Portsmouth, New Hampshire Fire
1813
Near the close of the year 1813. a terrible
conflagration occurred at Portsmouth, this
state, destroying over four hundred buildings.
So intense was the fire that it was said as the
westerly side of this state, and even into
Vermont. It was plainly visible from this town.
Large contributions were sent to the sufferers
from all quarters. This town, with its
accustomed generosity, contributed very
liberally, through its leading citizens and many
others. The following letter will best express
the action of the people of this town:
Portsmouth Feby 21st 1814. The Committee
appointed to receive & distribute donations,
have received of the Hon. Joshua Darling, Two
hundred and Sixty one dollars, sixty eight
cents, for the relief of the sufferers by the
late fire in this town. For this highly liberal
act of truly Christian benevolence, we present,
in behalf of the distressed, our grateful thanks
and acknowledgements to the generous donors with
our assurances that in the distribution there
of, it shall be our endeavor to promote the
charitable purpose for which it was bestowed.
John Goddard, In behalf of the Committee.
History of the Town of Henniker,
Merrimack County, New Hampshire, 1880, page 94
Transcribed by
Linda Horton. Thanks, Linda!
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