201. THE village of Brighton embraces within the limits established in its incorporation, a rectangular tract of land, approximately one and a half miles in length by one mile in width, taken from the southwest corner of the township of Brighton. Its length is on the west line of the township, adjoining Genoa, and its width is on the south line, adjoining Green Oak. The line of the old Grand River road passes through, and makes a somewhat abrupt angle in the village, and the post set by the commissioners to mark this angle has been mentioned as the centre, around which clustered the few scattering buildings which formed the nucleus of the village of, Brighton.

    The original purchasers from the government, of lands lying within the present limits of the village, and the dates of their several purchases, were as follows: Maynard Maltby, of the State of New York, about 66 acres, August, 1832; Horace H. Comstock, Kalamazoo Co., Mich., 80 acres, March, 1833; John M. Coe, of Oakland County, 80 acres, June, 1834; Anthony Gale, of Hartford, Conn., 80 acres, September, 1834; Josiah Leonard, of Niagara Co., N.Y., 40 acres, May, 1835; Truman B. Warden, of Wayne Co., Mich., 80 acres, June, 1835 ; Philip Stewart, 40 acres, June, 1835; Elijah Fitch, of Washtenaw Co., Mich., about 66 acres, July, 1835; Elizabeth Cushing, of Wayne Co., Mich., 135 acres, May, 1835; Wm. Noble, of Hartford, Conn., 40 acres, July, 1835; Philip Stewart, of Wayne Co., Mich., 120 acres, October, 1835; Samuel R. Dakins, of Wayne Co., Mich., 40 acres, January, 1836; Anthony Gale, of Livingston Co., Mich., 40 acres, January, 1836; Ezra Rood, of Wayne Co., Mich., 40 acres, September, 1836.      The first two settlers within the present corporation limits were Maynard and Almon Maltby, from New York State, the latter of whom still survives, and resides in Green Oak township. Maynard purchased 65 acres of land on section 31, Brighton, in the summer of 1832, as noticed above. The following year they erected a log house, and inclosed with a fence, six acres, which they had sown with wheat. In the fall the brothers repaired to New York State and taught school during the winter. In the following spring they returned to their Western home. Maynard Maltby (having meanwhile married) brought his wife with him to Brighton. With his brother he soon after began the erection of a saw-mill upon the stream known as Ore Creek, running through the embryo village. Much of the material used in the construction of the early houses of the vicinity was sawed at this mill, which was known for years after as the "Old Maltby Mill." At the first township election Maynard Maltby was elected Justice of the peace, and continued to hold the office until his death, which occurred in January, 1840. Mrs. Maltby, who is now Mrs. D. C. Marsh, of Brighton, has a very vivid recollection of early days, and especially of the annoyances experienced from the numerous bands of Indians that passed between Detroit and the camping-grounds westward. Though not dishonest, they were very destructive, and were especially fond of terrifying the ladies by brandishing their tomahawks and marking the doors of Mr. Maltby's house in a mysterious manner, as though some dire punishment were to be visited upon the family, yet no serious results followed their visits. At a later date, when the demand for Western land became greater, and land-lookers viewed every eligible acre in the county, Mr. Maltby's house afforded them a welcome. shelter.

     John Cushing came to the village (or rather to the place where the village now is) in 1835, and built a log house, which he occupied for a long time, but afterwards purchased and removed to a house on Grand River Street, where he spent the remainder of his life. His son, Benjamin Cushing, resided for a while on the farm of his father, but finally purchased the ground where the Brighton Hotel now stands, and erected a tavern, of which he was for some years the landlord. He then retired to the farm, and after a brief interval returned to the tavern. Mr. Cushing also kept, for one year, the first log tavern built in the village, by William Dutcher, on the site now occupied by the residence of John Becker on Grand River Street. He bore a reputation as a genial landlord, and was regarded as a man of very marked social traits. His death occurred in the village in 1860.

     Robert D. Power was one of the earliest settlers, and his erection and opening of a public-house, in 1836, was one of the first steps taken towards giving the place the character of a village. His tavern-house was a log structure that stood opposite 202. the present site of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Power was a man of much force of character and intuitive shrewdness, and, being somewhat inclined towards politics, exerted a considerable influence in that direction among the early settlers of the neighborhood. He was afterwards elected to the offices of representative in the State Legislature, and sheriff of Livingston County.

     Brighton assumed still more the character of a village by the arrival and location there of its first physician (who was also the first in the County), Dr. Wilber Fisher, in the year 1836. His practice extended for a circuit of many miles, and his faithful steed was called upon constantly to exercise his powers, more of endurance than speed. Malarial fevers were incident to the clearing of the new country, and the doctor's attendance was in frequent demand. Dr. Fisher was a peculiar character. It was rumored that be possessed no diploma though he was certainly a member of an adjoining county medical society; but with this he was able to inspire his patients with a certain confidence in his skill. His medicines were certainly given in sufficiently large doses to cure, if quantity were the desideratum. Altogether, Dr. Fisher was not an unsuccessful practitioner, and his presence in those early days cheered many a quaking victim of the ague.

     William Noble, Jr., was one of the early settlers in Brighton. He came from New England, and brought with him many Puritanic ideas. He was very scrupulous in his religious duties, and held the use of liquor in abomination, which, in those tippling days, was sufficient to confirm his reputation for eccentricity.

