Memoirs and Journal of Joseph Fisher (1766-1848)

Memoirs and Journal

of

Joseph B. Fisher

1766 to 1848

PennsylvaniaVirginiaOhio 

 

Note:  This document is purportedly the journal, or memoirs, written by Joseph Fisher, apparently from around 1820 to the last entry, written in 1844. His memory of earlier events was helped by "memorandums" which he had written earlier. He may have written no more due to failing eyesight. 

Many thanks to Lorne Kitto, brother of the below-mentioned Curtis Kitto, for furnishing a hard copy of this document.  I have made some corrections based on consultation of the indicated microfilm.  It will be evident that I have not corrected the punctuation. I have tried to correct simple spelling errors (which may have been transcriber’s typos), while maintaining Joseph Fisher’s British spelling (“favour”) and some of his more characteristic or amusing errors (“antient”).  I have also added several titles in an effort to facilitate the reader’s orientation in a rather long document.  Occasional large-type phrases distinct from a paragraph were added by me with the intention of bringing out interesting items.

                -- John O'Neall, 3rd great grandson of the author, Joseph Fisher


LDS Microfilm 1307584, Item 21.  Microfilmed 15 Jul 1982

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Donated to the Genealogical Society Library by

Curtis E. Kitto

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This Manuscript was copied form the original Journal by the L.D. S. Business College in Salt Lake City, Utah – 1950.

The original Journal is now back in the hands of its owner, Ralph Arthur FISHER of Zanesville, WISC. – 1950.

There is likely a microfilm copy of the original Fisher Journal in the Genealogy Library in Salt Lake City. 

There is a microfilm copy of the original Journal at the Columbus Historical Society in Columbus, Ohio.

There is a microfilm copy of the original Journal in the hands of William P. Fisher of Denver.  Mr. Fisher is a Business Manager with his Master’s Degree.  Mr. Fisher resides at 1705 Yampa Way, Aurora, Colorado.  1980 

Historic information covering the time period from 1850 to 1920 found in the Virgil Fisher Bible at Oceanside, California.

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THE FOLLOWING COPY CONTAINS THE SUBSTANCE OF THE ORIGINAL MEMOIRS BY JOSEPH FISHER (1766-1848) BUT IT IS NOT CLAIMED THAT IT IS A CORRECT COPY OF ALL PARTS THEREOF.


Emigration of Joseph Fisher from England


... attacked by pirates, said to be the noted Blackbeard and his crew, who stripped him and his companions of everything they had and set them naked on shore

 

    From accounts I have had I understand my grandfather John Fisher came from the north of England to Pennsylvania about the latter end of the seventeenth, or the beginning of the eighteenth century (at that time a very young man), his object was to see the country and then return to his native land.  Accordingly when satisfied with exploring the country he embarked in a vessel from England and when they were near the cape of Delaware were attacked by pirates, said to be the noted Blackbeard and his crew, who stripped him and his companions of everything they had and set them naked on shore, and after suffering a considerable degree of hardships he arrived at a habitation where he obtained some relief.  A woman lent him a petticoat to hide his nakedness.  He at length, however, got amongst his acquaintance in Bucks County, Pa., near the falls of Delaware where he continued some time working at his trade (which was weaving) and perhaps about this time he happened to see a female infant in the arms of its nurse, who in a lively manner told him that perhaps that child might some time be his wife; which in time proved to be the case.  Having given over the idea of returning to his native land he married a widow Janney who had one child by a former husband, which child’s name was Thomas Janney and I believe lived to old age near Newtown in Bucks County, Pa.

    But to return to narration of my grandfather he had one daughter which was called Mary; soon after which his wife deceased and some time after he married again to the woman of whom it had been said when an infant that she might some day be his wife her name was Elizabeth Scarborough, sister to John Scarborough, hence the kin between the Fisher and Scarborough families; there were several brothers and more sisters of the latter; I believe one married a Pickering by whom she had several children and he dying she married a Lupton and had several children more of that name.  Another one to a Brock, one to Fell, one to Haynorth or Howard, etc.  John Fisher and Elizabeth Scarborough it appears by their marriage certificate (Now in possession of Barak Michener) were married at Buckingham meeting house in Bucks County,  Pennsylvania in the order used among (Quaker) friends on the 29th of the 10th month A.D. 1719. The certificate was signed by seventy persons.

     The daughter by his first wife married a man by the name of Butler and lived to a pretty great age, her son John Butler now an antient man lately resided near Mount Pleasant in this state and for ought I know is there yet.

     By his second wife he (J.F.) had ten children namely, Robert, Sarah, John, Elizabeth, Hannah, Joseph, Deborah, Barah [sic], Samuel, and Catherine.

     Robert was a handsome man but never married.  He became the owner of and continued at the home place til his decease:  My Grandmother Elizabeth Fisher I believe departed this life when somewhere between 40 and 50 years of age. – (1784)

     My Grandfather continued with his son Robert till he arrived at a pretty great age, having lost his sight some time before his decease and while here the house took fire and burnt down with a considerable part of its contents, in consequence of which this aged patriarch had to be moved to live with his Daughter Sarah Michener where he in some short time finished his course a good old man full of days.  From very respectable verbal testimony of some of his antient contemporaries, I had the satisfaction many years ago to learn that he had been a very useful and pious man in his day.

    In the year 1784 the aforesaid Robert Fisher departed  this life, being taken off with a fever.  He willed his estate to be equally divided amongst his brothers and sisters.  He was about 65 years of age.

    Sarah Fisher the next in order of age became the wife of Mordicat Michener, dwelt near Plumstead meeting-house, Pa., many years, his children named as follows; William, John, Barak, Sarah, Deborah, Mordicai, Hannah, Elizabeth, Catherine and Robert, after which they moved to Chester County where (MM) died in a good old age, but she (SM) continued until the 6th of the 6th month, 1812 when she departed this life aged about 90 years, having been a valuable woman in her time.

    John Fisher, after arriving to manhood died of the smallpox.  Elizabeth married Thomas Stradling, had five children named John, Daniel, Elizabeth, Sarah and Catherine when she was left a widow and afterwards married to Joseph Lees, had a son called Samuel.  The time of her death unknown to me but live [sic] to a great age.

    Hannah joined in marriage with Paul Preston, a man of great stature and learning, had seven children to wit, Samuel, Deborah, Ann, Naomi, Euphemia, Paul and Silas.  This aunt of mine I believe deceased not long since, aged between 90 and 100.  Deborah married Joseph Burgess, had the following children, Jonathan, Jesse, Elisabeth, Tace, Thomas, Joseph, John, Daniel, Letitia and Grace. They had a handsome living Buckingham Township where they resided a number of years and then unhappily sold and removed to Maryland staied a considerable time and then removed to Campbell County in Virginia leaving several of their children behind – He (J.B.) lived to a good old age and laid down his head, I believe in peace, in the town of Lynchburg, Va., but she (D.B.) survived him a number of years, moved to the state of Ohio with some of her children where she finished her course at a great age.

    Barak Fisher married Mary Butler and moved to Frederick County in Virginia it being a time of war with the Indians they had to leave their new settlement and seek an asylum several times for a short space in a more populous place. They had the following children:  John, Thomas, Joseph, Barak, Sarah, Mary, Elisabeth, Hannah & Rebecca, he died the same year that his brother Robert died in 1784. His widow outlived him many years, having been an industrious, frugal man he left handsome beginnings for his children -- His last illness was lingering perhaps of an arthmatick [sic] nature.

    Samuel Fisher joined in marriage with Margeret Daws.  He being a weaver by trade, lived in Buckingham Township several years then went to Maryland; had sons and daughters called:  Ruth, Samuel, Joseph, Eunice, Hannah and Josiah.  Made his exit the same year of that of this brothers Robert and Barak.  His sons I have understood are all deceased his eldest son Samuel followed trading at sea for a livelihood, when some years fast was returning from a voyage in sight of home (which was a port somewhere on the coast of Virginia)  He, and I believe his whole crew were lost in consequence of a storm.  My aunt M.F. with her daughter continued at, or about Baltimore,

    My aunt Catherine became the joint owner of an independent estate by marriage with William Heartley in Solebury Township, Pa., on his paternal inheritance the former residence of that antient friend Thomas Heartley.   They had but one child named Letita handsome and engaging gave her hand to Joseph Rice – After beholding and dwelling with a numerous family of grandchildren-- The offspring of her only daughter she C.H. became a widow and I have not learned but that she is still living with her grandson William Rice, in that antient but comfortable mansion now in the year 1825.

