The Dark Day of May 19th, 1780 (3)

  The time of this extraordinary darkness, was May 19, 1780. It came on between hours of ten and eleven, A. M. and continued until the middle of the next night; but with different appearances at different places. [...] The degree to which the darkness arose, was different in different places. In most parts of the country it was so great, that people were unable to read common print—determine the time of day by their clocks or watches—dine—or manage their domestic business, without the light of candles. In some places, the darkness was so great, that persons could not see to read common print in the open air, for several hours together: but I believe this was not generally the case. The extent of this darkness was very remarkable. Our intelligence, in this respect, is not so particular as I could wish: but from the accounts that have been received, it seems to have extended all over the New-England states. It was observed as far east as Falmouth [Portland, Maine].—To the westward, we hear of its reaching to the furthest parts of Connecticut, and Albany —To the southward, it was observed all along the sea-coasts:—and to the north, as far as our settlements extend. It is probable it extended much beyond these limits, in some directions: but the exact boundaries cannot be ascertained by any observations that I have been able to collect. With regard to its duration, it continued in this place at least fourteen hours: but it is probable this was not exactly the same in different parts of the country. The appearance and effects were such as tended to make the prospect extremely dull and gloomy. Candles were lighted up in the houses;—the birds having sung their evening songs, disappeared, and became silent;—the fowls retired to roost;—the cocks were crowing all around, as at break of day;—objects could not be distinguished but at a very little distance; and every thing bore the appearance and gloom of night.

Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, vol. 1, 1785, pp. 234-235.