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| New England States | Vermont | Brattleboro |
Brattleboro was chartered in 1753 and was originally known as Brattleborough.
The Brattleboro Aqueduct Company was incorporated in 1811 by Samuel Dickenson, Francis Goodhue, Ezra Clark, Mary Chapin, Lemuel Whitney, John Birge and Asa Green "for the purpose of making, using, and enjoying an aqueduct, to supply the within named persons, and their associates with water." Goodhue in 1811 had also purchased the water rights for most of the lane south of the Whetstone Brook. This company was operating as late as 1907, when it was cited by the Vermont State Board of Health for having water "in filthy condition."
The Second Brattleboro Aqueduct Society was incorporated in 1817 by Francis Goodhue, Lemuel Whitney, Grindal R. Ellis, and Elisha Chase "for the purpose of completing, repairing, and enjoying the aqueduct, in said Brattleboro'." Although this company had built some manner of system, no further information about this company.
The Northern Aqueduct Association was formed around 1820 by Dr. Artemas Robbins and eight others. This system served Linden Street and the Common, and operated until about 1876 when the water stopped flowing in the pipes. A new Northern Association was formed to rebuild the system, after which the water in the old system starting flowing again.
The Brattleboro' South Aqueduct Company was incorporated in 1831 by Samuel Root, Henry Clark and Joseph Fessenden "for the purpose of completing, repairing and enjoying said aqueduct."
Four aqueduct companies were operating in 1836.
The 1880 history of Brattleboro states that the Western Aqueduct Association was formed in 1826 by Francis Goodhue, John Holbrook, and Asa Green. Although this may be correct, another entity of that name was organized in 1842 that grow to be the largest in the village, serving most of the houses north of Elliott and west of Linden.
The Brattleboro Water Company was incorporated in 1859 by Daniel S. Pratt, Joel Bullard, John A. Stoddard, Rufus Pratt, James Eustis, Oscar J. Pratt and George B. Kellogg "for the purpose of constructing and maintaining an aqueduct to supply the inhabitants of the village of Brattleboro' with pure water for domestic purposes."
The Prospect Hill Aqueduct Company was incorporated in 1866 by Lewis Putnam, Jacob Estey, R. W. Clarke, William Thomas, John Kathan, and Asa S. Field "for the purpose of constructing and maintaining an acqueduct to supply the inhabitants of the village of Brattleboro, in the county of Windham, with water for domestic and other purposes."
Six water companies are listed in an 1866/67 business directory.
The Hines Aqueduct Association was formed by Isaac Hines around 1872 to distribute water from springs on "Hines Hill," later known as Chestnut Hill. Hines died on August 22, 1876 and his son Alonzo sold the property to George E. Crowell, who continued work on the aqueduct.
The 1880 history of Brattleboro states that "There are 7 or 8 companies or organizations for supplying all demands for running water."
The Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company was incorporated in 1888 by George E. Crowell, George S. Dowley, E. P. Carpenter, Charles H Davenport, Warren E. Eason, E. W. Stoddard, B. D. Harris, and E. C. Crosby "for the purpose of furnishing the inhabitants of the town and village of Brattleboro with water for domestic and other purposes."
In 1893 the Chestnut Hill company supplied 200 houses or about one-fifth of the village, the remainder were mostly supplied by ten to twelve private aqueduct associations.
The Sunset Lake Water Company was incorporated in 1904 by George E. Crowell, C. B. Crowell, Percy V. Crowell, Edward C. Crosby and Clarke C. Fitts "for the purpose of developing a water supply and furnishing the inhabitants and business establishments of the town of Dummerston and the town and village of Brattleboro with water for domestic purposes and fire protection."
The Brattleboro Water Works Company was incorporated in 1909 by the consolidation of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company and the Sunset Lake Water Company.
The Brattleboro water
system is owned by the Town
of Brattleboro
References
1811 An act, to incorporate certain persons by
the name of the Brattleborough Aqueduct Company, October 26, 1811
1817 An Act, to incorporate the second Brattleboro' Aqueduct Society, October 30, 1817.
1824 A gazetteer of the state of Vermont,
by Zadock Thompson
Pages 69-70: Brattleborough ... The east vilage is a place of much
business, and is said to be the richest village of its size in
New-England. ... At the distillery of Francis Goodhue, 9000 bushels of rye
are distilled, and at his cotton factory 18000 pounds of world is
manufactured yearly. ... At the east village, there is an "Aqueduct
Corporation', an 'Engine Company,' and a 'Royal Arch Chapter of
Freemasons.'
1831 An act, to incorporate a Company in Brattleboro' East Village, by the name of the Brattleboro' South Aqueduct Company, October 24, 1831
1835 An act, incorporating Acqueduct Associations within this State, and giving them certain powers and privileges, November 4, 1835.
1836 Vermont Phoenix, March 18,
1836, Page 3
Lead Pipe and Metal Pumps
The Public are respectfully informed that the subscriber has taken the
Shop recently occupied by Gore & Crosby directly over Luther Weld's
Gun shop, where he manufactures Lead Aqueduct Pipe of all sizes.