      Anthony Gale was another of the earliest settlers in the village. He is described as a man of irascible temper, quick to resent a real or fancied wrong, but withal kind-hearted, and a keen and active man of business. He was the owner of the land on which the original plat of the village was laid out. This he sold to William Noble, Jr., who surveyed from it the first, or "Noble Plat" (known as the "Lower Town"), and recorded the same July 3, 1837. He also sold ten acres lying in the form of a square, on both sides of Grand River Street, to William Dutcher, who soon after laid out an additional plat upon it. On the 19th of July, 1838, Anthony Gale laid out upon his unsold lands the "Gale Plat" of the "Upper Town," and recorded it in the same year. A large number of the lots were sold to various purchasers, and the remainder was sold in one parcel to Harvey T. Lee.*

     In the original village plat of 1837 the first two lots were purchased by Almon and Maynard Maltby. The one purchased by Almon Maltby was the lot now occupied by Mr. S. Dubois on Grand River Street, and on this was erected the first frame house within the limits of the village corporation.

     The year 1837 saw the erection of the first school building, which was located upon ground now occupied by Patrick Donley on Grand River Street. The first teacher in this was a Mr. Jerald, who taught for two successive winters, and was succeeded by Miss Sophie Olney, who had charge of the school during the summer of 1838. This young lady arrived at the settlement on a visit to her sister, Mrs. Harwick, and was induced to remain as teacher.

     The first regular religious services in Brighton were commenced by Rev. William A. Clark, D.D., who came from New York City and settled in the township in the spring of 1837. Occasional services had, however, been held here before that time by Elder John Cosart of the Methodist, and by Rev. Jonathan Post & the Baptist, denomination, as well as by some other clergymen.

     Lewis M. Curry and wife came from Bradford Co., Pa., and in May, 1837, located within the village, as it was called even then, though it contained but very few settlers. Most of the Noble plat was still covered with the original forest-trees, and these the owner would not allow to be felled until the lots were purchased. The young boys of the neighborhood, determining that some of them should come down at all hazards, assembled one night, built a fire, and feigning to be on a hunt for Coons, began a vigorous chopping of the trees to secure the animals, as they pretended. One unsuspecting citizen rushed out with his gun and fired several shots before he comprehended the ruse. Mr. Curry purchased a lot on the corner of Grand River and North Streets, and erected upon it a house of unusual pretensions for those times. Some of the lumber for this house was drawn from Farmington, Oakland Co., and the remainder was supplied by Maltby's saw-mill, on Ore Creek. After Mr. Curry had been here a brief time; the prospects of the village not equaling his expectations, 203. he rented his house for a year and returned to the East, resuming his residence in Brighton at the expiration of that time. He spent but a portion of his time in the village, his occupations calling him much from home. Though making no pretensions to excellence above his neighbors, he established a reputation for kindness and generosity and many instances of the substantial aid he afforded the needy and suffering are related.

     An incident illustrative of his character was related to the writer by Mrs. Curry, who is now Mrs. David Thomson, of Brighton township. Mr. Curry had subscribed towards the support of religious services, and his wife concluded one pleasant Sabbath morning that she would attend meeting. and perhaps, if invited, assist in the singing, for which she had an excellent voice. Arraying herself in her black silk gown, with her best bonnet adorned with bright flowers, relics of a more luxurious life at the East, she proceeded to the primitive church. On arriving she found herself late and the door closed against her. The steward confronted her with the question, "Are you a member of the church?" She replied, "No, but we help pay the preacher, and I've come to join in the worship." "Are you seeking religion?" he added. "No," she replied, and (being probably a little incensed at )the question) intimated that she would find very little of it in that church if she were. The steward informed her that the doors were closed, and she could not be admitted.

     Filled with indignation, Mrs. Curry returned to her home, and was met by her husband, who inquired the trouble. Benjamin Cushing, who from his house opposite had observed her on her departure, and wondering at her sudden return, came ever to inquire also as to its cause. She replied, relating the facts. Mr. Curry was very angry, and, with some strong expressions, remarked that he would soon make an opening in that church-door. He went to the fence and, securing a stout rail, summoned Cushing to his aid. Together they departed for the church with the rail on their shoulders, determined to batter down the door. On their arrival one of the deacons appeared, and, asking them the occasion of their formidable preparations, was informed of their errand. He assured them that an easier entrance could be obtained, and, throwing open the door, invited them in. They entered, and remained till the service was over, while Mrs. Curry remained at home to cook a good dinner for the deacon.

     Lewis V. Curry, son of Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Curry, was born Oct. 25, 1837, the first white child born in Brighton village.

     The first death in the village was that of Truman B. Warden, who died Nov. 29, 1837. He had come to Brighton in 1836, and located on the spot now occupied by the Methodist parsonage., The second death was that of Ebenezer G. Fox, on the 19th of the following April.

     The first marriage in the village also occurred in 1837, it being that of a Mr. Winchell to a widow lady, whose name has not been ascertained. The ceremony was performed by Maynard Maltby, J. P.

