A Municipal History of the Town and City of Boston During Two Centuries

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1852. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... appendix. (A. Page 43.) the Mayor's Inaugural Address, May, 1822. Gentlemen of the City Council:--The experience of nearly two centuries has borne ample testimony to the wisdom of those institutions which our ancestors established for the management of their municipal concerns. Most of the towns in this Commonwealth may, probably, continue to enjoy the benefit of those salutary regulations for an unlimited series of years. But the great increase of population in the town of Boston has made it necessary for the Legislature frequently to enact statutes of local application, to enable the inhabitants successfully to conduct their affairs; and at the last session, with a promptness which claims our gratitude, on the application of the town, they granted the charter which invests it with the powers and immunities of a city. Those who have attended to the inconveniences under which we have labored, will not attribute this innovation to an eager thirst for novelty, or restless desire of innovation. The most intelligent and experienced of our citizens have for a long period meditated a change, and exerted their influence to effect it. Difference of opinion must be expected, and mutual concessions made, in all cases where the interests of a large community is to be accommodated. The precise form in which the charter is to be presented, may not be acceptable to all; but its provisions have met with the approbation of a large majority, and it will receive the support of every good citizen. Mr. Chairman, and Gentlemen of the Board of Selectmen:--The members of the City Council acknowledge their obligations to you, for the attention and care which you have bestowed in all the arrangements for their accommodation. They tender their thanks for the friendly and respectful senti...