Jacob Estey, Brattleboro, March 17.
1836 Stephen Greenleaf's 1836 History, Printed in four parts in the Vermont Phoenix, October 23, 1868, October 30, 1868, November 6, 1868, and November 13, 1868.The villagers are amply supplied with water, the pure nectar of nature, at their dwellings, brought by four aqueducts, that are under the direction of four corporate associations.
1842 Vermont Phoenix, September 2,
1842, Page 3
Water! Water!! Water!!!
The Members of the Western Aqueduct Association and those desirous of
joining said Association, also all persons Interested in the concern, are
requested to meet at the Chapel in Elliot Street on Thursday, the first
day of September next at 7 o'clock, P. M., for the purpose of adopting
Byelaws, choosing Officers, and dividing the Capital Stock of the
Association into equal shares. CHAS. CHAPIN, Moderator.
Brattleboro, Aug. 26, 1842.
1846 Vermont Phoenix March 5, 1846
The weather for the past week has been extremely cold, as most people have
probably discovered. Many of the aqueducts in the village were
frozen up.
1848 Vermont Phoenix, August 24,
1848, Page 3
Esty’s Pump and Lead Pipe Manufactory! At the Old Stand South of the
Bridge. The Subscriber continues to manufacture Copper Pumps and Lead Pipe
of superior quality, which he will warrant to be equal to any made in this
or any other place. Pressed Pipe coated with tin, called next to silver,
constantly on hand and for sale at the lowest prices. Lumber and most
kinds of produce taken in exchange. Jacob Esty.
1855 Vermont Phoenix, December 29,
1855, Page 3
For Sale. Share No. 6 in the Brattleboro Aqueduct Company, it being
one ninth of said Aqueduct. Geo. Newman. Brattleboro Nov. 1st, 1855
1859 An act to incorporate the Brattleboro Water Company, November 4, 1859.
1866 An act to incorporate the Prospect Hill Aqueduct Company, November 14, 1866.
1867 Merwins
Conn. River business directory for 1867/8 ... relating to the business
interests of the cities, towns and villages, on the line of the river
from Saybrook, Conn., to Newport, Vermont
Page 364-365:
Brattleboro Water company, K. Haskins, Sec. and Treas.
Centerville Aqueduct Association, Jno. Cutler, Pres.
Northern Aqueduct Association, Nelson Crosby, Agent.
Prospect Hill Aqueduct Company, L. K. Fuller, Sec. and Tras.
Southern Aqueduct Association, Joseph Clark, Treas.
Western Aqueduct Association, C. L. Mead, Sec. and Treas.
1873 Vermont Phoenix, August 8,
1873, Page 2.
At a meeting of the stock holders of the Western aqueduct association,
held on Thursday last, it was voted to lay a four inch iron pipe from the
main reservoir to the reservoir on HIgh street, a distance of about one
mile. A contract for the pipes has been made with a Philadelphia
iron firm, and an assessment of $20 per share has been levied, which is no
payable to the treasurer, Malcom Moody, at the Vermont Savings Bnak.
It is estimated that the whole expense will be less than $4,000.
1875 Vermont Phoenix, September 10,
1875, Page 2
We understand that J. Estey & Co. and Prof. Charlier have purchased a
controlling interest in the Brattleboro Water Company and propose to lay
three inch iron pipe five feet deep, the whole length of their aqueduct
before cold weather sets in. Isaac Hines also proposes to substitute
iron pipe for logs nearly the whole lengthof his aqueduct, which supplies
a good many houses on Western avenue and Forest square.
1875 Vermont Phoenix, October 1,
1875, Page 3
R. D. Ward & Co. vs. Western Aqueduct Association.---This action was
brought to recover the balance claimed to be due for the iron pipe which
the Aqueduct Association of Brattleboro laid from their spring near
Centreville. From the evidence it appeared that in July 1873 the directors
of the aqueduct association made a contract with the agent of plffs. to
furnish them with between five and six thousand feet of iron pipe in
lengths of nlne feet each, and tho same was to be delivered at Brattleboro
on or about tho 1st of September of tbe same year. After this contract was
made tho plffs. had some correspondence with the officers of the aqueduct
association in which they recommended aud urged them
to take the iron pipe in lengths of twelve feet each; this the officers of
the aqueduct company declined to do, stating that they desired the nlne
feet pipe becauseo the line of the water pipes was crooked and the short
plpe could be used in the curves without necessitating the cutting of the
pipe. Correspondence continued between the parties through the
summer on this subject, and during the early part of the fall.
On or about the 5th of November the plffs. forwarded the iron pipe, in
lengths of twelve feet each. The defts. claimed that the pipe was not
accepted until the plaintiffs agreed lo make the association whole for any
loss or damage which it might sustain on account of the twelve foot pipe.