     William R. Cobb came from Vermont to Brighton in the fall of 1838, and opened a store an the present site of the Methodist church on Grand River Street. Later he removed to a building which he had purchased, standing on the present site of Cobb & McHench's Block. The building was removed to make room for the new block, and it is still standing on Mill Street. Mr. Cobb retired in 1864. His present residence is on East Street, where he has a tract of some 24 acres of land.

     Daniel C. Marsh, one of the oldest and most highly esteemed of the early pioneers, and who still survives, established himself in Brighton, May, 1839. He was the first attorney in the village and township. In 1841 he was appointed prosecuting attorney and master in chancery for the county of Livingston. He is still residing in Brighton, but is not actively engaged in the practice of his profession.

     John D. Appleton arrived in 1839, and followed the occupation of carpenter and joiner. lie built the residence on Grand River Street, just below the Presbyterian church, and later erected a public-house of considerable size opposite the Brighton Hotel. The building is generally known as the Appleton Block.

     Harvey T. Lee came early, and was both farmer and hotel-keeper. He afterwards followed his calling of landlord at Byron, Mich.

     Robert McLester was a pioneer of 1837, and engaged in the sale of dry goods soon after in partnership with William R. Cobb.

     The earliest blacksmith was Abram Fralick, whose shop stood on the site now occupied by the Appleton Block.

     Among others who resided in the village in 1839 were A. P. Dickinson, who for many years served as constable, and died in 1878; Charles Spencer, who died the same year in the suburbs of the village; John G. Spencer, who died during the war of the Rebellion; Elijah Fitch, who was an early merchant, but removed from the place; John Wilson, a mason; J. D. Davis and S. S. Saunders.

     Frederick C., Whipple, the second attorney of the village, and who became the most brilliant 204. of the lawyers of Livingston County, came to Brighton in 1840. He was the first editor of the old Livingston Courier, which was established in this village by Nicholas Sullivan in 1843, and became prosecuting attorney, circuit court commissioner, and judge of probate of Livingston County. He was associated in business with George W. Peck, another eminent lawyer, who came a year or two later to Brighton and afterwards held several high offices, among them being that of representative in the Thirty-fourth Congress. Both those gentlemen left Brighton early, Mr. Whipple removing to Howell in 1846. He died in Oceola township in 1872.

     Among the settlers who came to the village in, or about 1840 were Horace Lee, Warren Hill, Warren Acker, Daniel S. Lee, Sanford Beacroft, William Moon, Malcolm Fitch, Peter Fitch, Sumner Ross, F. D. Acker, Amrod Moon, and William McCauley, the latter of whom attained considerable political distinction and filled several offices, among which was that of State Senator, to which he was elected in 1852.

     Orson Quackenbush, an early settler in tile village, erected, in 1840, the flouring and grist-mills now owned by Albright & Thomson, on Ore Creek. This enterprise was a great advantage to the people of the neighboring settlements and an advancement of the interests of the village.

     David Thomson, having visited Brighton in its earliest days, and being favorably impressed with its prospects, became a permanent resident in 1843. He leased a building where the Presbyterian church now stands, and converted it into a foundry, which was the first one established in the county, and which he soon after purchased in connection with Charles Spencer. In 1856 he built the present brick foundry, on the corner of Grand River and North Streets. He resides upon a farm in the suburbs.

     Ira W. Case came to the county in 1840, and to Brighton in 1847. He has been since that time actively engaged in mercantile pursuits.

     The rivals in trade at this early day were Robert Thomson, a typical Scotchman, and William Noble, Jr., who recorded the first plat of the village. Both were characters in their way. Thomson kept a small store, suited to the wants of his customers, and exercised considerable ingenuity in the marking of his goods, the value being generally governed by the scarcity of the commodity. The store which he built was planned by the eccentric Daniel Jones, who, it was said, whittled the model of the building from a pine block with his pocketknife. Mr. Thomson did not achieve any success in mercantile pursuits in Brighton.

     Hugh Gordon, a corpulent son of the Emerald Isle, was the proprietor of a distillery in Brighton, in its early days. He was an exceedingly popular man, for the commodity which he manufactured was always kept by him free, at the disposal of his numerous friends, who quaffed many a glass to the health of the burly host.

     Ira P. Bingham, M.D., came to Brighton as early as 1835, but did not remain. In 1841 he returned and effected arrangements for a permanent residence the following year. Since that time he has been one of the influential citizens of Brighton. He enjoys an enviable reputation in his profession, which he has not followed assiduously since the cares of other business have absorbed his attention.

     Thomas Lee, a Yorkshireman, was a quaint character. He was a tailor by occupation, and kept in connection with his shop, a small grocery-stand. Thomas established an unenviable reputation for beating his wife, and when the unfortunate victim timidly exclaimed that "she had no rights," he replied, with an additional blow, "Yes, you have; you have the right to do just as I bid you."

     Erastus A. Pratt came from Lapeer County in 1844, and followed the vocation of blacksmith in the village of Brighton for twenty-two years, during which time he made most of the plow-irons used in the surrounding country. His first shop was located where the foundry of Mr. David Thomson now stands. There was but a small portion of the village built when Mr. Pratt first came, preaching being held at the house of Daniel C. Marsh for want of a church edifice. A schoolhouse had been built in the upper portion, the building being still standing, and used as a barn, lower down on Fitch Street. In 1867 Mr. Pratt bought a farm in Green Oak, on the banks of Silver Lake, and has resided there since, enjoying the retirement which a life of labor has brought him.

