In July 2001, my friend Merv gave me an old ledger book that belonged to a "Nathaniel P. Hood." He asked me to find out about him. In three days, I provided him the following report:
Nathaniel P. Hood was a bookkeeper clerk who became a general accountant and merchant and lived in the Spring Garden District, later the 13th Ward, of Philadelphia. He was born March 28, 1789 in the part of Philadelphia County now in Montgomery County.
He married Harriet E Heydrick on Wednesday evening November 4, 1814 by the Rev. Dr. Pilmore at Philadelphia. She was also from Montgomery Co. She was born June 11, 1795 to Dr. Christopher Heydrick and Mary Care. The Heydrick family was from Fredrick, Montgomery County. They came to Montgomery County from Lower Salford, Lehigh Co. The immigrants appear to be a Balthazer Heydrick & Rosina Heebner who came to the area before 1737.
The Hood lineage is probably from Ireland. The Heydrick family is of German origin.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The couple had the following children:
Mary b. Feb 23, 1818 m. Thomas Reilly
Charles Rowle Hood (born November 2, 1819, clerk)
Susanna Theresa (Aspden) Born Sept. 24, 1816. Died Dec 23, 1899. Married Oct 23, 1852 James Aspden b. 1820 d. July 12, 1893 (Schwenkfelder book page 873).
Franklin Conly Hood (born January 17, 1827, clerk) Farmer. Civil War soldier. 1870 listed as idiotic "cannot judge for himself." Lived at Riley's Bank, Pa. Interred Laurel Hill Cemetery June 14, 1888. Aged 61.
Samuel Hemlin Hood (1829-1865, bookkeeper, merchant) attended drawing school of the Franklin institute, Died April 6, 1865. Interred Laurel Hill on April 8, 1865. Lot no. 44, Sec. R
Caroline Matilda Hood (born January 3, 1832) In 1870 listed as idiotic in Federal Census. Last residence; 275 Chestnut St. Camden, NJ. Interred Laurel Hill Lot no. 44, Sec. R on Sunday May 16, 1880, aged 35.
Harriet E. Hood (born 1837)
Ada "Addie" Byron Hood (born May 3, 1836) Died Dec. 10, 1917 at Collingsdale, Delaware Co., Pa. Last address: 275 Chestnut St., Collingsdale. Funeral home; Oliver Bair 1820 Chestnut St., Phila. Interred Laurel Hill Lot 44, Sec. R on Dec. 14, 1917. Aged 81. Neice Mrs. Mary E. Paterson. Gender: Female
Rebecca H. born June 12, 1824. married Henry W Wilson (Schwenkfelder book page 869).
Schwenkfelder book page 873
5 children
Ada - Martha - Charles - Harriet - Samuel
THE BANK WAR
The history of the Bank of the United States and the Merchant Exchange forms the backdrop of Nathaniel Hood's life.
Upon Alexander Hamilton's suggestion, Congress commissioned the Bank of the United States. The charter of the First Bank of the United States was drafted in 1791 by the Congress and signed by George Washington. It was the subject of political fighting which became known as the Bank War. In 1811, Congress voted to abandon the bank and its charter. After its privatization it was owned and operated by wealthy financier Stephen Girard. It was located at 3rd St. between Chestnut and Walnut Streets and is the oldest bank in the United States.
On October 16, 1816 Nathaniel Hood submitted a letter of application for a position as bookkeeper or discount clerk at the Bank of the United States in Philadelphia. This was certainly the Second Bank. He explained that he worked for the past six years at the firms of Major (?) Passmore & Freedman, Passmore & Sperry and finally Passmore & Birckhead as cashier, bookkeeper and general accountant. At the time he was living at no. 34 S. Front St. & 192 Vine St. He described himself as "a native of this city aged 29 years." I do not know if he ever obtained the position, but the research strongly suggests that he did. The letter is on file in the Etting Collection (Vol. 21, page 86) at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Much of Nathaniel's life was centered in the Philadelphia banking district.
1816 was the year that the Second Bank of the United States was incorporated with a twenty-year charter. The actual building at 4th & Chestnut Streets was built in 1819 and opened in 1824 with Nicholas Biddle as president. Andrew Jackson, who was elected U.S. president in 1828, began an attack on the East Coast aristocracy in 1830. He especially targeted the bank of the United States. In 1832 Jackson vetoed the renewal of the bank's charter and, following his re-election in 1833, ordered the withdrawal of all federal funds from the bank. The Bank's charter expired in 1836.
In 1831, a new group of nabobs representing the social and business aristocracy organized into a society for building an Exchange. The Merchant Exchange Building (South 3rd at Walnut & Dock Streets) was built from 1832-34. Included in the group of trustees for the new enterprise was Stephen Girard, arguably the wealthiest man in the nation. After the charter for the First Bank of the United States lapsed, Girard bought the building and established a bank named for himself in its quarters. Not surprisingly, then, the site chosen for the new Exchange was within eyesight of Girard's bank.