    Having left my father till the last -- I may now give some account of him.  He was born in Buckingham Township, Bucks County, Pa., on the day of the Ninth month 1729 and called Joseph Fisher.  His younger years were spent in going to school in part and working on the farm, etc.  When of suitable age went apprentice to James Yates near Newtown to learn the wheelwright trade (This James Yates father was one who had been employed by the government to measure a tract of land purchased of the indians, by a days walk) but as his instructor declined working at the trade my father left him and went to learn the millwright trade with William Skelton and after he became of age, followed his trade in part and in part improving a small tract of land given him by his father.  When about thirty-one years of age he married Ann Carey (A daughter of John and Elisabeth Carey) on the day of the month 1750 and had the following named children to wit:  Betty, John (he deceased about ten years of age of the smallpox) Joseph, Elias, Robert and another John (who was born a few days before, but not named until after the decease of the former) Sarah, Samuel, Hannah, And Anne. My father departed this life at his son-in-law’s Thomas Hannas on the 29th day of the 7th month 1819, his age being 89 years, __ months and __ days. But I expect to have occasion frequently in the course of the following memoirs to have allusion to him of his proceedings.

    Having thus given a short account of the individuals of that generation of the name of Fisher I may add a little in a summary way.  I believe they lived respected and (except Catherine yet living) died lamented having had generally a comfortable inheritance, some of them might be said to be wealthy.  Never much if any concerned in lawsuits, all I believe retained their right of membership in the society of friends, and I know not that any of them through the course of their lives were ever under dealings  as delinquents by the society.   O!  That the succeeding generation had all walked worthy of such parents!

The Carey Family

    John Carey my mothers father came from England in early life, having had a tolerable literary education, was put apprentice to learn the carpenter trade, but having a hard master he left him and came to American, had to serve a certain term to pay for his passage across the ocean, his lot happened to be cast, I believe in Bucks County, Pa., with another master worse than the former but having a kind mistress it made his situation more tollerable than it otherwise would have been, he was however after a while transferred to another master whose name I think was Evan Evans I believe a minister in the society of friends and belonged to Northneales meeting, here he (J.C.)was kindly treated and fulfilled his servitude, here he became acquainted with the principles and rules of friends which he appeared to retain a respect for through life but never joined in membership with any society having received his early education as a member of the Church of England,  he married Elisabeth Knight a member of the society of friends who by making satisfaction retained her right of membership.  He (J.C.) being industrious and frugal, after renting land a while purchased a plantation in Plumstead Township which was his dwelling place to the end of his days, he was a corpulent person of a strong constitution endowed with a good understanding, a useful member in civil society.    One that was looked to for counsel and advice and called upon to assist in settling controversies in the neighborhood, his son Elias had the care of him in his old age being far advanced when he departed this life.

    Elisabeth Carey being left an ancient widow did not long survive her husband (J.C.) she remained with her son Elias while she lived.  She had several brothers and sisters, one brother, (Abel) lived in North Carolina to a great age and raised a numerous family, one brother Jonathan in New Jersey near Philadelphia.  The father Abel Knight (now deceased) who was the father of Jonathan Knight a man of some note in Washington County, Pa., one of her (E.C.) sisters married Joseph Michel who were the father and mother of John Michel of Baltimore.  Two others married brothers Peter and Jacob Vickers and one to William Beans of Bucks County, Pa., her (E.C.) mother Sarah Knight lived to a great age and saw her children’s children of the third generation.  I remember seeing her before her decease also when a corpse.

    Having thus given some account of that generation I may now give some account of the one succeeding in that line.

    They (J.C. and E.C.) had nine children namely John, Thomas, Sarah, Elisabeth, Anne, Mary, Hannah, Elias, and Samuel.

    John learned the mason trade, married Mary Good and by industry and frugality became owner of a small tract of land which he improved considerably and sold and purchased a considerable farm in Plumstead, his wife dying before he was very old he married again to Eleanor Preston daughter of the ancient and worthy friend Nathan Preston, having lived an exemplary life, he deceased I believe between 50 and 60 years of age having no children he left his estate to his brother and sisters and widow.

    Thomas Carey married the widow of Joseph Skelton (deceased) where by he was immediately in possession of a handsome living and making good use of the opportunity found himself able to purchase a valuable tract of land for himself in Solbury Township without infringing on the property of the step-children, he had one son called Thomas and three daughters namely Elisabeth, Hannah, and Anne.  His son (T.) married Hannah Moore of N.J.  His daughter Elisabeth married Isaac Pickering and Hannah married Joseph Carver – Anne died young – He (T.C.) departed this life I believe some where near 60 years of age, having lived an exemplary life left a good savour after he was gone.  Sarah Carey died young.

    Elisabeth Carey got married to a Humphrey Bangham a widower from England he not being a member of our society she made satisfaction for her outgoing and retained her right, they had the following children John, Mary, Benjamin, Tace, Martha and Johnathan.  She survived her husband many years and deceased at her son-in-law John James in Fairfield Township, Columbiana County, Ohio, at a great age with the dysentery. The eldest son John joined the American army, left his friends and I believe they have not heard form him these many years.  Mary C. became the wife of Wm. Ferrall a widower in Va. and moved to Ohio.  Benjamin married to Lucy Morman in Va. now in Ohio.  Tacy the wife of Abel Lodge now residents of Fairfield, Ohio.  Martha the wife of John James now dwelling in this county (columbiana).

    My mother (Anne Fisher formerly Carey) was married at about nineteen years of age, had ten children, as before stated lived a pious life and deceased at her son-in-law Thomas Hannah’s in Middleton Township, Columbiana County, Ohio, the 18th day of this 8th month, 1817, aged ___ years __ months, and __ days.  Having given this short account of my dear mother, I expect to have frequent occasion to mention of her in the course of these memoirs should they be continued agreeable to my present prospect.

    Mary the next in age of the Carey family became the wife of Joseph Skelton and had several sons and daughters.  She was much afflicted her time with the rheumatism and departed this life before some of the family older than herself, her husband was lately living happy as to the things of the world but as is supposed from weakness of mind he has laid in bed I believe more than twelve years.  His place of dwelling is in Solebury Township, Bucks County, Pa.

    Hannah was joined in marriage with John Walton.  They had several children of whom but few perhaps two or three arrived to manhood, she I believe has also paid the debt of nature in her native land.

    Elias Carey married Hannah Armintage and lived with and had the care of his parents in their old age, raised a numerous family of sons and daughters and for ought I know is yet living near the ancient dwelling place of his father in Plumstead, Pa.

    Samuel the youngest of that family a weaver by trade married Rachel Doan – brought up a large family of children; having dwelt in different parts, at length settled in highland county, Ohio, saw the most of his children married and settled.  Returning from a journey some months ago was taken ill a few miles from home, and in a short time bid adieu to all subliumary [sic] things.

    That generation of the Careys having all passed away except Elias, I think there is something yet due to their memory.  It might be said they in general were stout, strong, and active and by a prudent economy enjoyed a comfortable living, and left something for their children when they themselves wanted no more.  They having an exemplary mother were educated in the way of friends and all that lived to mature age except Elias joined the society, and he also at a  more advanced age.  They all who are gone to their long homes retained a right in society as long as they lived being generally useful members of civil as well as religious society, some of the them particularly so -- ought not the uprightness and integrity of our ancestors as set forth in these simple truths, to be an incitement to vigilance and faithfulness in the present generation, lest by falling short in works we also fall short of rewards.  Oh that we may be preserved!

Birth and early life of the narrator, Joseph Fisher

I was born (according to accounts received) on the 20th day of the 2nd month in the year of 1766.  The place of my nativity was in Tinicum Township, Bucks county, Pa.


    Having given the foregoing short account of my ancestors I now purpose to give some account of myself and others of a more recent date. I was born (according to accounts received) on the 20th day of the 2nd month in the year of 1766.  The place of my nativity was in Tinicum Township, Bucks county, Pa., where we staid till I was about three years old, then moved to Horseham Township where we staid two years in which time my brother Robert was born.  We next moved to a small farm in Buckingham Township, staid one year and I went a little to school and learned to spell in three or four letters, the following winter I improved at home so as to read tollerably well in easy reading.  We removed to my fathers farm in Tinicum Township, staid there at this place two years and while here we were visited with the small pox, being five children of us at the commencement of the disorder and another (a brother), born while it was in the family, Betty, John and Elias had it hard of which my eldest brother John died being in the tenth year of his age, the young child was also called John, as I was one of the last that took the infection being about seven years of age I observed a strict regimen and had it light, the young child had it very light.  This was in the spring of 1773.