     He relates an incident, which afforded him some amusement at the time, in connection with a series of Spiritualist meetings which were held in the village. Some wags had informed an itinerant exponent of that belief that Mr. Pratt and his family were ardent believers. He accordingly presented himself at their house, accompanied by his wife, bearing a letter of introduction and claiming their hospitality. Not at all dismayed by their presence, Mr. Pratt gave them a cordial welcome, and aided them in securing a place in which to hold meetings. The place was filled night after night, and the lecturer and medium were told that the house of their host was open to them, until what was intended as a joke, resulted in the most popular gathering of the season. 205. L. Corydon Pratt, brother of Erastus, came from Fredonia, N.Y., in 1845, and has since resided in Brighton. He has served as postmaster of the village, but has now retired from active business.

     Egbert F. Albright came into the county with his father, Amos F. Albright, who located at Hartland Centre, building the first house at the village and also the first grist-mill. The son, after pursuing for several years his trade of millwright in various parts of the State, came on the first day of May, 1848, to the township of Brighton, and in July, 1853, located in the village. After a brief interval in the mercantile business, be purchased, in connection with his partner, the flouring-mills built by Orson Quackenbush. His clear recollection of early events has aided greatly in the compilation of the village history.

     Brighton became an incorporated village in 1867, with the limits before mentioned. The platted area is not compactly built, but it contains many good and substantial, and some elegant, residences. Ore Creek, which flows through the central part of the village in a southerly direction furnishes water-power to the mills within the corporation. For many years the village itself bore the name of this stream, being known as "Ore Creek" settlement, or village, and even at the present time an old settler will sometimes find himself employing this old name, when speaking of Brighton village.

     An impulse was given to Brighton by the building of the Detroit, Lansing and Northern Railroad, and property advanced considerably on that account. A reaction subsequently took place, and the village has not since that time made any material advance.

     Sketches of the various churches and public and private organizations of Brighton are appended, together with mention of some of the leading business enterprises.

RELIGIOUS

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

     The early settlers of this locality embraced a large number of individuals of both sexes who had previously united with the Methodist Episcopal Church elsewhere, and a class of members of this church was early called together.

     Among those who presided at these early services may be mentioned Elder Cosart, a local preacher, and Elder Bibbins; and in the year 1837, Elders Fleming and Gillet were delegated to the neighborhood, each remaining one year. In 1843 was held the first quarterly meeting in the village. It was convened at the house of D. C. Marsh. The house, having at that early date been inclosed, but not yet occupied, afforded a comfortable and convenient place in which to hold worship. It is still standing at the corner of the Grand River and Ann Arbor road, and is occupied, as formerly, by Mr. Marsh. This meeting was presided over by Rev. Mr. Colclaser.

     Rev. James S. Smart, a clergyman of some prominence in the denomination, became pastor of the charge at Brighton in 1847, and combined with his clerical labors the profession of teacher, in which he won a deserved reputation. Rev. John Levington, having been called from Milford, his residence, to minister on a funeral occasion at the house of Daniel S. Lee, in December, 1852, was invited to preach at Brighton, semi-monthly, until the meeting of the next Annual Conference. He accepted the invitation and organized a class of seven members, embracing Mrs. D. S. Lee, Mrs. A. Clark, Roswell Bains, Joseph Placeway, Mrs. Placeway, and Mrs. D. C. Marsh. Mr. Levington was a man of talent and an efficient worker in this new field. In 1853, Conference assigned Rev. William Benson and Elias Prindle to the Brighton church for one year. They were succeeded, in 1854, by Rev. William M. Hevener, under whose pastorate the little flock was separated from the Milford charge, with whom they had been formerly associated, and were accorded a distinct identity under the title of the Brighton charge. At this juncture the society organized itself under the State law as the Methodist Episcopal Church of Brighton. The first trustees were John G. Spencer, Israel Arms, Hannibal Lee, Jasper H. Buck, -- Hendig, and Roswell Barnes. Desiring to have a permanent place of worship, the trustees, aided by their pastor, Rev. Mr. Hevener, purchased ground and erected their first house of worship and parsonage, the former of which was on its completion dedicated with interesting ceremonies, the Rev. Seth Reid presiding. Since that time to the present the following pastors have been in charge of the church: Rev. L. C. York, who came in 1856, and remained two years, and was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Birdsall and Rev. J. M. Crippen, who filled a term of one year in 1858. In 1859, Rev. Jacob Dobbins officiated, and was followed by George Foote, who acted as supply for a year. Rev. J. O. Bancroft remained two years, and in 1863, Rev. J. S. Salton acted as pastor until his successor, Rev. D. A. Curtis, came in 1865, who remained two years. In 1867, Rev. Thomas Nichols was assigned to the charge, and remained one year, when Rev. W. J. Clack filled the pulpit for two years, and was followed by Rev. John Levington in 1870. In 1872, Rev. L. C. York became pastor. Rev. F. W. Warren officiated in 206. 

ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

     The nucleus of a Roman Catholic Church was first formed in the township of Green Oak at an early date, the visitations having been made by Rev. Father Morrissey, who made his circuit not oftener than once in three or four months. He was succeeded by Rev. Father Cullen, who resided in Ann Arbor, and held a monthly service, and instructed the children in the catechism. He was followed by Rev. Father Patrick Kelley, who became a resident priest, and held service and instructed the children in the catechism at private houses until the autumn of 1838, when a log church was built, which was located in Green Oak, nearly two miles north of it's centre. Subsequently the service, which had been previously held during the week, became an established Sabbath service. 

     As suggestive of the scantiness of the worldly outfit of the holy father, it may be mentioned that his effects consisted of the vestments which he carried in a small satchel, and a trunk full of books. Oceola, Deerfield, and Beneker Hill were also a part of his mission, to which places, for many years, he repaired on foot, but finally his means permitted the purchase of a horse and saddle, which afforded him more comfortable means of travel. His old friend and parishioner, Mathew Brady, having removed to Genoa, prevailed upon Father Kelley to remove to that township, as being more central than his former residence. Here he purchased 40 acres of land adjoining that of his friend, and resided with him until 1857, when he was appointed parish priest of Dearborn, where he remained until his death. Rev. Father Lambert next succeeded to the vacant field, who resided at Deerfield and made a post at Brighton, where he held service for two years at the houses of Thomas Kennedy and John Collins. In the year 1859 he was replaced by Rev. Father F. X. Pourett, who at first resided in Deerfield, but ultimately removed to Oceola, and continued his monthly visits to Brighton, the congregation having meanwhile steadily increased until it was found necessary, in 1862, to have more room. A vacant house was secured, in which service was held until 1864, when a site for a church was purchased from Ira W. Case, embracing one acre of ground. Nicholas Kennedy, of Brighton, prepared a subscription paper with a view to raising funds for the erection of the new edifice, and presented it to Rt. Rev. P. P. Lefevre, bishop of Detroit, for approval, who very generously headed the list with a gift of $100. Many Protestants also contributed and showed much kindly interest in the new project.

     The following list embraces some of the subscribers towards the enterprise: John Long, Patrick F. McCabe, John Duane, John Laughlin, Rev. F. X. Pourett, Brian Timmons, Nicholas Kennedy, J. B. Lee, Ira W. Case, W. R. Cobb, Lyman Judson, L. C. Pratt; Moore, Foot & Co., and Oliver Bourke, Detroit.

     There were other subscription papers circulated by Nicholas Kennedy, John Duane, and Niel O'Hearn, who resided near the site of the new edifice, and consequently lent a willing hand to the work. The pastor was also assiduous in his labors, and contributed not only in actual labor, but in zeal and enthusiasm, greatly to the success of the undertaking.

     The progress of the new edifice towards completion was rapid. Every individual who had the interests of the church at heart gave cheerfully, either of his substance or in such labor as he was able to perform. Ere long they were able to enjoy the fruit of their efforts in the completion of the exterior of the building, and service was held within its walls before the interior was finished.

     Father Pourett continued his ministrations to the little flock at Brighton until 1870, when he was placed in charge of the church at Redford, near Detroit, and was succeeded by Rev. Father Rafter, who brought with him the same zeal and enthusiasm that had made the presence of his predecessor so invaluable in the Brighton field. He devoted his energies to the liquidation of the debt, and very soon was afforded the satisfaction of witnessing the church building free of incumbrances. He was called to Bay City in 1872. His successor was Rev. Father Wheeler, who made Fentonville his residence until 1876, when the bishop instructed him to occupy the residence that had been completed in Brighton.

     Father Wheeler was very successful in his work, having endeared himself greatly to his people. He left very tangible evidence of his labors in the diminished debt, and the decided improvement in the morals of the Catholic portion of the community. In 1877 he was appointed parish priest at Owosso, and was succeeded by Rev. J. G. Dougherty, in March of that year, who entered upon his labors with a debt of $1000 confronting him. Bringing much energy to the work, he succeeded the first year in liquidating the obligation, and soon 207. after remodeled the church, ornamented it with stained-glass windows, at an additional cost of $800, and made a very perceptible improvement in the grounds. Evergreens were planted, the street graded, and a substantial and ornamental iron fence inclosed the lawn.

     The society this present year is entirely free from debt, and the congregation has grown so rapidly as to necessitate the building of a considerable addition to the church. A vestry and steeple are also among the improvements contemplated. In addition to the Brighton field, Father Dougherty has charge of the missions at Iosco, Oceola, White Oak, and Fowlerville. At Howell. a new and elegant church has just been completed, and the one in Oceola has been thoroughly remodeled. In Brighton there are 70 families, 90 in Oceola, 38 in Howell, 14 in Iosco, 20 in White Oak, and 14 in Fowlerville.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

     In giving a history of the First Presbyterian Church of Brighton, it would seem, proper to give an idea of the state of society and the causes which conduced to its organization.

     In the autumn of 1852, a little more than a year previous to the organization of the church, the Rev. Chauncey Osborn and wife, of Grand Blanc, Mich., came herewith, a view to establishing permanent religious worship. There had been previous efforts made by other leading denominations, but they had not been successful. Brighton, like many other villages in a new country, had an unenviable reputation, both religiously and morally. It was much like the town that Sandy resided in, who, being inquired of as to the state of religion in his village, replied, "It is very low, very low, only myself and Davie, and I have my doubts about Davie."