N. P. Hood appears in city directories as an accountant in the 1820s living at 142 N. 8th St. Interestingly, Hood briefly appears in 1830 living in York boro according to the Federal Census. Even more interesting, in 1833 he is no longer listed as an accountant but as a merchant 21 N. Front St. living at Buttonwood above 9th St. Perhaps he went to York to find a new position when the Bank was in trouble and did not find it satisfactory. He may have returned to Philadelphia and found opportunities with his finance friends in the merchant movement.
The expense book begins in 1837, the same year as a financial Panic. Hood was busily engaged in merchant activities and the renting of properties. This was a source of income for the rest of his life. His will lists the following rental properties: 237 N. 10th St., 324 N. 9th St., 326 N. 9th St. The maintenance expenses of plumbing, carpentry, privy cleaning, painting and taxes are documented in the expense book. 106 N. Juniper, 319 6th St, 139 Franklin St, 139 Filbert St., 182 N, 9th, 9th St. bel. Wood, 10th St. betw. Poplar & Girard, 485, 487, 489 N, 10th St., 568 N 10th, 163 N 10th St., 141 N. 10th St.
From 1835-36 he was again listed as accountant at 292 N. 3rd Street. From 1839 to 1840 he was accountant at 319 N. 6th Street. He doesn't appear in the Philadelphia City directories from approx. 1844 to 1854 but he does appear in the 1850 census. Expense book lists him paying rent for 203 N. 9th St, in 1853. He lived at 182 N. 9th St. from 1855 to 1857 and at 324 N. 9th St. from 1858 until his death.
The expense book lists pews at St. Paul's Church in Chester Co. A weekly subscription to the U.S. Gazette and the Philadelphia Saturday News & Literary Gazette.
The expense book mentions that a daguerreotype was made on Christmas Day 1853. Perhaps a descendant has this family picture. Or maybe it is just an obscure curio in a second-hand store or antique store. The people in the photo are all probably all unknown. Or maybe the photo was destroyed long ago.
About 1855 Hood opened a dry goods store and eventually partnered with his son Samuel Emelin Hood who is listed as a bookkeeper as early as 1850 when he was only 18 years old. The store offered "fancy silk goods." From 1855 to 1857 business was at 68 Market Street. In 1858 it was listed as 222 Market St because of the street renumbering project in the City. From 1860 to 1865 it was at 226 Market Street. His son lived at 315 N. 9th Street.
Nathaniel's favorite son Samuel – known as Emelin – died on April 5, 1865. This probably took a toll on Nathaniel's health, which was probably already poor. Entries in the expense book trail off and end March 1865. His last will was prepared December 5, 1866. He is listed as a "retired dry goods merchant" in the 1870 census.
Nathaniel P. Hood died of old age at his residence on December 28, 1871. Henry T. Child was the attending physician. He left a six-page will that left his estate in trust with the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia. This institution was also the executor of the will. From this trust he left his wife a portion of the estate and a yearly annuity. His children were left $50 each. His daughter Caroline was left his pianoforte, books, papers, portraits and watches. The will also bequeathed Pennsylvania Hospital, the Rosine Association, Magelane and Widows Asylum Association, Wills Hospital for the Relief of the Blind and Lame (southside Race, west of Broad St.).
The gifts to these institutions seem to be based on the mental afflictions of his son Franklin and daughter Caroline. Both are listed as idiotic and Franklin "cannot judge for himself" in the 1870 Federal Census. This may explain the milk and cream expenses mentioned in the expense book. He may have had these delivered to his home as simple pleasures for his mentally handicapped children. Both lived with their parents. The above-mentioned institutions probably treated his impaired children and may have served as their residences after their parent's death.
Nathaniel's passing was not mentioned in any of the newspapers. Not even a short notice. He was buried on Sunday December 31, 1871 at 2 o'clock. His will was probated on January 2, 1872, delayed probably only by the closing of business over the New Year's holiday. His wife died Monday December 8, 1873. Her funeral was from her late residence 1416 N. 18th St.
Both Nathaniel P. Hood and his wife are buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery 3822 Ridge Avenue phone 228-8200. They and some of their children are buried in Lot 44, Section R.
The residences that N. P. Hood lived and rented homes were razed long ago. The area became industrialized during the early part of the 20th century.
The Girard Trust Corn Exchange Bank (apparently the descendant financial institution of both the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia and the Corn Exchange Association) made arrangements with Laurel Hill Cemetery for annual care on Lot #44, Section R from income of Nathaniel P. Hood's trust.
Sources:
U.S. Federal Census
Philadelphia City Archives
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia Public Ledger
Philadelphia Inquirer
Will of N.P. Hood, rm. 185 City Hall (Book No. 73, Pg. 217) Note: no inventory or account book listed.
