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HISTORICAL MEMOEANDTJM

AND

GENEALOGICAL REGISTER
OF THE
TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON,
MASSACHUSETTS,
From its Early Settlement to 1858;
together with miscellaneous items and incidents.

131 BENJAMIN F. KEIES

WORCESTER:
PRINTED AT THE SVY PRINTING HOUSE, 212 MAIN STREET.
1861.

PREFACE.
The following brief Historical Memorandum and Gen
ealogical Register is intended to extend no further OHward
than 1858, or fifty years from the organization of the
town of "West Roylston, and 138 years from the time of
the earliest settlement in the town.
The ""design of this Memorandum and Register is to
bring to view the circumstances which led to the origin
aud formation of the town, also to bring to the notice of
present and succeeding generations those who first settled
on these hills and in these valleys, thereby opening the
way for further advancement and future prosperity. It is
designed likewise to perpetuate the memory and recollec
tion of those, who, by their untiring atid persevering ef
forts, amid opposition and resistance, eventually succeeded
in establishing and organizing the town.
The few biographical notes in the genealogical sketch.
are designed merely as a deserved tribute to those who are
thus noticed.
The miscellaneous items recorded raay be thought of
little consequence by some, while others may feel a deep
interest in the incidents and occurrences related. It may
be interesting to the inhabitants of "West Roylston fifty
years hence, who may in 1908 celebrate the centennial
anniversary of the town, to know who were their prede
cessors, from whence they came, together with the particu
lar locality where they resided, and also, who may at that
time be known as the lineal descendants of the early set
tlers. Many wish to know something of those who pre
ceded them in life, while others have a curiosity to trace

back their lineage to the early settlement of the country,
feeling a sympathy and respect for their progenitors, al
thougli they may long since have finished their earthly
course. It seems necessary therefore that some notice or
reoord of individuals, families and passing events, should
be preserved and transmitted from one generation to anoth
er for the use and benefit of the living. There is pleas
ure and satisfaction in recognising our ancestors, and it
would seem that fraternal feeling and filial gratitude alike
demand a remembrance of our friends and relatives who
have passed away from the world, and we should ever man
ifest a due respect and veneration for their memory and
departed worth.
The Meraorandum and Register was designed and writ
ten in 1858, while its publication has been delayed from
an apprehension that it might not be useful or acceptable.
But after further consideration it has been determined to
give it publicity, trusting that whoever may chance to
read it will pass lightly over its defects and incomplete
ness. B. F. K.
"West Boylstoit, March, 1861.

CONTENTS.

West Boylst'jn — hoTv situated and bounded  5
Earliest Settlers, Indians, Ac,  6
Inaorporation of West BoyJston,  ,  8
Legal Voters in 1808,  'J
Genealogical Sketch,  19
Residents — Not Voters  39
Original and Earlier Settlers,  40
Residents between 1780 and 1808,  44
Settlers from 1808 to 1820  46
Residents in 1808 under 21 years of age  49
Residents and Legal Voters in 1858  60
Town Officers from 1808 to 1858,  52
Ecclesiastioal Record, &c.,  55
Physicians in West Boylston,  60
Progress and Improvement,  .-  61
Miscellaneous Incidents  63
Various Items,  67
Military,  ?  68
Rivers and Bridges,  70
Farming Interest — Extraordinary Events,  71
Extraordinary Longevity,  76
Biographical Sketch cf Thomas Keyes, Jr.,  77
Concluding Remarks,  82

HISTORICAL MEMORANDUM
OF WEST BOYLSTON.

The town of West Boylston is situated 7 miles from
the city of Worcester, and bounded on the east by Boyl
ston, on the north by Sterling, on the west by Holden, on
the south by "Worcester and Shrewsbury ; being about five
miles in length from north to south, and about three and
a half miles in width from east to west.
The natural position and scenery of the town is multi
form and somewhat romantic in appearance, diversified
with hills and valleys, and in all directions interspersed
with springs and streams of water suited to the wants and
convenience of the inhabitants. The soil is generally fer
tile and productive, and when skilfully managed and
properly cultivated, amply repays the enterprise and labor
of the industrious husbandman.
The early settlers of "West Boylston were a hardy, vig
orous race, social and benevolent in their feelings and
habits, kind and generous to each other, hospitable to
strangers, always making them welcome to such accom
modations and entertainment as their rude dwellings
would aflFord. They were strongly attached to the princi
ples and customs of the pilgrim fathers, carefully observ
ing and sustaining the institutionB of religion and learn
ing, habitually and conscientiously attending public wor
ship on the Sabbath, and having their children suflficiently
educated to enable them to perform the coramon duties, of
social life. Their children also, like themselves, were,
carefully taught to cherish the principles and adhere to
the customs so cautiously preserved and maintained by
their progenitors, although later generations seem to
have degenerated and departed to some extent from the
1*

6
course of their ancestors, and apparently lost that venera
tion and regard for their instruction and example which
filial res/pect and a fond recollection might justly require
from their successors and lineal descendants.
Jacob Hinds, Joseph Wooley, Ebenezer Frizzol, Benja
min Bigelow, Jonathan Fairbank, Aaron Newton, Ezekiel
Newton, Edward Goodale, Stephen Belknap, William
"Whitney, Phineas Bennett, Jonathan French, Jonathan
Lovell, and Josiah Wilder were probably the earliest set
tlers in this town. They came from the older towns be
low and made an opening here. Others soon foUawed,
thereby gradually increasing their numbers, thus cherish
ing the hopes and encouraging the prospects of the new
settlers. The settlement of the town was probably com
menced in 1 720, or soon after that time.
Tradition says that formerly the Indians were numerous
in and about this town, having their wigwams and corn-
patches on the interval and near the river, occupying the
adjacent hills and plains as hunting ground, there being
plenty of deer, turkeys, and other wild garae, suited to
their wants and necessities. Nearly all the natives had
left this region previous to the settlement of the whites, in
this immediate locality and adjacent vicinity. Although
the early settlers built a garrison or block-house to which
they could repair for the night as a place of security when
danger was apprehended, yet they were never assaulted by
the Indians, nor is it known that any attack or molesta
tion of the new settlers was ever contemplated by thera.
The block-house was erected in the southerly part of
the town near Stony Brook, and about 80 rods distant
from the dwelling-house of E , F. Brigham. Specimens
of antique relics of the aborigines have frequently been
discovered and picked up, such as arrows, stone chisels,
gouges, etc., clearly manifesting the native genius of these
sons of the forest.
The circumstances which ultimately led to the origin
and formation of this town, were substantially as follows :
The inhabitants of Boylston having determined to build a
new meeting-house, the necessity and expediency of which
was generally conceded, a difficulty arose in regard to its

