At a Council held at the Town Hall on Saturday evening Jan 6th 1827
Present
Wm A Knox, Recorder
George Cox, Common Councilman
Wm Browne, Common Councilman
John Hart, Common Councilman
B R Wellford, Common Councilman
Anthony Buck, Common Councilman
John Goolrick, Common Councilman
John H Wallace, Common Councilman
The managers of the Street Lottery were admitted to a conference with the Council
It was reported by the Secretary of the Managers that only 2944 Tickets had been sold, and the question was submitted whether the Council would incur the risk of drawing the Lottery under those Circumstances. Thos Seddon, John S Wellford & others having formed a Company, who offered to divide the risk of drawing the said Lottery with the Corporation, on condition that they be allowed to share the profits of some future schemes, until they should be remunerated, any loss that may be sustained on the present scheme; on motion of Dr Wallace seconded by Dr Wellford, it was
Resolved that the offer of Thos Seddon, John S Wellford & others to share with the Corporation the profit & loss of the Lottery is accepted
Ordered that the Council do adjourn until Monday morning at 10 O'clock
William A Knox, Recorder
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
[Page 365]
At a Council held at the Town Hall on Monday Morning Jan 8th 1827, agreeably to adjournment
Pres't
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm A Knox, Recorder
John Hart, Common Councilman
George Cox, Common Councilman
John H Wallace, Common Councilman
Anthony Buck, Common Councilman
B R Wellford, Common Councilman
Wm Browne, Common Councilman
A Memo of an agreement between the Mayor and Commonalty and John S Wellford, Thos Seddon & others to share the Profits and Losses to be sustained in the Lottery announced to be drawn this day, was submitted to the Council; on Motion of Dr Wallace, duly seconded it was;
Resolved, that the said agreement is in due form, and that the same be accepted accordingly
The said agreement was forthwith executed by the parties
Ordered, that the drawing of the Lottery do proceed this day, as announced by the Managers
The Council then adjourned to meet tomorrow afternoon at 4 O'clock
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a meeting of the Council at the Town Hall on Thursday Jan'y 25th 1827
Pres't
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm A Knox, Recorder
John Goolrick, Common Councilman
John Hart, Common Councilman
B R Wellford, Common Councilman
John Roy, Common Councilman
John H Wallace, Common Councilman
Anthony Buck, Common Councilman
George Cox, Common Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Common Councilman
Ordered, that the Trustees of the Market House do rent to Wm B Peake, the House lately occupied by Philip August, at the rate of $150 pr annum, payable quarterly; possession to be given immediately and the rent to commence tomorrow.
Ordered, that, Wm F Gray, be added to the Committee appointed to prepare rule for the government of the Council, in the place of R S Chew, deceased
The following report was made by a Comm'ee who settled the account of Tickets with the Treas of the Lottery Managers
[Page 366]
The committee appointed on the part of the Council to receive the Tickets left in the hands of the Managers after drawing the 2nd Class of the Fred'bg Street Lottery, Report
That they have received 85 books containing 4447 Tickets which remained in the wheel and are of course blanks. That they have also rec'd 2297 Prize Tickets which drew $9478. Making in the Aggregate 6744 Tickets.
Signed
Wm Browne
John Hart
A detailed statement of the result of the drawing of the late Lottery, drawn up by the Trea'r shewing a loss to the Corporation of $1493.55 was read.
On motion it was Resolved, that the said Report, and Statement be accepted and approved
On Motion of Dr Wallace seconded by Wm A Knox it was Resolved, that application be forthwith made to the Bank of Va for the loan of $2000 for the purpose of paying the loss sustained by the Corpn in the drawing of the 2nd class of the Street Lottery, and other debts of the said Corpo
Robt Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a Council held at the Town Hall on Saturday afternoon Feb'y 17th 1827
Pres't
Robert Lewis, Mayor
B R Wellford, Common Councilman
John H Wallace, Common Councilman
John Goolrick, Common Councilman
John Roy, Common Councilman
Wm A Knox, Recorder
The mayor presented the Petition of George Reveer, offering his services to repair and keep in order the pumps of the Town, which was refered to the pump Commitee, Report thereon to be made to the next Council. The Comm'ee are also directed to give Jacob Gore the present Superintendant of the pumps, due notice of this application, and to confer with him thereon
A Petition was presented from T B Adams and others praying for a supply of water in the north west part of the Town.
Ordered that the same be refered to the Pump Comm'ee with instructions to enquire into the comparative expence of repairing Mrs Maury's well and putting a pump therein, and of sinking a new well and report to the next Council
[Page 367]
Ordered that the mayor be authorized to check on the Va Bank for $123.31 in favour of the Managers of the Lottery, it being the Corporations portion of the loss sustained on a note of John Runnells for Lottery Tickets, which has been protested for nonpayment.
Mr Knox, Dr Wellford & Mr Roy reported that agreeably to an order of the last Council, they had applied to the Bank of Va, for a loan of $2000 on the part of the Corporation, which had been granted, and a note for that amt had been executed by the Mayor accordingly
The Council then adjourned
Rob't Lewis Mayor
Wm F Gray C C
At a Council held at the Town Hall on Tuesday March 6th 1927
Pres't
Robert Lewis, Mayor
John Hart, Common Councilman
B R Wellford, Common Councilman
John Roy, Common Councilman
Wm Browne, Common Councilman
Robert Parrott, Common Councilman
H T Phillips, Common Councilman
George Cox, Common Councilman
Anthony Buck, Common Councilman
At the suggestion of the Mayor the following preamble and ordinance were unanimously adopted
Whereas it appears from satisfactory evidence that a dog affected with the Hydrophobia has been recently running at large in this Town and neighborhood, and in that State has bitten divers other dogs, thereby endangering the lives & property of the good citizens of this vicinity; to the end that the deploreable effects to be justly apprehended from the spreading of so fatal a Malady, may, as far as practicable be averted
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonality of the Town of Fredericksburg and it is ordained by the authority aforesaid, that from and after the date hereof it shall be the duty of the Constables of this Corporation, and lawful for all other persons to kill every animal of the Dog kind found going at large in the streets thereof, until after due notice shall be given of this ordinance is rescinded
Provided that notice of this ordinance be first given by publication of the same in the Virginia Herald, and by proclamation in the usual way through the Constables
And it is hereby enjoined on all good citizens to give aide and encouragement to the Constables in carrying this into effect, according to the true intent and meaning thereof
[Page 368]
Resolved, that it be, and it is hereby earnestly recommended to those Citizens who own Dogs or other animals known to have been bitten by the aforesaid mad Dog, to cause the same to be forthwith killed
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a Council held at the Town Hall on Thursday March 15th 1827
Pres't
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Anthony Buck, Common Councilman
J H Wallace, Common Councilman
Wm Browne, Common Councilman
John Roy, Common Councilman
H T Phillips, Common Councilman
George Cox, Common Councilman
Wm A Knox, Recorder
The Council proceeded to consider the accts presented against the Corporation; the following were allowed and ordered to be paid, Viz
| John James Chew, as Clerk of the Hustings Ct from Nov 8th 1826 | 54.15 |
| George Rowe for hook in Market House | 1.00 |
| H Marshall wood & Blankets | 15.00 |
| James D Harrow acc't | 20.25 |
| Ben Hillyard | 3.50 |
| A Rollow | 13.33 |
| Caesar Garnetts | 50.00 |
| Lindsay Pullen | 14.15 |
| John M Shepherd | 495.54 |
The Committee appointed to settle the acc't of R S Chew, late Chamberlain, reported the acc't as settled shewing a bal due the Corporation of $254.13
