History of Amesbury - Merrill.org

HISTORY OF MERRIMAC. 445
rill owned the ledge and planted the large orchard on his home-
stead, which was subsequently purchased by Mr. Nichols, and is
now in the possession of his son, George W. Nichols, Esq.
There are two extensive plains in town :
one
near the Con-
gregational church, which, in " y e olden time," was noted for
its fort, meeting-house, burying ground and training ground,
and the second was near Tappan Emery's and the eastern cem-
etery, more especially noted for the "Great Trainings," which
were sometimes held there, and, also, for Indian relics.
At one period the tanning and currying business was carried
on extensively at Merrimacport by Charles L. Rowell, Esq., and
others. A dam was built across the small stream sometimes
called "Patten's Creek," which gave good opportunity for grind-
ing bark and pursuing the business. Lately, however, but little
has been done and the business with a few exceptions has died
out in the county. A little farther up the stream a second dam
was built a few years ago, and the establishment known as
"Wright's Mill," erected for planing and mechanical purposes.
This building was subsequently purchased by Alfred W. Morrill
& Company for the purpose of manufacturing wheels. It has
since been washed away by the breaking of the dam, and at
present remains unoccupied.
Rev. W. H. Hubbard was installed pastor of the Congrega-
tional church and society September 7th.
John S. Poyen, Esq., commenced building a large hotel the
present fall. It is a fine building, three stories high, and will
afford such accommodations as have long been needed. It is
now known as the Monomack House.
1878.
The Congregational society was incorporated this year under
the title of "The First Orthodox Congregational Society of
Merrimac." The church was, also, remodeled internally, with
new walls, re-seating and frescoing, giving it the appearance of
a new and elegant room. It was re-dedicated on the first day
of January, 1879, Pr°f- H. B. Smith preaching the sermon.