Mormon International Genealogical Index
Philadelphia City Directories
Expense Book of N. P. Hood, 1837 – 1864
Laurel Hill Cemetery
Nathaniel P. Hood was a bookkeeper clerk who became a general accountant and merchant and lived in the Spring Garden District, later the 13th Ward, of Philadelphia. He was born March 28, 1789 in the part of Philadelphia County now in Montgomery County.
He married Harriet E Heydrick on Wednesday evening November 4, 1814 by the Rev. Dr. Pilmore at Philadelphia. She was also from Montgomery Co. She was born June 11, 1795 to Dr. Christopher Heydrick and Mary Care. The Heydrick family was from Fredrick, Montgomery County. They came to Montgomery County from Lower Salford, Lehigh Co. The immigrants appear to be a Balthazer Heydrick & Rosina Heebner who came to the area before 1737.
The Hood lineage is probably from Ireland. The Heydrick family is of German origin.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The couple had the following children:
Mary b. Feb 23, 1818 m. Thomas Reilly
Charles Rowle Hood (born November 2, 1819, clerk)
Susanna Theresa (Aspden) Born Sept. 24, 1816. Died Dec 23, 1899. Married Oct 23, 1852 James Aspden b. 1820 d. July 12, 1893 (Schwenkfelder book page 873).
Franklin Conly Hood (born January 17, 1827, clerk) Farmer. Civil War soldier. 1870 listed as idiotic "cannot judge for himself." Lived at Riley's Bank, Pa. Interred Laurel Hill Cemetery June 14, 1888. Aged 61.
Samuel Hemlin Hood (1829-1865, bookkeeper, merchant) attended drawing school of the Franklin institute, Died April 6, 1865. Interred Laurel Hill on April 8, 1865. Lot no. 44, Sec. R
Caroline Matilda Hood (born January 3, 1832) In 1870 listed as idiotic in Federal Census. Last residence; 275 Chestnut St. Camden, NJ. Interred Laurel Hill Lot no. 44, Sec. R on Sunday May 16, 1880, aged 35.
Harriet E. Hood (born 1837)
Ada "Addie" Byron Hood (born May 3, 1836) Died Dec. 10, 1917 at Collingsdale, Delaware Co., Pa. Last address: 275 Chestnut St., Collingsdale. Funeral home; Oliver Bair 1820 Chestnut St., Phila. Interred Laurel Hill Lot 44, Sec. R on Dec. 14, 1917. Aged 81. Neice Mrs. Mary E. Paterson. Gender: Female
Rebecca H. born June 12, 1824. married Henry W Wilson (Schwenkfelder book page 869).
Schwenkfelder book page 873
5 children
Ada - Martha - Charles - Harriet - Samuel
THE BANK WAR
The history of the Bank of the United States and the Merchant Exchange forms the backdrop of Nathaniel Hood's life.
Upon Alexander Hamilton's suggestion, Congress commissioned the Bank of the United States. The charter of the First Bank of the United States was drafted in 1791 by the Congress and signed by George Washington. It was the subject of political fighting which became known as the Bank War. In 1811, Congress voted to abandon the bank and its charter. After its privatization it was owned and operated by wealthy financier Stephen Girard. It was located at 3rd St. between Chestnut and Walnut Streets and is the oldest bank in the United States.
On October 16, 1816 Nathaniel Hood submitted a letter of application for a position as bookkeeper or discount clerk at the Bank of the United States in Philadelphia. This was certainly the Second Bank. He explained that he worked for the past six years at the firms of Major (?) Passmore & Freedman, Passmore & Sperry and finally Passmore & Birckhead as cashier, bookkeeper and general accountant. At the time he was living at no. 34 S. Front St. & 192 Vine St. He described himself as "a native of this city aged 29 years." I do not know if he ever obtained the position, but the research strongly suggests that he did. The letter is on file in the Etting Collection (Vol. 21, page 86) at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Much of Nathaniel's life was centered in the Philadelphia banking district.
1816 was the year that the Second Bank of the United States was incorporated with a twenty-year charter. The actual building at 4th & Chestnut Streets was built in 1819 and opened in 1824 with Nicholas Biddle as president. Andrew Jackson, who was elected U.S. president in 1828, began an attack on the East Coast aristocracy in 1830. He especially targeted the bank of the United States. In 1832 Jackson vetoed the renewal of the bank's charter and, following his re-election in 1833, ordered the withdrawal of all federal funds from the bank. The Bank's charter expired in 1836.
In 1831, a new group of nabobs representing the social and business aristocracy organized into a society for building an Exchange. The Merchant Exchange Building (South 3rd at Walnut & Dock Streets) was built from 1832-34. Included in the group of trustees for the new enterprise was Stephen Girard, arguably the wealthiest man in the nation. After the charter for the First Bank of the United States lapsed, Girard bought the building and established a bank named for himself in its quarters. Not surprisingly, then, the site chosen for the new Exchange was within eyesight of Girard's bank.
