from
History of Providence County, Rhode Island
Edited by Richard M. Bayles.
In two volumes, illustrated. Vol. I.
New York: W. W. Preston & Co., 1891.
pp. 382 - 405. (part 11)
"The 'dark day', though not exclusively a local episode, is one that even
in local connection is a matter of great interest, hence we speak of it
here. It occurred in May, 1780. For several days previous the atmosphere
appeared to be charged with a dry, smoky vapor, so that the sun could be
gazed upon with the naked eye without discomfort. At ten o'clock on the
19th the darkness had increased to such a degree as to impede the regular
transaction of business. The darkness became thicker, until ordinary
business was suspended, and candles were lighted. The height of the
darkness was between half-past twelve and one o'clock. Fowls sought their
roosts, cattle came up to their folds as at night, and indeed the
phenomenon was that of night. Men stood appalled at the dread
appearance. The busy hum of life was stilled, and all nature seemed to
wait in dismay for further demonstrations of her approaching
dissolution. Many supposed that the day of final judgment was at
hand. The wind had been southeast, but at about one o'clock it changed to
southwest, the darkness began gradually to diminish, and at two o'clock the
atmosphere had the appearance of a cloudy morning. A very little rain fell
in the morning before the wind changed. During the whole time the air had
a sooty, smoky smell, which was also communicated to the rain water which
had been saved. It was supposed by some that the strange phenomenon was
caused by the overhanging of a great mass of smoke from vast forest fires
that were a short time before raging in some parts of the country. The
darkness extended over the greater part of New England and somewhat into
the Middle states and Canada.
A curious enactment of the town in 1795, in relation to smoking in the
public streets, is copied here for preservation. It runs as
follows: 'Whereas, great danger of fire in this town arises from a very
improper practice of smoking pipes and segars in the public streets, it is
therefore recommended, by the freemen of the town, in town meeting
assembled, that the citizens wholly refrain from that practice;
nevertheless, it is not understood by these recommendations to prevent any
among us, the young men or others, who may be under the necessity on
account of any grevious malady, from using the same by way of medicine.' "
continued in part 12.