Wm A Knox, George Cox and Wm Browne were appointed a comm'ee to examine and settle the acc'ts of the Serg't and Chamberlain
The Council then adjourned
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a council held at the Town Hall on Monday March 19th 1827
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm A Knox, Recorder
George Cox, Councilman
Anthony Buck, Councilman
[Page 369]
B R Wellford, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
H T Philips, Councilman
Robert Parrott, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
The following acc'ts were presented and passed and ordered to be paid by the Chamberlain, Viz
| Geo Ellis a/c | 3.62½ |
| Charles Pearson a/c | 20.00 |
| Wm F Gray a/c Stationary | 6.25 |
| Robert Lewis a/c for wood &c | 11.94 |
R Lewis presented a statement of his rec'ts during the year for affixing the seal of the Corporation, amt $15.00
Ordered that he acc't for the same with the Chamberlain
The Comm'ee appointed to examine the acct of Wm F Gray, Chamberlain, reported that they had performed that duty and found the same accurately stated and supported by proper vouchers, and that there is a bal in his hands due the Corpn of Five hundred and eleven dollars fifty five cents ($511.55)
Ordered that the same be accepted and approved
The same Comm'ee reported that they had in like manner examined the acc'ts of John M Shepherd, Serg't of the Corpn and that the same was properly stated, supported by proper vouchers and correctly balanced. Ordered that the said report be approved
This being the day appointed by law for the election of twelve persons to serve as Common Councilmen for the Corporation of Fredericksburg for one year, The free-holders and house keepers being notified thereof met at the Mayors Office and having deposited their ballots, upon examination thereof, the greatest number of votes were found to be favour of the following persons to wit
| 1 | John Roy | 99 |
| 2 | Robert Lewis | 96 |
| 3 | Henry T Philips | 83 |
| 4 | Wm A Knox | 82 |
| 5 | John Hart | 79 |
| 6 | Rich'd Johnston | 73 |
| 7 | Thos B Adams | 71 |
| 8 | Geo Ellis | 67 |
| 9 | Robert Parrott | 62 |
| [Page 370] | ||
| 10 | William Harvey | 61 |
| 11 | Beverly R Wellford | 48 |
| 12 | Wm Browne | 47 |
| 13 | James Murphy | 47 |
| 14 | Geo Cox | 46 |
| 15 | John Carter | 44 |
The Council then adjourned until tomorrow morning at 10 O'clock
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Attest
William F Gray, C C
Tuesday March 20th
The Council met according to adjournment
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm A Knox, Recorder
John Roy
B R Wellford
H T Philips
Rich'd Johnston
Wm Browne
Rob't Parrott
John Hart
Thomas B Adams
George Ellis
Wm Harvey
The Council then proceeded to ballot for a Mayor, whereupon Robert Lewis was duly elected, who was then sworn into office by Arch'd Hart a Justice of the quorum for the County of Spotsylvania. The members of the Council were then sworn into office by the Mayor
Geo Cox was then elected a member of the Council to supply the vacancy occasioned by the appointment of Rob't Lewis Mayor
Thomas B Adams was duly elected Recorder and was sworn in by the Mayor
Wm F Gray was re-elected Clerk and Chamberlain for one year, and sworn accordingly
Robert Parrott was re-elected Gauger and Inspector of Whiskey for one year and was forthwith sworn into office
Geo Cox was duly elected surveyor for one year
Mr Cox appeared was sworn into office and took his seat as a member
[Page 371]
John M Shepherd was re-elected Clerk of the Market for one year & sworn into office
John M Shepherd was also re-elected police officer for one year and sworn into office
Samuel Philips was re-elected Measurer of Coal, Salt and Grain sold at wharf; Mr Philips appeared and was sworn into office
John Terrier was re-elected measurer and inspector of Lumber arriving at the wharves for one year
Robert Parrott was elected Inspector of Bacon, Butter & Lard within the Corpn for one year and was sworn into office
Geo Cox, John Roy, John Hart, and Wm Browne were appointed Trustees of the Market House and Superintendants of the Streets; also a comm'ee for renting out the Hay Scales and public wharf
Henry T Phillips, Robert Parrott, Thomas B Adams & Wm Harvey were appointed superintendants of the pumps for one year
Wm Browne, presented the petition of Sidney Porter & others respecting the weighing of Hay in the public Hay scales
Ordered that the said petition be refered to a comm'ee of three whose duty it shall be to examine the laws regulating the Hay Scales and the weighing of Hay & to report such additional regulations on the subject as they may deem necessary to remedy the evils complained of and also to report such other matters relating to the Hay Scales as may be deemed advisable. The Comm'ee appointed were George Cox, George Ellis & H T Philips
Ordered that the Hay Scales shall not be rented out until the Report of the Comm'ee shall have been rec'd and acted upon
Ordered that the Council heretofore appointed to prepare rules for conducting the business of the Council, be continued & that they be instructed to report as speedily as practicable
Ordered that a Comm'ee of three be appointed to take into consideration the laws regulating the appointment, duties, & salaries, of the several officers of this Corporation, and that they report by ordinance or otherwise
Ordered that said Comm'ee be appointed by Ballott, whereupon a Ballot was taken and Wm A Knox, Bev R Wellford and T B Adams were duly elected
[Page 372]
On Motion of Mr Adams, seconded by D Wellford, it was unanimously
Resolved that it is improper that any person holding an office of profit under this Corporation, should be a member of this Council
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a meeting of the Council at the Mayors Office on Friday evening March 23rd 1827
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm A Knox, Recorder
T B Adams, Councilman
Geo Ellis, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
Wm Harvey, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
H T Philips, Councilman
Geo Cox, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
The Comm'ee appointed on the Petition of Sidney Porter & others, respecting the Hay Scales, made a report whereupon it was
Ordered that the standing comm'ee on the Hay Scales procure a new scale beam, and also have a new shed erected and the materials of the old one sold
Ordered, that the comm'ee that brought in the said report do prepare an ordinance in pursuance of the latter part of their report
On Motion of D Wellford seconded by Mr Adams, the following ordinance was unanimously adopted
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredb'g and it is ordained by the authority aforesaid, that from and after the first day of April next ensuing there shall be held at Mayors Office or other convenient place, stated meetings of the said Council on the first Thursday in every month at 6 O'clock P M instead of the irregular meetings now held
Provided, nevertheless that nothing in this ordinance shall be so construed as to prevent the Mayor from convening a Council whenever in his opinion the public good may require it
This ordinance shall be in force from and after the passage of the same
Robert Parrott sent in his resignation as a member of this Council, ordered that the same be accepted
[Page 373]
Ordered that the ringing of the Church Bell at 9 O'clock at night shall be hereafter discontinued
Geo Ellis ws appointed a member of the pump Comm'ee in place of Rob't Parrott
Ordered that Jacob Gore and George Reveer do present their terms in detail for keeping the pumps in good order & for new work done on the same, to the next Council for their consideration
Ordered that the keeper of the Hay Scales and his deputies shall hereafter be sworn to do their duty before they enter on the performance of the same. And this regulation be incorporated into the new ordinance directed to be reported by the Comm'ee on the Hay Scales
The Council then adjourned until meeting in Course
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray C C
Thursday, April 5th 1827
The Council met at the Mayors office agreeably to an ordinance passed at the last Council
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
B R Wellford, Councilman
Geo Cox, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
Wm Harvey, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
