25 Wis. 99 | Wis. | 1869
This court is divided in opinion upon the question whether an acceptance by the officers of the town is necessary to constitute a highway by dedication. My brethren are of opinion that such acceptance is not necessary, but that travel by the public, to such an extent and for such a length of time as to show that the public convenience and accommodation require the road, is sufficient for that purpose. In support of this proposition they cite and rely upon the following authorities: Hanson v. Taylor, 23 Wis. 547 ; 21 N. Y. 474; 23 id. 64; 26 Barb. 634; 23 id. 123; 5 Bing. 477; [13 E. C. L. 45]; 36 Pa. St. 99; 20 id. 331; 46 N. H. 192; 19 Conn. 250; 29 id. 162. On the other hand, I hold that acceptance by the proper officers of the town
These remarks sufficiently dispose of all questions arising upon the instructions given, and those requested but not given. They show, that, in the opinion of the majority of this court, there was no error in either respect, while I am of the very opposite opinion.
But this case presents another question, upon which there is no division of opinion in this court. The court below refused to allow the declarations of the plaintiff, made after the way was opened, and after the alleged dedication, to go to the jury as evidence of the plaintiff’s intention. Proof of such declaration made at the
It follows that the judgment must be reversed, and a new trial awarded.
By the Court. — So ordered.