I thought I had to leave the earth and was conveyed to a large building suspended in the etheral regions...


    While we dwelt at this place my father took me a few times to Plumstead meeting 5 or 6 miles distant as I now suppose and I can well recollect some part of the publick testimony of that ancient friend Nathan Preston at this time (1825) about the beginning of the year 1774 my father sold his place with a view of moving to Virginia but before the necessary arrangements therefore were accomplished the revolutionary troubles commenced and he postponed his intended emigration several years.  The succeeding spring we moved into Solebury Township, here my age and situation admitted of a more steady attendance of meetings than heretofore it being within about three miles of Buckingham meeting – while we lived here my sister Sarah was born which was the fourth younger than myself there being two older to wit – Betty and John the latter having deceased as before stated having an opportunity of some schooling I made some progress in learning – in the spring of the year 1777 we removed to a place in the same township near Pryors Mills, at which place we continued five years in which time my father suffered considerable losses on account of noncompliance with the military requirements in the time of the revolutionary war, while we lived at this place I was often favoured with a sense of divine goodness in my heart, I took great delight in reading good books attending meetings which was now four miles distant, had also an opportunity of some more schooling which I also delighted in -- I think it was perhaps in the year 1779 I had the following dream.  I thought I had to leave the earth and was conveyed to a large building suspended in the etheral regions which appeared to be composed of rough stones on the outside into which I was desirous to enter and importuned for admittance a good while:  at length the door was opened and I was received into the house, the inside of which appeared very different from that without being exceedingly beautiful and as it appeared to me the keeper of the house was continually employed in adorning and beautifying it.  My joy in being admitted was very great and a comfortable impression thereof remained on my mind, some time after I awoke and found it was a dream.

    Having attended school under several teachers (tho but little to any I made some progress in learning, having delight therein.

    Brother Samuel was born while we lived at this place the 12th day of the 12th month in the year 1778.

    Sister Hannah was born at this place on the __ day of the __ month in the year 1780.

    In the 4th month of the year 1782 we moved to a farm in the same Township belonging to Jonathan Pickering at which place my youngest sister (Anne) was born on the __ day of the 4th month 1782. I was about this time put apprentice to Jonathan Pickering to learn the blacksmith trade.  About the commencement of my apprenticeship I was very solicitous to be enabled to please my superior master as well as my inferior master and mistress I found was granted so that they were desirous to have retained me in their service, but at or soon after the end of the war my father resumed his former resolution to move to Virginia and not willing for me to stay behind (which would have been my choice until I had acquired the trade).  All parties however cheerfully submitted to my moving with the family.

    However I might at times deviate from the paths of rectitude in a religious line I was desirous to have attended meetings regularly, which I had seldom the opportunity of doing except on first days, I had many serious times in those days.

    On the 9th of the 5th month in the year 1783 we sat off for Virginia, having a prosperous journey pretty soon arrived at the intended station in Frederick County.  Now in a strange land among strange people and strange customs I consider this as a memorable epoch in my pilgrimage.  The following winter my uncle Barak Fisher (a long resident in that neighborhood) departed this life I think this was the hardest winter that I can recollect.

    My parents not being satisfied with their situation at this place, sold their land and in the 4th month this year 1784 moved to London County to a farm my father had previously purchased being in poor repair, we found plenty of work to do and I never met with an opportunity to complete the acquirement of the blacksmith trade as was expected when I left J.P.  I think it was in the year 1785 I went a little to school by which I acquired some advancement in arithmetick.  A few months before I arrived to the age of 21 years perhaps in the 9th month I had a hard spell of sickness.  Occasioned I believe by getting wet when warm.  I suffered much, and was reduced very low and my mind brought into awful seriousness.  But through medical and specially providential aid I was at length restored to health, though I think I have never been quite so strong and active since as before.

    On the 20th day of the 2nd month 1787 I became 21 years of age, this was another memorable epoch in my lifetime, being now more at liberty to choose and act for myself, having been mercifully preserved though some trying scenes of which I had often been too unmindful, a consideration of which sometimes made awful impressions on my mind but they were too soon erased there from by giving way to the alluring vanities of the times yielding too much to the influence of light airy company.  Being now to provide for myself, and having acquired some knowledge of the carpenter trade with my father, that seemed to present most favourable to my view to engage in for a livelihood, I accordingly engaged in it and in the 3rd month this year joined with my cousin William Michener in building a house for John Hough in London County.  While employed at this place an awful accident happened.  A waggon with a load of wood overset on a servant-man which caused instant death.

    As it did not suit to continue long in partnership with W.M. I after a few weeks agreed to work with William Betts at the carpenter business on low wages in order to get the trade more perfectly, but after a few months he rather declining the business I hired with William Paxson to work at the s’d business and that of waggon-making in the town of Waterford where I continued working most of my time till sometime in the year 1789 when I returned to my fathers and sat up for myself, I had a waggon ironed for myself and in the autumn of the year 1790 took it abut two hundred miles to Lynchburg, V., and traded it and gears for 30 pounds to John Lynch in part pay for a tract of land containing 400 acres which my brother Elias joined me in and had 100 acres and I kept 300.  After returning home I continued at work mostly there until the following spring when I went about 60 miles to Stafford County to make a waggon for Eli Nichols and during my stay in those parts went to Falmouth and Fredericksburg.  While in this part thoughtfulness which continued with me to much satisfaction for a considerable length of time.

    I think it was in the autumn of the year 1791 my sister Betty, brother Robert and myself took leave of our relations and moved to Lynchburg, Campbell County (Va.) to a house on brother Elias land which he had erected for our reception and his own convenience about three miles from Lynchburg he having been working in them parts two seasons at his trade which was that of a stone mason which he learned with James Rattikin in London County. Sister Betty kept house for me, Brother Robert and myself worked at my trade after we got in readiness for it. Brother Elias and some others boarded with us.  We brought certificates from Fairfax monthly meeting and produced them to Southriver monthly meeting.  Here we met with kind friends, we staid at this place until the 3rd, or 4th month in the year 1793 then moved to my own place about 7 or 8 miles west of Lynchburg on which I had made some improvement.  Here we followed my trade having taken Jonathan Bangham apprentice, we met with tollerable encouragement in our business.

It was indeed an awful trying time to me though not without a hope...

    Being thus settled on a place of my own in a healthy part of the country tollerabley convenient to trade in the neighborhood of a considerable body of friends, about 3 ½ miles form Southriver Meeting House where was held a preparative and monthly meeting, and altho, in low circumstances in the world, my present situation and prospects together with the degree of resignation to the will of providence I had in some measure attained to rendered me tollerably happy as to the things of the world, but of the success of some of these prospects I was soon deprived by the death of my Sister Betty which was on the __ day of the __ month in this year 1793.  Her complaint was chiefly a vistent [sic] pain in her breast attended with a cough and spitting of blood.  At times application was made to a physician but in about three days illness she departed.  I hope in peace.  It was indeed an awful trying time to me though not without a hope that our loss was her everlasting gain having been of an orderly life and conversation a diligent attender of religious meetings.  She, having had some signal warnings to be prepared for her final change.  Not long before her decease she related to me a remarkable instance, which she thought was a token of her death and added she had endeavored to be prepared for it.  A few hours before her departure she signified she thought she could not continue long under the extreme pain she then endured.  And added she was willing to die. A little while after being in great pain she expressed a desire to be released therefrom, which soon appeared to be granted, and she signified she felt tollarably easy, and appeared to continue so till the last.

    The death of my Sister rendered it necessary to seek for a house-keeper.  I employed my cousin Tace Bangham in that service and continued to keep house until the succeeding spring.

    In the 3rd month, 1794, I discontinued housekeeping and went to London County to assist my father and family in moving to this county of Campbell, Va., which we accomplished to pretty good satisfaction  my brothers and myself having by his direction purchased a tract of land for him.  Mr.  Brother Robert now left me and lived with my father and Jonathan Bangham likewise returned to live with his father, and the ensuing summer got drowned.  I boarded at my fathers and worked in my own shop about 1 ½ miles apart, but finding this inconvenient I commenced housekeeping again after a few months my Sister Sarah kept house for me.  My Brother John began to work with me about this time and continued for some time and Thomas Hanna soon after, who continued, I think about two years.

    Being appointed representative I attended the quarterly meeting at Waynoak in Charles City County about 150 miles from home.  On my return I had a remarkable dream.

    In the 5th month 1795 I attended the Quarterly and yearly meetings at Waynoak.  A favoured time especially the yearly meeting.

