h/o Beulah Chittenden
St. Johnsbury Caledonian. volume, January 14, 1898, Image 1
DEATH OF COL. FREDERICK
FLETCHER.
One of the Best Known Business Men In the
State. Passes Away at the Advanced Age of
93.
Sketch of His Life.
At three o'clock Wednesday afternoon occurred the death of Col. Frederick Fletcher,
one of St. Johnsbury's best known and, with one exception, its oldest citizen.
The end came quickly and peacefully, and at a time when hardly expected. It was
known that the end was near, but it was thought that there would yet be a few more
days. A week ago Monday Col. Fletcher was out and enjoyed a long ride. Wednesday
night he was taken with some stomach trouble and has since gradually grown weaker.
He retained his mental faculties until the very last. Tuesday a gentleman from
Greensboro was with him and they talked over some business matters for several
minutes. Wednesday morning his son, Col. T.C.Fletcher, spent some time with him,
talking over various business matters.It was wonderful the way this remarkable
man retained his mental faculties, keen and alert until the very last, and his physical
faculties almost as long. When he celebrated his 87th birthday it was said of him that
he "bore the burden of his more than fourscore years lightly, and of physical infirmities
he has hardly a trace, aside from a slight failure of eyesight, which has only recently obliged
him to wear glasses. All his physical faculties are as acute those of a man in the prime of lite.
His hearing is unimpaired, his step is firm and vigorous and, walking or driving, his tall,
erect figure impresses a stranger as belonging to an alert business. man of 50 or 60 years."
This was said of him on the day he was 87 years old, and the same could almost be said
of him a year or so ago. Of course the six years added to the 87 had made his step a little
less firm and vigorous, his figure a little less erect, but his mental faculties were not changed,
they were strong and acute to the very last.
Col. Frederick Fletcher was born in Woodstock Nov. 21, 1804, the youngest of 12 children of
James and Catherine Fletcher. The family was a notable one, both for the longevity of its
members and for the prominence they took in the affairs of the time and for the success
they invariably achieved in what ever they undertook. The father was born in Chesterfield, N. H.,
in February. 1757, the combined lives of father and son thus covering a span of 140 years.
The mother was born May 15. 1762. The 12 children were born as follows: Polly, Feb. 6. 1780;
Russell, Dec. 17. 1781; Sally, Sept. 7, 1784; Benjamin, Jan. 25, 1787; James, March 31, 1789;
Seth. Aug. 12 1791; Perry and Paris, (twins) March 21 1794; Joseph, March 20, 1797; Catherine,
Oct. 28, 1709; Thaddeus R. Nov. 12, 1801; Frederick, Nov. 21, 1804. The children all lived to
be very old, with the exception of Perry, who died in early life. James died at the age of 92
and Paris at 86.
The family being large the older children would leave home when they became old enough
to seek their fortunes in other places. They were made of the right material to work and
succeed and succeed they did. Paris Fletcher, at an early age, went to Bridport, Addison
county, opened a saddler's shop and then a country store, prospered, and when he died
was the richest man in that county. Frederick and Thaddeus followed Paris and there they
laid the foundation of their fortunes. After working for Paris a year or two and saving a
small sum of money, they were ready for a start alone with something that promised
bigger money. They decided to establish themselves in the mercantile business in Jericho
and their brother Paris guaranteeing their bills for a small amount with a New York wholesale
house they started out under favorable circumstances. With their business ability and industry
it was not long before they were transacting a large mercantile business. Their business
gradually but surely and safely expanded. They commenced to establish stores in different
towns in the county. In a few years they had seven stores in as many towns and were doing
an immense business. To successfully carry on such an enterprise as theirs required extraordinary
business ability, close application and hard work. These two men possessed the qualities
necessary for such an enterprise and were soon rapidly accumulating money. They naturally
took an interest in the public affairs of their town. Thaddeus became interested in politics and was
elected a senator for one term, performing the duties of the office to the satisfaction of his
constituents. Frederick took an interest in the militia and concerning this mention will be made
later in this article. He also established a poor farm which seven towns had access to and which
proved a great success in the care of the poor.
In 1842, when Thaddeus was 42 and Frederick 38, the brothers decided to close out their business
and retire to Burlington. Their mercantile business in Jericho had been unusually successful and
each had accumulated a snug fortune. Thaddeus later became very rich and his large fortune
finally went to the establishment of the Fletcher free library and the Mary Fletcher hospital in
Burlington.