     During the first year of Mr. Osborn's labors, the Rev. John Levington, of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Milford, organized a class in Brighton.

     Mr. Osborn being asked what induced him to come, replied that he had heard "they had no minister, never had, and did not intend to have;" but he came in the name of his Master, who said, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel; and lo! I will be with thee always." Trusting in him, he came.

     Mr. Osborn held two services in the school-house each Sabbath during the year. Mrs. Osborn opened a select school at their residence to assist in their support, her husband having no stated salary at that time. 

     On Saturday, Dec. 10, 1853, the following persons assembled at the residence of Mr. Osborn, and were examined for reception into the church: Jason Clark and Mrs. Mary Clark, his wife, by letter from Presbyterian Church, Green Oak; Mr. Isaac Smith and Mrs. Catharine Smith, his wife; Mrs. Lydia Benjamin, by letter; Mr. John T. Watson and Mrs. Harriet Watson, his wife from Presbyterian Church, Howell; Mrs. Samantha B. Lee, Congregational Church, Farmington; Mrs. Susannah P. Osborn, Congregational Church, Grand Blanc; and Miss Mariah Osborn, Congregational Church, Monson, Ohio.

     These formed the nucleus of the First Presbyterian Church of Brighton, of whom, at this writing, July, 1879, three only are living, viz., Mrs. Samantha B. Lee, Mrs. Lydia Benjamin, and Mrs. Harriet Watson.

     The following persons were chosen as officers of the church: Jason Clark, Isaac Smith, and John T. Watson, as elders; Jason Clark and Isaac Smith were chosen deacons; John T. Watson, Treasurer, and Isaac Smith, Clerk.

     The articles of faith and covenant of Washtenaw Presbytery were adopted, and sixteen by-laws for the government of the church were adopted.

     The organization of the church was consummated on Sabbath-day, Dec. 18, 1852, by the foregoing members publicly giving their assent to the articles of faith and covenant of the church, after which the sacrament of the Lord's Supper was administered by the pastor. Feb. 15, 1854, the church was received under the care of the Washtenaw Presbytery.

     Eighteen members were added the first year, and $75.24 was contributed to the Incidental and Benevolent Fund, which will compare favorably with more recent contributions. The first death among its members was that of Mrs. Baetcke, Aug. 24, 1855. The first baptism was administered Sept. 6, 1857, to Charles S. Lee, William O. Lee, and Walter E. Lee, sons of J. B. and S. B. Lee; also to William S., infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Kellogg.

     The Methodist congregation, now having a regularly appointed minister from Conference, with the Universalist denomination, occupied the school-house a part of the time; Mr. Osborn, therefore, opened his own house to his congregation. In February, 1855, the Masonic Hall was secured for one year. In June following, Mr. Osborn's health failing, he went East and remained until the next March, when be returned and occupied the schoolhouse again, the lease. of the hall having expired. During the greater part of his absence services were kept up by ministers from Washtenaw Presbytery, sermons being read by some of the members.

     208. In the winter of 1857 the subject of building a house of worship was agitated, and a society was organized in February for that purpose. March 23, 1857, a committee was appointed to act with the trustees of the society, Mr. J. B. Lee, Deacon J. Smith, and Hiram Kellogg. A subscription paper was circulated and enough subscribed to warrant the trustees in entering into a contract with Mr. Frederick D. Acker to build a house of worship 32 by 48 feet, with 18-feet posts, for $1500. In June, the corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies by Mr. Osborn.

     The church was completed and dedicated March 3, 1858. The dedicatory sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr. Hoyt, with prayer by the pastor; the Rev. Mr. Foster preaching in the evening, all of whom "rest from their labors and their works do follow them." The Ladies' Benevolent Society contributed their share (as they usually do) in carpeting and furnishing the church. The society received $300 from the Church Erection Fund, without interest, on condition that there be a collection taken up yearly until it was all repaid. The conditions have been fulfilled.

     Mr. Osborn's last sermon was preached March 14, 1858. He received for his labors $400 a year, about one-half of which was paid by the American Home Missionary Society. Mr. Osborn gave one-tenth of his income to benevolent objects. He was an accomplished scholar, a sound theologian, and a great worker in his Master's vineyard. Mr. and Mrs. Osborn's religious influence was perceptibly felt for many years. A man residing in the village was beard to say that "he used to chop wood on the Sabbath, and thought it no harm; but, somehow, since Mr. Osborn came, it did not seem respectable." Mr. Osborn removed to Dearborn, near Detroit, where, after a few years of faithful labor, he, with his wife, were called home to receive their reward.

     The Rev. D. L. Eaton, of Howell, succeeded, preaching his first sermon March 28, 1858. He preached every alternate Sabbath, in Pinckney, for the first year. He with Mr. O. Parker, of Flint, held a revival-meeting for three weeks, hopefully converting fifty-five persons. Mr. Eaton closed his labors April 1, 1860. The congregation was without a pastor about four months, when the Rev. William King, of Jackson, preached his first sermon Aug. 5, 1860, and remained with the church until March, 1861. He also has gone to his rest.