location, the majority choosing to erect it near the old
house, while the minority, mostly from the west part of the
town, strenuously insisted that it should be erected half a
mile northwest of the old house. The majority resolutely
persisted in their choice and determination, relative to the
location of the new house, while the minority were equal
ly decided and unyielding in regard to their choice and pre
ference. It having become apparent that no compromise
or mutual adjustment of the difficulty could be effected, the
minority seceded, and being joined by several inhabitants
from the adjoining towns of Sterling and" Holden, formed
themselves into a a society and proceeded to build a meet
ing-house for their accommodation and convenience, locat
ing it in the westerly part of Boylston, about three miles
distant from the locality where the majority portion of the
inhabitants erected their new meeting-house. Had there
been at the commencement and during the progress of this
controversy, more calm, deliberate consideration of the
subject, and more pacific conciliatory feelings manifested,
the disruption and division of the town might have been
avoided and harmony preserved.
. The new society having completed their place of wor
ship, it was solemnly dedicated by appropriate religious
services, January 1, 1795. After the dedication of the
meeting-house, a petition for an act of incorporation as a
town'was sent to the General Court, signed by ninety in
habitants of the towns of Boylston, Sterling and Holden.
The petition had a hearing in 1796, but being strenuously
opposed by the representatives from each of the towns
where the petitioners resided, they only obtained leave to
withdraw their petition, when they immediately sent anoth
er petition, asking to be incorporated as the second precinct
of Boylston, Sterling, and Holden. This petition was
also earnestly opposed, but in June, 1796, an act was
passed in accordance with the prayer of the petitioners,
and soon after a legal meeting of the inhabitants of the
precinct was called, when an organization was effected by
the choice of precinct officers, etc., as was provided for by
the act of incorporation. In less than twelve years after
the legal organization of this precinct or parish, it became
a town by an act of the General Court, agreeably to a pe-

8 ¦
tition of its inhabitants, taking the name of West Boylr
ston. The incorporating act is dated January 30, 1808.
The largest part of this town was taken from Boylston,
the other portions thereof from the towns of Sterling and
Holden. That which was taken from Boylston, originally
belonged to Shrewsbury, that from Sterling once belonged
to Lancaster, that from Holden was formerly included in
the township of Worcester.
At the time of the incorporation of West Boylston, it
contained 98 dwelling-houses, and about the same number
of "families, with a little less than 600 inhabitants. The
number of legal voters in the town at the first election of
State officers, which occurred on the first Monday in
April, 1808, was 105. The number of ratable polls was
less than 160 but exceeded 150, which was the number
then required to entitle the town to a representative to the
Legislature. The whole number of votes cast at the first
election held in this town in April, 1808, for governor,
was 85, of which 66 were for Christopher Gore, 18 for
James Sullivan, and 1 for Levi Lincoln. At the first
election held in this town for the choice of a representa
tive to the General Court, on the first Monday in May,
1808, Ezra Beaman, Esq. was chosen without opposition.
He was afterwards annually elected until his decease, hav
ing been chosen four successive times by his fellOw towns
men to that responsible station.
In 1808, this town contained 60 farmers, some 10 or 12
mechanics, 1 clergyman, no physician, several laborers of
various occupations, and but 1 person of foreign birth.
There was 1 cotton mill, 2 grist mills, 2 saw mills, 1
clothier's mill, 1 tannery, 4 blacksmith shops, 1 cabinet
maker's shop, and 2 book binderies. There were also 3
merchants occupying as many stores, and 1 tavern, hav
ing been kept by Major. Beaman for more than half a
century. Of the 105 legal voters at the April election for State
officers in this town in 1808, 94 have since deceased, and
11 yet survive ; of those who have deceased, 79 have died
in this town, and 15 elsewhere ; of those who yet survive,
3 reside in this town, and 6 elsewhere. Of the 105 vot
ers, 97 were at the head of families, while 8 were either