N. P. Hood appears in city directories as an accountant in the 1820s living at 142 N. 8th St. Interestingly, Hood briefly appears in 1830 living in York boro according to the Federal Census. Even more interesting, in 1833 he is no longer listed as an accountant but as a merchant 21 N. Front St. living at Buttonwood above 9th St. Perhaps he went to York to find a new position when the Bank was in trouble and did not find it satisfactory. He may have returned to Philadelphia and found opportunities with his finance friends in the merchant movement.
The expense book begins in 1837, the same year as a financial Panic. Hood was busily engaged in merchant activities and the renting of properties. This was a source of income for the rest of his life. His will lists the following rental properties: 237 N. 10th St., 324 N. 9th St., 326 N. 9th St. The maintenance expenses of plumbing, carpentry, privy cleaning, painting and taxes are documented in the expense book. 106 N. Juniper, 319 6th St, 139 Franklin St, 139 Filbert St., 182 N, 9th, 9th St. bel. Wood, 10th St. betw. Poplar & Girard, 485, 487, 489 N, 10th St., 568 N 10th, 163 N 10th St., 141 N. 10th St.
From 1835-36 he was again listed as accountant at 292 N. 3rd Street. From 1839 to 1840 he was accountant at 319 N. 6th Street. He doesn't appear in the Philadelphia City directories from approx. 1844 to 1854 but he does appear in the 1850 census. Expense book lists him paying rent for 203 N. 9th St, in 1853. He lived at 182 N. 9th St. from 1855 to 1857 and at 324 N. 9th St. from 1858 until his death.
The expense book lists pews at St. Paul's Church in Chester Co. A weekly subscription to the U.S. Gazette and the Philadelphia Saturday News & Literary Gazette.
The expense book mentions that a daguerreotype was made on Christmas Day 1853. Perhaps a descendant has this family picture. Or maybe it is just an obscure curio in a second-hand store or antique store. The people in the photo are all probably all unknown. Or maybe the photo was destroyed long ago.
About 1855 Hood opened a dry goods store and eventually partnered with his son Samuel Emelin Hood who is listed as a bookkeeper as early as 1850 when he was only 18 years old. The store offered "fancy silk goods." From 1855 to 1857 business was at 68 Market Street. In 1858 it was listed as 222 Market St because of the street renumbering project in the City. From 1860 to 1865 it was at 226 Market Street. His son lived at 315 N. 9th Street.
Nathaniel's favorite son Samuel – known as Emelin – died on April 5, 1865. This probably took a toll on Nathaniel's health, which was probably already poor. Entries in the expense book trail off and end March 1865. His last will was prepared December 5, 1866. He is listed as a "retired dry goods merchant" in the 1870 census.
Nathaniel P. Hood died of old age at his residence on December 28, 1871. Henry T. Child was the attending physician. He left a six-page will that left his estate in trust with the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia. This institution was also the executor of the will. From this trust he left his wife a portion of the estate and a yearly annuity. His children were left $50 each. His daughter Caroline was left his pianoforte, books, papers, portraits and watches. The will also bequeathed Pennsylvania Hospital, the Rosine Association, Magelane and Widows Asylum Association, Wills Hospital for the Relief of the Blind and Lame (southside Race, west of Broad St.).
The gifts to these institutions seem to be based on the mental afflictions of his son Franklin and daughter Caroline. Both are listed as idiotic and Franklin "cannot judge for himself" in the 1870 Federal Census. This may explain the milk and cream expenses mentioned in the expense book. He may have had these delivered to his home as simple pleasures for his mentally handicapped children. Both lived with their parents. The above-mentioned institutions probably treated his impaired children and may have served as their residences after their parent's death.
Nathaniel's passing was not mentioned in any of the newspapers. Not even a short notice. He was buried on Sunday December 31, 1871 at 2 o'clock. His will was probated on January 2, 1872, delayed probably only by the closing of business over the New Year's holiday. His wife died Monday December 8, 1873. Her funeral was from her late residence 1416 N. 18th St.
Both Nathaniel P. Hood and his wife are buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery 3822 Ridge Avenue phone 228-8200. They and some of their children are buried in Lot 44, Section R.
The residences that N. P. Hood lived and rented homes were razed long ago. The area became industrialized during the early part of the 20th century.
The Girard Trust Corn Exchange Bank (apparently the descendant financial institution of both the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia and the Corn Exchange Association) made arrangements with Laurel Hill Cemetery for annual care on Lot #44, Section R from income of Nathaniel P. Hood's trust.
Sources:
U.S. Federal Census
Philadelphia City Archives
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia Public Ledger
Philadelphia Inquirer
Will of N.P. Hood, rm. 185 City Hall (Book No. 73, Pg. 217) Note: no inventory or account book listed.
