The daily dispatch. [volume] (Richmond [Va.]) 1850-1884, 1866-10-06
LErTER FROM PETERSBURG.
Correspondence Of the Richmond Dispatch.
PETERSBURG, October S, 1866.


Having occasionto visit Blandford ceme-
terry few days ago, it was gratifying to
note the improved appearance it exhibited
compared with its neglected and dilapi-
dated condition at the close of the war.
The superintendent, Mr.. Davidson, has
been busily engaged, with the inadequate
force at his command, in cleansing the
grounds of the briars, and weeds, and
broomstraw, which had well nigh taken
possession during the period of their neg
lect. Much yet remains to be done TO
cover them with suitable verdure, and inn
part to them that aspect betting city OF
the dead. If the natural advantages of
the situation were made the most of, it is
believed that no cemetery in America
would present features of greater attrac-
ton. The grand old church, almost weigh
cd down with q luxuriant growth of ivy,
is one of the most striking as well as ap-
pr0priate objects that can be imagined, and
serves of itself to distinguish it from all
other places of the kind. What beauti-
full field for landscape gardener to work
uponl
Nearly adjoining, but little farther
from the city, is the burying ground OF the
Jews, consisting of about an acre of ground
and handsomely enclosed. Until recently
the Israelites buried their dead at Rich
mond; but the sanitary reasons against the
continuance of this practice, especially in
anticipation Of the cholera, have at length
induced change. As yet there has been
but one interment, but as the population
Of these extraordinary people has considc-
rably increased latterly, 1t may be expect
ed that the gates Of their cemetery will be
opened as often, in proportion to their
numbers, as those of the one adjoining.
For the first time, also, in the history of
the Israelites Of Petersburg, they are to
have q synagogue. The large hall on the
ground floor Of the old masonic building
on Tabb street is being appropriately fitted
up, and will shortly be consecrated to the
services Of their ancient and peculiar
faith.
In some Of its features the present au-
tumnal season has been protracted beyond
its usual length. The foliage on the trees
is as fresh as it was month ago, giving
very little evidence Of decay. The com.
mons around the city, and indeed the fields
generally throughout the country, are
covered with the richest verdure, all going
to waste, since there 10 little or no stock to
feast and fatten upon 1t. Housekeepers
who have cows place them under care Of q
cowherd, who takes them out to grass at sc
much per week-generally fifty cents
This 10 . very convenient arrangement
since there are no fences to protect the
crops, and cattle are forbidden to be turned
at large.
For day or two the atmosphere has beer
quite chilly, and 1t Is reported that there
Was q slight frost this morning-not enough
however, TO do any damage. But we have
the glorious October sun in all its splendor
/ had intended to say something II
regard to the opening prospects OF thu
schools, but a. the sessions Of one or TIVE
will not commence till next week, ant
none Of them perhaps have fairly got under
way, it may be best to postpone any re
marks for few days.
The barn of Oliver Hamilton, Esq.
residing in Chesterfield q few miles from
the city, was burned last night--evidentl!
the work of an incendiary. It contained
about 1000 pounds Of sheaf oats and |
large quantity Of fodder. Some negroes II
the neighborhood are the suspected parties
SN0wDEN.