9
connected and associated with families, or in the eirploy
of some of the inhabitants.
The following are the naraes of the legal voters at the
first elections for town and State officers, held in West
Boylston, in March and April, 1808 :
Ezra Beaman, Jabez Beaman, Ezra Beaman, Jr., Silas
Beaman, Abel Bigelow, Levi Bigelow, Stephen Bigelow,
Dennis Bigelow, Stephen Brigham, Edmund Brigham, Jo
siah P. Brown, Zachariah Child, Amos Child, Barnabas
Davis, Elias Davis, Reuben Dinsmore, Silas Dinsmpre,
Joseph Dwelley, William Earaes, Levi Eames, Williarh,
Eames,J"r., Samuel Estabrook, Jabez Fairbank, Lemuel
Fairbank, Seth Fairbank, William Fairbank, Alpheus
Fairbank, Jabez Fairbank, Jr., Davis Fairbank, Barak B.
Fairbank, Amos Fairbank, John Fisher, Oliver Gale, Ol
iver Glazier, Jason Glazier, Moses Goodale, Aaron Good
ale, Paul Goodale, Peter Goodale, Aaron Goodale, Jr.,
Abel Goodale, Levi Goodale, Jason Goodale, Elijah Good-
enow, Ephraim Hadly, David Harthan, Jacob Hinds, Jo
seph Hinds, Abel Holt, Abiel Holt, James Holt, Jonas
Holt, Alvan Howe, Hiram Howe, Timothy Johnson, Reu
ben Keyes, Thomas Keyes, Jr., Levi Kilburn, Asa Lovell,
Amos Lovell, Amos Lovell, Jr.-, Samuel Mason, Daniel
Mason, Ezra May, Calvin Maynard, Asaph Merrifield,
Louis Merrifield, Israel Moore, Joel Moore, Asa Moore,
Joseph Morse, Sylvanus Morse, Artemas Murdock, Joshua,
Murdock, William Nash, Silas Newton, Ebenezer Paine,
Moses Perry, Joseph Perry, Oliver Peirce, Levi Peirce,
Hollis Peirce, James Peirce, Jacob Peirce, Jonathan Plimp
ton, Jonathan Plimpton, Jr., Brigham Prescott, John
Prescott, John Reed, Thaddeus Shattuck, Walter Shat-i
tuck, Isaac Smith, John Smith, Simon Stone, John Temple,
Isaac Temple, William Thomas, Robert B. Thomas,
Aaron Thomas, Peter White, Joseph Whittaker, Reuben
Wilder, Ebenezer Willington, John Winn, William Winn.
At the time of the incorporation and organization of
this town in 1 808, there were nine persons who were each
at the head of families but were not legal voters in conse
quence of thdir not possessing the specific qualifications
required by the Stale Constitution to entitle them to the

10
elective franchise. The names of these persons were
Abiel Boynton, Benjamin Carroll, John Dinsmore, Simeon
Farr, Thomas Hatherly, Benjamin Keyes, Jeremiah
Morse, Daniel Prouty, and Nathan Wilder. Of these,
seven died in this town and two in distant parts of the
country. At the first town election in West Boylston, held on
the first Monday in March, 1808, the following town offic
ers were chosen, viz : Silas Beaman, Moderator ; Robert
B. Thomas, Town Clerk; Ezra Beaman, Jonathan Plimp
ton, William Fairbank, Silas Beaman, and Amos Lovell,
Selectmen ; Robert B. Thomas, Silas Newton, and Moses
Perry, Assessor* ; Ezra Beaman, Esq., Treasurev; Silas
Beaman, Constable.

GENEALOGICAL SKETCH
Of those individuals who were householders and legal vot'
ers in West Boylston, in 1808, the time qf the organ
ization of the town, and others who were resid
ents and also legal voters but had no respon
sible connection with any' of the fami
lies of the town,
Abketiations. — Ch. for children, dau. daughter, s. son, m. married, h.
born, d. died.
Beaman, Ezra, Esq., more generally known as Major
Beaman, was the eldest son of Jabez Beaman, was born in
Bolton, October, 1736. Jabez Beaman having purchased
a large tract of land in this town, then beilonging to
Shrewsbury, situated on each side of the Nashua River,
removed hero with his family in 1746.
At the death of Jabez Beaman, which occurred in 1757,
Ezra, his eldest son became proprietor of the homestead,
where he ever afterwards resided until his decease, which
took place June 4, 1811, in the 75th year of his age. In
1768, he m. Tersis, dau. of Dea. Cyprian Keyes, of Boyl
ston, with whom he lived about 30 years ; .she d. in 1788,
aged 49 years. Their ch. were Jabez, Ezra, Levinah,
Persis, Betsey, and Eunice. He was again m. to Mary

11
Boylston of Charlestown, who survived him and d. June 6,
1813, aged 62 years.
Major Beaman was endowed by nature with a strong
mind, possessing a remarkable spirit of enterprise, togeth
er with great energy and resolution, which enabled him to
devise and execute various schemes and plans, not only for
his own emolument and prosperity, but also for the inter
est and advantage of the community around him. His de
signs seldom failed to result auspiciously and in accord
ance with his desires and anticipations. Major Beaman
possessed and held a large amount of real and personal
estate, thereby constituting him the wealthiest man who
has ever been an inhabitant of this . town. Although it
may in truth be~ said that West Boylston eventually be
came a town almost wholly in consequence of his great
exertions and untiring efforts, and that he laid the founda
tion for its future growth and prosperity, and, although he
did more to promote the general interest thereof, than all
others associated with him, yet very little, if anything, of ad
equate importance has been done, (aside from a common
tombstone erected at his grave,) either by individual citi
zens or the town as a testimony of his extensive usefulness
and great worth as a citizen and public benefactor, or for the
perpetuation of his memory as one of the most distinguish
ed and influential inhabitants of the town and community
in which he resided. At his decease his remains were in
terred in the family burying ground, devoted to that use
more than fifty years previous, by his father, Jabez Bea
man, whose remains were also deposited there. This con
secrated spot is situated half a mile east of the old Bea
man mansion, near the public road leading to Boylston,
and is enclosed by a stone wall built in a neat and sub
stantial manner. Mayor Beaman was not only an active,
leading man in the immediate vicinity where he resided,
but sustained a prominency and wielded an extensive and
controling influence in the community at large. When
ever a project of a public nature having the benefit of the
community as its object was originated and brought up
for consideration, he was at once consulted as to its impor
tance and practicability, when his judgment and expressed
opinion generally had the effect to cause the adoption and