The Mayor presented a letter from Henry T Philips resigning his seat as a member of the Council, ordered that the same be accepted
The Council proceeded to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Henry T Philips, when Wm Gordon was unanimously elected
The Council then proceeded to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Robert Parrott, which had been laid over from the last Council, whereupon Philip Harrison was duly elected
The Mayor presented the Petition of James Furgison, a free man of colour, praying to be exempted from Taxes on his person, Ordered this it be granted
The Comm'ee on the Hay Scales reported an ordinance [Page 374] in pursuance of the order of the last Council; which was passed and ordered to be published in the words following to wit:
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Common Council of the Corporation of Fredericksburg, that from this time the persons appointed the weigh the hay sold in this Corporation and the deputies who may be him be employed shall, before entering upon the duties of the office, be duly sworn to a faithful performance of those duties
Be it further ordained that it shall, in future, be the duty of the said officer or his deputy to ascertain the weight of carriages used in bringing hay for sale within this Corporation, and in every three months, and at all other times when any difference is observed in the apparent weight of the carriage or whenever it may be required by the purchaser of the hay.
Signed
George Ellis, Committee
George Cox, Committee
An application was made by John L Marye and C L Stevenson Esq'r on behalf of the members of the Bar, for the use of the Town Hall for the Chancery Court for a remission of the rent already due for the same
Ordered that the consideration of the said application be refered to a council to be held on next Wednesday night
Jacob Gore and George Reveer presented their terms for pump work; the Council then proceeded to elect a superintendant of the Pumps when Jacob Gore was duly elected
Dr Wellford presented the Report of the Comm'ee appointed to consider the duties, salaries &c of the several offices of the Corpn which was laid on the table
Dr Wellford also presented a report in part of the Comm'ee appointed to prepare rules for conducting the business of the Council and asked leave for the Comm'ee to set again on the subject; The leave was granted and the report laid on the Table
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
[Page 375]
Monday, April 9th 1827
The Council met at the Mayors office according to adjournment
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
John Hart, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
George Ellis, Councilman
Wm Gordon and Philip Harrison appeared were sworn into office & took their seats as members
Present Wm Gordon, Philip Harrison
The Mayor presented a letter from Wm Harvey resigning his seat as a member of the Council ordered that the same be accepted
Present B R Wellford
The Council then proceeded to ballot for a member to supply the vacancy occasioned by the said resignation when Hugh Mercer was unanimously elected
It being represented by Philip August and others that the Fish Carts had become a serious nuisance to the Citizens near the intersection of Caroline & Wm Streets on motion it was
Resolved that the Police officer be instructed to cause the sellers of fresh Fish to remove their Carts from the stand they usually occupy at the intersection of Caroline & Wm Streets, to the Market Square
The Council proceeded to consider the application of J L Marye & C L Stevenson on behalf of the Bar of the Chy Ct for the use of the Town Hall; on Motion of Dr Browne seconded by Dr Wellford it was
Resolved that the use of the Town Hall be granted to the Chy Ct for the terms to be held during the present year
The Ayes and No's being ordered those who voted in the affirmative were Gordon, Browne, Wellford, & Adams, 4; Those who voted in the Negative were Hart, Cox and Ellis 3; Mr Harrison was excused from voting.
On Motion of Mr Adams seconded by Mr Gordon it was [Page 376] Resolved that the Chancery Court be released from the payment of a rent of $1.50 pr day, for the use of the Town Hall during the last session of said Court, which rent was imposed on the 18th day of May 1826, but the Mayor & Council
The Ayes and Noes being ordered, those who voted in the affirmative were Mess'rs Hart, Gordon, Browne, Wellford, Adams, & Ellis 6; Negative Mr Cox 1; Mr Harrison being excused from voting
Ordered that Mess'rs Harrison & Gordon be appointed members of the Pump Comm'ee in place of H T Philips & Wm Harvey, who have withdrawn from the Council
Ordered that the Council be now adjourned until Saturday evening next at 6 O'clock
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
April 14th 1827
The Council met at the Mayors office according to adjournment
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
Wm A Knox, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
The Council took up the report of the Comm'ee on the rules for conducting the business of the Council; which being amended was adopted in the words following, to wit
The Mayor, and in his absence the Recorder, shall at each stated meeting of the Council, take the Chair precisely at the hour prescribed for the meeting, cause the roll to be called and the absentees noted, and proceed to business so soon as a quorum is formed
2. Should neither the Mayor nor the Recorder be present some member shall take the Chair, and in like manner cause the Roll to be called, and so soon as a quorum can be formed the council shall choose a President Pro tem and proceed to business
[Page 377]
After a quorum shall have been formed, and the Council called to order no discussion or conversation shall be permitted on any subject which has not been regularly brought before the Council by Petition, Report, or Motion
4. No motion shall be put, or debated until the same shall have been seconded
5. Every resolution submitted for the Consideration fo the Council shall be in writing
6. Every member who makes a motion or speaks in debate, shall address himself respectfully to the President; and shall confine his remarks to the subject under consideration
7. No member shall speak more than twice on any one question unless to explain or by permission of the Council
8. After a question has been once decided it shall be considered as at rest for that session; unless a reconsideration of it shall be moved by some member who voted in the Majority
9. All questions of order shall be decided by the President any member, however, who dissents from the decision of the President may appeal to the Council, and their decision shall be final
10. All appointments made by the Council shall be by Ballot and in all appointments except of Committees a majority of all the members present shall be necessary to a choice
11. Should no person receive a majority of votes on the first ballot a second shall take place and on the second ballot the person who had the lowest number of votes on the first shall be dropt and so on until a majority shall be obtained
12. if, when the choice is reduced to two the votes shall be equally divided on three successive ballots, the President shall give the casting vote
[Page 378]
13. All committees of the Council shall be appointed by ballot, and a plurality of votes shall make a choice
Mr Cox having declined accepting the appointment of Geographer, the Council proceeded to make another appointment when John Goolrick was unanimously elected
On Motion of Mr Hart it was Resolved that a Committee of three be appointed to make a further examination of the acc'ts of the late Chamberlain, R S Chew with the Corporation and settle the same with his Exors
On Balloting for a comm'ee Mess'rs Gordon, Hart and Cox were appointed
Ordered that the Council do now adjourn until Thursday next at 5 O'clock P M
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray C C
April 19th 1827
The Council met according to adjournment; the roll being called there were
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
John Hart, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
George Ellis, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
Absent
B R Wellford, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
Hugh Mercer, Councilman
John Roy entered, a quorum being formed, council was called to order
A letter from Col Hugh Mercer, declining the appointment of Councilman was read, ordered that the same be accepted
