting the sum of
Fifteen Hundred Pounds To encourage the Manufacture of Linnen,"
providing for a tax on every "Coach, Chariot, Chaise, Calash
and Chair" for the term of five years, the Governor, Lieutenant
Governor, the President of Harvard College, and the settled
ministers in the Province, being excepted from its provision, at the
following rates: each Coach, ten shillings annually, Chariot, five
shillings, Chaise, three shillings, Calash, two shillings, Chair,
two shillings. The several sums received from Time to Time were to
be paid to a committee of ten appointed by the Act, "to be applied
to the purchasing a Piece of Land, and building or purchasing a
convenient House within the Town of _Boston_, for carrying on the
Business of Spinning, Weaving, and other necessary Parts of the
Linnen Manufacture." This legislation was instituted because of "the
great Decay of Trade and Business the Number of Poor is greatly
increased, and the Burden of supporting them lies heavy on many of
the Towns within this Province, and many Persons, especially Women
and Children are destitute of Employment."--_Boston Gazette_, Aug.
7, 1753.
LIME KILN. To be Sold a good Penny-worth; A good Lime-Kiln, a
Lime-House, a good Well, a Wharf, and a piece of Ground, being near
the Bowling-green, Boston; Inquire of Mr. Walter Browne at the Sign
of the Blue Anchor in King-Street, Boston, and know further.
N. B. There is very good Lime-juice to be sold by the aforesaid
Browne at his House.--_Boston News-Letter_, Mar. 28-Apr. 4, 1723.
STONE LIME. To be sold by the Hogshead or Bushel, the best
eastward Stone Lime, by John Blowers of Boston, Mason, in School
Street.--_Boston Gazette_, Mar. 31, 1747.
LINEN MANUFACTURE. Publick Notice is hereby given, That sundry
Looms for Weaving of Linnen, of all Sorts, are set up at the
Linnen-Manufacture House in the Common below Thomas Hancocks' Esq;
where all Persons may have their Yarn wove in the best and Cheapest
Manner, and with the utmost Dispatch. At the same Place, money will
be given for all Sorts of Linnen Yarn.
And whereas the setting up and establishing the Linnen Manufacture
is undoubtedly of the utmost Importance to this Province: It is
propos'd by a Number of Gentlemen, very soon to open several
Spinning-Schools in this Town, where children may be taught Gratis.
And it is to be hop'd, that all Well-wishers to their Country
will send their children, that are suitable for such Schools, to
learn the useful and necessary Art of Spinning; and that they
will give all other proper Countenance and Encouragement to this
Undertaking.--_Boston News-Letter_, Dec. 13, 1750.
LOCKSMITH. This is to inform my Customers, that I have remov'd from
Middle-street, to the Bottom of Cross street, where I continue to
mend all sorts of Locks, also to fit Keys to Locks, mend all sorts
of Kettles, as Brass, Copper, Pewter, &c. at a very reasonable Rate,
by _Reuben Cookson_.--_Boston Gazette_, Apr. 23, 1754 (_sup._)
MAHOGANY AND OTHER WOODS. To be Sold behind Numb. 4, on the Long
Wharffe, Lignumvitee, Box wood, Ebony, Mohogany Plank, Sweet Wood
Bark, and wild Cinnamon Bark.--_Boston Gazette_, Aug. 22-29, 1737.
MAHOGANY. To be sold at publick Vendue at the Exchange Tavern, on
Thursday, the first of December next, at three o'clock Afternoon; 50
Pieces of fine Mahogany in 10 Lots, No. 1 to 10, being 5 Pieces in a
Lot, to be seen at the Long Wharffe before the Sale begins.--_Boston
Gazette_, Nov. 21-28, 1737.
MILITARY EQUIPMENT. On Thursday the 6 of February at three of the
clock Afternoon, will be sold by Publick Vendue at the Exchange
Tavern, about one hundred Canvice & Ticken Tents, Poles, Mallets,
and Pins to them, about five hundred Pick-Axes, fifty Axes and
Hatchets, about eight hundred Tomhawks or small Hatchets, about
three hundred Spades and Bills, a parcell of Shovels, Wheelbarrows,
Handbarrow's, Baskets of Speaks and Nails, all to be put and sold
in Lots, and to be seen at the place of sale the Morning before the
Sale begins: Also a very fine Negro Woman.--_Boston Gazette_, Jan.
27-Feb. 3, 1728-9.