Col. Frederick Fletcher's reputation as a man of great business ability at once brought him to
the front in Burlington business circles. When the Farmers and Mechanics' bank was organized
in 1834 he was made a director. On becoming a resident of Burlington he was elected president
of the bank, holding the office for many years and guiding the affairs of the bank with great ability.
It is needless to say that under his administration the bank was a success. Some differences finally
arising among the stockholders of the bank the institution was merged into the present Merchants
bank of Burlington. Some of the stockholders of the bank were violent democrats and thinking
that no bank would be able to prosper after the election of Abraham Lincoln they made trouble
that resulted in the above change.
Frederick Fletcher, always familiarly known as Col. Fletcher, derived this title from his connection
with the militia,which he entered in 1826 as captain. He passed through the subordinate grades
up to a colonel of the 8th regiment. He was a prominent figure in the state militia until 1850,
when he retired. He was the first man in Vermont to add the now familiar brass band to a regiment
on occasion of parades, muster and other public occasions. When he was commissioned colonel
in 1838 the militia had just been reorganized and consisted of three divisions, nine brigades and 27 regiments. Silas H. Jennison was governor and commander-in-chief, Gen. Stephen Dole of
Danville was commander of the second division and Gen. E. B. Chase of Lyndon, of the third division,
while James Morse of Waterford and James Gilkerson of Ryegate, both colonels, commanded the
Caledonia county regiments. Col. Fletcher was in all probability the last of the 12 generals and 27
colonels who commanded the militia of those days.
Col. Fletcher became a resident of St Johnsbury about 36 years ago. His son, Col. Truman C. Fletcher,
had already established himself in business here. He has since been one of St. Johnsbury's most
prominent citizens, evidently preferring the climate of this section of the state to that about Lake
Champlain. He was accustomed for many years to spend a part of each summer on his large farm in Shelburne, adjoining the magnificent estate of Dr. Seward Webb. On this farm is a stately stone
mansion. The property was once owned by Congressman Meech, a great man in early Vermont days.
During his early residence in St. Johnsbury, Col. Fletcher was mainly instrumental in the organization
of the Merchants National bank. He was its first president and its director for a number of years.
Col. Fletcher was first married in 1831 to Maria Chittenden, who died in 1834. On Jan. 14. 1836,
he married Beuluh Chittenden, a sister of his first wife. These two ladies were daughters of the
Hon. Truman Chittenden and granddaughters of the Hon. Thomas Chittenden. The Chittenden
family is perhaps the most distinguished and illustrious family in the state. The founder of this
family, Mrs. Frederick Fletcher's grandfather, was the first governor of our commonwealth and a
great factor in its establishment. Truman Chittenden was a noted citizen of the state for many
years and the present head of the family is the honorable Lucius E. Chittenden of New York. It is a
family famous for its ability and patriotism for many years.
Mrs. Fletcher died March 16, 1863, at the advanced age of 81 years. Of three children one son
survives the father and mother, Col. Truman C.Fletcher of St.Johnsbury.
During his residence in St. Johnsbury the management of his real estate and financial interests has commanded his attention and up to the very last he gave these affairs the same careful attention
that he did years ago.
In politics he was first a whig, casting his first presidential vote in 1828 for John Quincy Adams.
He has voted at every presidential election, joining the republican party in 1856. He
represented the town of Underhill in the legisature in 1843, '44 and '45 and was representative from Shelburne in 1861 and'62. He has held many town offices of trust.
Col. Fletcher's capital, when he left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune, was a homespun suit
of clothes and 25 cents. The 25 cents went for food on the first day away from home. But he was
not long without money, his industry and hard work finally brought it to him in a sufficient
abundance. He was a gentleman of the old school, tall and erect, with smooth face and courtly
manners and was for many years one of the most familiar figures on our streets. He was a lover
of good horse flesh and not long ago was frequently seen driving the family carriage and pair
as deftly as the young man of 25. A worthy and influential member of the Episcopal church he did
much for that society in this town. He could read, write or sign bis name up to within a short time
ago as easy as ever be could, so he used to say. His longevity he attributed to his habits of industry,
his frugality and temperance in all things.
A familiar figure on our streets for so many years Col. Fletcher will be much missed. He was a
delightful man to visit with, a fine conversationalist with a fund of interesting anecdotes and
reminiscences never exhausted.
The funeral will be held from his late residence this afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by the
Masonic lodge. It is expected that a delegation will be present from the Washington lodge of
Burlington, of which Col. Fletcher was one of the oldest, if not the oldest, living member. It was
a request of his, made two years ago, that the funeral should be thus conducted
St. Johnsbury Caledonian. volume, January 14, 1898, Image 1
DEATH OF COL. FREDERICK
FLETCHER.