Ordered that the appointment of a person to fill the vacancy occasioned by Col Mercer's declining to serve, be postponed until the Next Council
An ordinance concerning fines for non attendance on the meetings of the Council was [Page 379] submitted by P Harrison, ordered that it be laid on the table
On Motion of Mr Cox it was
Resolved that the Committee appointed to rent the stalls in the Market House and for other purposes be authorized and directed and they are hereby authorized and direct to rent to the highest bidder or bidders after giving due notice thereof by advertisement in the Va Herald, the appartment enclosed at the end of the Market House for the purpose of a Cage, on the Condition of however, that no fish or other articles offensive be storred therein
On Motion of Mr Cox, it was
Resolved that the sum of $20 be and the same is hereby appropriated to aid in cleaning out the drain in the West side of the Town, from the Turnpike to the Hazle Run, To be expended under the direction of Mr John Scott
Present Wm Browne
The Comm'ee appointed at the last Council on the late Chamberlain acc't made a report stating the bal now due from the estate of the late Chamberlain, R S Chew to be $476.13 which bal is admitted by the Exor
Ordered that the said report be laid on the Table
Ordered that the Council do now adjourn until Council in course
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Thursday May 3rd 1827
This being the for a Council in course the following Gentlemen attended
Present
T B Adams, Recorder
Wm A Knox, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
Absent
Robert Lewis, Mayor
B R Wellford, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
Geo Ellis, Councilman
[Page 380]
The Council Chamber not being open, those in attendance adjourned to the office of Dr Browne and having waited a reasonable time dispersed
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Attest
Wm F Gray, C Clk
Called Meeting Thursday May 31st 1827
The Council having been duly summoned by the Mayor, met at the Mayors office
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Thos B Adams, Recorder
John Hart, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
George Ellis, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
Absent
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
The Mayor having in the recess of the Council drawn on the Chamberlain for $20 to pay the expenses of the Constables sent in pursuit of Billy Johnston, the supposed murderer of Charles Payne, It is ordered that the payment thereof be sanctioned and that the Chamberlain be allowed a credit for the sum so paid
Present Rich'd Johnston
A letter from Mr John Scott respecting the drain on the West side of the Town was read where upon it was
Ordered that the further sum of $10 be appropriated for the purpose of cleaning out said drain, to be paid to Mr John Scott
The Report of the Comm'ee on the duties & salaries of the officers of the Corpo was taken up, and after some progress made in the consideration of the same it was laid on the table
On Motion of Mr Harrison it was
Resolved that the Clerk of the Council do prepare and report to the Council at the next monthly meeting of the same ordinances in conformity to the several resolutions adopted by the Council this day
The Council then adjourned until Council in course
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
[Page 381]
Stated Meeting June 7th 1827
The Council met at the Mayors Office
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Thos B Adams, Recorder
George Ellis, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
Absent
Wm Gordon, Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
The Chamberlain submitted an estimate of the expenditures of the Corporation or the current year sum required $4650.02
John Metcalfe, Comr of the Revenue returned an account of the Taxable property & amt of rents in this Corporation as follows to wit
| Amount of Rents | $50,545 |
| Whites above 16 years | 370 |
| Slaves | 638 |
| Horses | 123 |
| Free Males Negroes & Mulattoes | 50 |
| Free females Negroes & Mulattoes | 83 |
| On the amt of rents of real estate | 3 pr ct |
| On all white males, slaves above 12 years of age & Horses | $1.50 each |
| On all Free Male Negroes & Mulattoes | $2 each |
| On all Free Female Negroes & Mulattoes | $1.50 each |
| On all four wheeled riding carriages (except Park Phaetons, Carryalls, and Jersey Waggons) of $200 value & under | $2.00 |
| All such Carriages above $200 | one pr ct of value |
| On all Gigs, chairs, Park Phaetons, Carryalls & Jersey Waggons of $100 value & under | $1 each |
| On all over the value of 100 | one pr cent of value |
[Page 382]
The Council then resumed the consideration of the report of the Committee on the Duties and Salaries of the officers of the Corporation, which being further amended was agreed to
Ordered that the Clerk do draft ordinances in conformity with the provisions of the said report and report them to the next Council
Resolved that the following sums be and the same are hereby allowed to the several officers of the Town as their Salaries for the present year, Viz
| To the Mayor for his services | $500. |
| To the Chamberlain for his Services | 75. |
| To the Clerk of the Council | 75. |
| To the Commissioner of the Revenue | 60. |
| To the Clerk of the Market | 120. |
| To the Police Officer | 100. |
| To the 2 Constables each 150 | 300. |
| To the Serjeant for summoning and attending Council | 50. |
Ordered that the Council do now adjourn to meet again on the 3rd Thursday in the present month at 5 O'clock P M
Rob't Lewis Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Thursday June 21, 1827
The Council met at the Mayors office at 5 O'clock P M agreeably to adjournment
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Thos B Adams, Recorder
George Ellis, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
Absent
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
The Mayor submitted the following acc'ts which were allowed and ordered to be paid
| Rob Ellis for building house for hay scales | $60. |
| Rob Ellis for building table & benches for Hustings Ct | 16. |
[Page 383]
On motion of Dr Wellford seconded by T B Adams; Resolved that a Comm'ee of three be appointed whose duty it shall be to enquire into the grievances alleged to exist under the law for the inspection of Bacon, Butter & Lard and the best means for correcting the same
On Balloting for a Comm'ee Mess'rs Cox, Knox, & Hart were appointed
Present Dr Browne
On Motion of Mr Gordon it was, Resolved a Comm'ee of three be appointed to examine into the condition of the enclosure around the C H lot, and tenement situated thereon and to report what repairs they require and an estimate of the cost of the same
On Balloting the following Gentlemen were appointed Mess'rs Wellford, Roy, Adams
On Motion of Dr Browne seconded by M Gordon it was Resolved, that the sum of $50 be allowed in compensation to the Jailor of this Corporation, in addition to the sum that may be ordered by the Hustings Court
Absent with leave Dr Browne
And then the Council adjourned
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
Thursday July 5th 1827
This being the day appointed for holding a regular monthly council the following Gentlemen assembled in front of the Mayors office
Thos B Adams, Recorder
B R Wellford, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
George Cox, Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
Absent
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
George Ellis, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
[Page 384]
The Mayors office being closed, and the key not found, the members who had met waited until 3/4 past 6 O'clock, and then dispersed
Thos B Adams, Recorder
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
Called meeting July 10th 1827 agreeably to a call of the Mayor a council was held at the Mayors office at 5 O'clock P M
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Thos B Adams, Recorder
B R Wellford, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
R Johnston, Councilman
Geo Cox, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Absent
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Geo Ellis, Councilman
John Hart, Councilman
Mr Cox from the Comm'ee appointed on the subject of the inspection of Bacon, Butter & Lard, reported an ordinance repealig the ordinance establishing said inspection, which was accepted and the question being taken thereon it was passed in the words following to wit;