    In the 9th month this year I went to Pa. in company with my Uncle Samuel Cary to negotiate some business for my parents relating to the estate of my Uncle John Carey (deceased).  I had not proceeded far on the journey til I was taken somewhat unwell which continued a considerable time after I got home.  We attended the meeting at Phil., Pa., and then went into Bucks County and visited most of our relations there and having accomplished the business we went about, we purchased a carriage and returned home I think in about six weeks from the time we left home – I continued at my trade when health would admit – I at length attained to my usual state of health – in the 5th  month 1796 I attended our quarterly meeting at Waynoak from then [thence?] I went to the yearly meeting held this year at Blackwater in Surry County, a large and good meeting.


Joseph Fisher's first marriage and family


    Believing it might be best for me to change my situation in life, I accordingly accomplished marriage with Hannah Pidgeon a member of Goosecreek monthly meeting in Redford County (Lynchburg, Va.) the 13th of the 10th month in this year.  She was one as I believed of an orderly life and conversation and that loved and feared the Lord, which I think I have good cause to believe remained to be the case to the end of her time with us, by which she was qualified to fill her station in life in a commendable manner and laid down her head in peace.  She was daughter of William and Rachel Pidgeon of whom I now may give a short account.  He (W.P.) was a son of Charles Pidgeon with whom when young came from Ireland to Pa.  He had several brothers one of whom went to sea and never returned.  He had one sister Jane Reddock of N. Carolina.  I believe he was married in Maryland to Rachel Everet, sister to that valuable friend and gospel minister Isaac Everet.  He (Wm. P.) moved with his family to London County, Va., where he staid a number of years and then moved to Bedford County, Va., and after a considerable length of time removed to the County of Belmont in the state of Ohio, where after outliving his wife some time he departed this life in a good old age having been a useful member in society and a kind neighbor.

    His wife Rachel Pidgeon was an affectionate wife a tender mother a kind neighbor and a valuable member in society having a small but lively gift in the ministry.  She deceased the __ day of the __ month in the __ year.  Their children who lived to maturity were John, married to Susanna Garretson, residents of Maryland; Rachel, married to John Coffee (he is now deceased) and she resides in Belmont County; Ruth, married to Benjamin Paxson (she is now deceased); Isaac, married to Elisabeth Hammer, she decease – he married a second time to one whose name was Warner, she deceased also, -- he married a third wife a daughter of Abel Walker; Charles, married to Ann daughter of Abner Gregg; William, married to Alice Bond, she is deceased; (Hannah); Sarah, married to Robert Wright of Orolcreek.  Having been desirous to be rightly directed in the choice of a companion as well as in the accomplishment of that mighty engagement, I thought I felt an evidence of divine approbation therein which has often been a comfort to my mind.

    Thus having altered my situation in life and taken upon me a very important trust I found there was great need for me to trust in him in whom is everlasting strength.

    In the summer of the year 1797 my parents and all my brothers and sisters, except Hannah, were sorely visited with what was said to be a nervous fever which held them a tedious time, and most of them were to appearance reduced nigh unto death, but through the merciful kindness of divine providence they were all restored to health except Robert who was taken with the disorder about the beginning of the 8th month and departed this life the 27th of the same, in the 27th year of his age.  During his illness he appeared patient and resigned to the will of divine providence.

    On the 8th day of the 10th month 1797 our eldest child was born whom we called Sylvanus. 

    On the 14th of the 5th month, 1799, was born our first daughter whom we called Rachel.

    On the 24th of the 11th month, 1800, was born our third child whom we called William.

    On the 18th of the 5th month, 1802, was born our fourth child whom we called Isaac.

    In the year 1803 I think it was, my Brother Elias and myself changed places and I moved to my newly acquired place which had belonged to my father but was transferred to Elias and now exchanged with me, father having given the chief of his property to Elias on condition that he and my mother were to have their maintenance at Elias’s expense during their lives, which now devolved on me; here I did something at both my trade and farming having John Pennock at journey work in the shop and Jonathan Burgess on the farm. (Lynchburg)

    On the 12th of the 10th month of this year 1803, our fifth child was born whom we called Amasa.

    In the autumn of 1805 my Brother John moved to the state of Ohio with the assistance of Elias with his wagon and team.

    My Brother-in-law John Coffee also moved to the same state and I went in company to see the country.  We got along tollerabley well but as might be expected with considerable fatigue, and in exploring the country we traversed the woods from Salem to Lexington (then a wilderness) and some distance farther to a lake to the westward and after returning to the settlement on Bullcreek my Brother Elias and I went to Belmont County to John Coffees’ new habitation and thence back to Bullcreek and thence home in the land of Virginia.  Elias’s wife being in company.  On our way home I was taken unwell with the mumps and was very ill for several days.  After our arrival, having been gone a good while from home, found things as well as might be expected which was cause of thankfulness.

    Being disposed to move to the state of Ohio Elias and I exchanged back our places and I moved back to my former residence having been from it about two years.   Here I wrought at my trade John Pennock continuing with me.

    On the 8th of the 4th month, 1806, my wife had twins the elder a daughter named Anne Knight the younger a son named Joseph Scarborough.  The latter died of the dysentery at about six months old.  The other had the complaint but survived.

    I sold my land to Francis Burch and in the 5th   month 1807 set off in company with Micajah Macy, Timothy Grunwell and their families for the state of Ohio and arrived in the 6th month.  Having entered a quarter section of land in the 5 range l8 township and 28th section N.W. quarter which being so remote from accommodations at that time, I sent and entered the N.W. Quarter of the24th section of the 11th township in the 2nd range, and on the 13th of the 7th month began to improve the placed where I now dwell.  (Middleton near Salem)

    In 1807 we staid several weeks at my Brother John’s while we made some improvements on my own land having put up a cabin and we moved into it, I think, in the 10th month

    In the year of 1808, the 10th of the first month, our sixth son was born and named Elias.

    I believe it was in this year that the quarterly meeting was opened at Salem composed of Middleton, Salem and New Garden.

    In the year 1809 I was appointed clerk of the Middleton monthly meeting.  If I mistake not in the time and was continued several years in that service.

    If my recollection serves me right it was in the spring of this year I was taken with a severe illness which lasted several weeks before I quite recovered my former state of health, and our eldest son Sylvanus was taken about the same time with an eruption or gathering in his right side supposed to be a white swelling which I ventured to open though at a considerable depth.  The discharge was copious and continued a long time.  Many pieces of the rib came out and after many months got well but that side is supposed to more e weak than the other.

    In the spring and summer of the 1810 Ruth the wife of Benjamin Paxson and sister to my wife was languishing with the consumption and departed this life some time near harvest.  My wife being there attending on her sick sister was suddenly taken herself exceedingly ill.  They sent for me and when I arrived her recovery was doubtful but after some days she appeared to mend but before she was able to come home I had to leave her and go to hunt my horses, they having strayed away.  Our eldest daughter being also unwell having to leave home at this time, not knowing where I might have to go nor how long I might be gone, rendered my situation very trying but I found on this occasion as I often have both before and since that I had great need to look to and put my dependence on divine goodness for direction for patience and preservation and may thankfully acknowledge we were marvelously helped through our distress.  I found my horses near Beaver Town and on my return found my wife and daughter better than when I left them and my wife got so in a little time as to ride home.

    In the year 1811, on the 29th of the 6th month our third daughter was born and we called her Ruth.

    In the same year I believe, I was appointed clerk of the quarterly meeting and near the same time appointed to the station of an elder, also, appointed member of the meeting for suffering.  A consciousness of my insufficiency for these weighty services caused some humbling considerations in my mind.

    I believe it was in the year 1812 I taught school at Carmel meeting house.

    On the 16th of the 11th month 1813 our fourth daughter was born whom we called Sina.

    I do not recollect an thing extraordinary to have occurred in the year 1814.

    I think it was in the winter of 1815 I taught school three months in the house belonging to the Samsons near Young's road.

    I believe it was in the year 1817 on the 18th of the 3rd month that my dear mother departed this life after a long hard illness in which she suffered very much, often expressing a desire to be released and go to rest.  She was a religious woman and took much pains to instruct us her children in the ways of piety particularly so when we were young and under her immediate care.  She with my father having come to this part of the country by the assistance of my Brother Elias in the year 1809 and resided mostly for several years at Lexington with their son-in-law and daughter Micajah and Sarah Mary.  But having for several years before her decease resided with their son-in-law and daughter Thomas and Anne Hanna near Clarkson. Her age was I believe near seventy six years.