One of the Best Known Business Men In the
State. Passes Away at the Advanced Age of
93.
Sketch of His Life.
At three o'clock Wednesday afternoon occurred the death of Col. Frederick Fletcher,
one of St. Johnsbury's best known and, with one exception, its oldest citizen.
The end came quickly and peacefully, and at a time when hardly expected. It was
known that the end was near, but it was thought that there would yet be a few more
days. A week ago Monday Col. Fletcher was out and enjoyed a long ride. Wednesday
night he was taken with some stomach trouble and has since gradually grown weaker.
He retained his mental faculties until the very last. Tuesday a gentleman from
Greensboro was with him and they talked over some business matters for several
minutes. Wednesday morning his son, Col. T.C.Fletcher, spent some time with him,
talking over various business matters.It was wonderful the way this remarkable
man retained his mental faculties, keen and alert until the very last, and his physical
faculties almost as long. When he celebrated his 87th birthday it was said of him that
he "bore the burden of his more than fourscore years lightly, and of physical infirmities
he has hardly a trace, aside from a slight failure of eyesight, which has only recently obliged
him to wear glasses. All his physical faculties are as acute those of a man in the prime of lite.
His hearing is unimpaired, his step is firm and vigorous and, walking or driving, his tall,
erect figure impresses a stranger as belonging to an alert business. man of 50 or 60 years."
This was said of him on the day he was 87 years old, and the same could almost be said
of him a year or so ago. Of course the six years added to the 87 had made his step a little
less firm and vigorous, his figure a little less erect, but his mental faculties were not changed,
they were strong and acute to the very last.
Col. Frederick Fletcher was born in Woodstock Nov. 21, 1804, the youngest of 12 children of
James and Catherine Fletcher. The family was a notable one, both for the longevity of its
members and for the prominence they took in the affairs of the time and for the success
they invariably achieved in what ever they undertook. The father was born in Chesterfield, N. H.,
in February. 1757, the combined lives of father and son thus covering a span of 140 years.
The mother was born May 15. 1762. The 12 children were born as follows: Polly, Feb. 6. 1780;
Russell, Dec. 17. 1781; Sally, Sept. 7, 1784; Benjamin, Jan. 25, 1787; James, March 31, 1789;
Seth. Aug. 12 1791; Perry and Paris, (twins) March 21 1794; Joseph, March 20, 1797; Catherine,
Oct. 28, 1709; Thaddeus R. Nov. 12, 1801; Frederick, Nov. 21, 1804. The children all lived to
be very old, with the exception of Perry, who died in early life. James died at the age of 92
and Paris at 86.
The family being large the older children would leave home when they became old enough
to seek their fortunes in other places. They were made of the right material to work and
succeed and succeed they did. Paris Fletcher, at an early age, went to Bridport, Addison
county, opened a saddler's shop and then a country store, prospered, and when he died
was the richest man in that county. Frederick and Thaddeus followed Paris and there they
laid the foundation of their fortunes. After working for Paris a year or two and saving a
small sum of money, they were ready for a start alone with something that promised
bigger money. They decided to establish themselves in the mercantile business in Jericho
and their brother Paris guaranteeing their bills for a small amount with a New York wholesale
house they started out under favorable circumstances. With their business ability and industry
it was not long before they were transacting a large mercantile business. Their business
gradually but surely and safely expanded. They commenced to establish stores in different
towns in the county. In a few years they had seven stores in as many towns and were doing
an immense business. To successfully carry on such an enterprise as theirs required extraordinary
business ability, close application and hard work. These two men possessed the qualities
necessary for such an enterprise and were soon rapidly accumulating money. They naturally
took an interest in the public affairs of their town. Thaddeus became interested in politics and was
elected a senator for one term, performing the duties of the office to the satisfaction of his
constituents. Frederick took an interest in the militia and concerning this mention will be made
later in this article. He also established a poor farm which seven towns had access to and which
proved a great success in the care of the poor.
In 1842, when Thaddeus was 42 and Frederick 38, the brothers decided to close out their business
and retire to Burlington. Their mercantile business in Jericho had been unusually successful and
each had accumulated a snug fortune. Thaddeus later became very rich and his large fortune
finally went to the establishment of the Fletcher free library and the Mary Fletcher hospital in
Burlington.