Be it ordained by the Mayor & Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg and it is accordingly ordained by the authority of the same that the ordinance passed on the day [blank] of [blank] establishing an inspection on the articles of Bacon, Butter & Lard so in this Corporation, be and the same is hereby repealed
Dr Wellford from the Comm'ee on the C H Lot made a report exhibiting estimates of the work required to be done, whereupon on Motion of Mr Knox seconded by Mr Cox it was Resolved that the sum of $120 be and the same is hereby appropriated for the purpose of repairing the tenement situated thereon to be expanded under the direction of the Comm'ee heretofore appointed on that subject
On Motion of Dr Browne seconded by D Wellford it was ordered that Thos Sexsmith & Rob't Dickey be and the are hereby authorized to make openings and erect [Page 385] doors in the wall of the Market House lot in the rear of their respective tenements, for the use of their families; Provided that no offal or rubbish of any kind be thrown therefrom into the Market House lot; the said openings to be closed at the pleasure of the Council
On Motion of Dr Wellford, it was ordered that the Serg't of the Corpo be allowed a credit for the am't of the tax on a Horse of Hough & Tunis which had been improperly entered on the Commissioners Books; the said horse being kept and used out of the Corporation
The Council then proceeded to Ballot for a councilman to fill the vacancy occasioned by Hugh Mercer declining to serve; whereupon George Rothrock was duly elected
Rob't Lewis Mayor
Attest
Wm F Gray C C
Thursday July 19th 1827
In pursuance of a summons from the Mayor, a council was held this day at the Mayors office at 5 O'clock P M
Present
Thos B Adams, Recorder
John Hart, Councilman
Rich'd Johnston, Councilman
Wm Browne, Councilman
B R Wellford, Councilman
John Roy, Councilman
Absent
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Geo Ellis, Councilman
Wm A Knox, Councilman
Phil Harrison, Councilman
Wm Gordon, Councilman
Geo Cox, Councilman
Geo Rothrock a newly elected member appeared was qualified and took his seat
Ordered that the acc't of John Combs for work done in well on Maury's Lot and Bank Lot for $47.32 be paid by the Chamberlain
Present Geo Cox
Ordered that the Chamberlain do pay the a/c of Jacob Gore for one quarter of his last years salary ending the 1st of May at the rate $130 pr an
Ordered that the contract entered into between the Corporation and Jacob Gore, for superintending the pumps at $90 pr annum shall not be construed as extending beyond the annual election of March next
[Page 386]
Ordered that the following accounts be paid by the Chamberlain Viz
| Jacob Gore's acc't 4th Apl 1827 | 13.28 |
| Jacob Gore's acc't July 16 | 14.16 |
| Geo Rothrock & Son | 11.75 |
Drafts of the following ordinances prepared by order of the Council were submitted by the Clerk and after amendments were passes, Viz
1. An ordinance concerning the appointment of Mayor and other officers (see post fol)
2. An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Serj't of the Corporation (see post folio)
3. An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Clerk of the Market (see post folio)
4. An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Clerk of the Council (see post folio)
5. An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Chamberlain (see post folio)
The Clerk also submitted the draft of an ordinance concerning the duties of the Mayor, Ordered that the same be postponed until the Mayor shall be present
And then the Council Adjourned
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
Aug 2nd 1827
This being the day for holding a regular Council, the following gentlemen me at 6 O'clock
Present
R Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
Wm Browne
B R Wellford
Geo Rothrock
Geo Cox
John Roy
Absent
R Johnston
P Harrison
J Hart
Geo Ellis
Wm Gordon
Wm A Knox
There being no quorum the members present adjourned
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
[Page 387]
Wednesday Aug 22nd 1827
Agreeably to a call from the Mayor the following members of the Council assembled at the Mayors office at 5 O'clock P M
R Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
John Roy
Geo Cox
Geo Rothrock
Wm A Knox
Absent
Wm Browne
P Harrison
B R Wellford
R Johnston
Geo Ellis
Wm Gordon
There being no quorum the members present adjourned until tomorrow evening at 6 O'clock
R Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Thursday Aug 23 1827
The following gentlemen attending agreeably to adjournment last evening
Rob Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Receiver
Rich'd Johnston
Geo Rothrock
B R Wellford
Geo Cox
Wm A Knox
Absent
Geo Ellis
John Roy
Wm Browne
John Hart
P Harrison
Wm Gordon
There being no quorum the members present adjourned until Saturday evening at 6 O'clock
Rob Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Aug 26 1827
Agreeably to adjournment the following gentlemen met at the Mayors office
Robert Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
Wm A Knox
John Hart
Geo Rothrock
Absent
Rich Johnston
B R Wellford
J Roy
Wm Browne
Geo Cox
P Harrison
Wm Gordon
There being no quorum the members present adjourned to meet again on Monday at 10 O'clock
R Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
[Page 388]
Monday Aug 27th 1827
The Council met according to adjournment
Present
R Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
R Johnston, Common Council man
Wm A Knox, Common Council man
B R Wellford, Common Council man
John Roy, Common Council man
John Hart, Common Council man
Wm Browne, Common Council man
Geo Rothrock, Common Council man
Absent
Wm Gordon, Common Council man
Geo Cox, Common Council man
Geo Ellis, Common Council man
P Harrison, Common Council man
The following acc't were present and passed and ordered to be paid, Viz
| John Combs | $10 |
| A Rollow | 1.67 |
| A Rollow | 4.50 |
| Present George Cox | |
| Jacob Gore | 22.50 |
| Jacob Gore | 76.16 |
| Jacob Gore | 74.63 |
| James Liverpool | .75 |
| James Liverpool | 4.40 |
| [total] | $194.61 |
Ordered that the a/c of E McDowell for Stationary &c for the Lottery No. 1 be referred to T Seddon, and that he be requested to pay the same out of any bal in his hands belonging to said lottery
Ordered that J M Shepherd, Serj't be allowed a credit (in the settlement of this) of $5.75 overcharge by the Com'r on the Taxable Property of Sidney Porter
The Serj't exhibited a statement of taxes collected by him and paid over to the Chamberlain since the beginning of the fiscal year amount $971.96
The Chamberlain submitted a statement of his rec'ts & expenditures for the present fiscal year, showing a bal on hand of $246.89
Ordered that the Trustees of the Market House do procure a tin gutter for the eaves of the West side of the Town Hall, upon the lowest practicable terms; the the same be painted
Ordered that Geo Rothrock be and his is [Page 389] hereby appointed a member of the pump Committee
And then the Council adjourned
Rob Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Sept 6, 1827
The Council met a the Mayor's office at 6 O'clock P M
Present
Rob't Lewis Mayor
T B Adams Recorder
Wm A Knox
P Harrison
John Roy
John Hart
George Cox
B R Wellford
Absent
Wm Brown
Rich'd Johnston
G Rothrock
Wm Gordon
Geo Ellis
Ordered that the following accts be allowed and paid by the Chamberlain, Viz
| N N Carters a/c | 1.10 |
| John Robinson's a/c | 131.32 |
| Constables a/c | 9.45 |
Ordered that the street committee examine into the state of the Hay Scale alley, and report to Council the repairs necessary to be made thereon, and an estimate of the expences of the same
Resolved that the ordinance passed on the 6th of Mary last, respecting the killing of Dogs, be and the same is hereby repealed
Absent Wm A Knox
There being no quorum the meeting dissolved
Rob Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Oct 4th 1827
This being the day for the regular meeting of the Council the following gentlemen met at the Mayors office at 6 O'clock P M Viz
R Lewis, Mayor
T B Adams, Recorder
Wm Browne
John Hart
Geo Rothrock
Geo Cox
Absent
Phil Harrison
Wm A Knox
B R Wellford
R Johnston
Geo Ellis
John Roy
[Page 390]
There being no quorum the members after waiting half an hour separated
R Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
Friday Oct 19th 1827
Agreeably to a call from the Mayor the following gentlemen me at the Council Chamber at ½ past 4 O'clock P M