12
consumation of the scheme, or its rejection and final aban
donment, thus clearly demonstrating and unmistakably
¦Inanifesting -the high estimation in which he was held by
the leading and prominent portion of his fellow citizens,
on account of his sound judgraent and practical wisdom.
It is a fact, that in justice to him ought to be recorded,
that several of the public roads in this vicinity were pro- "
jected by him, and although encountering severe and de
termined opposition, yet through his unyielding and per
severing, efforts they were eventually established, and
became highly useful and beneficial.
Major Beaman was a patriot, a firm and ardent friend
of his country, being one of the active and unflinching
spirits of the American revolution. He early took a de
cided stand against tyranny and oppression, taking up
arms in favor of the rights of his country, himself march
ing to the battle field to resist the encroachments of the
enemy. He was with the American army at Cambridge
in 1775, and performed a conspicuous part during that
memorable period. He was ever ready to render aid and
assistance in any emergency, not only by his influence, but
when circumstances required, he promptly devoted his,
time, his property, and his personal exertions, for the pur
pose of sustaining and pushing forward the severe and
arduous struggle for American Independence then in prog
ress; Thus it would seem that he was one with many
others who had virtually pledged their lives, their proper
ty, and their sacred honors in favor of obtaining and se
curing liberty, justice, and equal rights to themselves and
their posterity. He was a member of the Congregational
Church in West Boylston, and contributed liberally for the
support of the ordinances of religion.
Beamak, Jabez, eldest s. of Ezra Beaman, Esq., b. in
17G4, and d. in 1812, being 47 years of age. He m.
Mary, dau. of Jonathan Bond of Boylston, who d. soon
after their raarriage. He resided on the homestead dur-
,ing the whole period of his life, assisting his father in the
various departments of business, connected with his ex
tensive farming operations, etc.
Be.\m;an, Ezea, Jr., youngest s. of Ezra Beaman, Esq.,
was b. December 27, 1770. After the decease of his fa-

13
ther which occurred in 1811, he became the proprietor of
the homestead, and still continues to be the owner and
occupant thereof, being now 87 years of age. It is a re
markable incident andof rare occurrence, that this ancient
establishment, has now been held and occupied by father
and son, each bearing the same name, during a period of
more than 100 years. Mr. Beaman is the proprietor and
holder of a large amount of real estate, being so located
and its soil and scenery being such, as to render it ex
tremely valuable. He has ever cherished a filial respect
for his honored father, and yet speaks of him with that
deference and regard which true greatness and other valu
able traits of character he possessed, justly deserve from
his immediate descendants and others who were conver
sant with him. This ancient and time honored establish
ment still presents in many respects the same general ap
pearance as when Major Beaman left it, nearly ^50 years ago.
Beaman, SirAS, Esq., s. of Ephraim ahd 'graindson of
Jabez Beaman, was b. in 1765 and d. in 1811, being 46
years of age. He ra. Persis, dau. of Rev. Asaph Rice of
Westminster, and resided with his parents. At the de
cease of his father which occurred in 1805, he becamethe
legal proprietor of the homestead, continuing his residence
thereon until his own decease. His wife survived him,
and d. in 1815, aged 46 years.
Mr. Beaman was a large athletic, man, more than 6 feet
in height, and when in the vigor and maturity of life,
weighed more than 300 pounds. He had the, advantage
of a good education together with superior native talents
which qualified him to act in the various departments of
life advantageously to himself and beneficially to the com
munity. He was distinguished and highly esteemed as a
school teacher, being eminerltly qualified therefor. So far
as literary attainments were necessary he was well fitted
for that department, possessing a thorough knowledge of
the. rudiments of education. . He also possessed the very
important faculty of governing a school without resorting
to harsh or severe measures, his word or command a,l-
ways had a controlling influence, causing immediate sub
mission to his wishes and requirements. He commenced

14
.school teaching when 16 years of age, and was thus emr
ployed during the winter seasons for twenty-five years,
always succeeding to the general satisfaction of his schol
ars and employers. Mr. Beaman's residence was; three-
fourths of a mile east of Major Beaman's place, on the
road to Boylston. It is now the residence of Charles H.
Baldwin. Bigelow, Abex, s. of Dea. Amariah Bigelow, b. in
1755, and married Martha, dau. of Capt. Joseph Bigelow,
in 1778. They had seven ch., six of them living to ma
ture age. He d. in 1821, being 66 years of age. His -wife
survived him, and died in 1848, at the age of 95 years.
Mr. Bigelow was a farmer, and for many years managed an
extensive farm with profit and success. ' His residence was
situated half, a mile south ofthe Common between the
roads leading to Worcester and Boylston.
BiGEj-ovy, Levi, s. of Dea. Amariah Bigelow, b. in
1765, and d. in 1833, being 68 years of age. After he
had passed the period of his ininority, in consequence of
a severe sickness, he was frequently subjected to a state
of mental derangement, thereby causing much trouble to
•his friends and the comraunity. During the latter portion
of his life he resided with John Temple of this town, as a
constant and faithful laborer, and having become free from
paroxisms of mental aberation, he finished out his life a
quiet and useful citizen.
BiGEiow, Stephen, only s. of Capt. Joseph Bigelow,
b. in 1760, and d. in 1839, being 79 years of age. He
m. Rachel,' dau. of William Pike pi Framingham, who
survived him, and d. in 1855, being 87 years of age.
They had 6 ch. who all lived to mature age. He was a
farmer, resided half a mile west of the -Common, on the
road leading from the West Boylston Railroad Station, to
the south end of Maiden Hill. His only son, Joseph Big
elow, now resides on the same premises, being the legal
proprietor thereof.
BiGEXOW, DeniTis, eldest s. of Abel Bigelow, b. in
1779, and d. in 1851, aged 72 years. He m. Cynthia
Fletcher from Lancaster, who is yet living. After the de
cease of his father, he resided with his mother, occupying
that portion of the homestead which she received as a