Mormon International Genealogical Index
Philadelphia City Directories
Expense Book of N. P. Hood, 1837 – 1864
Laurel Hill Cemetery
In July 2001, my friend Merv gave me an old ledger book that belonged to a "Nathaniel P. Hood." He asked me to find out about him. In three days, I provided him the following report:
Nathaniel P. Hood was a bookkeeper clerk who became a general accountant and merchant and lived in the Spring Garden District, later the 13th Ward, of Philadelphia. He was born March 28, 1789 in the part of Philadelphia County now in Montgomery County.
He married Harriet E Heydrick on Wednesday evening November 4, 1814 by the Rev. Dr. Pilmore at Philadelphia. She was also from Montgomery Co. She was born June 11, 1795 to Dr. Christopher Heydrick and Mary Care. The Heydrick family was from Fredrick, Montgomery County. They came to Montgomery County from Lower Salford, Lehigh Co. The immigrants appear to be a Balthazer Heydrick & Rosina Heebner who came to the area before 1737.
The Hood lineage is probably from Ireland. The Heydrick family is of German origin.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The couple had the following children:
Mary b. Feb 23, 1818 m. Thomas Reilly
Charles Rowle Hood (born November 2, 1819, clerk)
Susanna Theresa (Aspden) Born Sept. 24, 1816. Died Dec 23, 1899. Married Oct 23, 1852 James Aspden b. 1820 d. July 12, 1893 (Schwenkfelder book page 873).
Franklin Conly Hood (born January 17, 1827, clerk) Farmer. Civil War soldier. 1870 listed as idiotic "cannot judge for himself." Lived at Riley's Bank, Pa. Interred Laurel Hill Cemetery June 14, 1888. Aged 61.
Samuel Hemlin Hood (1829-1865, bookkeeper, merchant) attended drawing school of the Franklin institute, Died April 6, 1865. Interred Laurel Hill on April 8, 1865. Lot no. 44, Sec. R
Caroline Matilda Hood (born January 3, 1832) In 1870 listed as idiotic in Federal Census. Last residence; 275 Chestnut St. Camden, NJ. Interred Laurel Hill Lot no. 44, Sec. R on Sunday May 16, 1880, aged 35.
Harriet E. Hood (born 1837)
Ada "Addie" Byron Hood (born May 3, 1836) Died Dec. 10, 1917 at Collingsdale, Delaware Co., Pa. Last address: 275 Chestnut St., Collingsdale. Funeral home; Oliver Bair 1820 Chestnut St., Phila. Interred Laurel Hill Lot 44, Sec. R on Dec. 14, 1917. Aged 81. Neice Mrs. Mary E. Paterson. Gender: Female
Rebecca H. born June 12, 1824. married Henry W Wilson (Schwenkfelder book page 869).
Schwenkfelder book page 873
5 children
Ada - Martha - Charles - Harriet - Samuel
THE BANK WAR
The history of the Bank of the United States and the Merchant Exchange forms the backdrop of Nathaniel Hood's life.
Upon Alexander Hamilton's suggestion, Congress commissioned the Bank of the United States. The charter of the First Bank of the United States was drafted in 1791 by the Congress and signed by George Washington. It was the subject of political fighting which became known as the Bank War. In 1811, Congress voted to abandon the bank and its charter. After its privatization it was owned and operated by wealthy financier Stephen Girard. It was located at 3rd St. between Chestnut and Walnut Streets and is the oldest bank in the United States.
On October 16, 1816 Nathaniel Hood submitted a letter of application for a position as bookkeeper or discount clerk at the Bank of the United States in Philadelphia. This was certainly the Second Bank. He explained that he worked for the past six years at the firms of Major (?) Passmore & Freedman, Passmore & Sperry and finally Passmore & Birckhead as cashier, bookkeeper and general accountant. At the time he was living at no. 34 S. Front St. & 192 Vine St. He described himself as "a native of this city aged 29 years." I do not know if he ever obtained the position, but the research strongly suggests that he did. The letter is on file in the Etting Collection (Vol. 21, page 86) at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Much of Nathaniel's life was centered in the Philadelphia banking district.
1816 was the year that the Second Bank of the United States was incorporated with a twenty-year charter. The actual building at 4th & Chestnut Streets was built in 1819 and opened in 1824 with Nicholas Biddle as president. Andrew Jackson, who was elected U.S. president in 1828, began an attack on the East Coast aristocracy in 1830. He especially targeted the bank of the United States. In 1832 Jackson vetoed the renewal of the bank's charter and, following his re-election in 1833, ordered the withdrawal of all federal funds from the bank. The Bank's charter expired in 1836.
In 1831, a new group of nabobs representing the social and business aristocracy organized into a society for building an Exchange. The Merchant Exchange Building (South 3rd at Walnut & Dock Streets) was built from 1832-34. Included in the group of trustees for the new enterprise was Stephen Girard, arguably the wealthiest man in the nation. After the charter for the First Bank of the United States lapsed, Girard bought the building and established a bank named for himself in its quarters. Not surprisingly, then, the site chosen for the new Exchange was within eyesight of Girard's bank.