    My sister Hannah departed this life at the house of John Street in Salem (where she had mostly resided for several years) on the __ day of the __ month in the year of 1818. She had been a thoughtful steady exemplary young woman---spent considerable time in teaching school both in Virginia and this state, to which she came in the year 1807 in company with me and my family.  She had been in a weak state of health several years and in her last illness appeared to have taken cold.  She appeared patient and resigned to the divine will and in peace expired in the __ year of her age.

    In the summer of this year we made bricks and some preparations for building a house, and I believe made some preparations for the wagon making business.  And in the autumn of the year 1819 had the house put up and covered.

    My daughter Rachel's health appeared much on the decline through the spring, summer and fall of this year and in the winter grew worse.

    My father having been on the decline more than usual for some months departed this life on the 29th of the 7th month of 1819 at Thomas Hannas then in Clarkson nearly ninety years of age, having retained the faculties of both body and mind rather in an extraordinary degree, and expressed peace of mind near the final change.

    Our daughter Rachel continued languishing and her health and strength declining through the winter being much of her time solemnly engaged for her own sanctification and acceptance with her maker, also for the preservation and external happiness of her near relations giving us much very suitable counsel and advice.  Oh!  that we may be guarded against suffering the incumbering things of time to divert us from a due attention to the one thing needful so impressively recommended near her change.  Being desirous to be released and go to rest she quietly departed about the 18th of the 3rd month, 1820, and I trust is now enjoying the rewards of a virtuous life.

    On the 5th of the 4th month, 1820, our seventh son was born whom we called Asahel Exchange---his departed sister having a little before her decease related a dream she had before there was any reason to expect an addition to the family.  She thought she was to die and a brother was to be born whom she so exactly described that his mother and myself were willing to commemorate the circumstance by the word Exchange for a part of his name.

    Having built a new house we moved into it in the fall of this year---it being (as I believe) the 2nd or 3rd brick house built in this township.

    About this time I began to work at my trade (having done but little at it since I left Virginia).  Isaac worked with me in order to learn the trade as also Amasa while after and continued mostly thereat till the spring of 1823 and William worked on the farm with the help of Elias.

    Not withstanding these memoirs are most of them of a serious nature yet the case I am about to record exceeds anything that has gone before it as it represents my feelings.

    My dearly beloved and affectionate wife departed this life on the 12th of the 5th month, 1823, and I don't know that I can fill up this minute better than here to copy a letter I wrote her sister Rachel on the occasion as follows:

 

Dear sister,

 

            I feel as engagement of mind to address thee with a few lines at this time to inform thee a little of our present and late situation.  An awful change having recently taken place in my family which will also doubtless measurably affect thee.  My dear wife departed this life on the 12th of the 5th month last after an illness of about two weeks with the dysentery, suffering extremely a considerable part of the time which she bore with admirable patience, and now endeared sister I am not able to communicate my sensations on this trying occasion; but by thee and such as have had to pass through the like dispensation it may be easier conceived than described; yet I think I have abundant cause to be thankful that amidst the distress into which I am involved on this the most trying circumstance of my life hitherto, I have a comfortable hope that our loss (though very great) is her everlasting gain.  It has been a source of consolation to my dejected mind to take a retrospective view of her life and conduct since my first acquaintance with her.--The deportment and character she sustained before she changed her name.--The unremited [unmerited?] kindness and affection she always showed to me--The tender and pious care so assiduously extended to our children--the duties of a neighbor.  Her solid attendance of religious meetings (when of ability) and exemplary industry being virtues which altho they render the loss the greater to us display an example worthy of imitation.  And now my great consolation is a fixed hope that after a virtuous life of near forty nine years in which she had passed through many trying and afflicting dispensations in a becoming manner, she is now gone to enjoy her reward of the righteous where uninterrupted felicity will be her portion through a never ending eternity.--In the time of her last illness it seemed to afford some comfort to my mind and I believe to hers also, that we could say we thought it was in the fear of the Lord we had come together and if it was his will for us now to be separated we hoped it would be in his favour.

 

            From thy affectionate brother-in-law.

                                                                   J. Fisher

 

 
    From the decease of my wife for nearly the space of three years I experienced various trials through which I was mercifully preserved but having omitted making memorandums during that time shall pass over now without descending to particulars.


Joseph Fisher's second marriage


    Having believed it would be best for me to change my situation in life; and also being advised thereto by some of my best friends I accordingly took the matter seriously into consideration and the one who presented with the greatest clearness to my mind for a companion through the remainder of my life was Margaret Rawlings a sojourner at Salem in this County Columbiana Ohio.  Daughter of Joseph and Ann Rawlings of Bucks County, Penn., a deceased and after a mutual deliberation thereon for about nine months, we accomplished marriage at Salem the 26th day of the 4th month 1826.  I being in the 61st and she in the 41st years of our age.  The next day came home.

When I took a view of some of the extensive farms with which I was well acquainted in my young days, to see them now cut up into small lots...

    On the 3rd of the 10th month 1826 my wife and self, son Isaac and Tace Wilson sat off with a light wagon and two horses for Richland Township, Bucks County, Pa., and having a prosperous journey, (with the exception of some fatigue) arrived there pretty well.  Margaret having some property there, we staid and made some arrangements thereof, visited a number of our relations and friends, attended Richland meetings several time, and Isaac and I attended Plumstead and Buckingham meetings, this being the land of my nativity and abode till 17 years of age.  The many great and various changes that had taken place during the intervention of more than 40 years led my mind into a kind of melancholy contemplation.  When I took a view of some of the extensive farms with which I was well acquainted in my young days, to see them now cut up into small lots and instead of supporting only one family as formerly, now to afford residence for many I thought the soil must be more productive the inhabitants more industrious and economical than those formerly or they must have a harder way of living.  When I looked for the humble cottage where health and native simplicity were once the prominent attendant traits now to behold a magnificent dome with numerous marks of pride and luxury I have been ready to conclude the change though gratifying to the lust of the eye and the pride of life was not for the better.  When I looked for the orchards, the delicious fruits of which I had so often partaken in my youthful time, and now to find them nearly and in some instances quite annihilated, would in my apprehension exhibit a striking resemblance of those who had owned them, for they (however worthy and useful in their day and time were gone too.)  A suitable memento for us their survivors.

a tottering old man with wrinkled face and head bald or covered with white hairs in which there is perhaps scarcely a tooth to help himself with

    When I have inquired for some of my juvenile acquaintance when the recollection of them has presented the idea of a sprightly form, healthy countenance and well set hair, but how affecting the contrast when introduced to my view, instead of the handsome young person as above described a tottering old man with wrinkled face and head bald or covered with white hairs in which there is perhaps scarcely a tooth to help himself with, but why should I be so much affected at the sight of the change that has taken place in my former friend, when if I take a view of myself there is something very similar to it.

    When I came in sight of Plumstead meeting house it brought to my recollection the first meeting I was ever at in my remembrance at which was Nathan Preston who delivered (as I think) a good sermon and recommended those present to better one--that of our Saviour on the Mount.

I did not marvel that many were missing from their seats when I beheld the amplitude of their much enlarged grave-yards.

    When at Buckingham, Pa., meeting my thoughts were occupied with a recollection of the many precious opportunities I had been favoured with in that house many years before, the present members of that meeting are generally of those who were very young when I was member there, or born since I think there was not a single friend who occupied the foremost seats formerly, now to be seen either at this or Plumstead meetings, while I was at these meeting places I did not marvel that many were missing from their seats when I beheld the amplitude of their much enlarged grave-yards.

    There appears to be considerable improvement in those parts since my first knowledge thereof, in divers particulars, such as roads, bridges, inland navigation, aggreculture buildings and manufactures, but with respect to morals in general I think there is cause to apprehend the reverse, and I see little or no hopes of amendment while one of the greatest enemies that ever assailed mankind within our borders is continued to be tollerated as it now is in numberless instances to the destruction of everything valuable as respects its votaries that is spirituous liquors.

    After being at Philadelphia and visiting several of Margaret's relations in Delaware County and having arranged our affairs we returned home where we arrived the 25th of the 12th month and had the satisfaction to find our family and neighbors generally well.