Present
T B Adams, Recorder
John Hart
G Rothrock
Geo Cox
Wm A Knox
Absent
R Lewis, Mayor
P Harrison
Wm Browne
B R Wellford
Geo Ellis
John Roy
R Johnston
There not being a quorum the member present adjourned to meet again on tomorrow evening at 6 O'clock P M
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray, C C
Saturday Oct 20th 1827
The Council met according to adjournment
Present
T B Adams, Recorder
John Roy
Geo Cox
B R Wellford
Geo Rothrock
Wm A Knox
P Harrison
Absent
R Johnston
Geo Ellis
John Hart
R Lewis, Mayor
Ordered that the acc't of Jacob Gore for $86.99 be allowed and paid by the Chamberlain
Geo Redds acc't was taken up, Ordered that the consideration thereof be postponed
Absent B R Wellford
On Motion of M Harrison seconded by Dr Browne it was Resolved that in future all persons presenting claims to the Council be required to make affidavit to the correctness of their acc'ts, And that it be further required that the respective committees of the Council and the officers of the Corporation under whose direction any work may be done shall certify that such work has been properly performed & that the acc't is reasonable
Mr Cox from the Street Committee reported [Page 391] that an examination had been made of the Court House Alley, and that $35 was estimated to be the sum necessary for graduating and partially paving the same, and that the sum of $5 was necessary for draining a part of George St near the Mason's Burying Ground and that the further sum of $20 is necessary for cleaning and repairing sundry other parts of the streets of the Town
Ordered that the sum of sixty dollars be appropriated for the work above specified, to be done under the direction of said Committee upon the lowest practicable terms
The following ordinances, prepared by the Clerk in pursuance of the Report made by the Comm'ee on the duties and salaries of officers were severally considered and passed, Viz
An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Mayor (see next pages)
An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Police officer (see next pages)
An Ordinance concerning the duties of the Constables (see next pages)
The Council then proceeded to the electing of a councilman to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Wm Gordon, whereupon Thos H Botts was duly elected
A draft of an ordinance concerning the Revival and publication of the laws was presented by M Harrison and laid on the table
On Motion, Resolved that notice be forthwith published in the newspapers of the Town that a petition will be presented to the next Gen'l Assembly for the extension of the limits of the Town, and for altering and amending the Charter of incorporation thereof
And then the Council adjourned
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray C C
[Page 392]
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg, and it is hereby ordained by the authority aforesaid, that it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Mayor
To see that the laws of the Corporation be duly executed
To make himself fully acquainted with the duties of all the subordinated officers of the Corporation and report the negligence or misconduct of any officers to the Common Council
To convene the Common Council whenever in his opinion the good of the Community requires it
To preside and preserve order in the meetings of the Council and to sign the minutes of their proceedings
To lay before the Council from time to time in writing such alterations in the laws of the Corporation as he shall deem necessary and proper
To review the streets at least once a fortnight as well as to see that the Police officers and others do their duty as to suggest to the proper authorities such improvements and alterations as may be necessary for the comfort of the citizens and the preservation of the health of the Town
To fix the assize of Bread as often as the variation in the price of Flour may render it necessary
To exercise the duties of Justice of the Peace
To keep an office within the limits of the Corporation in which he may be found every day from 9 until 10 O'clock A M and so much longer as may be requisite to transact the business which is brought before him
To keep the seal of the Corporation and to render annually to the Common Council a just acc't of the fees rec'd for affixing the same
And be it further ordained that this ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council 20th Oct 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Attest
Wm F Gray C C
[Page 393]
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg, and it is ordained by the authority of the same, That it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Police Officer
To visit frequently and as often as may be necessary, all the public parts of the Town, and diligently to inspect the same for detection of nuisances; also for the detection of obstructions and impediments in the streets and alleys & all nuisances, obstructions and impediments when detected or otherwise made known to him, he shall cause to be forthwith removed, according to law
To give information of all offences against the Laws of this Corporation, and of the names of the offenders and witnesses
To superintend the constables and report to the Mayor any instance of negligence or misconduct in any of them or either of them
To summon and attend Council
To superintend and see to the faithful execution of all contracts made for cleaning and repairing or altering the streets and in case of neglect on the part of any contractor or contractors (having first given him or them twenty four hours notice) to proceed to do what shall been so neglected, and, by informing the Chamberlain of the same cause the amt of the costs of the work so done to be withheld from the delinquent contractor or contractors
It shall further be the duty of the Police officer to do and perform such other matters and things pertaining to his office, as the Mayor shall from time to time legally require of him
Be it further ordained that this ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council 20th Oct 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray, C C
Be it ordained by the mayor and commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg and it is hereby ordained by the authority of the same, That it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Constables of this Corporation
[Page 394]
To see that the laws of the State & of this Corporation are duly observed within the Jurisdiction of the said Corporation, to make diligent search, for all offenders against the same and promptly bring them before or lodge information within the proper authority as the case may require, to the end that the said offenders may be dealt with as the law directs
To present riotous or noisy conduct in the streets on all occasions particularly at night and on the Sabbath
To execute all precept to them or any of them directed by the Mayor, Recorder or other Justice of the Peace for this Corporation
To attend the Saturday evening Market for the time being, under the direction of the Clerk of the Market, to assist him in the discharge of his duties by preventing robberies and tumults and to disperse the people from the said Market by 9 O'clock P M
To attend to Mayor while in his office if required by him to do so, and at all times to discharge any duty that may be required of them by the Mayor, in preserving the police of the town, and causing obedience to the Laws of the State and of the Corporation
And be it further ordained, that this ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council 20th Cot 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Attest
Wm F Gray, C C
An ordinance concerning the appointment of Mayor and other officers
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg, and it is hereby ordained by the authority aforesaid that hereafter when a new council shall have been elected and duly assembled they shall proceed to organize themselves in manner following to wit
The members elect shall [Page 395] be sworn into office by a Justice of the Quorum of the County of Spotsylvania or of the Hustings Ct of Fredb'g, they shall then appoint a chairman pro tem and fix the salary of the Mayor for the ensuing year, after which they may proceed to choose by Ballot a fit person to fill the office of Mayor, and a choice having been duly made the mayor elect shall be forthwith qualified and enter on the performance of his duties.