The defts. claimed that they had paid $1800 towards the pipe, and that the
extra expense incurred by cutting and laying the long pipe, together with
the expense of laying the same late in the fall after the ground had
frozen, was a damage to the association of more than a $1000. The plffs.
claimed that the 12 ft. pipe was accepted by the defts. without any
agreement to pay such damages as the defts. claimed upon the trial. The
jury found specially and found that the pipe at 49 cts. per foot came to
$2882.80, and at 46 cts. per foot came to $2704.05. The jury also found
that a deduction should be made in favor of the defts. for the sum of
$288.03. Davenport & Eddy for plff., J. M. Tyler and C. B. Eddy for
deft.
1876 Vermont Phoenix, September 22,
1876, Page 2
The new “Northern Aqueduct Company” to hold its first meeting at the
Brooks House, Saturday.
1876 Vermont Phoenix, September 22,
1876, Page 3
Northern Aqueduct Association
Articles of Association
Art. 1. We, the undersigned, do hereby associate together for the
purpose of supplying a portion of the East Village of Brattleboro with
water by means of an aqueduct.
1876 Vermont Phoenix, September 29,
1876, Page 2.
It is, perhaps, proper to mention that the next day after tbe first
meeting of the new Northern Aqueduct Association, the old aqueduct began
to run a good stream or water for the first time in several weeks. Perhaps
the old pipe felt misused at its prospective disuse and wished lo show
what it is still capable of, but a new one is nevertheless to be
immediately laid. The source of the aqueduct is in three springs in the
high land back of the asylum farm house.
1880 Brattleboro, Windham County, Vermont:
Early History, with Biographical Sketches of Some of Its Citizens
by Henry Burnham
Page 38: It was easy to see how perfectly useless were the best of fire
engines without some way to supply them. Meetings of the inhabitants were
called at various times at which committees were appointed to devise and
report at a future meeting some feasible plan to meet the difficulty.
Progress towards this end was slow but after years of consideration large
underground cement cisterns , supplied by waste water from dwelling
houses, were placed at such points as was most advantageous.
In 1866 a great advance was made in this respect rendering the supply of
water in Main street inexhaustible. A power engine or force-pump was
placed in the machine shop of F. Tyler, at the south end of Main street,
and operated by a large water wheel. By this means 200 gallons of water
per minute, from Whetstone Brook, could be delivered at several hydrants,
in such positions to be available at a fire in any part of Main street,
and, with sufficient hose, can be of great service in protecting property
in other streets.
Fires, under the present management, are almost invariable confined to
buildings where they originate. The most remarkable exception to
this rule occurred in November, 1869, when the Brattleboro House and
several stores were consumed. The great freshet, which occurred in
the month before the fire, rendered inefficient the power-engine which the
village depended for the great supply of water from Whetstone Brook.
All the buildings on Main street and a large share of the dwelling houses
in the village are supplied with constantly running water from springs of
great purity. The water is brought by conduits to several distributing
reservoirs in such localities to best accommodate the consumers of the
water. There are 7 or 8 companies or organizations for supplying all
demands for running water. The Western Aqueduct Association is the largest
and most important in the place. Their spring is divided into 180 shares.
The water was brought about one mile to High street in 1826, by Messers.
John Holbrook, Asa Green and Francis Goodhue. Shares have been sold for $8
each, but are now valued at not less than $100 each. The company deliver
the water at a brick aqueduct house in High street, and share owners put
down small pipes leading to their dwellings at their own expense, and they
are subject to taxation, in proportion to the amount of water they own, to
keep the main conduit in repair.
To the western aqueduct may be attributed the growth, in fact, the very
existence of two of the most important streets in this village. The three
originators of this association conferred a benefit of great importance to
the public. They have long since passed away, but their memory lives in
that appropriate emblem of purity and industry — pure running water.
Page 62: Dr. Artemas Robbins ... He was one of the nine originators
and owners of the Northern Aqueduct company, which first went into
practical operation about 60 years ago, and now continues to supply
several families with water.
1881 Vermont Phoenix, July 1, 1881,
Page 2
Mr. Geo. E. Crowell is about to lay an aqueduct to bring water from
Pratt's hill for the supply of his houses on Forest square, and offers,
with the assistance and cooperation of the bailiffs, to lay a pipe around
the square with the necessary water supply and hydrants for the protection
of that portion of the village in case of fire. We understand that the
bailiffs are about to examine into the feasibility of the project, which
promises to afford both an efficient and cheap solution uf a problem
which, in view of the present lack of protection for that rapidly growing
neighborhood, will soon have to be solved in one way or another.
1881 Vermont Phoenix, October 7,
1881, Page 2
Geo. E. Crowell is engaged in building a large water reservoir on Pratt’s
hill for the supply of his Forest Square aqueduct.
1883 Vermont Phoenix, April 6, 1883,
Page 2
Crowell has resumed work on his Chestnut hill aqueduct and reservoir.