The operation was accordingly performed ... in the following manner

    The time of our yearly meeting in 1828 drawing nigh, my name was mentioned at our quarterly meeting for a representative.  I had a desire to attend but did not feel easy to submit to be appointed and was excused.  Previous to the time of going to the yearly meeting, the following accident took place and prevented my attending said meeting.  I being on the wagon loading hay on a hillside, the wagon overset and threw me a considerable distance down the hill.  My left foot struck the ground unfavorably by which the smaller bone of my leg was broken, the ankle joint dislocated and a large flesh would made just under the same.  My son Sylvanus was applied to as surgeon who was very attentive.  In this condition I continued four weeks much of the time in extreme misery and often delirious; being now much reduced in flesh and strength and little or no hope of amendment by the present course of treatment, Dr. Horace Potter was brought and consulted on the case and after examining the would united with Sylvanus and some others that amputation was the only probable means for saving life to which I assented, being previously of the same judgment in my own mind.  The operation was accordingly performed the 19th day of the 9th month, 1828, in the following manner as near as I can relate it.  After fixing the tournaquets he made an incision round the leg through the skin about 9" from the top of the knee, then separated the skin from the flesh and turned it up about two inches then cut the flesh (near the double of the skin) to the bone, then with a piece of muslin separated into three strips nearly to the other end with a strip on the outside of each bone and one between the bones the flesh was drawn up while he sawed them off.  From the time he began to cut till it was off and the arteries secured, seven minutes and about the same length of time or a little longer dressing it.  The whole of the operation was (as might be expected) painful but no part so much so as when cutting the three arteries and the contiguous nerves.  The remainder of my leg is not a little more than seven inches in length from the top of my knee.  Five men including the active surgeon were employed in the operation; in about four days it was again dressed when it was discovered that the skin bone had cut through the skin which had been wrapped over it which caused a large angry sore to remedy which Sylvanus sawed it off the second time about a week after the first.

    The misery I endured before and for some time after amputation was much increased by frequent spasms, in about nine weeks after the operation the wound was healed, but the pain continued and has not yet subsided this 22nd day of the first month 1829 though it is gradually abating.

    My brother-in-law Thomas Hanna (page 8) departed this life after an illness of about eight or nine days of a fever I think the 18th of the ninth month 1828 in year his age.

    My son Amasa was married to Judith Ferrall the 14th day of the 8th month, 1828.

    My son Elias commenced housekeeping and tayloring some time this fall.  My daughter Anne went to live with him and on the 1st of the 1st month, 1829.  My daughter Ruth also went to live with Elias in Fairfield.

    The small pox has been and is now in this neighborhood but vaccination being pretty generally resorted to I hope it will not spread to much extent.

    The mumps are likewise at no great distance a fever has for a considerable length of time prevailed about Sandy and still continues; it has been fatal to a considerable number and hard with most that have had it.

    My Brother Samuel having removed with his family and settled in Cincinnati some years past and some time in the year 1827 being at his calling a considerable distance from home was taken with a fever which in a few days terminated his life in the ___year of his age having set a good example for his family which is pretty numerous.  They still reside in that city.

    I should have mentioned at an earlier date that while in Pa. last I went to see my only surviving Aunt, Catherine Heartly, at her long inhabited residence with her grandson William Rice.  She was much on the decline of bodily strength.  A considerable derangement of her mental faculties had also taken place.  I have since heard that in a short time after I was there, she departed this life in the year of 1827.  The last of that family.  How soon a generation (though they may live to old age) passes away.

    The winter of 1827 and 1828 much rain and but little snow; spring very wet; summer and autumn seasonable; harvest of winter grain middling light, summer crops pretty good; generally but few apples and almost no peaches.

    On the 18th of the 5th month, 1825, this part of the country had an awful visitation of a hail storm passing from a little south of west to a little north of east, about a mile north of my place the heavy part of which was perhaps not more than half a mile in width and lasted perhaps half an hour or more, the hailstones generally uncommonly large, many of them about one and one half inches in diameter.  Where it came was nearly or quite destroyed and much of the large timber has since died.  It happened about 4 o'clock p.m. at the same time or nearly so a tremendous hurricane in about the same direction passed about a mile south of my place.  It was from about a quarter to three quarters of a mile in width.  Most of the large timber in its course was blown down and many buildings either through down or much injured.  Little or no hail or rain attended this tornado which as it came with great velocity so it was quick over and notwithstanding the great fall of timber and crush of buildings and many individuals hurt yet I know not that any human lives were lost.  A wonderful display of power mixed with mercy.

    I taught school the winter before last in my old house, also last winter in the same place.  This is the 29th of 1st month, 1829.

    The 20th of the 2nd month by the account received of my parents of the time of my birth I am this day sixty three years of age.  How swiftly time passes away!  May the little remainder of my time here, be spent in a manner suitable to a preparation for that awful period which according to the ordinary course of nature cannot be far distant.  I think I am deeply sensible that I have great need of divine assistance in the various trials I meet with.  I also feel a hope that "He who has been with me through six troubles will not forsake me in the seventh."

    19th of 6th month, 1829.  About two months past believing it necessary for me to engage in some employment for a livelihood I with my son William commenced on a small scale in the mercantile business.  But had not continued long till I felt some uneasiness in my mind about it and notwithstanding my reason would have persuaded me to continue.  The distress of my mind rather increased so that I apprehended that, that peace of mind which I value and desire above worldly enjoyments was not to be obtained so fully as I desired if I continued in said business I therefore have lately withdrawn my interest from the said concern.

    16th of 9th month, 1829. Having lately lost a pretty good mare by death, & and also met with divers other losses not long since -- cause for deep search, that these tryals may have their proper use, -- if I can lie down at night in health and on examining the transactions of the past day find no condemnation and before l give sleep to mine eyes or slumber to my eyelids can find a habitation in my heart for the holy spirit with the reward of peace and in the morning rise with a sensible influence of the same, these are blessings far surpassing these fading enjoyments.

    On the 16th of the 8th month, 1829 my eighth son was born. We call his name Thomas Rawlings--and notwithstanding his mother had the whooping cough at the time, he escaped taking the disorder.

    1829.  In this 11th month I went in company with my sister Anne and son Wm. on a visit to our relations at Kendal and found my sister Sarah and children well in health and I believe in a good degree wall disposed. Thence returned to our quarterly meeting at Newgarden, which was attended by our friend Ann Jones, a minister from England who delivered a lengthy and well adapted testimony.  The next day we got home.

    About the middle of the 9th month.  This year (1829) my daughter Ruth was taken with a kind of typhus fever, by some physitions called the cold plague which prevailed about four weeks by which she was reduced very low; she had the assistance of several physitions and very attentive nursing by which with the blessing of providence she was restored to health, but is still much short of usual strength this 25th day of the 12th month in the year of 1829.

    About the same time my son Sylvanus was afflicted with the same disorder which rendered his recovery doubtful also, but not being reduced as low as his sister, recovered sooner.

    In the time of their illness I was taken as is supposed with a degree of the same disorder which appeared to work off with a copious expectoration and altho favoured to have it thus in a milder form I think I am not quite clear of it at this time, it being about two months since I was taken with the disorder.

    2nd month, 20th day, 1830. This being my birthday another year of my time or age has rolled round which as it brings me that much nearer to the grave so I see the necessity of an increased solicitude for divine ability to work out my souls salvation in fear of, and in obedience to the majesty on high.

    As also to render unto him the tribute of thanksgiving for the many unmerited favours and preservations mercifully vouchsafed to my a poor unworthy creature, and that I may be enabled to do the little that may be allotted to my share for the advancement of truth to the honour of Him to whom all, and more than all we can ascribe is due.

    26th of 3rd month, 1830. The measles are making a pretty general visit through these parts, two of my children Sina, and Asahel are scarcely recovered from its embraces at this time.

    I taught school the last winter in my old house.

 

[Note:  My guess is that the following two tables were not inserted by Joseph Fisher.]

 

Births of Joseph and Hannah Fisher's children.

 

Sylvanus   

8th day, 10th month, 1797

Rachel      

14th day, 5th month, 1799

William      

24th day, 11th month, 1800

Isaac         

18th day, 5th month, 1802

Amasa      

12th day, 10th month, 1803

 

Anna Knight and Joseph Scarborough - Twins, 8 April 1806

 

Elias          

10th day, 1st  month, 1808

Ruth          

29th day, 6th month, 1811

Sina          

16th day,11th month, 1813

Asahel        

5th day, 4th month, 1820

  

[Note:  At this point, there follow two documents apparently copied from Quaker records.  It is not whether or not they were inserted by Joseph Fisher.]