MILITARY EQUIPMENT. Extract from the _Act for Regulating the
Militia_:--"Every listed Soldier, and other Householder shall be
always provided with a wellfixt Firelock Musket, of Musket or
Bastard-Musket bore, the Barrel not less than three Foot and an half
long, or other good Fire Arms to the satisfaction of the Commission
Officers of the Company; a Cartouch Box: one Pound of good Powder:
Twenty Bullets fit for his Gun, and twelve Flynts; a good Sword or
Cutlass; a Worm, & priming Wire, fit for his Gun, on Penalty of six
Shillings...."--_Boston News-Letter_, Feb. 7-14, 1733-4.
BREECH-LOADING GUN. Made by John Cookson, and to be Sold by him
at his House in Boston: a handy Gun of 9 Pound and a half Weight;
having a Place convenient to hold 9 Bullets, and Powder for 9
Charges and 9 Primings; the said Gun will fire 9 Times distinctly,
as quick, or slow as you please, with one turn with the Handle of
the said Gun, it doth charge the Gun with Powder and Bullet, and
doth prime and shut the pan, and cock the Gun. All these Motions are
performed immediately at once, by one turn with the said Handle.
Note, there is Nothing put into the Muzzle of the Gun as we charge
other Guns.--_Boston Gazette_, Apr. 12, 1756.
MATHEMATICAL BALANCEMAKER. Jonathan Dakin, Mathematical Balance
maker, at the Sign of the Hand & Beam, opposite to Dr. _Colman's_
Meeting House, makes all sorts of scale Beams, and likewise mends
all that can be mended; where all Gentlemen may be supplied with
Beams ready adjusted and scaled, as the Law directs.--_Boston
Gazette_, Nov. 12, 1745.
MATHEMATICAL INSTRUMENTS. Stephen Greenleaf, Mathematical
Instrument-Maker, in _Queen Street_, Boston, opposite to the
Prison, Makes and Mends all Sorts of Mathematical Instruments,
as Theodolites, Spirit Levels, Semi circles, Circumferences, and
Protractors, Horizontal and Equinoctial Sun Dials, Azimuth and
Amplitude Compasses, Eliptical and Triangular Compasses, and all
sorts of common Compasses, drawing Pens and Portagraions, Pensil
Cases, and parallel Rulers, Squares and Bevils, Free Masons Jewels,
with sundry other articles too tedious to mention.
N.B. He sets Load Stones on Silver or Brass, after the best
manner.--_Boston Gazette_, June 18, 1745.
MUSICIAN. Thomas Androus, "the scholar musician, was there with his
music," at John Androus house in Ipswich, in the summer of 1656, at
a merriment.--_Essex Co. Court Records_, April, 1657.
MUSTARD MAKER. John Ingram, the Original Flower of Mustard
Maker, from Lisbon, now living at the House of Mrs. Townsend,
near Oliver's-Dock, Boston, Prepares Flower of Mustard to such
Perfection, by a Method unknown to any Person but himself, that it
retains its Strength, Flavour and Colour Seven Years; being mix'd
with hot or cold water, in a Minute's Time it makes the strongest
Mustard ever eat, not in the least Bitter, yet of a delicate and
delightful Flavour, and gives a most surprizing grateful Taste to
Beef, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Sallad, or other Sauces. It is approved of
by divers eminent Physicians as the only Remedy in the Universe
in all nervous Disorders, sweetens all the Juices, and rectifies
the whole Mass of Blood to Admiration. If close stopt it will keep
its Strength and Virtue Seven years in any Climate. Merchants and
Captains of Ships shall have good Allowance to sell again.--_Boston
Gazette_, Sept. 19, 1752.
NAILMAKING. Any Gentleman that hath a mind to set up the nailing
Business, which may be done to very great Advantage in this Country,
may by inquiring of the Printer be informed of a Man that will carry
it on to Perfection for him.--_Boston Gazette_, Mar. 2, 1742.
NEEDLE MAKER. Simon Smith, Needle maker from London, is removed from
the Rainbow and Dove in Marlborough Street, now in Union Street
near the Corn fields; continues to make and sell all sorts of white
Chapple Needles, and all other sorts round and square.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Apr. 15-22, 1742.
_Oil Lamp._ A New England vessel having "30 Tons of Lamp Oyl" on board
was captured by French and Indians in Newfoundland.--_News-Letter_,
Oct. 2-9, 1704.
OIL LAMP. Best Refin'd Sperma-Ceti Oil for Lamps, to be sold next
Door to the _Salutation_, near the North Battery.--_Boston Gazette_,
July 17, 1758.