Col. Frederick Fletcher's reputation as a man of great business ability at once brought him to
the front in Burlington business circles. When the Farmers and Mechanics' bank was organized
in 1834 he was made a director. On becoming a resident of Burlington he was elected president
of the bank, holding the office for many years and guiding the affairs of the bank with great ability.
It is needless to say that under his administration the bank was a success. Some differences finally
arising among the stockholders of the bank the institution was merged into the present Merchants
bank of Burlington. Some of the stockholders of the bank were violent democrats and thinking
that no bank would be able to prosper after the election of Abraham Lincoln they made trouble
that resulted in the above change.
Frederick Fletcher, always familiarly known as Col. Fletcher, derived this title from his connection
with the militia,which he entered in 1826 as captain. He passed through the subordinate grades
up to a colonel of the 8th regiment. He was a prominent figure in the state militia until 1850,
when he retired. He was the first man in Vermont to add the now familiar brass band to a regiment
on occasion of parades, muster and other public occasions. When he was commissioned colonel
in 1838 the militia had just been reorganized and consisted of three divisions, nine brigades and 27 regiments. Silas H. Jennison was governor and commander-in-chief, Gen. Stephen Dole of
Danville was commander of the second division and Gen. E. B. Chase of Lyndon, of the third division,
while James Morse of Waterford and James Gilkerson of Ryegate, both colonels, commanded the
Caledonia county regiments. Col. Fletcher was in all probability the last of the 12 generals and 27
colonels who commanded the militia of those days.
Col. Fletcher became a resident of St Johnsbury about 36 years ago. His son, Col. Truman C. Fletcher,
had already established himself in business here. He has since been one of St. Johnsbury's most
prominent citizens, evidently preferring the climate of this section of the state to that about Lake
Champlain. He was accustomed for many years to spend a part of each summer on his large farm in Shelburne, adjoining the magnificent estate of Dr. Seward Webb. On this farm is a stately stone
mansion. The property was once owned by Congressman Meech, a great man in early Vermont days.
During his early residence in St. Johnsbury, Col. Fletcher was mainly instrumental in the organization
of the Merchants National bank. He was its first president and its director for a number of years.
Col. Fletcher was first married in 1831 to Maria Chittenden, who died in 1834. On Jan. 14. 1836,
he married Beuluh Chittenden, a sister of his first wife. These two ladies were daughters of the
Hon. Truman Chittenden and granddaughters of the Hon. Thomas Chittenden. The Chittenden
family is perhaps the most distinguished and illustrious family in the state. The founder of this
family, Mrs. Frederick Fletcher's grandfather, was the first governor of our commonwealth and a
great factor in its establishment. Truman Chittenden was a noted citizen of the state for many
years and the present head of the family is the honorable Lucius E. Chittenden of New York. It is a
family famous for its ability and patriotism for many years.
Mrs. Fletcher died March 16, 1863, at the advanced age of 81 years. Of three children one son
survives the father and mother, Col. Truman C.Fletcher of St.Johnsbury.
During his residence in St. Johnsbury the management of his real estate and financial interests has commanded his attention and up to the very last he gave these affairs the same careful attention
that he did years ago.
In politics he was first a whig, casting his first presidential vote in 1828 for John Quincy Adams.
He has voted at every presidential election, joining the republican party in 1856. He
represented the town of Underhill in the legisature in 1843, '44 and '45 and was representative from Shelburne in 1861 and'62. He has held many town offices of trust.
Col. Fletcher's capital, when he left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune, was a homespun suit
of clothes and 25 cents. The 25 cents went for food on the first day away from home. But he was
not long without money, his industry and hard work finally brought it to him in a sufficient
abundance. He was a gentleman of the old school, tall and erect, with smooth face and courtly
manners and was for many years one of the most familiar figures on our streets. He was a lover
of good horse flesh and not long ago was frequently seen driving the family carriage and pair
as deftly as the young man of 25. A worthy and influential member of the Episcopal church he did
much for that society in this town. He could read, write or sign bis name up to within a short time
ago as easy as ever be could, so he used to say. His longevity he attributed to his habits of industry,
his frugality and temperance in all things.
A familiar figure on our streets for so many years Col. Fletcher will be much missed. He was a
delightful man to visit with, a fine conversationalist with a fund of interesting anecdotes and
reminiscences never exhausted.
The funeral will be held from his late residence this afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by the
Masonic lodge. It is expected that a delegation will be present from the Washington lodge of
Burlington, of which Col. Fletcher was one of the oldest, if not the oldest, living member. It was
a request of his, made two years ago, that the funeral should be thus conducted
h/o Beulah Chittenden
St. Johnsbury Caledonian. volume, January 14, 1898, Image 1
DEATH OF COL. FREDERICK
FLETCHER.