1883 Vermont Phoenix, May 11, 1883,
Page 2
Crowell has a force of 15 or 20 men at work on his reservoir and aqueduct.
As planned, the reservoir will be of great benefit to the place, having a
capacity of some 5,000,000 gallons and being located at a height above the
village as to form a valuable auxiliary to our fire department, and one
which it is to be hoped the village will not be slow to avail itself of.
The reservoir will require two years for its completion.
1883 Vermont Phoenix, August 31,
1883, Page 2
The laying of the Green street main for Crowell’s aqueduct to the corner
of Elliot and Main streets has been prosecuted with vigor this week with
the hope of completing it to morrow.
1883 Vermont Phoenix, October 19,
1883, Page 2
Crowell now has a force of men engaged in laying aqueduct mains on
portions of Forest square not already supplied.
1887 Vermont Phoenix, May 20, 1887,
Page 2
Connection is being made today with the big new supply pipe which runs
from Mr. Crowell’s reservoir down to the head of High and Green streets.
The water supply was shut off early this morning, but the pipes are
expected to be “ready for business” again before dark to-night.
Mr. Crowell sent an order last week for four miles of iron pipe for his
aqueduct, amounting to about 250 tons, which with that already received
will aggregate some 300 tons for the season.
1888 An act to incorporate the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company, November 27, 1888.
1888 "Brattleboro," from Manual of American Water Works, Volume 1.
1890 "Brattleboro," from Manual of American Water Works, Volume 2.
1891 "Brattleboro," from Manual of American Water Works, Volume 3.
1891 "Brattleboro," by Henry Burnham, The Vermont Historical Gazetteer: A Magazine, Embracing a History of Each Town, Civil, Ecclesiastical, Biographical and Military, Volume V, The Towns of Windham County.
1891 Vermont Phoenix, May 22, 1891,
Page 4
The Western aqueduct association are putting large new pipes on Grove
street.
1891 Vermont Phoenix, October 9,
1891, Page 4
The boys have the laugh on a certain worthy citizen who drove a crow bar
into the ground with the intention of using it for a stake for fastening a
cow, and when he struck some substance that offered resistance, renewed
his efforts, with the result of forcing a hole in a large water pipe.
There was excitement for a time, and there threatened to be a water famine
on Clark and Canal streets, but the break was properly repaired before the
loss of water became serious.
1891 Vermont Phoenix, December 4,
1891, Page 4
The annual meeting of the Southern Aqueduct association will be held at
the office of Wm. S. Newton next Monday evening at 7:30.
1891 Vermont Phoenix, December 11,
1891, Page 4
The annual meeting of the Southern Aqueduct association was held at the
office of W. S. Newton Monday Monday evening, when these officers were
chosen: President, H. R. Lawrence; directors, Jonathan C. Howe, B.
A. Burnham; clerk and treasurer, William S. Newton; auditor, B. A.
Burnham. It was voted to repair the reservoir and water houses and
to raise 50 cents on a share to pay for this work, the money to be payable
July 1st.
1892 An act in addition to and in amendment of the charter of the village of Brattleboro, November 22, 1892. Village authorized to construct or acquire water works up to a maximum cost of $200,000.
1893 Vermont Phoenix, March 3, 1893,
Page 7
Brattleboro's Water Supply
Report of the Special Committee Appointed by the Village to Investigate
the Subject
With a Summary of the Engineer's Report, and Statements from Mr. Crowell
and the Fire Department Engineers
[Very thorough report on the water works] The Committee have learned with
some surprise that, out of some 1100 households, or separate families, in
the village, only about 200--or less than one-fifth--are receiving their
water for domestic uses from the Chestnut Hill resrvoir--the other
four-fifths and more getting their permanent supply from other sources,
and mainly from ten or twelve private aqueduct associations in town, whose
shares are generally owned with the buildings they supply--thus
practically, and in most cases, permanently, cutting off the use of water
by occupants of such buildings from any general water system, except for
occasional temporary and special purposes.
1893 Vermont Phoenix, June 16, 1893,
Page 4
A good many broken pipes on the Chestnut hill reservoir main are being
found in West Brattleboro.
Ground was broken this morning for laying Mr. Crowell’s six inch pipe
across the Brattleboro Retreat meadow, to connect the reservoir with the
West river. It is to be hoped that the work will be pushed rapidly, for
the public have become very uneasy over the continued use of the Whetstone
brook water. It is understood that several weeks must elapse in any
case before the connection can be made.
1894 An act in addition to an act entitled "an act to incorporate the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company," approved November 27, 1888, November 23, 1894
1897 "Brattleboro," from Manual of American Water Works, Volume 4.
1899 Vermont Phoenix, October 13,
1899, Page 6
The annual meeting of the Prospect Hill Aqueduct association was held
Tuesday evening at the house of E. B. Bissell.These officers were elected
: President, W.H. Adams; secretary and treasurer, G. H. Burns; directors,
W. H. Adams, S. H. Farr and A. R. Harris. It was voted to levy an
assessment of 25 cents a share to pay the running expenses. The
association's springs are to be repaired.