PAPER MILL. Whereas some Gentlemen design to set up a Paper-Mill
in New England, if a supply can be had to carry on that Business:
These are therefore to give Notice, that James Franklin, Printer in
Queen Street, Boston, buys Linen Rags, either coarse or fine, at a
Peny a Pound.--_New England Courant_, June 1-8, 1724.
PAPER MAKER. This is to give Notice, That Richard Fry, Stationer,
Bookseller, Paper-maker, and Rag Merchant, from the City of London,
keeps at Mr. Thomas Fleet's Printer at the Heart and Crown in
Cornhill, Boston; where the said Fry is ready to accommodate all
Gentlemen, Merchants, and Tradesmen, with sets of Accompt-Books,
after the neatest manner; and whereas, it has been the common Method
of the most curious merchants in Boston, to Procure their Books from
London, this is to acquaint those Gentlemen, that I the said Fry,
will sell all sorts of Accompt-Books, done after the most accurate
manner, for 20 per cent. cheaper than they can have them from London.
I return the Publick Thanks for following the Directions of my
former advertisement for gathering of Rags, and hope they will
continue the like Method; having received seven thousand weight and
upwards already.
For the pleasing entertainment of the Polite part of Mankind, I have
Printed the most Beautiful Poems of Mr. Stephen Duck, the famous
Wiltshire Poet; It is a full demonstration to me that the People of
New England, have a fine taste for Good Sense & Polite Learning,
having already sold 1200 of these Poems, Richard Fry.--_Boston
Gazette_, May 1-8, 1732.
PEWTERER. This is to give notice, that a Journeyman Pewterer, who
is a good workman in Hollow-ware, may have constant work, and good
Wages, if they will go to New York, and apply themselves to Mr.
_David Lyell_, or they may write to him and know further.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Aug. 23-30, 1714.
POTASH WORK set up at Charlestown Ferry in Boston, at the House of
John Russell, Ferryman, 6d. in money paid per Bushell to any that
have ashes to spare.--_Boston News-Letter_, Nov. 27-Dec. 4, 1704.
POTTERY. John Pride owned a pottery in Salem as early as 1641.
William Vincent owned a pottery there in 1681. At a later date
several potteries existed at what is now the town of Peabody.
POTTERY AT CHARLESTOWN. John Webber, a potter, at Charlestown, was
injured by the explosion of a cannon while celebrating the marriage
of the Princess Royal.--_Boston News-Letter_, May 16-23, 1734.
EARTHEN WARE. To be sold on reasonable Terms, A Dwelling-House
& Land in Charlestown, near the Swing-Bridge, with a House &
Kiln for the making of Earthen Ware; as also a Warehouse and
other Conveniences necessary for that Business, Inquire of the
Printer.--_Boston News-Letter_, Nov. 1, 1744.
POTTERY. Made and Sold reasonably by _Thomas Symmes_ and Company at
_Charlestown_ near the Swing Bridge, blue and white stone Ware of
forty different sorts; also red and yellow ware of divers sorts,
either by Wholesale or Retale.--_Boston Gazette_, Apr. 16, 1745.
POTTER'S KILN. To be sold by publick Vendue on Tuesday the 16th
Currant, two o'Clock Afternoon, at the Three Crane Tavern at
Charlestown, a Dwelling House, Potter's Kiln House and Kiln in
Wapping Street in Charlestown aforesaid, any Person minding to
purchase the same before said Time may inquire of Michael Brigden or
Grace Parker.--_Boston Gazette_, Dec. 9, 1746.
POWDER MAKER. Any Gentlemen, Merchants or others, that have any
damnifyed Powder, or dust of Powder, either to sell, or to be
made of New, They may repair with the same unto Walter Evenden,
Powder-maker, at his House in Dorchester, who will either buy it or
make it of New for them, on reasonable terms.--_Boston News-Letter_,
Nov. 25-Dec. 2, 1706.
PRINTED FABRICS. The Printer hereof Prints Linens, Callicoes, Silks,
etc., in good Figures, very lively and durable Colours, and without
the offensive Smell which commonly attends the Linens printed
here.--_Boston Gazette_, April 18-25, 1720.
The Printer hereof having dispers'd advertisements of his Printing
Callicoes, etc. a certain Person in Charlestown, to rob him of the
Benefit of said advertisements and impose upon strangers, calls
himself by the Name of Franklin, having agreed with one in Queen
Street, Boston, to take in his work. These are to desire him to be
satisfyed with his proper Name, or he will be proceeded against
according to Law.--_Boston Gazette_, May 2-9, 1720.
