The circumstances attending demise of Joseph Barton, Lieutenant Colonel of a New Jersey Volunteer Regiment in the British service during the American Revolution, as described to the Author, were peculiarly distressing. Amidst the convivalities surrounding the bar-room of Reid's Hotel in Digby during a winter evening, the guests were discussing their work and prospects. The social glass had increased their self-confidence and ardour, while removing temporarily the caution so necessary in clearing forests. Lt.-Col. Barton though never having felled a tree, bravely insisted he could do so unaided, as expediously and successfully as the most experienced. Dr. Joseph Marvin expostulated, but Col. Barton eagerly laid a high wager to that effect. Not to be outdone the Doctor complied. On following day, the Colonel coolly chopped a lofty birch on premises adjoining "Birch Place,"--which, alas, levelled him to the ground, mortally wounded! He was buried February 19th, 1788, according to records evidence,"from the fall of a tree." This speaks in thunder tones to the rash and thoughtless!! Isaiah W. Wilson.Geography and History of the County of Digby. Cha.24, p.370. |
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