One of the Best Known Business Men In the
State. Passes Away at the Advanced Age of
93.
Sketch of His Life.
At three o'clock Wednesday afternoon occurred the death of Col. Frederick Fletcher,
one of St. Johnsbury's best known and, with one exception, its oldest citizen.
The end came quickly and peacefully, and at a time when hardly expected. It was
known that the end was near, but it was thought that there would yet be a few more
days. A week ago Monday Col. Fletcher was out and enjoyed a long ride. Wednesday
night he was taken with some stomach trouble and has since gradually grown weaker.
He retained his mental faculties until the very last. Tuesday a gentleman from
Greensboro was with him and they talked over some business matters for several
minutes. Wednesday morning his son, Col. T.C.Fletcher, spent some time with him,
talking over various business matters.It was wonderful the way this remarkable
man retained his mental faculties, keen and alert until the very last, and his physical
faculties almost as long. When he celebrated his 87th birthday it was said of him that
he "bore the burden of his more than fourscore years lightly, and of physical infirmities
he has hardly a trace, aside from a slight failure of eyesight, which has only recently obliged
him to wear glasses. All his physical faculties are as acute those of a man in the prime of lite.
His hearing is unimpaired, his step is firm and vigorous and, walking or driving, his tall,
erect figure impresses a stranger as belonging to an alert business. man of 50 or 60 years."
This was said of him on the day he was 87 years old, and the same could almost be said
of him a year or so ago. Of course the six years added to the 87 had made his step a little
less firm and vigorous, his figure a little less erect, but his mental faculties were not changed,
they were strong and acute to the very last.
Col. Frederick Fletcher was born in Woodstock Nov. 21, 1804, the youngest of 12 children of
James and Catherine Fletcher. The family was a notable one, both for the longevity of its
members and for the prominence they took in the affairs of the time and for the success
they invariably achieved in what ever they undertook. The father was born in Chesterfield, N. H.,
in February. 1757, the combined lives of father and son thus covering a span of 140 years.
The mother was born May 15. 1762. The 12 children were born as follows: Polly, Feb. 6. 1780;
Russell, Dec. 17. 1781; Sally, Sept. 7, 1784; Benjamin, Jan. 25, 1787; James, March 31, 1789;
Seth. Aug. 12 1791; Perry and Paris, (twins) March 21 1794; Joseph, March 20, 1797; Catherine,
Oct. 28, 1709; Thaddeus R. Nov. 12, 1801; Frederick, Nov. 21, 1804. The children all lived to
be very old, with the exception of Perry, who died in early life. James died at the age of 92
and Paris at 86.
The family being large the older children would leave home when they became old enough
to seek their fortunes in other places. They were made of the right material to work and
succeed and succeed they did. Paris Fletcher, at an early age, went to Bridport, Addison
county, opened a saddler's shop and then a country store, prospered, and when he died
was the richest man in that county. Frederick and Thaddeus followed Paris and there they
laid the foundation of their fortunes. After working for Paris a year or two and saving a
small sum of money, they were ready for a start alone with something that promised
bigger money. They decided to establish themselves in the mercantile business in Jericho
and their brother Paris guaranteeing their bills for a small amount with a New York wholesale
house they started out under favorable circumstances. With their business ability and industry
it was not long before they were transacting a large mercantile business. Their business
gradually but surely and safely expanded. They commenced to establish stores in different
towns in the county. In a few years they had seven stores in as many towns and were doing
an immense business. To successfully carry on such an enterprise as theirs required extraordinary
business ability, close application and hard work. These two men possessed the qualities
necessary for such an enterprise and were soon rapidly accumulating money. They naturally
took an interest in the public affairs of their town. Thaddeus became interested in politics and was
elected a senator for one term, performing the duties of the office to the satisfaction of his
constituents. Frederick took an interest in the militia and concerning this mention will be made
later in this article. He also established a poor farm which seven towns had access to and which
proved a great success in the care of the poor.
In 1842, when Thaddeus was 42 and Frederick 38, the brothers decided to close out their business
and retire to Burlington. Their mercantile business in Jericho had been unusually successful and
each had accumulated a snug fortune. Thaddeus later became very rich and his large fortune
finally went to the establishment of the Fletcher free library and the Mary Fletcher hospital in
Burlington.