And be it further ordained that hereafter the salaries to be paid to each and every officer under this Corporation shall be fixed before appointment of said officers
And be it further ordained that all ordinances or parts of ordinances coming within the purview of this ordinance, be and the same is hereby repealed
Passed in Council July 19th 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray, C C
An ordinance concerning the duties of the Serjeant of the Corporation
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg and it is hereby ordained by the authority aforesaid that it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Serjeant of this Town
To collect the Taxes which may be imposed by the Common Council and the rents arising from the public property of the Town; fees for public exhibitions &c as they become due and to distrain for the same if necessary
To pay over to the Chamberlain the money as collected
To report the progress of his collections to the Mayor and Council once in every month
To lay before the Council at the stated meeting in March of every year, a full and correct statement of his acc'ts with the Corporation and at the same meeting to return a list of insolvences, on oath
Be it further ordained that this [Page 396] ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council July 19th 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Attest
W F Gray C C
An ordinance concerning the duties of the Clerk of the Market
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg and it is hereby ordained by the authority of the same that it shall be and hereby is made the duty of the Clerk of the Market
To have the Market House and yard at all times kept clean and free from obstructions: and the Butchers benches and other furniture in regular order
To Provide under the direction of the Council at the expense of the Corporation a set of scales and adjusted weights to keep them in good order and always in Market during Market hours, and to weigh all articles of provision when requested to do so, without receiving a fee for the same
To Attend at the Market House every day during Market hours, for the purpose of inspecting all provisions brought into Market and to enforce the laws of the Corporation made for the regulation of the Market
To use due diligence in recovering all fines incurred by the violation of the Market laws and to make a return once a quarter of all seizures made and fines recovered by him and of the disposition made thereof
To pay over to the Chamberlain the amount of all fines recovered, and monies arising from the sale of articles seized
To publish at least once a week in the newspapers the assize of Bread, and from time to time to visit the several bake houses and other places where bread is exposed for sale and to seize all that is not made according to the regulations then in force
To rent out in confirmation with the Trustees of the Market House the stalls of the Market House and the Hay Scales collect the rents of the same and pay over the proceeds to the Chamberlain
[Page 397]
He shall also act as sealer and adjuster of weights and measures and as such it is hereby made his duty
To provide under the direction of the Council at the expense of the Corporation a complete and regular set of weights and measures agreeably to the Standard of the Commonwealth & to keep them in good order and always correspondent to the said Standard
To examine and try at least once in every year, all scales steelyards and weights, and all cloths dry and liquid measures made use of within the Corporation and adjust the same to the Standard above mentioned and when so adjusted to stamp or brand them with the letters C F in some conspicuous place, unless they should be already stamped or branded
To adjust the weights and measures of every person requiring them to do so, at any time and to stamp or brand the same where it has not already been done
If at any time information be given him or he have from any person just reason to suspect that any person uses false weights or measures it shall be his duty forthwith to examine the same an adjust them to the proper standards if they be found to vary therefrom
Be it further ordained that this ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council July 19th 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray C C
An ordinance concerning the duties of the Clerk of the Council
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg, and it is hereby ordained by the authority of the same that it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Clerk of Council
To attend all meetings of the Common Council, keep correct record of the proceedings and to sign such record in conjunction with the Mayor
[Page 398]
To draft ordinances and to attend the publication of them when directed to do so
To attend the annual election for members of the Common Council and keep a correct record of the votes taken and
To perform all other services usually required of the secretaries of public bodies
Be it further ordained that this ordinance shall commence and be in force form and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council July 19th 1827
Thos B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray C C
An ordinance concerning the duties of the Chamberlain
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Commonalty of the Town of Fredericksburg, and it is hereby ordained by the authority aforesaid; that it shall be and is hereby made the duty of the Chamberlain to attend to the fiscal concerns of the Corporation
To receive all monies from the Serjeant or collector all sums of money received by him for the use of the Corporation
To pay such money for such purposes only and on such warrants as the law of the Corporation shall direct
To pay Bank discounts, salaries, and the drafts of the overseers of the Poor, without reference to the Council but no other accounts whatever without an order of Council directing such payment
To keep in a Book provided for that purpose at public expense a true and faithful account of all money received by him for the use of the Corporation and of the manner in which the same is applied
To lay before the Council once in every quarter a statement of the amount of money on hand and at or before the stated meeting in March in every year and oftener if required to present to the Council or any committee of their body appointed for that purpose, all the accounts of the [Page 399] Treasury & products the money in his hands belonging to the Corporation if required to do so
It shall further be the duty of the Chamberlain to prepare and present to the Council at the Annual meeting in March, an abstract of his accounts for the past year, arranged under distinct heads for shewing the amount paid to the orders of the overseers of the poor, the salaries of the officers of the Corporation, the expense of repairing the streets, the pumps, Bank Discounts, &c also the gross amounts the Commissioner and the nett amounts of the sums received for rents, taxes, fines &c &c which account when approved by the Council shall be published in some newspaper printed in the Town of Fredericksburg
