Doctor's Orders

A mostly true family story

Stephen Thayer Story

Story provided by Kathie Gauvin heard from her Mother.

“Great, Great, Great Grandpa and Grandma Thayer had five girls in a row while living in their first home. When they asked the doctor why they had not had any boys, the doctor told them to move across the street! This they did and proceeded to have 5 boys in a row.”

“Now we doubt a man of his distinction would have asked the doctor that question, nor take that advice if given it, but it made for an enhanced family tale based on the actual facts from history. “

The History

    Stephen Thayer was born 7/24/1803; Arrived in New Ipswich in 1823 at age 20; Moved from Davis Village to Central Village in 1825 

   Over his lifetime Stephen ran several successful local businesses including a cigar factory that still stands. Stephen married Johanna Pond on 2/2/1826 He was the original owner of a home at what is now 551 Turnpike Road built in 1826. 

The following births were between 1827 & 1837  (Five Girls)

Joanna 12/9/1827
Permelia 2/23/1830 
Mary 5/31/1832
Lauretta 2/8/1835 
Sarah 8/9/1837 

In 1838, Stephen built a home across the street at what is today 550 Turnpike Road, "The Thayer Family Homestead"

The following births are recorded between 1839 & 1848 (Five Boys) 

Stephen H. 12/16/1839 
Samuel A. 4/1/1842 
Edward A. 2/24/1844 
William S. 11/19/1845 
Frederick A. 6/10/1848 

Johanna died 4/15/1878 
Stephen died 1/11/1890

James Roger diary entry

January 1, 1909 (Friday)

Frost fine day cool west wind.  David packing ice at Wilbur’s and Joe’s  I went to Greenville and met Hamish.  Got letter from Sandy today.  H & I put in the settees in afternoon.  Mrs. Spofford went away today.