1902 Vermont Phoenix, June 6, 1902,
Page 4
The Brattleboro Aqueduct association held their annual meeting Tuesday
evening In the office of S. W. Edgett. After hearing the reports of
officers it was voted to raise $2 on a share to meet current
expenses. These officers were elected: President, H. B. Chamberlaln;
secretary and treasurer, C. W. Wyman; trustees, E. C. Crosby, G. E.
Crowall and George S. Phlllips; superintendent. E. G. Phllllps.
1904 An act amending the charter of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company, October 27, 1904
1904 An act to incorporate the Sunset Lake Water Company, November 29, 1904
1905 Vermont Phoenix, January 6,
1905, Page 4
Report on Water Analysis
Chestnut Hill Aqueduct Association Will Remove Source of
Contamination--Water Safe Under Normal Conditions
1905 Vermont Phoenix, December 8,
1905, Page 4
In Favor of Municipal Ownership
Reports of Committee on Water Supply Question Presented at a Special
Village Meeting Friday
Minority Report Presented by Edward C. Crosby.
1905 Vermont Phoenix, December 15,
1905, Page 2
Mr. Crowell's Offer
States Terms on Which He will Sell Water System
Some Facts to Be Taken into Consideration in Fixing Value--All He Wants is
a "Square Deal"
1905 Vermont Phoenix, December 22,
1905, Page 1
The village meeting Tuesday evening resolved itself into a rabble, where
impulse and thoughtlessness overran premeditation and deliberation. There
Is a strong sentiment in the community for municipal ownership of the
water works, but it would bo folly now to go ahead with the construction
of an entirely new water system. In competition with the Crowell systems.
Nobody knows what the cost of a new system would be the estimate is
$250,000, and judging by the result of other similar estimates the village
might find Itself saddled with a debt of $350,000 or $400,000. Nothing
could be done about a new system anyway until after the next session of
tho legislature, and by that time Mr. Crowell will have his new supply
coming to the village from Stlckney and Pleasant Valley brooks. The
legislative act of 1892 provides a way for the village to acqulre Mr.
Crowell's properties on a basis equitable alike to him and to the village.
The voting down of Mr. Dunham's resolution Tuesday night was an act which
will not bear the scrutiny of sane analysis.
1905 Vermont Phoenix, December 22,
1905, Page 4
Village Meeting Adjourned Again
Accepted Water Committee's Reports, but Transacted no other business in
session of 2 1/2 hours
Resolution to wait for Mr. Crowell Voted Down
Gathering Marked by Confusion, Forensic Sparring and Expression of a Great
Variety of Opinion
1906 Vermont Phoenix, January 5,
1906, Page 2
Water Supply Question Again
Special Village Meeting has Been Called for Next Wednesday Night--The
Articles and Some Ancient History
What Present Conditions are Under Close Scrutiny
Does the Village Want to Take Action Which will Burden Taxpayers? --Letter
from John Galvin
1906 Vermont Phoenix, January 12,
1906, Page 2
Chose Water Board of 12 Members
Directed to Procure for the Village, by Purchase or Otherwise, a Water
System at Expense not to Exceed $250,000---Objections by Mr. Crowell's
Counsel.
1906 Vermont Phoenix, May 25, 1906,
Page 8
Bids on Water Works
Village Water Committee Will Receive Them at 4 PM Today
Representatives of a Dozen contracting Firms Here--Provisions for Issuance
of Water Bonds
1906 Engineering World 4(2):59 (June
20, 1906)
Brattleboro, Vt.-The Brattleboro Water Board has published the figures
contained in the bids received for constructing an independent water
system for Brattleboro. The lowest bid was that of the Loren N. Farnum Co.
of Boston, Mass., at $157,000 on a cash basis, and $165,000 if required to
take bonds. The Farnum company agrees to complete the works by Dec. 1, and
it also agrees to lay what additional pipe may be required to make the
system practically equal the present system for $7,000. The engineer
estimates that $5,000 will be required for rock ballasting, making the
cost of a complete system $12,000 more than the bid, or $169,000. The
village appropriated $250,000 for the purpose of establishing a water
system.
1906 Engineering World 4(4):96 (July
6, 1906)
Brattleboro, Vt.-The contract for the municipal water system here has been
awarded to the Lorning N. Farnum Co., 504 Exchange Bldg., Boston, Mass. at
$169,000. Other bidders were F. T. Ley & Co., Springfield,
$188,000; Breglia & Way, Springfield, $167,650.86; F.S. & A. P.
Gore, Medford Mass., $197,439; O'Connell & Son, Holyoke, $162,659.
