Mid-Victorian era dress at the Cottage Museum.
Photo courtesy MVCMA.
Monday afternoon the first wedding that ever took place here was duly soleumnized at the stand, between Mr. Adin B. Capron and Miss Irene Ballou, of Woonsocket, R.I. The ceremony was performed by Sirson P. Coffin, Esq., assisted by Rev. J. W. Willet, who had been first applied to, could not legally officiate in chief, not being a resident of Edgartown. The stand was beautifully decorated with flowers and flags. As the knowing ones were gathering at the stand, somebody not connected with the committee of arrangements was good enough to ring the bell, and the people came flocking in by the hundreds. The congregation numbered about 1500, and was requested to be seated, on which most of the people complied, while others proceeded to climb the trees, to get a good look at the bride. The bridal party and invited guests went up into the stand, and after they had taken their positions an invitation was extended to any present who wished to be married to signify it. Some merriment was caused by a lady raising her hand. A ring was used in the ceremony. Dr. Whitney played several appropriate selections on the melodeon. Never before did Wesleyan Grove witness such a scene. The bride wore a handsome travelling suit of steel gray, and at the conclusion of the ceremony the party embarked in the Helen Augusta, on the way to Woonsocket.
 
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Weather is delightful.
 
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About 4000 persons are now on the grounds.
 
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It is estimated that there are about 763 sets of croquet, in constant use here. The wickets are as plenty as torpedoes in front of Richmond.