     Mr. King was succeeded by Rev. R. G. McCarthy, a licentiate of Detroit Presbytery, who preached Sabbath afternoons at New Hudson. He was ordained by the Washtenaw Presbytery, June 5, 1861. He closed his labors in March, 1864.

     The Rev. Benjamin Franklin, of Saline, began his labors as pastor July 23, 1864. He preached in the afternoon at different times at Pleasant Valley, Bitten's School-House, and Hartland Centre. Mr. and Mrs. Franklin were great workers in the church, having a large congregation and Sabbath-school. Mr. Franklin did much to improve the church edifice and build up the congregation. He remained with the church nearly six years, preaching his last sermon April 24, 1870.

     The Rev. William Grandy, of Lansing, was then called to the pastorate, preaching his first sermon April 2, 1871. He had a large congregation, and was a very popular preacher. He also made many improvements in the church edifice. He preached his last sermon in July, 1874.

     The Rev. E. W. Borden, of Midland, Mich., succeeded Mr. Grandy, commencing his labors in February, 1876, the church being without a pastor nearly two years. He remained with the church two years, when he removed to Ann Arbor to educate his children.

     At the present time (July, 1879) the congregation has no pastor.

     The whole number received into the church since its organization is 177 (on profession, 124; by letter, 53); during the same time the number dismissed has been 83, by letter, 62; by death, 21. The present membership is 70. Stated pulpit Supply, twenty-one years; amount paid for the same $10,800. Original cost of house, grounds, and furnishings, $1800; repairs and improvements, $750; contributions to benevolent objects, $1000; incidentals, $800; total, $15,150.

     The church celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary on Dec. 10, 1878, the Rev. D. L. Eaton, of Ovid, Mich., preaching the sermon, and Mr. J. M. Holden, of Green Oak, reading the church history.

THE FIRST WESLEYAN
METHODIST CHURCH.¥

     This church is situated on the "west side," corner of Washington and Fourth Streets, and has the following history: There were a few members of the Pleasant Valley Wesleyan Church residing in and near the village of Brighton, and others in sympathy with their principles, who desired the labors of the Pleasant Valley pastor, Rev. J. H. Canfield, in the ministration of the Word, where it could be more conveniently enjoyed. To accomplish this he was invited to establish an appointment at the village, and the old Appleton Hall was secured, and supplied with temporary seats, a drygoods box being used for a pulpit; and under these circumstances the first Wesleyan Methodist services were held in the village of Brighton. 

     209. In this hall, on April 5, 1874, the First Wesleyan Methodist Society was organized, with a membership of 7 persons, and 2 received on probation. Notwithstanding the disadvantages connected with their place of worship, they were happy in being able to worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences.

     On one or two occasions they came to the place of meeting and found the seats removed from the room, and they were compelled to bring in boards wagon-seats, etc., to furnish seats for the congregation. During the week the seats were restored to their proper place in the hall, ready for the next service.

     After using the "dry-goods box" pulpit a short time, a young mechanic volunteered to make a pulpit, which, when it was finished, looked very much like a grocery-store counter; but it answered the purpose, and was thankfully received by the society. One of the members then furnished an old-fashioned sofa, which was covered with common calico, and with this fitting out for the pastor and congregation, they started on the road to prosperity. They were soon apprised, however, of the fact that they were meeting with opposition on every hand. The members had all belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church in the village, and had severed their connection therewith on account of its association with secret societies; and because of their unpopularity in, this respect they suffered much annoyance.

     They continued their meetings in the hall, with encouraging prospects, until the man who had control of it began buying wool and storing it away in the back end of the room. The odor from the wool was so offensive that they were compelled to abandon the hall, and were left without a place to hold their services. A short time after this the Presbyterian Society kindly offered them the use of their church, and they continued their appointments there until their own house of worship was completed. The society enjoyed prosperity, and on the 1st day of November had increased its membership to 27.

     June 30, 1874, a legal organization was effected, and in a short time steps were taken for building a house of worship. To encourage the building, Mr. E. G. McPherson, of Howell, donated two lots on the corner of Washington and Fourth Streets, and subscribed $100 towards building the church. Other friends of the cause came nobly forward with a helping hand, and notwithstanding unforeseen embarrassments, which were very discouraging, the house was completed.

     The contract for the building was given to Enos H. Buck by the Board of Trustees, consisting of Alanson P. Dickenson, Ambrose M. Sweet, and Charles Barnhart, Sept. 3, 1874, and work on the building began immediately. The church is 50 by 32 feet, and the posts are 20 feet high. The belfry and tower extend about 40 feet above the roof of the building, and have a device at the top consisting of a hand with the forefinger pointing upward.

     The cost of the building was $1475, exclusive of the wall, which was built by the society and not included in the contract. The building was dedicated Jan. 30, 1875, Rev. L, N. Stratton, of Syracuse, N.Y., editor of the American Wesleyan, officiating.

     Brighton Church was made one of the appointments on Kensington and Brighton charge, and in view of the number of appointments on the charge, services were held here only on alternate Sabbath mornings. Notwithstanding this disadvantage the society witnessed a goodly degree of prosperity.