Col. Frederick Fletcher's reputation as a man of great business ability at once brought him to
the front in Burlington business circles. When the Farmers and Mechanics' bank was organized
in 1834 he was made a director. On becoming a resident of Burlington he was elected president
of the bank, holding the office for many years and guiding the affairs of the bank with great ability.
It is needless to say that under his administration the bank was a success. Some differences finally
arising among the stockholders of the bank the institution was merged into the present Merchants
bank of Burlington. Some of the stockholders of the bank were violent democrats and thinking
that no bank would be able to prosper after the election of Abraham Lincoln they made trouble
that resulted in the above change.
Frederick Fletcher, always familiarly known as Col. Fletcher, derived this title from his connection
with the militia,which he entered in 1826 as captain. He passed through the subordinate grades
up to a colonel of the 8th regiment. He was a prominent figure in the state militia until 1850,
when he retired. He was the first man in Vermont to add the now familiar brass band to a regiment
on occasion of parades, muster and other public occasions. When he was commissioned colonel
in 1838 the militia had just been reorganized and consisted of three divisions, nine brigades and 27 regiments. Silas H. Jennison was governor and commander-in-chief, Gen. Stephen Dole of
Danville was commander of the second division and Gen. E. B. Chase of Lyndon, of the third division,
while James Morse of Waterford and James Gilkerson of Ryegate, both colonels, commanded the
Caledonia county regiments. Col. Fletcher was in all probability the last of the 12 generals and 27
colonels who commanded the militia of those days.
Col. Fletcher became a resident of St Johnsbury about 36 years ago. His son, Col. Truman C. Fletcher,
had already established himself in business here. He has since been one of St. Johnsbury's most
prominent citizens, evidently preferring the climate of this section of the state to that about Lake
Champlain. He was accustomed for many years to spend a part of each summer on his large farm in Shelburne, adjoining the magnificent estate of Dr. Seward Webb. On this farm is a stately stone
mansion. The property was once owned by Congressman Meech, a great man in early Vermont days.
During his early residence in St. Johnsbury, Col. Fletcher was mainly instrumental in the organization
of the Merchants National bank. He was its first president and its director for a number of years.
Col. Fletcher was first married in 1831 to Maria Chittenden, who died in 1834. On Jan. 14. 1836,
he married Beuluh Chittenden, a sister of his first wife. These two ladies were daughters of the
Hon. Truman Chittenden and granddaughters of the Hon. Thomas Chittenden. The Chittenden
family is perhaps the most distinguished and illustrious family in the state. The founder of this
family, Mrs. Frederick Fletcher's grandfather, was the first governor of our commonwealth and a
great factor in its establishment. Truman Chittenden was a noted citizen of the state for many
years and the present head of the family is the honorable Lucius E. Chittenden of New York. It is a
family famous for its ability and patriotism for many years.
Mrs. Fletcher died March 16, 1863, at the advanced age of 81 years. Of three children one son
survives the father and mother, Col. Truman C.Fletcher of St.Johnsbury.
During his residence in St. Johnsbury the management of his real estate and financial interests has commanded his attention and up to the very last he gave these affairs the same careful attention
that he did years ago.
In politics he was first a whig, casting his first presidential vote in 1828 for John Quincy Adams.
He has voted at every presidential election, joining the republican party in 1856. He
represented the town of Underhill in the legisature in 1843, '44 and '45 and was representative from Shelburne in 1861 and'62. He has held many town offices of trust.
Col. Fletcher's capital, when he left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune, was a homespun suit
of clothes and 25 cents. The 25 cents went for food on the first day away from home. But he was
not long without money, his industry and hard work finally brought it to him in a sufficient
abundance. He was a gentleman of the old school, tall and erect, with smooth face and courtly
manners and was for many years one of the most familiar figures on our streets. He was a lover
of good horse flesh and not long ago was frequently seen driving the family carriage and pair
as deftly as the young man of 25. A worthy and influential member of the Episcopal church he did
much for that society in this town. He could read, write or sign bis name up to within a short time
ago as easy as ever be could, so he used to say. His longevity he attributed to his habits of industry,
his frugality and temperance in all things.
A familiar figure on our streets for so many years Col. Fletcher will be much missed. He was a
delightful man to visit with, a fine conversationalist with a fund of interesting anecdotes and
reminiscences never exhausted.
The funeral will be held from his late residence this afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by the
Masonic lodge. It is expected that a delegation will be present from the Washington lodge of
Burlington, of which Col. Fletcher was one of the oldest, if not the oldest, living member. It was
a request of his, made two years ago, that the funeral should be thus conducted
St. Johnsbury Caledonian. volume, January 14, 1898, Image 1
DEATH OF COL. FREDERICK
FLETCHER.