15
dowry, together with what he received as his share of his
father's estate. He had two ch. who survived him.
Brigham, Stephen, was born in 1740, or near that
time, and d. in 1S12. He was m. early in life, had sev
eral ch., and resided two miles south of the Common in
this town. He was the proprietor and occupant of a large
farm, and although not one of the wealthiest citizens, yet
independent and free from pecuniary embarrassment. He
came from Westboro' in the early part of his life and set
tled in this town, where he resided until his death.
Brigham, Edmund, s. of Stephen Brigham, b. in 1769,
and d. in 1841, being 71 years of age. He m. Mary, dau.
of Nathaniel Brooks of Worcester, and had several ch.
She d. in the meridian of life. He afterward m. the wid
ow of Jonathan Plimpton, Jr., who survived him and d.
in 1857. Mr. Brigham settled on the homestead with his
father at whose decease he became the legal .proprietor of
the premises and continued the occupancy thereof for sev
eral years, when he sold out and relinquished the business
of farming, in which he had been engaged from his earli
est years.
Brown, Josiah P., was a native of Sterling, and re
moved to this town with his family in 1802, becoming a.
resident, and occupant of a farm , in the north part of the
town then owned by Major Beaman, but now in the pos
session of Lucius Newton. He continued his residence
on this farm for fifteen years, when he left it and relin
quished the business of farming, and d. by an act of sui
cide in 1830, being about 50 years of age. His wife
survived him and has lately deceased.
Chiid, Zachariah, b. in 1763, was the eldest s. of
David Child of this town. In 1784, he m. Lydia, dau. of
David Bigelow of Worcester, and settled on a small farm
situated in the south part of the town, adjoining the resi
dence of his father. Here he resided until his decease,
which occurred in 1845, at the age of 81 years. They
had a large family of ch., several of whom are yet living.
His wife survived him, and d. in 1849,^1 the age of 85
years. He was a soldier of the Revolution and received
a pension for several years.

16
Child, Amos, s. of David Child, b. in 1765, m. Dorcas
Davenport of Boylston, and resided awhile with his pa
rents, but in consequence of some difficulty arising be-
tween^himself and his brother, Zachariah, he left the -heme-
stead and purchased a farm in the northwest part of the
town, which he occupied several years, when he gave up
farming and became a merchant, occupying a store now
used as a dwelling house, and situated a short distance
from the brick meeting-house in this town. Here he. re
mained until his decease, which occurred in 1839, being
74 years of age. His wife d. in 1822, being 56 years of
age. They had several ch., but one o'f whom is now liv
ing. In 1823, he m. Nancy Rice of this town, who is
yet living.
Davis, Barnabas, Esq., s. of Dea. David Davis of
Paxton, b. in 1778, m. Mercy Bellows, settled in this
town in 1802, or about that time, and established himself
in the business of tanning and currying leather on the
premises previously occupied for the same purpose by his
brother, Simon Davis. He continued his residence here
until 1851, when he removed to Paxton, his native town,
where he and his wife soon after d., being more than 70
years of age. They had four ch. two of whom are de
ceased. Mr. Davis sustained an unblemished character,
was a quiet, peaceable citizen, enjoying the respect and
confidence of his fellow townsmen, by whom he was fre
quently promoted to stations of trust and responsibility.
He was six successive years elected to represent the town
in the State Legislature, performing the duties of that re
sponsible station to the entire satisfaction of his constit
uents. Davis, Elias, a younger brother of Barnabas Davis, b.
in 1784, came here and was employed as an assistant in
the store of his brother, Simon Davis, several years. He
afterwards erected a store in connection with a dwelling-
house and vvent into trade for himself, but eventually dis
posed of his business and went to Keene, N. H., where
he remained a few years and then returned to this town
where he has since resided. In 1805, he m. Mary Bige
low of this town, with whom he lived in the marriage
relation more than fifty years. Her death 'occurred in

17
1857, at the age of 72 years. They had three ch., ont
son and two daughters, the son died in early life, the
daughters are yet living.
Dinsmore, Reuben, s. of John Dinsmore, b. in 1771,
and died in 1821, in the 50th year of his age. He m.
Polly, dau. of Paul Goodale, in 1800, who survived him
and died in 1856, being 80 years of age. They had sev
eral ch., the most of whom are yet living. He was a
farmer and first occupied the farm now in the possession
of Benjamin Lee, in the west part of the town. He af
terwards resided on the farm now in the possession of
Stephen Hemenway, in the north part of the town, and
finally removed to Princeton, where he died.
Dinsmore, Silas, s. of John Dinsmore, b. in 1779,
and d. in 1824, being 46 years of age. In 1802, he m.
Polly, dau. of Amos Lovell of this town, who survived
him and died in 1842, aged 65 years. They had a large
family of ch., six of whom are yet living. He was a
cooper, and worked at that business vluring the earlier
part of his life. Subsequently he worked in a saw mill,
an occupation for which he was peculiarly qualified. He
resided in the house now owned and occupied by Eli W.
Holbrook, near the central bridge in this town.
Dwelley, Joseph, was b. in 1765 and resided in Wor
cester in the earlier part of his life, where he m. Mary
Stearns in 1791. He afterwards purchased a farm in thii
town, now the residence of James Fiske, on which he set
tled and resided about 40 years, when he scdd his farm
and removed to Oakham, where he d. in 1840, aged 76
years. He enlisted into the army of the Revolution when
15 years of age, and faithfully served his country as a
soldier during the last three years of that war, when he
was honorably discharged and returned heme. He en
dured trials and hardships while connected' with the array,
was at the surrender of CornwaUis, and participated in,
other scenes of momentous interest and importance. His
only ch., Joseph Dwelley, now resides in Oakham.
Eames, William, was the proprietor and occupant of
a large and valuable farm, situated at the extreme south
part of this town, contiguous to Worcester and Shrews-
2*