 

Whereas, Joseph Fisher (son of Joseph Fisher) of the county of Campbell in the

state of Virginia, and Hannah Pidgeon (daughter of William Pidgeon) of the county of

Bedford and state aforesaid having declared their intentions of marriage with each other before several monthly meetings of friends held at Goosecreek meeting house in the county of Bedford, aforesaid according to the good order used amongst them and having consent

of parents and relatives convened their said proposals were allowed of by the said meeting

 

Now these are to certify whom it may concern that for the full accomplishing their

said intentions of marriage this 13th day of the 10th month, 1796, they the said Joseph Fisher and Hannah Pidgeon appeared in a public meeting of the said people at Goosecreek meeting house in the county aforesaid, and the said Joseph Fisher taking the said Hannah Pidgeon by the hand did in a solemn manner openly declare he took her the said Hannah Pidgeon to be his wife, promising (through divine assistance) to be unto her a loving and faithful husband until death should separate them (or words to the same purpose), and then and there in the same assembly the said Hannah Pidgeon did in like manner declare she took him, the said Joseph Fisher, to be her husband, promising (through divine assistance) to be unto him a loving and faithful wife until death should separate them ( or words to that effect) and moreover they, the said Joseph Fisher and Hannah Pidgeon (she according to the custom of marriage assuming the name of her husband) as a further confirmation thereof, did then and there to these presents set their hands.                                                                                      

                                                                                                                (Joseph Fisher

                                                                                                                ( Hannah Fisher

And we whose names are hereunder also subscribed being present at the solemnization of said marriage and subscription have as witnesses thereunto set our hands the day and year above written.  Joseph Rhodes, Moses Cadwalder, Thomas Dobyus, Samuel Oliphant, John Pennock, Christopher Anthony, Joseph Header, William Wildman, Ann Wildman, Deborah.Wildman, Guhilma Perdue, Joseph Dobyns, Mary Bond, Montor G. Perdue, Susanna Bond, Elisha Schooley, Benjamin Bond, James Curl, Ruth Curl, John Wildman, William Sharp, Jessie Johnson, Asa Plummer, Mary Anthony, Penne Lopy Johnson, William Ingleden, Magdalah Ingleden, Joseph Johnson, Patrick Hix, Amos Harris, Elizabeth Harris, Caty Hix, James Johnson, Hannah Anthony, Judith Johnson, John Embree, Moses Embree, Mary Johnson, Mary McPherson, Elisabeth Bond, Joel Lewis, Sarah Lewis, Thomas Cadwaleder, John Scholey, Rachel Scholey, Jerimiah Perdue, William Pidgeon, Rachel Pidgeon, John Coffee, Rachel Coffee, By Paxson, Ruth Paxson, Sarah Fisher, Sarah Pidgeon, Hannah Fisher, Martha Bangham, John Fisher, John Bangham, William Pidgeon, Charles Pidgeon

 

Joseph Fisher was born the 20th day of the 2nd month, 1766.

Margaret Fisher was born the 2tth day of the 1st month, 1786.

Thomas Rawlings their son, was born the 16th day of the 9th month, 1829.

Margaret Fisher, the second wife of Joseph Fisher, departed this life the

12th day of the 6th month, a.d., 1843.

Joseph Fisher departed this life the 3rd day of the 4th month, a.d. 1848.

Note:  The two entries last above made are not in the handwriting of Joseph Fisher.

Whereas Joseph Fisher of Carmel in the county of Columbiana in the state of Ohio, son of Joseph Fisher, late of the same place and Ann, his wife both deceased; and Margaret Rawlings, daughter of Joseph Rawlings and Ann his wife, late of Richland in Bucks County, Pa., also deceased, having declared their intentions of marriage with each other before a monthly meeting of the religious society of friends held at Salem; their said proposals of marriage were allowed by said meeting.  These are to certify whom it may concern that for the full accomplishment of their intentions, this twenty-sixth day of the fourth month, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-six, they the said Joseph Fisher and Margaret Rawlings appeared in a public meeting of the said people held at Salem, aforesaid; and the said Joseph Fisher taking the said Margaret Rawlings to be his wife promising with divine assistance, to be unto her a loving and faithful husband until death should separate them; and then the said Margaret Rawlings did in like manner declare that she took him, the said Joseph Fisher to be her husband, promising with divine assistance, to be unto him a loving and faithful wife until death should separate them. And moreover, they the said Joseph Fisher, and Margaret Rawlings (she according to the custom of marriage adopting the name of her husband) did, as a further confirmation thereof, than and there to these present set their hands.

                                                                                                                (Joseph Fisher

                                                                                                                (Margaret Fisher

And we whose names are also hereunto subscribed, being present at the solemnization of the said marriage have, as witnesses thereto, set our hands the day and year above written.  Jesse Holloway, Thomas French, David Painter, James Townsend, Daniel Stratoon, Francis Townsend, Michael Stratton, Adna B. Silver, Joseph Ball, William Warrington, Anna French, Robert French, John Wane, Sarah Wane, Hannah Warrington, Pricilla Warrington, Joseph Shreve, Rachel Stratton, Hannah England, Jane Kimberly, Leah Webb, Ann Painter, Ann Street, Esther Morris, Hannah P. Brooks, Edith Cadwalader, Mary Johnson, Thomas Hanna, Anne Hanna, Rosanna Heacock, William Fisher, Anne Fisher, Tacy Wilson, Enos Strawn, Hannah Baily, Charles Dennis, Jane Dennis, Sarah Heacock.

Recorded in book A, Page 102, of the records for marriage certificates of Salem monthly meeting.

                                        Benjamin Stanton

[Note:  At this point, the narrative of Joseph Fisher continues.]


Later life and old age of Joseph Fisher

    The 4th month, the 8th day, 1831. Removed with my wife and three youngest children to a place containing twenty five acres in Goshen Township about one mile northwest from Salem, having previously purchased said place for 500 dollars.

    In the forepart of this year (1831). I sold my place in Elkron to William Neill for 900 dollars; about 275 of which to redeem a mortgage held by the family of Mendenhall; 175 paid down; the other 450 dollars to be paid in annual payments of 100 dollars each the four first payments, and 50 dollars the last payment which is to become due in five years from the first of the 4th month 1831.

    My son Isaac having for a considerable length of time studied medicine and surgery with his brother Sylvanus went to Cincinnati last fall and attended a course of lectures. He obtained license to practice and in the spring commenced business at and about Waynesville. My son Elias also went to Cincinnati last autumn and after being in pretty successful business some months was taken ill with an inflammation on the lungs, of which getting some relief has lately returned to these parts with a prospect of going back again before long.

    My son William and daughter Anne also went down the river to Cincinnati the forepart of Winter. William went on a trading voyage and pretty soon returned but Anne staid a while there and then went to her uncle Elias's in Clinton County where she was taken with the typhus fever sometime in the winter and William went down on another trading voyage and attended on his sister sometime, til she began to recover and was taken himself with the same complaint but not so dangerously ill as his sister.  They are now (as appears from late accounts) both restored to usual health.  She continues there teaching school but William has returned and is with us at present.  May these merciful preservations through those awful visitations have a right and lasting affect on their and our minds.

    On the 21st of the 10th month, 1831, my son Elias continuing to be somewhat indisposed set off from Fairfield to go to Waynesville to reside with his brother Isaac.  My sister Anne went with him on a visit to her relations in those parts they expected to go to Cincinnati on a steamboat.

    The 12th month the 1st day, 1831.  The preceding autumn moist and cool. The summer crops pretty good. A snow fell the 21st of the 11th month and continues cold weather.

     The year of 1832, the 2nd month, the 20th day, This day I became three score and six years of age, how swiftly time passes away! The final close approaching with equal pace; how awful the consideration!

    The 3rd month the 1st day, 1832.  The preceding winter has been uncommonly cold; nearly nine weeks with but very little intermission.  The snow about one foot deep, went off principally and suddenly with a great rain by which with the breaking up of the ice great losses were sustained on the water courses which happened about the 22nd of the 1st month.  And about the 9th of 2nd month fell a great rain, which raised the waters, the Ohio in particular, much higher than it was ever known to be by the present inhabitants; which carried away many houses. The losses incalculable.  The distress which many families thus suddenly subjected to must be very great, and claims the commiseration of their more favoured neighbours.

    The 6th month 3rd day. The foregoing spring has been rather cool and backward. Swarms of locusts are now making their appearance. I this day received the afflicting information of the marriage of my daughter Sina with John Stickel which took place 31st of last month with and notwithstanding I feel pretty clear respecting my duty in endeavouring to dissuade her from so doing yet I feel disposed to go into a strict scrutiny and close searching of heart in order to find whether the cause in any degree may be attributed to my conduct as a parent, and in this inquiry I think I may say I humbly crave divine assistance so that should it be found that I have been blamable, my faults in this case and all others may; go to judgment beforehand--not knowing that I may ever see her again in mutability I earnestly desire that the power that attracted the attention of Mary to the one thing needful and opened the heart of Lydia may be vouchsafed to her and have the like happy effect,

    Miscellaneous observations at different times on different occasions 7th month, 8th day, 1832. [Perhaps this refers to something the transcriber chose to skip.]