One of the Best Known Business Men In the
State. Passes Away at the Advanced Age of
93.
Sketch of His Life.
At three o'clock Wednesday afternoon occurred the death of Col. Frederick Fletcher,
one of St. Johnsbury's best known and, with one exception, its oldest citizen.
The end came quickly and peacefully, and at a time when hardly expected. It was
known that the end was near, but it was thought that there would yet be a few more
days. A week ago Monday Col. Fletcher was out and enjoyed a long ride. Wednesday
night he was taken with some stomach trouble and has since gradually grown weaker.
He retained his mental faculties until the very last. Tuesday a gentleman from
Greensboro was with him and they talked over some business matters for several
minutes. Wednesday morning his son, Col. T.C.Fletcher, spent some time with him,
talking over various business matters.It was wonderful the way this remarkable
man retained his mental faculties, keen and alert until the very last, and his physical
faculties almost as long. When he celebrated his 87th birthday it was said of him that
he "bore the burden of his more than fourscore years lightly, and of physical infirmities
he has hardly a trace, aside from a slight failure of eyesight, which has only recently obliged
him to wear glasses. All his physical faculties are as acute those of a man in the prime of lite.
His hearing is unimpaired, his step is firm and vigorous and, walking or driving, his tall,
erect figure impresses a stranger as belonging to an alert business. man of 50 or 60 years."
This was said of him on the day he was 87 years old, and the same could almost be said
of him a year or so ago. Of course the six years added to the 87 had made his step a little
less firm and vigorous, his figure a little less erect, but his mental faculties were not changed,
they were strong and acute to the very last.
Col. Frederick Fletcher was born in Woodstock Nov. 21, 1804, the youngest of 12 children of
James and Catherine Fletcher. The family was a notable one, both for the longevity of its
members and for the prominence they took in the affairs of the time and for the success
they invariably achieved in what ever they undertook. The father was born in Chesterfield, N. H.,
in February. 1757, the combined lives of father and son thus covering a span of 140 years.
The mother was born May 15. 1762. The 12 children were born as follows: Polly, Feb. 6. 1780;
Russell, Dec. 17. 1781; Sally, Sept. 7, 1784; Benjamin, Jan. 25, 1787; James, March 31, 1789;
Seth. Aug. 12 1791; Perry and Paris, (twins) March 21 1794; Joseph, March 20, 1797; Catherine,
Oct. 28, 1709; Thaddeus R. Nov. 12, 1801; Frederick, Nov. 21, 1804. The children all lived to
be very old, with the exception of Perry, who died in early life. James died at the age of 92
and Paris at 86.
The family being large the older children would leave home when they became old enough
to seek their fortunes in other places. They were made of the right material to work and
succeed and succeed they did. Paris Fletcher, at an early age, went to Bridport, Addison
county, opened a saddler's shop and then a country store, prospered, and when he died
was the richest man in that county. Frederick and Thaddeus followed Paris and there they
laid the foundation of their fortunes. After working for Paris a year or two and saving a
small sum of money, they were ready for a start alone with something that promised
bigger money. They decided to establish themselves in the mercantile business in Jericho
and their brother Paris guaranteeing their bills for a small amount with a New York wholesale
house they started out under favorable circumstances. With their business ability and industry
it was not long before they were transacting a large mercantile business. Their business
gradually but surely and safely expanded. They commenced to establish stores in different
towns in the county. In a few years they had seven stores in as many towns and were doing
an immense business. To successfully carry on such an enterprise as theirs required extraordinary
business ability, close application and hard work. These two men possessed the qualities
necessary for such an enterprise and were soon rapidly accumulating money. They naturally
took an interest in the public affairs of their town. Thaddeus became interested in politics and was
elected a senator for one term, performing the duties of the office to the satisfaction of his
constituents. Frederick took an interest in the militia and concerning this mention will be made
later in this article. He also established a poor farm which seven towns had access to and which
proved a great success in the care of the poor.
In 1842, when Thaddeus was 42 and Frederick 38, the brothers decided to close out their business
and retire to Burlington. Their mercantile business in Jericho had been unusually successful and
each had accumulated a snug fortune. Thaddeus later became very rich and his large fortune
finally went to the establishment of the Fletcher free library and the Mary Fletcher hospital in
Burlington.
