Note
Notes: Transcript of letter:
Attleboro, Mass., May 13, 1917
Mrs. James L. Hammond,
Mattapoisett, Mass.
Dear Mrs. Hammond: - Yours of the 9th received. I am glad to know that some of the people of Mattapoisett are interested in the story of Capt. Joshua Cushing; - how three unarmed men hastily armed themselves with grains staff, pumpbrake and hand-spike overcame nine fully armed men in the space of less that twelve minutes, regained possession of their vessel (The Mary Ann?), [sic] and made a port in Italy, with only three men to work the schooner. It seems to me the most heroic deed in history.
The story was written by John E. Eddy, lawyer of Mattapoisett, for the Knickerbocker Magazine of New York. I cannot recall the date of the Magazine, but it must have been between 1853 and 1857. The story was reproduced by Silas W. Snow, who kept a store in the building, now owned by Mrs. [Tater?], on Main Street, in a newspaper called “The Plymouth County Enterprise.” I cannot remember the date but think it was 1879. The paper was printed in New Bedford, either in the Mercury or Standard office.
The Algerian pistol and knife, belonging to the Pirate Captain was brought to Mattapoisett by Capt. Cushing. It is now in the Plymouth Pilgrim Hall, loaned to them, not given, by former chairman of the Selectmen, Noah Hammond. I hope that the Selectmen of Mattapoisett will see that it is returned and placed in the Library of Mattapoisett, where it will be an inspiration to the younger generation to know what manner of men lived in their native town.
I knew your father well and used to sit with him in the Old District School.
At times when I visited Mattapoisett, he always recalled the old school days, and spoke especially of John Wilkes Hammond’s recitation on Friday afternoon - “[Reinzi’s?] Address to the Romans.”
Hoping to hear of your success in finding the story. I am sincerely yours,
Charles M Burbank
Status: OK
Status By: Lenora Robinson
Status Date: 2016-11-18