N. P. Hood appears in city directories as an accountant in the 1820s living at 142 N. 8th St. Interestingly, Hood briefly appears in 1830 living in York boro according to the Federal Census. Even more interesting, in 1833 he is no longer listed as an accountant but as a merchant 21 N. Front St. living at Buttonwood above 9th St. Perhaps he went to York to find a new position when the Bank was in trouble and did not find it satisfactory. He may have returned to Philadelphia and found opportunities with his finance friends in the merchant movement.
The expense book begins in 1837, the same year as a financial Panic. Hood was busily engaged in merchant activities and the renting of properties. This was a source of income for the rest of his life. His will lists the following rental properties: 237 N. 10th St., 324 N. 9th St., 326 N. 9th St. The maintenance expenses of plumbing, carpentry, privy cleaning, painting and taxes are documented in the expense book. 106 N. Juniper, 319 6th St, 139 Franklin St, 139 Filbert St., 182 N, 9th, 9th St. bel. Wood, 10th St. betw. Poplar & Girard, 485, 487, 489 N, 10th St., 568 N 10th, 163 N 10th St., 141 N. 10th St.
From 1835-36 he was again listed as accountant at 292 N. 3rd Street. From 1839 to 1840 he was accountant at 319 N. 6th Street. He doesn't appear in the Philadelphia City directories from approx. 1844 to 1854 but he does appear in the 1850 census. Expense book lists him paying rent for 203 N. 9th St, in 1853. He lived at 182 N. 9th St. from 1855 to 1857 and at 324 N. 9th St. from 1858 until his death.
The expense book lists pews at St. Paul's Church in Chester Co. A weekly subscription to the U.S. Gazette and the Philadelphia Saturday News & Literary Gazette.
The expense book mentions that a daguerreotype was made on Christmas Day 1853. Perhaps a descendant has this family picture. Or maybe it is just an obscure curio in a second-hand store or antique store. The people in the photo are all probably all unknown. Or maybe the photo was destroyed long ago.
About 1855 Hood opened a dry goods store and eventually partnered with his son Samuel Emelin Hood who is listed as a bookkeeper as early as 1850 when he was only 18 years old. The store offered "fancy silk goods." From 1855 to 1857 business was at 68 Market Street. In 1858 it was listed as 222 Market St because of the street renumbering project in the City. From 1860 to 1865 it was at 226 Market Street. His son lived at 315 N. 9th Street.
Nathaniel's favorite son Samuel – known as Emelin – died on April 5, 1865. This probably took a toll on Nathaniel's health, which was probably already poor. Entries in the expense book trail off and end March 1865. His last will was prepared December 5, 1866. He is listed as a "retired dry goods merchant" in the 1870 census.
Nathaniel P. Hood died of old age at his residence on December 28, 1871. Henry T. Child was the attending physician. He left a six-page will that left his estate in trust with the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia. This institution was also the executor of the will. From this trust he left his wife a portion of the estate and a yearly annuity. His children were left $50 each. His daughter Caroline was left his pianoforte, books, papers, portraits and watches. The will also bequeathed Pennsylvania Hospital, the Rosine Association, Magelane and Widows Asylum Association, Wills Hospital for the Relief of the Blind and Lame (southside Race, west of Broad St.).
The gifts to these institutions seem to be based on the mental afflictions of his son Franklin and daughter Caroline. Both are listed as idiotic and Franklin "cannot judge for himself" in the 1870 Federal Census. This may explain the milk and cream expenses mentioned in the expense book. He may have had these delivered to his home as simple pleasures for his mentally handicapped children. Both lived with their parents. The above-mentioned institutions probably treated his impaired children and may have served as their residences after their parent's death.
Nathaniel's passing was not mentioned in any of the newspapers. Not even a short notice. He was buried on Sunday December 31, 1871 at 2 o'clock. His will was probated on January 2, 1872, delayed probably only by the closing of business over the New Year's holiday. His wife died Monday December 8, 1873. Her funeral was from her late residence 1416 N. 18th St.
Both Nathaniel P. Hood and his wife are buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery 3822 Ridge Avenue phone 228-8200. They and some of their children are buried in Lot 44, Section R.
The residences that N. P. Hood lived and rented homes were razed long ago. The area became industrialized during the early part of the 20th century.
The Girard Trust Corn Exchange Bank (apparently the descendant financial institution of both the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia and the Corn Exchange Association) made arrangements with Laurel Hill Cemetery for annual care on Lot #44, Section R from income of Nathaniel P. Hood's trust.
Sources:
U.S. Federal Census
Philadelphia City Archives
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia Public Ledger
Philadelphia Inquirer
Will of N.P. Hood, rm. 185 City Hall (Book No. 73, Pg. 217) Note: no inventory or account book listed.