Col. Frederick Fletcher's reputation as a man of great business ability at once brought him to
the front in Burlington business circles. When the Farmers and Mechanics' bank was organized
in 1834 he was made a director. On becoming a resident of Burlington he was elected president
of the bank, holding the office for many years and guiding the affairs of the bank with great ability.
It is needless to say that under his administration the bank was a success. Some differences finally
arising among the stockholders of the bank the institution was merged into the present Merchants
bank of Burlington. Some of the stockholders of the bank were violent democrats and thinking
that no bank would be able to prosper after the election of Abraham Lincoln they made trouble
that resulted in the above change.
Frederick Fletcher, always familiarly known as Col. Fletcher, derived this title from his connection
with the militia,which he entered in 1826 as captain. He passed through the subordinate grades
up to a colonel of the 8th regiment. He was a prominent figure in the state militia until 1850,
when he retired. He was the first man in Vermont to add the now familiar brass band to a regiment
on occasion of parades, muster and other public occasions. When he was commissioned colonel
in 1838 the militia had just been reorganized and consisted of three divisions, nine brigades and 27 regiments. Silas H. Jennison was governor and commander-in-chief, Gen. Stephen Dole of
Danville was commander of the second division and Gen. E. B. Chase of Lyndon, of the third division,
while James Morse of Waterford and James Gilkerson of Ryegate, both colonels, commanded the
Caledonia county regiments. Col. Fletcher was in all probability the last of the 12 generals and 27
colonels who commanded the militia of those days.
Col. Fletcher became a resident of St Johnsbury about 36 years ago. His son, Col. Truman C. Fletcher,
had already established himself in business here. He has since been one of St. Johnsbury's most
prominent citizens, evidently preferring the climate of this section of the state to that about Lake
Champlain. He was accustomed for many years to spend a part of each summer on his large farm in Shelburne, adjoining the magnificent estate of Dr. Seward Webb. On this farm is a stately stone
mansion. The property was once owned by Congressman Meech, a great man in early Vermont days.
During his early residence in St. Johnsbury, Col. Fletcher was mainly instrumental in the organization
of the Merchants National bank. He was its first president and its director for a number of years.
Col. Fletcher was first married in 1831 to Maria Chittenden, who died in 1834. On Jan. 14. 1836,
he married Beuluh Chittenden, a sister of his first wife. These two ladies were daughters of the
Hon. Truman Chittenden and granddaughters of the Hon. Thomas Chittenden. The Chittenden
family is perhaps the most distinguished and illustrious family in the state. The founder of this
family, Mrs. Frederick Fletcher's grandfather, was the first governor of our commonwealth and a
great factor in its establishment. Truman Chittenden was a noted citizen of the state for many
years and the present head of the family is the honorable Lucius E. Chittenden of New York. It is a
family famous for its ability and patriotism for many years.
Mrs. Fletcher died March 16, 1863, at the advanced age of 81 years. Of three children one son
survives the father and mother, Col. Truman C.Fletcher of St.Johnsbury.
During his residence in St. Johnsbury the management of his real estate and financial interests has commanded his attention and up to the very last he gave these affairs the same careful attention
that he did years ago.
In politics he was first a whig, casting his first presidential vote in 1828 for John Quincy Adams.
He has voted at every presidential election, joining the republican party in 1856. He
represented the town of Underhill in the legisature in 1843, '44 and '45 and was representative from Shelburne in 1861 and'62. He has held many town offices of trust.
Col. Fletcher's capital, when he left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune, was a homespun suit
of clothes and 25 cents. The 25 cents went for food on the first day away from home. But he was
not long without money, his industry and hard work finally brought it to him in a sufficient
abundance. He was a gentleman of the old school, tall and erect, with smooth face and courtly
manners and was for many years one of the most familiar figures on our streets. He was a lover
of good horse flesh and not long ago was frequently seen driving the family carriage and pair
as deftly as the young man of 25. A worthy and influential member of the Episcopal church he did
much for that society in this town. He could read, write or sign bis name up to within a short time
ago as easy as ever be could, so he used to say. His longevity he attributed to his habits of industry,
his frugality and temperance in all things.
A familiar figure on our streets for so many years Col. Fletcher will be much missed. He was a
delightful man to visit with, a fine conversationalist with a fund of interesting anecdotes and
reminiscences never exhausted.
The funeral will be held from his late residence this afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by the
Masonic lodge. It is expected that a delegation will be present from the Washington lodge of
Burlington, of which Col. Fletcher was one of the oldest, if not the oldest, living member. It was
a request of his, made two years ago, that the funeral should be thus conducted
Family Members
Siblings
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