    The 9th month the 3rd day, 1832, the foregoing summer has been middling dry crops of wheat middling good likewise oats and flax. There fell an uncommon heavy rain the 18th day of the 8th month. We lately had an acceptable visit of my brother Elias and his wife who have now gone on to be at our yearly meeting, Their residence is in Clinton County in this state. My son Elias and daughter Anne K. came with them.

    My son William and Priscilla Warrington were married the 29th of the 8th month, 1832.

    My daughter Ruth went with her uncle Elias Fisher when he returned.

    The 11th month, 4th day, My son Isaac having married Eunice Street at white Water last spring he together with his wife and my daughter Ruth paid us a visit this fall and returned about the time my (Elias) son (in a low state of health) and daughter Anne went with them on their return.

    1834 the 2nd month, 20th day. This day completes the 68th year of my age.  --  I have for some weeks past been somewhat unwell attended with dizziness in my head.  I applied for and made use of medical means. My health is so far restored through mercy, that it appears likely I may be spared a little longer. Oh that l may through holy help be preserved through the trials that may yet await me when the awful messenger approaches I may be of the number of those servants who are found acceptably watching.

    The 3rd month, 1st day, 1834. The past winter sat in early and cold. The latter part open and warm, with but little faling [sic] weather.  I have for some time been somewhat afflicted with a dizziness in the head which at present is better.

    The 6th month, 1st day. The past spring has been middling dry, a part of the 4th and 5th months cool and several days about the middle of the 5th month very cold freezing  weather, what is commonly termed; fruit nearly all destroyed. Wheat and rye that was forward, much injured with the frost.

    The 9th month, the 1st day. The preceding summer has been middling favorable on crops of grain; good harvest weather and wheat turned out better than had been anticipated. There was some cool spells with same frost at several times through the summer. I think I feel an increase of the infirmities of old age.

    The 11th month, 8th day.  This day was held our quarterly meeting at Salem at which was produced and read the min. of our last yearly meeting, in which it was very remarkable that something of a very serious nature was taking place in our society. The long established practice of reprinting and circulating the general epistle from London was omitted!!!

    In the year of 1834 the 12th month, 1st day.  The preceding autumn has been favorable; crops of Indian corn and buckwheat have been middling good.

    My daughter Sina with some of her husband's connections moved to the state of Illinois a few weeks past. Her husband had gone there some time before.

    The 2nd month, 20th day, 1835. 69 years have rolled away since I entered into this state of existence.  A perspective view of that length of time would seem considerable; whereas, by a retrospect it seems to have passed away comparatively as the dew of the morning.  It is only through the mercy of gracious redeemer that I can on expect my many transgressions to be forgiven and hope that the brightness of the sun of righteousness which shone with such clearness in my heart in the morning of my day may with propriety be the theme of my evening song.

    The 3rd month, 3rd day, 1835. The past winter has been uncommonly dry, not much snow or rain but a good deal of very cold weather, some of which in the present month, but now warm and pleasant.

    This morning being under some serous considerations, my mind was measurably composed by happening to cast my eye upon the following passage of scripture.

    "Thus saith the high and lofty one that inhabiteth eternity whose name is holy, I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”

    The 9th month, 1st day. The preceding spring and particularly the summer has been unusually cool and wet.

     The 12th month, 1st day, 1835. The past autumn continued wet and mostly cold for the season, winter weather set in early and severe.

    My brother-in-law William Pidgeon after a lingering illness departed this life the 10th of the 11th month last 1835.

    My sister-in-law Rachel coffee after a lingering illness departed this life the 1st of the 1st month, 1836. Her son John also deceased on the 8th day of the same month his complaint consumption.

    The 2nd month, the 20th day.  I am now arrived to what has been considered the age of a man threescore and ten years, The consideration is awful many younger than myself have been consigned to the silent grave since this time last year.

    The year of 1836. This part of the country has bean recently visited with the measles which has generally been hard.

    The 9th month. My wife and myself attended our yearly meeting which was also attended by a considerable number of friends from a distance I think it was a comfortable time.  From thence we proceeded to Indiana yearly meeting making a visit to our brother-in-law Luther Novis on the way.  We also visited my sons Isaac and Elias at their homes in Waynesville where they reside with their families and both of them practice physics.  We also visited my brother Elias and family at their habitation in Clinton County.  We also visited my daughter Ruth and family residing about two miles from brother Elias's.  She was lately married to Eli Harvy a widower with (l believe) six children.  After which we proceeded on to the yearly meeting which was very large and I think pretty well conducted, during which time there fell a snow, which seemed to be a disagreeable circumstance at that early period. Soon after the conclusion of the meeting we returned to our relations in Ohio of whom in a few days we took leave and returned homeward. We left them as we found them, all in middling good health and I am in hopes, doing pretty well. We returned by Kendall where we found my sister Sarah had departed this life a few days previous. She had bean ailing a good while which she bore with great patience and quietly passed away, I hope prepared for her change, aged I believe about sixty years, We arrived at home on the eighteenth of the 10th month, where we found to our great satisfaction all our friends and other concerns middling well. We performed this Journey in the carriage with William and Pricilla Fisher.

    On the 11th day of the 2nd month, 1837, was first held our quarterly meeting at Salem in the new arrangement, which is, that Newgarden quarterly meeting is laid down and Middleton, Salem, Newgarden, and Carmel to compose a quarter and Springfield quarterly meeting was opened and held on the 3rd month, 14th day, composed of Springfield, Marlborough, and Sandy Spring Monthly meetings.

    The 20th day of the 2nd month, 1837.  This is my birthday.  My life has been mercifully lengthened out to nearly seventy one years. I feel the infirmaties [sic] of age very sensibly in my eyesight, hearing and nerves.

    The 1st day of the 9th month, 1837.  The preceding has been a cool backward summer; harvest nearly a month later than at some other seasons, crops in general but middling, the prices of grain and other things high.  It has for a considerable time been pretty healthy in these parts though mostly  some cases of sickness in the neighborhood.

I am sensible of infirmaties of age increasing on me which must wear me out before very long.

    I am sensible of infirmaties of age increasing on me which must wear me out before very long.  Oh! That I may be mercifully favoured with divine ability to pass the few remaining days that may be allotted me in this probationary state to the honor of the author of all our blessings and land safe at last.

    1838, 20th day, 2nd month.  This being my birthday, I have through mercy arrived at seventy two years of age.  I am very sensible of an increase of the infirmaties of age particularly in my eyesight, hearing and appetite.

    The 1st day of the 3rd month, 1838.  The last winter, forepart moderate, the latter part severe and cold.

    The 1st day of the 6th month, 1838.  The foregoing spring wet, cold and backward.

    The 20th day of the 8th month, 1838.  The weather has been generally dry, crops of grain generally sort, straw but light, rain in places, grass pretty heavy.  Blessed with general health for a considerable time back, it is with difficulty I write having a stiffness in the fingers on my right hand, that I am hard set to guide my pen.

    The 12th month, 1st day, 1838.  The three last months uncommonly dry.

    The 2nd month, 20th day, 1839.  I am this day 73 years of age and middling well in health except something like the rheumatism in my neck.

    The 3rd month, the 1st day, 1839  The past winter has been cold and dry.

    [Note:  Curiously, no mention is made of the decease of Joseph Fisher's second wife, Margaret Rawlings Fisher, which occurred the15th day of the 6th month, according to records of Salem Monthly Meeting.]

    In this year of 1844, the 6th month, the 9th day.  (age 78)  I have arrived to what I account an old man altho not to the age that some have arrived to as I apprehend not occasioned by old age altogether for by an accident of a wagon oversetting in the 62nd year of my age and had to have my leg cut off a little above the ankle which caused such an alteration in the system that I was deprived considerably of some of my faculties such as my memory, hearing, and eyesight, as I suppose, which is also the judgment of several of my friends.  I am also deprived of the faculty of writing whereby I am rendered considerably useless which has hurried the appearance of old age upon me.
 

    [According to the records of Salem Monthly Meeting, Columbiana County, Ohio, Joseph Fisher died on the 3rd day of the 4th month, 1848.  He was buried at Salem.].

 


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