18
bury, on which he settled in the earlier part of life, and
where he resided until his decease in 1814, at the age of
65 years. His wife d. several years previous. They had
several ch., some of whom are yet living. This farm was
lately in the possession of Asa Rice, being the place of
his residence at the time of his death.
Eames, Levi, s. of William Eames resided with his
father until his decease, when he took possession of the
premises, and there continued as the occupant in connec
tion with a younger brother for several years, when he
left the homestead and wept to Worcester where he now
resides. In 1809, he m. Hephzibah Winter, who d. in
1816, aged 38 years. He afterward ra. a dau. of Luther
Rice of Worcester, who has also deceased.
Eames, William, Jr., s. of William- Eames, m. a dau.
of Luther Rice of Worcester in 1808, and resided on the
homestead in connection with his elder brother for several
years, when he removed to Worcester, where he d.' in
mature life leaving a family.
Estabrook, Sa.muel, s. of Samuel Estabrook, b; in
1747 and d. in 1816, aged 69 years. He m. Sarah Mar
shall of Holden, who survived him and d. in 1820, at the
age of 77 years. He was a carpenter, and resided on a
farm of which he was the proprietor, situated in the south
west part of this town, being now in the possession of
John Phelps.
Faibbank, Jabez, eldest s. of Jonathan Fairbank, one
of the early settlers of this town, b. in 1738 and d. in
1822, aged 84 years. He was m. in 1760 or about that
time to Miriam Davis, and had a large family of children.
His wife d. in the meridian of life much lamented. He
afterward m. Persis Bouker of Petersham, who survived
him and d. in ,183 3, aged 89 years. He resided in the
north part of the town on the farm now in the possession
• of his grandson, Uriah Fairbank.
Fairbank, Lemuel, s. of Jonathan Fairbank, b. in
1751. and d. in 1819, aged 68 years. He m. Phebe, dau.
of Jacob Winn, one of the early settlers of this town,
who survived him and d. in 1824, aged 73 years. They
had several ch., two of whom are yet living. He was a

19
farmer, and resided in the north part of the town, his resi
dence being situated on the hill road leading to Sterling,
and lately in the possession of John H. Stratton.
Fairbank, Seth, s. of Jonathan Fairbank, b. in 1755
nnd d. in 1833, aged 78 years. He m. Relief, dau. of
Amos Sawyer, in 1777, and settled on a farm in the north
part of the town, near the residence of his elder brother,
Jabez Fairbank. They had ten ch., five sons and five
daughters, all of whom survived their parents. His wife
d. in 1839, being 80 years of age. They resided through
life where they settled at the time of their marriage.
Fairb.\.sk, William, youngest s. of Jonathan Fair-
bank, b. in 1758 and d. in 1840, aged 81 years. He m.
Keziah Houghton of Sterling, and had several ch., some
of whom are yet living. His wife d. in 181 1, and in 1812
he m. Persis Sawyer of Boylston, who survived him and
died in 1851, aged 78 years. He was a farmer, and occu
pied a farm now in the possession of Silas P. Bruce, in
the north part of the town. He was a man of ability and
prominence, being often chosen to offices of trust and re
sponsibility by his fellow citizens. He was a soldier of the
Revolution, and received a pension the latter part of his
!life.' Fairbank, Alpheus, eldest s. of Jabez Fairbank, b.
in 1766 and d. in 1832, aged 66 years. He m. Polly Wil-
lardof Sterling, who survived him and d. in 1836. They
had several ch. who survived them, some of whom have
since deceased. He became the propriptor of a farm situ
ated in the northwest part of the town, now in the posses
sion of Solon F. Brown, on which he resided to the close
of his life.
Fairbank, Jabez, Jr., s. of Jabez Fairbank, b. in 1773
and d. in 1843, aged 70 years. He m. Hannah Eager of
Sterling, who survived him and died in 1847. They had
several ch., four of whora are yet living. He resided
¦vvith his father on the homestead where he continued un
til the close of life, when the premises becarae ths pos
session of his son, Uriah Fairbank.
Fairbank, Davis, youngest s. of Jabez Fairbank, b.
in 1777 and d. in 1857, aged 80 years. In 1801, he m.

20
Rebecca Fairbank of this town, who d. in 1803, He af
terwards m. widow Sally Holt of this town, who d. in
1852. He occupied during the earlier portion of his life
the premises originally held and occupied by his grand
father, Jonathan Fairbank, and now in the possession of
Francis Johnson, situated in the north part of the town,
He had but one child who survived him.
Fairbank, Barak B., s. of Lemuel Fairbank, b. in
1779 and d. in 1824, aged 45 years. In 1803, he m. Sal
ly, dau. of Amos Lovell of this town, and settled in the
north part of the town near the residence of his father, on
the old road leading to Sterling, where they continued to
reside until their decease. His wife survived hira and d.
in 1 847, aged 67 years. They had several -ch., the most
of whom are now living. He vvas a carpenter, and work
ed at that business the most of his time during the last
years of his life.
Fairbank, Amos, eldest s. of Seth Fairbank, b. in
1779 and is yet living. In 1813, he m. Lucy Houghton,
who d. in 1841, being about 60 years of age. He has re
sided in this town most of the time during his life, work
ing as a common laborer.
Fisher, John, removed with his family to this town
in 1806 and resided in the south part of the town, occu
pying the farm, since the possession of Cicero Hinds, and
now the] residence of Dana Newton. After a few years'
residence he sold out and removed from this town and has
since deceased.
Gale, Oliver, s. of Jonas Gale, one of the early set
tlers of this town, b. in 1771 and died in 1824, aged 53
years. He m. Esther, dau. of Ebenezer Willington of
Worcester, who survived him and d. at an advanced age,
having been four times legally connected in the marriage
relation. He was a farmer and settled on the farm now
in possession of the town, and occupied as a pauper es
tablishment, where he resided several years, when he sold
out and purchased a small situation near the,centre of the
town where he resided until his decease. This location
now belongs to N. H. Goodale.
Glazier, Oliver, s. of John Glazier of Boylston, b.
in 1768 and d. in 1855, aged 92 years. He was m. in