PUMPS. Pumps erected or altered after a new and Easy Method, whereby
they will deliver more Water, and with less strength, not being
apt to loose water, not at all liable to Freeze, tho' fixed in the
most Bleak Places; by the Directions of Rowland Houghton.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Sept. 14-21, 1732.
ROASTING JACKS. To be sold by John Jackson, Jack-maker, at his shop,
being the corner shop at the Draw bridge, in Boston, all sorts of
Jacks, reasonably, and makes, mends and Cleans all sorts of Jacks;
also makes & mends Locks, Keys, and Ironing Boxes, at a reasonable
rate.--_Boston Gazette_, May 2-9, 1737.
SCALES. All Sorts of Weights and Skales of the best sort for
weighing Money or other Merchandize. Made and Sold by Caleb Ray,
Chief Skale-maker of New England; or Skales to be new strung
and mended; at the sign of the Skales and Weights in the Alley
near to Governours Dock in Boston, at reasonable Rates.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Apr. 26-May 3, 1708.
SCALES AND BALANCES. Jonathan Dakin, Mathematical Balance-maker,
at the sign of the Hand & Beam opposite to Dr. Colman's Meeting
House, Makes all Sorts of Scale Beams, and likewise mends all that
can be mended; where all Gentlemen may be supplied with Beams ready
adjusted and sealed as the Law directs.--_Boston Gazette_, Nov. 26,
1745.
SHOEMAKER. Francis Dowse, a shoemaker, was in the employ of George
Burden of Boston, in 1640.
SLITTING MILL AND IRON FORGE. To be Sold a good Penniworth, a
Slitting Mill compleatly finished and furnished, scituated in the
middle of near 20 Forges in the Compass of 12 Miles, with a well
built Forge with Two Fires, and conveniency for a third; together
with a well built and well accustomed Grist Mill, all standing
on one Dam; on as constant a stream as this Land affords; with
accommodations for other Water Works; A good Dwelling House, Coal
House, and above 6 Acres of Land, and a good Orchard upon it, said
Works stand on Namasket River in Middleborough, 13 Miles from
Plymouth, and 10 from Taunton. All finely scituated for a Country
Seat; and now Lets for 379 Pounds per Annum. Any Person or Persons
minded to purchase the same, may inquire of the Rev. Mr. Peter
Thacher of Middleborough aforesaid, or of the Printer hereof, and
know further.
N.B. The Reason of this Sale is because the Person wants the money
for it, and intending to leave off that Business.--_Boston Gazette_,
May 11, 1742.
STAMPED LINEN. These are to Inform the Publick, that I the
Subscriber propose to come once more to Boston; if any Person or
Persons have old sheets or Linnen to stamp, they are desired to
leave them at the House of _James Nichol_ in School Street, next
door to the French Meeting House; and if they send them in four
Weeks from this Date, they shall have them in March next without
fail. As Witness my Hand, _Sarah Hunt_.--_Boston Gazette_, Dec. 22,
1747.
STOVES. New-fashion Fire-Places or Stoves from Philadelphia, to be
sold by _Thomas Wade_.--_Boston News-Letter_, Jan. 31, 1745.
JUST PUBLISHED. An account of the new-invented Pennsylvania
Fire-Place: Wherein their construction and manner of operation is
particularly explained; their Advantages above every other method
of warming Rooms demonstrated; And all objections that have been
raised against the Use of them, answered and obviated. Sold by
_C. Harrison_, over against The Brazen-Head in Cornhill.--_Boston
News-Letter_, Feb. 7, 1745.
TAILOR. William Jones, a tailor, had one half of his fine remitted
at Salem Court.--_Essex Co. Court Records_, December, 1642.
Daniel Gaines of Lynn, aged 11 years, was apprenticed for 8 years
to Luke Potter of Concord to learn the "skill and mistery" of a
tailor.--_Essex Co. Court Records_, March, 1649. John Bourne, a
tailor, was making clothes in Gloucester, in 1652. John Annable of
Ipswich, tailor, was living there as early as 1641.
WATER ENGINE. There is newly erected in the Town of Boston, by
Messieurs John and Thomas Hill, a Water-Engine at their Still-house,
by the Advice and Direction of Mr. Rowland Houghton, drawn by a
Horse, which delivers a large quantity of Water twelve Feet above
the Ground. This being the first of the kind in these Parts, we
thought taking Notice of it might be of Publick Service, inasmuch
as a great deal of Labour is saved thereby.--_Boston Gazette_, Jan.
15-22, 1733.
WHEELWRIGHT. John Robinson, a wheelwright, was living in Ipswich as
early as 1635, only two years after the settlement of the town.