Deacon Lauren D. Lyman
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Was built in 1855; North Hall in 1866.
Payson Hall, now the home for students, had for years a reputable history as a public house — notably so under the long reign of William Hill, the Champion landlords of the valley when known as the Mansion House. Mr. Hill made Easthampton a summer resort, and entertained distinguished people. The endowment fund, increased from time to time, is now munificent, the facilities which the school offers are of a superior order, and were never better than at present, under the very efficient principalship of Dr. Joseph H. Sawyer, now in the thirty-seventh year of his service as a member of the faculty. Professor Buffum has also served long in the Latin Department, having turned out eligible candidates for the colleges for twenty-five years. In its different departments the school ranks high by reason of its staff of competent instructors both for college preparation and for scientific equipment.
I the constitution of the Seminary, Mr. Williston said, among other things:
"To preclude all misunderstanding of the design of Williston Seminary, I declare again in conclusion that the primary and principal object of the institution is the Glory of God, in the extension of the Christian Religion, and in the promotion of true piety among men. Accordingly I hereby ordain and require that the school exercises of each day shall be opened and closed with the reading of Scripture and prayer."
Mr. Williston was exceedingly jealous of any infringement upon the observance of the Sabbath.
Closely connected with Mr. Williston as aid and co-partner during his entire business career was the Hon, H.G. Knight. Mr. Knight had great business ability, and they worked together as one man till "Williston & Knight" came to be a firm name known and honored far and near. Mr. Knight took great interest in town affairs, held all offices in the gift of his townsmen, was public spirited to the core, and love intensely his native town, which he was wont to call "the loveliest village of the plain." Also, early associated with these men were Seth Warner and E. H. Sawyer, both of whom were prominent for years in town and church matters.
Mr. Williston, Mr. Knight and Mr. Sawyer were each called to the State Senate, and Mr. Knight to be for four years Lieutenant-Governor of Massachusetts.
Among other men closely connected with Mr. Williston, and in general with manufacturing interests in Easthampton, were E. T. Sawyer, Geo. S. Clark, Granville H. and Moses H. Leonard, H. J. Bly,
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