21
1785 to Rachel, eldest dau. of Stephen Hastings of Boyl
ston, who d. in 1841, at an advanced age. They had ten
ch., nearly all of whom survived their parents. He pur
chased a plot of land in this town in 1796, on which, he
erected a dwelling-house, which was the place of his resi
dence until after the decease of his wife, when he v/ent to
Northborough and resided with his eldest daughter until
his decease. He was a carpenter, and worked at that
business the most of his time.
Glazier, Jason, youngest s. of John Glazier, b. in
1767 and is now living, being 90 years of age. He early
in life m. Sarah, daughter of John Dinsmore of this town,
and lived in the marriage state about 30 years, when she
d. in the meridian of life, leaving several ch. He after
ward, m. Polly Gerry of Sterling, who is now living. He
resided many years on the premises now in the possession
of George Dana, situated in the north part of this town.
GooDALS, Moses, was b. in 1739 and d. in 1815, aged 75
years. He was the eldest s. of Edward Goodale, one of the
early settlers of this town. In 1797, he m. Silence Good-
enow of Boylston, who survived him and d. in 1836, being
about 80 years of age. The place where he resided dur
ing the last part of his life and at the time of his decease,
is situated 40 rods southwest of the railroad station in
this town, and now the residence of William Bolton. Ho
possessed mental capacities above mediocrity while he was
much accustomed to freaks of whimsical fancy and humor
ous caprice which could hardly fail to excite the merri
ment of the most serious observer. His decease was sud
den and unexpected at the time of its occurrence.
Goodale, Aaron, second s. of Edward Goodale, b. in
1743 and d. in 1817, aged 74 years. In 1767, he m.
Eunice, dau. of William Marshall of Holden, who surviv
ed him and died in 1832, aged 84 years. They had eleven
ch., five s. and six dau., each of them living to mature age
and all eventually becoming connected in the marriage
relation. The youngest of this faraily is now the only
surviver, being 68 years of age. Mr. Goodale was a farm
er occupying a farm half a mile west of the Common, now
in the possession of his grandson, Charles Goodale. On

this farm he settled in early life and there resided until
his decease.
Goodale, Paul, third s. of Edward Goodale, b. in 1747
and d. in 1828, aged 81 years. He m. Eunice, dau. of
Jonathan Lovell, one of the early settlers of this town.
She d. in 1824, aged 77 years. They had nine ch., four s.
and five dau., all of whom have deceased. In 1825, he m.
widow Betty Lovell of this town, who survived him and
d. in 1837, aged 84 years. Mr. Goodale was an enter
prising, successful farmer, occupying an extensive and
valuable farm on which he resided nearly 60 years. He
accumulated a large estate, being one of the wealthiest
citizens of the town. He was possessed of ability and
talents which qualified him for extensive influence and
usefulness. He was frequently chosen by the citizens of
the town to fill important stations of trust and responsi
bility, discharging the duties thereof with fidelity and to
the acceptance of the town.
Goodale, Peter, youngest s. of Edward Goodale, b.
in 1752 and d. in 1834, aged 82 years. In 1775, he m.
Abigail, dau. of Benjamin Hinds, who d. in 1809, aged
58 years. They had six ch., only one of whom is now living.
He was again m. in 1809, to widow Rachel Flagg of
this town, who d. in 1828, aged 63 years. He first set
tled in Gardner, where he resided 15 years, when he re
moved to this town in 1793, and settled on the homestead
then in'the possession of his mother, where he resided un
til his decease.
Goodale, Aaron, Jr., s. of Aaron Goodale, b. in 1779
and d. in 1840, aged 61 years. In 1805,' he m. Mehita-
ble Blake of Holden, who is yet living. They had six ch.,
two of whom are now living. He settled on the farm
originally occupied by Ebenezer Frizzol, afterwards by
David "Winch and now in the possession of his youngest
son, Aaron Goodale, being situated half a mile west of
the Common on the south Maiden Hill road leading to
Holden. GooD.iLE, Abel, Dea., s. of Aaron Goodale, b. in 1785
and d. in 1853, aged 68 years. In early life he m. Grace
Merrifield, who d. in 1819, aged 34 years. They had five

23
ch., two of whom are now living. He was again m. in
1821 to widow Mehitable Hubbard of Holden, who is
yet living. They had two ch., one of whom is also living.
He was for nearly 30 years of the latter portion of his
life the proprietor and occupant of the farm originally the
residence of his grandfather, Edward Goodale, and now
in the possession of his son, Gardner E. Goodale. Dea.
Goodale was a valuable citizen, a firm, substantial man,
ardent in feeling, discriminating in judgment, decided in
action, never vacillant or equivocal in his course. He
would thoroughly investigate a subject or proposition and
decide upon a proper course of action relative thereto,
then proceed to act with promptness and energy, never
turning aside or compromising in the least with opposi
tion or antagonism. Thus always exhibiting a consisten
cy of character and conduct, he won the respect and con
fidence of those with whom he associated and acted in the
vaiious departments of life. He was irreconcilably hos
tile to secret associations whDtever might be their charac
ter or design, believing them to be anti-republican and of
dangerous tendency.
Goodale, Levi, s. of Paul Goodale, b. in 1783 and d.
in 1854, aged 71 years. In early life he ra. Abigail Cros
by of Holden, who d. in 1810, being 27 years of age. He
was again m. in 1811 to Eunice H. Brimhall of Oakham
who d. in 1826, aged 38 years. In 1827, he m. Orinda
Cleveland of Medfield, who d. in 1845, being 59 years of
age. He was again m. to Sarah Ann Nelson of Medfield,
who is now living. He had several ch., the most of
whom are also living. He was a farmer and resided on
the homestead until the last years of his life, when he
changed his residence and became the occupant of the
premises now in the possession of Winthrop Sno^v, situ
ated 80 rods southeast of the railroad station in this town.
Goodale, Jason, s. of Peter Goodale, b. in -1780 and
d. in 1852, aged 72 years. In 1807, he m. Hannah, dau.
of Dea. Asa Lovell, who died in 1812, aged 31 years. He
afterward m. Sarah Raymond of Ashby, who is yet living.
He was a farmer and resided in Winchendon the latter
part of his life. Several of his ch, are now living.