     In the fall of 1875 Rev, D. A. Richards became their pastor, and, like his predecessors, labored hard to build up the cause and the societies under his care. He moved his family to Brighton and secured a residence near the church; the attachment between pastor and people became very strong. Revival meetings were held at the church the following winter, which resulted in much good, and some accessions to the church; congregations increased, and though the society were meeting with persistent opposition, the sun of prosperity shone more brightly on them than ever before. A good organ of the "Sterling'' manufacture, was purchased, and a suitable choir selected; these made no small addition to the interest of the society in connection with their public services.

     In the fall of 1875 the Michigan Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist connection was held at Brighton, and notwithstanding the fact that the attendance was unusually large, all were well cared for by the people of Brighton and vicinity. The devotional exercises of the Conference were very interesting and profitable, and the society was permanently benefited by them. The number of ministers and delegates in attendance, and the earnestness manifested in the work of salvation, were among the noticeable features connected with the Conference, and had a tendency to decrease the prejudice that had previously existed against the society.

     In the fall of 1877 a change. of ministers again took place, and Rev. E. W. Bruce (the present incumbent) became pastor of the charge. He also moved his family to Brighton and dwells among his people. At a quarterly meeting held during the spring of 1878, the Quarterly Conference voted to so arrange the appointments as to give the 210. church at Brighton an appointment every Sabbath morning, and the result of the change was very soon perceived in the increased congregation and interest that followed. At the regular yearly reorganization of the Sabbath-school the pastor was chosen superintendent, and was re-elected to the same position the present year (1879). The Sabbath-school has been, and still is, in a prosperous condition, and assists very materially in sustaining the interests of the church.

     During the past year the church edifice has been somewhat beautified and improved by putting new carpet on the floor, and hanging beautiful mottoes upon its walls. A goodly number of persons have been added to the membership of the church, and in the fall of 1878 the work was enlarged so as to require the services of two preachers. Rev. M. Cuthbert was called to a part of the field. There has been a regular interchanging of appointments between the two pastors during the past year (1879), which has been both agreeable and profitable.

     From the commencement to the present date this society has had many difficulties, ordinary and extraordinary, to contend with, but it is believed that for it there is a prosperous s future, on the conditions of purity and fidelity.

BAPTIST CHURCH

     The Baptist Society of the village of Brighton is a comparatively recent organization, the denomination, though represented in the persons of several prominent citizens, never having taken measures to effect a permanent foothold in the community. The society was at a later date reorganized by a council and admitted to the Wayne Association on that occasion, its constituted members being G. W. Jenks, Lewis Scott, Lyman Banks, Charles C. Jenks, Abagail Thomas, Louis Jenks, Amanda Fuller, Sarah E. Burgess, Sarah H. Cook, Susannah Banks, Kate Trune, Helen Anthony, and Clarissa G. Scott.

     Rev. G. F. Ellis has preached to them since the organization of the church, the service being held on Sabbath afternoon in the Methodist Episcopal church, which is secured for the purpose. The present membership is 25. The society are preparing to erect a house of worship on lots purchased for the purpose. Mrs. G. S. Burgess is church clerk.

THE SCHOOLS OF BRIGHTON

     The first school-house in the village of Brighton was erected in the summer of 1837, upon ground now occupied by the dwelling of Patrick Donley, on Grand River Street. In some mysterious way, unknown to the present generation, though, seemingly, not at all to the surprise of the past, this school-house was built before the organization of the district, that not having taken place until the year 1838. Strange as it may seem, however, the truth of this statement is established beyond a doubt by the records, in which it is seen the inspectors call a meeting of the voters of the district on the 30th of April, 1838, only ten days after the time of organization, this meeting to be held in the school-house.

     It is also noticeable in the records that the name of Wm. Noble as director is found appended to several reports preceding the one in which he is recorded as elected to that office. It is but another instance of the peculiar faculty the pioneers of knowledge in Brighton seemed to have had of reversing the natural order of things,---in fact, of putting the cart before the horse.

     However, these seeming inconsistencies are in a manner explained by the fact that the oldest inhabitants have a vague remembrance of a district organization, with Maynard Maltby as director, which existed at the time of the building of the first school-house. But if there ever existed such a body, it seems to have disdained all records or written reports of its meetings.

       This school-house was used by the district until the year 1847, when, becoming dissatisfied with it for various reasons, it was sold. The building was moved by Orlando A. Fuller to the South side of Fitch Street, west of Grand River Street, on a lot now owned by John Becker and occupied by Manfred L. Derby. It was used for a blacksmithshop until the year 1878, when it was moved to the rear of the lot and since used as a barn.

     For the ensuing three years the district owned no school-house, but rented houses for school purposes. A house called "The Old Largee House," situated in a field on a line with the eastern continuance of Fitch Street, was rented by Daniel C. Marsh, director, for a temporary school-room. This is the only house recorded as rented in the three years intervening between the sale of the old school-house and the building of a new one, though it is hardly supposable that it was the only one rented during that period.

     Finally the district became weary of shifting the school "from pillar to post," and determined to possess a building of its own, in which the village lads and lasses might have ample opportunity for the expansion of their minds.

     At a district school-meeting, held Nov. 20, 1847, the first move was made towards the building of a new school-house. But nothing seems to have been accomplished until 1849, when, at the