History of Lynn, Essex County, Massachusetts, including Lynnfield ...

348 ANNALS OF LYNN 189O.
active and useful citizen residing in Glenmere, in which precinct
he was born ; was a prominent Methodist and did much
for the society in his neighborhood ; was a good deal in public
life especially in the early days of Lynn under the City
Charter, during which time his good judgment and efficient
action availed much. He was a member of the first two
Common Councils.
About the middle of February the tides ran very high, insomuch
that parts of old Beach street were submerged.
The first meeting in viev/ of the establishment of a home
for aged men was held, March 13.
A dead whale, about 60 feet in length, was cast upon the
shore near Sliding Rock, April 26. And the next day another,
somewhat larger, was cast upon the S wampscott shore. They
soon began to emit offensive odors, and were speedily removed
to a rendering establishment. Multitudes gathered for a look
at the huge denizens of the deep.
The value of new buildings erected in Lynn during the
year ending May i was $1,078,975.
A supposed Indian skeleton was exhumed at Atlantic Terrace,
May 23.
May 30, Memorial Day. The weather was fine and the
military parade quite imposing. Other appropriate exercises
took place during the day and evening. Hon. Myron P.
Walker was orator.
While Myron Smith, of Lynn, was driving on the Peabody
road, June 11, during a heavy shower his horse was struck
by lightning and instantly killed.
The first complete circuit by a Belt Line car was made on
the evening of July 3. A number of city officials and business
men were by invitation passengers.
Independence Day was celebrated with rather more than
usual " pomp and circumstance." There was a long procession,
with city officials, various societies in regalia and a fine
military escort. But perhaps the most striking feature was
the tradesmen's display, so full was it of the insignia of the
various crafts.
The price of ice, which has now become a necessity rather
than a luxury, was this summer much higher than usual ; attributable,
no doubt to the fact that the mild weather of the
preceding winter produced a much smaller crop than usual.
A reception was given to the new rector of St. Stephen's
Church, Rev. James H. Van Buren, July 14.
About five o'clock on the afternoon of July 25, a short
but