And be it further ordained that this ordinance shall commence and be in force from and after the passage thereof
Passed in Council July 19th 1827
Thomas B Adams, Recorder
Wm F Gray, C C
November 1, 1827
This being the day for holding the regular monthly Council the following members met at the mayors office at 6 O'clock P M
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Geo Rothrock
Rich'd Johnston
Geo Cox
Absent
Geo Ellis
J Hart
Wm A Knox
Wm Browne
T H Botts
Phil Harrison
J Roy
B R Wellford
T B Adams, Recorder
There being no quorum the members present waited until 3/4 of an hour past 6 O'clock and then adjourned
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a meeting of the Council called by the Mayor and held at the Mayors office on Friday afternoon November 9th 1827
Present
R Lewis, Mayor
R Johnston
Geo Rothrock
[Page 400]
Geo Cox
Wm A Knox
Wm Browne
John Roy
Absent
Geo Ellis
B R Wellford
J Hart
P Harrison
Thos H Botts appeared was qualified and took his seat
The Council proceeded to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Thos B Adams, when John B Hall was duly elected
The Council then proceeded to ballot for a Recorder in lieu of Thomas B Adams resigned and removed when Mr Geo Cox was duly elected
Ordered that the following accounts be passed and paid by the Chamberlain Viz,
| George Rothrock | $37.12½ |
| Jacob Gore | 2.25 |
| Geo Redd | [blank] |
Present John Hart
Absent Wm Browne
Ordered that the monthly meetings of the Council shall hereafter be on the 3rd Monday in each month, instead of the 1st Thursday;
And then the meeting adjourned
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C
At a meeting of the Council called by the Mayor and held at the Mayor's office on Saturday the 5th December 1827
Present
Rob't Lewis, Mayor
Geo Rothrock
Wm A Knox
John Roy
Geo Ellis
John Hart
Thomas H Botts who was required to discharge the duties of secretaries
John B Hall who was duly elected at the last meeting to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Thomas B Adams, appeared, was qualified, and took his seat
Present, Phil Harrison, Geo Cox, Recorder and B R Wellford
A preamble and resolution was offered by [Page 401] Thomas H Botts which being seconded was adopted 6 to 4
Whereupon on motion of P Harrison the ayes and nays were taken; those voting the affirmative were, George Rothrock, George Ellis, John Hart, Beverly R Wellford, Jno B Hall and Thos H Botts; those in the negative were Wm A Knox, John Roy, P Harrison and George Cox
On Motion of B R Wellford, it was Resolved that no entry be made in the minutes of the preamble and resolution offered by Thos H Botts, but that a secret record be kept of the same
The ayes and nays were called by P Harrison; Ayes Geo Rothrock, Geo Ellis, John Hart, Bev R Wellford, John B Hall and Rob't Lewis; Nays Wm A Knox, John Roy, P Harrison, George Cox, and Thos H Botts
P Harrison, John Roy, Geo Cox and William A Knox entered their protest in writing against the foregoing resolutions and offered their reasons for so doing to so much of the protest as related to the secret record Thos H Botts subscribed
Ordered that the meeting do now adjourn until Monday evening the 17th Instant at half past six O'clock P M
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Thos H Botts C C pro tem
Monday December 17th 1827
The Council met a the Mayors office according to order
Present
R Lewis, Mayor
G Cox, Recorder
R Johnston
Thos H Botts
Wm Browne
Phil Harrison
John Roy
John Hart
Geo Ellis
Geo Rothrock
Absent
John B Hall
Wm A Knox
B R Wellford
On motion, Resolved that a Committee be appointed to accompany the Corporation Surveyor and to report to the Council to be convened on Saturday the 29th Inst at 6 O'clock [Page 402] P M how far it will be adviseable to extend the limits of the Corporation
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft a petition to the Legislature of Va praying for an extension of the limits of the Town and for an alteration and amendment of the charter of incorporation thereof, and report to the said meeting
The following gentlemen were appointed under the 1st resolution, Viz Geo Cox, John Roy, T H Botts, B R Wellford & Wm Brown
The following were appointed the Committee under the 2nd resolution, Harrison, Botts, Dr Browne
George Ellis's account for $37.84 was passed and ordered to be paid
Ordered that the Council do now adjourn until Saturday evening the 29th Inst
Robert Lewis, Mayor
W F Gray, C C
Saturday December 29th 1827
The Council met at the Mayor's office at 6 O'clock P M agreeably to adjournment
Present
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Geo Cox, Recorder
B R Wellford
P Harrison
J B Hall
Wm Browne
Wm A Knox
Geo Rothrock
R Johnston
J Hart
T H Botts
Absent
Geo Ellis
John Roy
The following accounts were severally passed and ordered to be paid, Viz
| Jesse Wyats acc't | $61.26 |
| R C Bruces acc't | 3.50 |
| B Ellis's acc't | 6.50 |
| Geo Redd's acc't | 6.05 |
A resolution was reported from the chair, which had been passed by a Town Meeting held yesterday, requesting Council to take into [Page 402] consideration the propriety of subscribing on behalf of the Corporation to stock in the Rappahannock Navigation Company; whereupon, on motion of Mr Harrison, the following preamble and resolution was adopted
Whereas, at a public meeting of the citizens of the Town of Fredericksburg held on Friday the 28th day of December 1827 it was "Resolved, that the Council be requested to take into consideration the propriety of aiding the subscription for opening the Navigation of the Rappahannock River; and to subscribe such sum as they may think proper"
At a meeting of the Council on Saturday the 29th of the same month the council took into consideration the resolution aforesaid; when it being represented to the Council that the meeting of the Citizens aforesaid was hastily called upon short notice, and not fully attended, it was upon motion, Resolved that the Mayor be required to call a general meeting of the Citizens of the Corporation to be held at 3 O'clock P M on Wednesday next with the view of taking again into consideration the object of the foregoing resolution; and the Mayor is required to publish this resolution in the public papers printed in the Town, and also to give notice of the said meeting and circulated among the citizens; and also to report the above resolution to the proposed meeting
Mr Botts from the Committee appointed on the 17th instant, to draft a petition to the General Assembly of Virginia respecting an extension of the limits of the Town, and altering and amending the Charter thereof, made a report whereupon it was Resolved that the said Report be recommended to the Committee that prepared it, with instructions to revise the present charter and acts of the General Assembly of Virginia relative to the Town of Fredericksburg and report for consideration of the Council, such a charter as they may think it adviseable to ask of the [Page 404] present General Assembly
A draft of an ordinance concerning the compilation and publication of the laws of the Corporation, submitted by Mr Harrison on the 20th October and then laid on the table was taken up and rejected
And then the Council adjourned
Robert Lewis, Mayor
Wm F Gray, C C