1906 Vermont Phoenix, September 28,
1906, Page 7
Asked to Call Special Village Meeting
A petition was persented to the baliffs this forenoon asking them to call
a special village meeting as soon as possible to see if the village will
vote to purchase the Chestnux Hill reservoir system and the Sunset Lako
reservoir system at the price of $295,000, "the sum now asked for the
same." Another article is to see if the village will vote to instruct our
town representative to take measures to secure proper and sufficient
legislation to enable the village to construct or purchase a system of
water works, and rescind the Informal vote to instruct the water board to
arbitrate, taken at the last meeting. A third article is to see if the
village will vote to purchase the two systems named
and to arbitrate as to the price. The petition is signed by O. E. Randall,
A. J. Currier, E. Q. Frost, W. C. Mitchell. W. G. Rockwell, C F. Benson,
C. I. Knapp, C. L. Spear, L. M. Stlckney, I. L. Moore, N. H. White, C. M.
Wheeler and W. H. Phillips. The bailiffs will act upon the petition as
soon as possible.
1906 Vermont Phoenix, October 19,
1906, Page 4
To Secure Further Legislation
Then Village will be Enabled to "Construct, Purchase or Procure" Water
Water---Four Steps Taken at Village Meeting Friday Night
It was voted not to buy the two systems of water owned by George E.Crowell
for $395,000.
1906 Vermont Phoenix, October 26,
1906, Page 3
Amendments to the Village Charter
Full Text of the Bill Introduced into the Legislatuare by Representative
Gibson with View to Procuring Water System---May Issue $400,000 Bonds
1906 Vermont Phoenix, December 7,
1906, Page 10
Brattleboro Water Works
The Hearing Held at Montpelier This Week
Whole Subject Thoroughly Discussed Before the Joint Committee on Municipal
Corporations---Everybody in Good Temper---Many Helpful Suggestions Made by
the Committee
1906 Vermont Phoenix, December 14,
1906, Page 7
The Water Works Controversy.
Another Committee Hearing Wednesday--Some of the Things Said or Thought
Would Not Look Well if Printed in a Book
1906
An act in substitution of No 117 of the acts of 1892, entitled "an act
in addition to and in amendment of the charter of the village of
Brattleboro." December 19, 1906. Allowed to issue
$400,000 in bonds.
SEC. 18. This act shall be of no force and effect unless the said village
of Brattleboro shall within one year from its passage purchase or offer to
purchase the water systems and all the properties, real and personal,
including all rights, privileges and easements of the Chestnut Hill
Reservoir Company, and of the Sunset Lake Water Company, including all
water rights and rights to turn water and other rights and privileges now
owned and held by George E. Crowell for said corporation or intended for
said systems, for the sum of two hundred and sixty thousand dollars
($260,000) and at the time of purchase the principal sum or sums, with
accrued interest of any mortgage, mortgages or liens resting upon said
property, shall be deducted from the purchase price and assumed by the
village. Any work done upon or additions to the plants of the said
companies after the passage of this act shall be with the approval of the
bailiffs of the said village, and the expense thereof shall be added to
the purchase price as above fixed.”
1906 Vermont Phoenix, December 21,
1906, Page 1
The Village Charter Amendment
1907 Vermont Phoenix, March 29,
1907, Page 3
Advantages of Municipal Ownership
Brattleboro Could Own the Water Works on a Profitable Basis---
Possibilities of Income with Growth of Village Assured---Articles Special
Village Meeting Might Consider
1907 Annual Report of the State Board of Health
of the State of Vermont
Brattleboro, Vt., July 6, 1907. H. B. Chamberlain, President Brattleboro
Aqueduct Company, Brattleboro, Vt.
Dear Sir:—The water of the Brattleboro Aqueduct Co., of which I understand
you are the president, is in a filthy condition, some days much more so
than others; it is roily and, on some occasions, tastes and smells bad. I
do not think the springs and pipes have been cleaned out for several
years. I think that surface water gains access to the pipes, possibly
through the blind ditches which, I understand, were laid to take water
from the swampy places into the main pipe. If cattle get into the swamp
treading around and leaving their droppings, and water from this source
gets into the pipes, this may be a cause of its contamination. A thorough
examination of the whole line from the Thurber place down should be made
and the general conditions improved, so that these sources of pollution
would be prevented.
In behalf of the State Board of Health, HENRY D. HOLTON, Secretary and
Executive Officer
1907 Vermont Phoenix, July 26, 1907,
Page 1
No Special Meeting
Agreement to Extend the Water works Option One Year
By Consent of All Parties in Interest the Option is Extended to Jan. 1,
1909--Reasons for this Action which Promises to Stop all Controversy on
the Water Works Question.
1907 Vermont Phoenix, August 16,
1907, Page 6
The Agreement Signed
Necessity for Immediate Action in the Water Works Situation is Therefore
Postponed
1908 An act to consolidate the Chestnut Hill Reservoir Company and the Sunset Lake Water Company, December 12, 1908.
1909 Burlington Weekly Free Press and Times,
May 20, 1909, Page 14
BRATTLEBORO COMPANIES MERGE. Montpelier. May 14 The Chestnut Hill
Reservoir company and the Sunset Lake Water companv of Brattleboro filed
today In the office of the secretary of Sate articles of incorporation
merging the two companies and making the united capital stock $400,000.