Mormon International Genealogical Index
Philadelphia City Directories
Expense Book of N. P. Hood, 1837 – 1864
Laurel Hill Cemetery
Nathaniel P. Hood was a bookkeeper clerk who became a general accountant and merchant and lived in the Spring Garden District, later the 13th Ward, of Philadelphia. He was born March 28, 1789 in the part of Philadelphia County now in Montgomery County.
He married Harriet E Heydrick on Wednesday evening November 4, 1814 by the Rev. Dr. Pilmore at Philadelphia. She was also from Montgomery Co. She was born June 11, 1795 to Dr. Christopher Heydrick and Mary Care. The Heydrick family was from Fredrick, Montgomery County. They came to Montgomery County from Lower Salford, Lehigh Co. The immigrants appear to be a Balthazer Heydrick & Rosina Heebner who came to the area before 1737.
The Hood lineage is probably from Ireland. The Heydrick family is of German origin.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The couple had the following children:
Mary b. Feb 23, 1818 m. Thomas Reilly
Charles Rowle Hood (born November 2, 1819, clerk)
Susanna Theresa (Aspden) Born Sept. 24, 1816. Died Dec 23, 1899. Married Oct 23, 1852 James Aspden b. 1820 d. July 12, 1893 (Schwenkfelder book page 873).
Franklin Conly Hood (born January 17, 1827, clerk) Farmer. Civil War soldier. 1870 listed as idiotic "cannot judge for himself." Lived at Riley's Bank, Pa. Interred Laurel Hill Cemetery June 14, 1888. Aged 61.
Samuel Hemlin Hood (1829-1865, bookkeeper, merchant) attended drawing school of the Franklin institute, Died April 6, 1865. Interred Laurel Hill on April 8, 1865. Lot no. 44, Sec. R
Caroline Matilda Hood (born January 3, 1832) In 1870 listed as idiotic in Federal Census. Last residence; 275 Chestnut St. Camden, NJ. Interred Laurel Hill Lot no. 44, Sec. R on Sunday May 16, 1880, aged 35.
Harriet E. Hood (born 1837)
Ada "Addie" Byron Hood (born May 3, 1836) Died Dec. 10, 1917 at Collingsdale, Delaware Co., Pa. Last address: 275 Chestnut St., Collingsdale. Funeral home; Oliver Bair 1820 Chestnut St., Phila. Interred Laurel Hill Lot 44, Sec. R on Dec. 14, 1917. Aged 81. Neice Mrs. Mary E. Paterson. Gender: Female
Rebecca H. born June 12, 1824. married Henry W Wilson (Schwenkfelder book page 869).
Schwenkfelder book page 873
5 children
Ada - Martha - Charles - Harriet - Samuel
THE BANK WAR
The history of the Bank of the United States and the Merchant Exchange forms the backdrop of Nathaniel Hood's life.
Upon Alexander Hamilton's suggestion, Congress commissioned the Bank of the United States. The charter of the First Bank of the United States was drafted in 1791 by the Congress and signed by George Washington. It was the subject of political fighting which became known as the Bank War. In 1811, Congress voted to abandon the bank and its charter. After its privatization it was owned and operated by wealthy financier Stephen Girard. It was located at 3rd St. between Chestnut and Walnut Streets and is the oldest bank in the United States.
On October 16, 1816 Nathaniel Hood submitted a letter of application for a position as bookkeeper or discount clerk at the Bank of the United States in Philadelphia. This was certainly the Second Bank. He explained that he worked for the past six years at the firms of Major (?) Passmore & Freedman, Passmore & Sperry and finally Passmore & Birckhead as cashier, bookkeeper and general accountant. At the time he was living at no. 34 S. Front St. & 192 Vine St. He described himself as "a native of this city aged 29 years." I do not know if he ever obtained the position, but the research strongly suggests that he did. The letter is on file in the Etting Collection (Vol. 21, page 86) at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Much of Nathaniel's life was centered in the Philadelphia banking district.
1816 was the year that the Second Bank of the United States was incorporated with a twenty-year charter. The actual building at 4th & Chestnut Streets was built in 1819 and opened in 1824 with Nicholas Biddle as president. Andrew Jackson, who was elected U.S. president in 1828, began an attack on the East Coast aristocracy in 1830. He especially targeted the bank of the United States. In 1832 Jackson vetoed the renewal of the bank's charter and, following his re-election in 1833, ordered the withdrawal of all federal funds from the bank. The Bank's charter expired in 1836.
In 1831, a new group of nabobs representing the social and business aristocracy organized into a society for building an Exchange. The Merchant Exchange Building (South 3rd at Walnut & Dock Streets) was built from 1832-34. Included in the group of trustees for the new enterprise was Stephen Girard, arguably the wealthiest man in the nation. After the charter for the First Bank of the United States lapsed, Girard bought the building and established a bank named for himself in its quarters. Not surprisingly, then, the site chosen for the new Exchange was within eyesight of Girard's bank.