The par value nf each stock is $100. All the debts of the separate
companies will be cared for by the new company which carries the name of
the Brattleboro Water Works company.
1909 Vermont Watchman, August 5,
1909, Page 2
BIG BRATTLEBORO RESERVOIR.
Work has been begun upon the 80,000,000 gallon reservoir which is to be
built in Pleasant valley, a mile or more above West Brattleboro, for the
Brattleboro Water Works company. Over 100 Italians arrived in Brattleboro
Monday to work on the job, and the first of the week was spent
in constructing their habitations. It is expected that the contract will
keep between 100 and 150 men busy from now until late in the fall.
Twenty-five acres will be stripped of the surface soil and a dam 600 feet
long and from three to 25 feet in height will be built. The dam
will be of concreto with earth on each side and will be laid on a
foundation of solid rock. Excavation for the foundation of the dam is now
under way.
1909 Vermont Watchman, October 28,
1909, Page 2
The Brattleboro Water Works company has declded to build the spillway of
its reservolr in Pleasant valley high enough so that it wlll hold
back 120,000,000 gallons of water from the start, instead of 80,000,000
gallons as at flrst contemplated. The work can be done to somewhat better
advantage now than after the reservolr has fllled and the relatlve cost
wlll not be large. The Increase ln the capacity of the reservolr wlll
necessitate cleanlng from one to two acres more of the bed, and that work
ls now ln progress. The extra work wlll not delay materlally the date of
closlng the gate and allowlng the reservolr to fi11, and lt ls expected
that the gate wlll be closed about Nov. 15,
The gate house ls nine-tenths done and the splllway ls seven-elghths
completed. Figurlng the consumptlon of water at 60 gallons a day for
each person ln town, Whlch ls a liberal estlmate, the reservolr once full
would last the town 250 days, or more than elght months, wlthout any water
runnlng ln, calllng the populatlon of the town 8000.
1910 Vermont Phoenix, January 14,
1910, Page 6
The high pressure water service will not be turned on until spring.
In a special meeting of the baliffs Monday evening it was decided to
postpone indefinitely having the high pressure turned on. The
baliffs received formal notification Monday evening that the Brattleboro
Water Works company was ready to turn on the high pressure from the
Pleasant Valley reservoir on all sections north of Elliot street.
Inquiry among the plumbers shoed that nearly all the orders for pressure
reducers in that section had been filled and a few days would have
sufficed to fill the remaining orders. It was known, however, that
some people had neglected or refused to put on these safety devices and
that the plumbing in their houses would not stand the extra pressure. The
condition of the service pipes leading from the mains to the houses in
such that many breaks may be expected when the high pressure is turned on,
even with the safety devices. It would felt by the baliffs that the
people woul dbe better satisfied if their troubles were postponed until
warm weather when repairs could be made more easily.
1910 Vermont Phoenix, June 10, 1910,
Page 4
The annual meeting of the Brattleboro Water company was held Monday
evening. These officers were elected: President, H. B.
Chamberlain; directors, George E. Crowell, E. C. Crosby, and H. C.
Streeter; secretary and treasurer, E. G. Phillips. An assessment of
$2.50 a share was voted.
In the annual meeting of the Western Aqueduct association Tuesday night
the officers last year were re-elected. They are: President, E. C.
Crosby; secretary and treasurer, G. C. Averill; directors, E. C. Crosby,
H. D. Holton, A. E. Thurber. No assessment was voted as there is
enough money is available to meet the expenses of the year.
1910 Vermont Phoenix, July 8, 1910,
Page 4
One of the Brattleboro Water Works company's horses driven by Fred Adam
ran down the Main street hill late Tuesday afternoon and smashed Into one
of the plate glass windows of H. M. Wood's store. The animal became
frightened by the shifting of its load of iron pipes some of the pipes
shoving forward and bitting him in the back. Mr. Adam was walking beside
the wagon and he did all that he could to turn or stop the runaway. He had
a narrow escape from being crushed when the horse ran upon the sidewalk at
the Flat street corner and he escnped the broken glass of the window by a
narrow margin. He was left between the kicking horse and the other window
and for a minute or more he was In great danger. A large crowd gathered
and the horse was quieted with out any further damage. The animal was
scratched somewhat and Mr. Adam was slightly bruised, but the only
materlal damage done was to the window.
1911 Vermont Phoenix, April 14,
1911, Page 4
Body in Reservoir
Mrs. Mary A. Purrington Disappeared Last November
Found by Boys Throwing Stones on Ice--Chestnut Hill System Promptly
Disconnected from Public Supply
1911 Vermont Phoenix, July 14, 1911,
Page 4
For the first time in its history the Brattleboro Water company found
itself short of water this week and had the tower on Western avenue, near
Union street, connected the supply of the Brattleboro Water Works company.