N. P. Hood appears in city directories as an accountant in the 1820s living at 142 N. 8th St. Interestingly, Hood briefly appears in 1830 living in York boro according to the Federal Census. Even more interesting, in 1833 he is no longer listed as an accountant but as a merchant 21 N. Front St. living at Buttonwood above 9th St. Perhaps he went to York to find a new position when the Bank was in trouble and did not find it satisfactory. He may have returned to Philadelphia and found opportunities with his finance friends in the merchant movement.
The expense book begins in 1837, the same year as a financial Panic. Hood was busily engaged in merchant activities and the renting of properties. This was a source of income for the rest of his life. His will lists the following rental properties: 237 N. 10th St., 324 N. 9th St., 326 N. 9th St. The maintenance expenses of plumbing, carpentry, privy cleaning, painting and taxes are documented in the expense book. 106 N. Juniper, 319 6th St, 139 Franklin St, 139 Filbert St., 182 N, 9th, 9th St. bel. Wood, 10th St. betw. Poplar & Girard, 485, 487, 489 N, 10th St., 568 N 10th, 163 N 10th St., 141 N. 10th St.
From 1835-36 he was again listed as accountant at 292 N. 3rd Street. From 1839 to 1840 he was accountant at 319 N. 6th Street. He doesn't appear in the Philadelphia City directories from approx. 1844 to 1854 but he does appear in the 1850 census. Expense book lists him paying rent for 203 N. 9th St, in 1853. He lived at 182 N. 9th St. from 1855 to 1857 and at 324 N. 9th St. from 1858 until his death.
The expense book lists pews at St. Paul's Church in Chester Co. A weekly subscription to the U.S. Gazette and the Philadelphia Saturday News & Literary Gazette.
The expense book mentions that a daguerreotype was made on Christmas Day 1853. Perhaps a descendant has this family picture. Or maybe it is just an obscure curio in a second-hand store or antique store. The people in the photo are all probably all unknown. Or maybe the photo was destroyed long ago.
About 1855 Hood opened a dry goods store and eventually partnered with his son Samuel Emelin Hood who is listed as a bookkeeper as early as 1850 when he was only 18 years old. The store offered "fancy silk goods." From 1855 to 1857 business was at 68 Market Street. In 1858 it was listed as 222 Market St because of the street renumbering project in the City. From 1860 to 1865 it was at 226 Market Street. His son lived at 315 N. 9th Street.
Nathaniel's favorite son Samuel – known as Emelin – died on April 5, 1865. This probably took a toll on Nathaniel's health, which was probably already poor. Entries in the expense book trail off and end March 1865. His last will was prepared December 5, 1866. He is listed as a "retired dry goods merchant" in the 1870 census.
Nathaniel P. Hood died of old age at his residence on December 28, 1871. Henry T. Child was the attending physician. He left a six-page will that left his estate in trust with the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia. This institution was also the executor of the will. From this trust he left his wife a portion of the estate and a yearly annuity. His children were left $50 each. His daughter Caroline was left his pianoforte, books, papers, portraits and watches. The will also bequeathed Pennsylvania Hospital, the Rosine Association, Magelane and Widows Asylum Association, Wills Hospital for the Relief of the Blind and Lame (southside Race, west of Broad St.).
The gifts to these institutions seem to be based on the mental afflictions of his son Franklin and daughter Caroline. Both are listed as idiotic and Franklin "cannot judge for himself" in the 1870 Federal Census. This may explain the milk and cream expenses mentioned in the expense book. He may have had these delivered to his home as simple pleasures for his mentally handicapped children. Both lived with their parents. The above-mentioned institutions probably treated his impaired children and may have served as their residences after their parent's death.
Nathaniel's passing was not mentioned in any of the newspapers. Not even a short notice. He was buried on Sunday December 31, 1871 at 2 o'clock. His will was probated on January 2, 1872, delayed probably only by the closing of business over the New Year's holiday. His wife died Monday December 8, 1873. Her funeral was from her late residence 1416 N. 18th St.
Both Nathaniel P. Hood and his wife are buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery 3822 Ridge Avenue phone 228-8200. They and some of their children are buried in Lot 44, Section R.
The residences that N. P. Hood lived and rented homes were razed long ago. The area became industrialized during the early part of the 20th century.
The Girard Trust Corn Exchange Bank (apparently the descendant financial institution of both the Girard Life Insurance Annuity and Trust Co. of Philadelphia and the Corn Exchange Association) made arrangements with Laurel Hill Cemetery for annual care on Lot #44, Section R from income of Nathaniel P. Hood's trust.
Sources:
U.S. Federal Census
Philadelphia City Archives
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia Public Ledger
Philadelphia Inquirer
Will of N.P. Hood, rm. 185 City Hall (Book No. 73, Pg. 217) Note: no inventory or account book listed.
Mormon International Genealogical Index
Philadelphia City Directories
Expense Book of N. P. Hood, 1837 – 1864
Laurel Hill Cemetery
Family Members
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