The latter's supply is not especially low at present, but the officials
are emphatic in the suggestion that users of the water do not waste it.
1911 Vermont Phoenix, July 29, 1911,
Page 1
To The Patrons Of the Brattleboro Water Works Co.
[Regulations for using a hose.]
1921 Annals of Brattleboro, 1681-1895,
Volume 1, by Mary Rogers Cabot
Page 229: Joseph Clark at one time owned most of the land on the
south side of Whetstone Brook to the Vernon and Guilford lines, and
established the first stop for wool carding and cloth dressing. The
water rights owned by him were sold, in 1811, to Francis Goodhue by John
Holbrook.
Page 234: In 1826 John Holbrook, Asa Green and Francis Goodhue formed the
Western Aqueduct Association which brought to High Street the first water
supply.
Page 371: Water Supply
All the buildings on Main Street, and a large proportion of dwelling
houses throughout the village are supplied by water from springs of great
purity.
The water from the Western Aqueduct (Association) was brought about one
mile to High Street in 1826 by John Holbrook, Asa Green and Francis
Goodhue. It was divided into one hundred and eighty shares which sold for
eight dollars each. This supplies all streets north of Elliot Street. The
Northern Aqueduct (Association) supplies Linden Street and the Common. The
Southern Aqueduct (Association), South Main, Canal, Clark and Reed
Streets. The Brattleboro Water Company, organized in 1860, a portion of
Green, School and Elliot Streets. The Prospect Hill Aqueduct Company,
1866, residences on Prospect Hill. The Centerville Aqueduct (Association),
residences in Centerville only.
In consequence of a fire entirely consuming, for lack of water, the house
of Doctor John L. Dickerman in 1834, large cement cisterns, supplied by
waste water from dwelling houses, were placed at advantageous points.
A remarkable example of public service quietly carried on has come to
light by the resignation of Mr. F. W. Kuech (January 26, 1918) from the
care of the water tower of the Western and Northern Aqueduct Association,
near the Common. He not only made necessary repairs on the building, but
for forty-one years hauled wood from his own woodpile and "sat up" with a
fire on bitterly cold nights to keep the water from freezing, without
any expense whatever to the shareholders.
1921 Annals of Brattleboro, 1681-1895,
Volume 2 , edited by Mary Rogers Cabot
Page 843: CROWELL WATER WORKS
In 1882, when Mr. Crowell bought the Isaac Hines property, he put on a
large force of men to complete the aqueduct which Mr. Hines began. This
included the Chestnut Hill reservoir, of 8,000,000 gallons capacity, which
was Brattleboro's main source of water supply for domestic and fire
purposes until Mr. Crowell constructed and added to this water system an
immense reservoir in Pleasant Valley, 120,000,000 gallons capacity.
The question of public ownership of this system came up in 1905 and
subsequently was carried to the Legislature, but the village finally voted
not to buy it and it has remained in the ownership of the Brattleboro
Water Works Company, of which Mr. Crowell was the head and which has been
managed by his son, Christie B. Crowell.
1925 Christian
Science Monitor, January 3, 1925 Page 3
Brattleboro Votes to Buy Water Works
Brattleboro, Vt., Jan. 3--The special meeting of Brattleboro village last
night voted unanimously to buy the interests of the Brattleboro Water
Works Company for $525,000. It was voted also to buy land for the
protection of the water shed and to seek from the Legislature such changes
in the village charter as will be needed for the operation of the water
system. The village commissioners stated that the income should
leave an excess for the treasury after paying all expenses including bond
charges.
1925 An
act to enable the village of Brattleboro to issue bonds for a water
system and improvements thereto. February 26, 1925
Section I. The village of Brattleboro is hereby authorized to issue,
without further vote of the village, its negotiable bonds to pay for the
water system purchased of the Brattleboro Water Works Company.
1925 St.
Albans Daily Messenger, March 17, 1925, Page 3
Permission has been granted by the Public Service Commission to the
Brattleboro Water Works Co. to sell all its assets to the village of
Brattleboro, carrying out the vote of a recent village meeting to take
over the water works property at a valuation of $525,000. A hearing
was held before the Public Service Commission on February 20th.
1925 An act to authorize the village of Brattleboro to operate a water system, March 18, 1925.
1928 Village of Brattleboro v. Anna Yauvey. Supreme Court of Vermont. February Term, 1928. Opinion filed October 3, 1928. Case about water rights arising from the Hines Aqueduct System in 1872.
1958-60 Centerville Aqueduct Association v. State Highway Bd., Windham County Court, Biennial report of the Attorney General of the state of Vermont for the Two Years Ending June 30, 1960, Page 28
1985 The Early Aqueduct Systems and the Subsequent Brattleboro Water Department Compiled by Richard H. Wellman. This is a very helpful document and lists most of the early aqueduct systems in Brattleboro.
2009 On the Job: The Brattleboro Public Works Department by Wayne Carhart and Charles Fish
© 2015 Morris A. Pierce