24
GooDENow, Elij.\ii, cldcst s. of Jonas Goodenow of
Boylston, b. in 1768 and d. suddenly in 1821, aged 63
years. He m. Eunice, dau. of Micah Harthan, who sur
vived him and d. in 1828, aged 56 years. They had ten
ch., only three of whom are now Hving. He resided with
his father-in-law, assisting him in the managing of his
farm and other raatters. In 1804, he erected a distillery
which was used several years for manufacturing gin and
cider brandy. These premises are situated near the Bap
tist meeting-house, and are now in the possession of
George Holmes, a s. of the late Thomas Holmes of this
town. Hadly, Ephraim, was b. in Sterling, came to this
town and m. Prudence, dau. of John Dinsmore, in 1799.
He d. in 1814, being nearly 40 years of age, and after his
decease, she m. Jonathan Nichols of Holden, and d. in
1856. Mr. Hadly was a cooper, and when not engaged
in that business, labored where he could find employment.
He resided in this town some 15 or 20 years.
Harthan, David, eldest s. of Micah Harthan, b. in
1764 and d. in 1823, aged 59 years. He m. Prudence,
dau. of Jacob Winn, and had six ch., only two of whom
are now living. She survived him and d. in 1840, aged
76 years. He d. suddenly and alone, in consequence of a
fall. He was a miller, having attended a grist mill from
his boyhood until his decease. He was the proprietor of
the well known and far famed Harthan Mills in this town.
His dwelling place was situated about 50 rods north of
the railroad station in this town.
Hinds, Jacob, s. of Benjamin Hinds, b. in 1767 and d.
in 1852, aged 85 years. He m. Elizabeth, dau. of Jona
than Fawcett of Boylston, who survived him and d. in
1866, aged 82 years. They had 'four ch., three of whom
have deceased. He settled on the homestead where ho
resided the earlier portion of his life, but eventually left
the place of his nativity and resided with his son in the
south part of the town until his decease. He was a farm-
cv and much in the habit of originating new schemes and
projects of a philosophical and scientific character, sacri

25
ficing rauch time and expense in putting them intq opera
tion for the purpose of trial and experiment.
Hinds, Joseph, Esq., s. of Benjamin Hinds, b. in 1773
and d. in 1835, aged 62 years. In 1798, he m. Rebecca
Sawyer of Sterling, who is now living, being 82 years of
age. They had seven ch., four of whom are now, living.
He was a bookbinder and a farmer, successfully pursuing
and managing two kinds of business at the same time.
He was a prominent, useful citizen of the town, being fre
quently chosen by the inhabitants to fill offices of trust
and responsibility, and several times represented the town
in the State Legislature. His residence was 70 rods
south of the Common.
Holt, Abel, s. of Barzilia Holt of Boylston, b. in 1743
and d. in 1816, aged 72 years. He m. Eunice, dau. of
Henry Keyes of Boylston, who survived him and d. in
1840, aged 95 years. They had six s. and two dau., two
of whom are now living. He was a farmer, and resided
one mile south of the Common, on the premises now in
the possession of Cyrus L. Knight.
Holt, Abiel, a younger brother of Abel Holt, was ra. in
in the early part of life and had several ch., some of whom
are now living. His wife d. in 1819, aged 50 years. He
survived his wife and d. in 1845. He occupied the farm
during the former part of his life time, now in the posses
sion of Brigham Prescott, situated in the north part of the
town, on the old road lead to Sterling.
Holt, James, was a s. of Barzilia Holt, Jr., of Boyl
ston. He d. in 1855, being about 84 years of age. In
1800, m. Eunice, dau. of Dea. Asa Lovell, who d. in 1821,,
by an act of suicide in consequence of mental derange
ment. They had several ch., some of whom are yet
living. He resided in the west part of the town about
20 years of the earlier part of his life, being the proprie
tor and occupant of a small farm.
Holt, Jonas, s. of Abel Holt, b. in 1779 and d. in
1853, aged 73 years. In 1802, he m. Anne Wran, who
d. in 1845, aged 65 years. They had several ch., four
of whom are now living. He was a carpenter, and resid
ed half a mile south of the Common on the old road lead-
3

2G
ing to Worcester. The premises are now in the posses
sion of his son. Ward E. Holt.
Howe, Alvan, in the earlier part of life was a resident-
of Shrewsbury. He m. Mary Willington, had a large
family of ch., removed to this town perhaps in 1802 or
about that time. He resided in the north part of the
town on the premises now in the possession of the West
Boylston Manufacturing Company. For several years he
was the occupant of a grist mill then standing near the
location of the brick factory now occupied by the afore
said Corapany. He d. in 1820, aged 66 years. His wife
survived him a few years and also died.
Howe, Hiram, s. of Nathan Howe of Shrewsbury, b.
in 1775 and d. in 1829, aged 64 years. He m. Olive,
dau. of Micah Harthan, who survived him and d. in 1852,
aged 78 years. They had several ch., five of whom are
now living. He was the proprietor of a farm in the north
part of the town on the old road leading to Sterling, where
he resided at the time of his decease. Since that time the
house has been burned, and the farm divided and sold to
different individuals and is no longer a family residence.
Johnson, Timothy, with his family removed from
Sutton to this town in 1805, having purchased the black
smith shop then situated near where the factory belonging
to Eli W. Holbrook now stands. Here he pursued the
business of manufacturing and vending scythes for a few
years, having built a dwelling-house for his convenience
and accommodation, when he sold his establishment to Ja
cob and Ezekiel Peirce and removed back to Sutton where
he afterward died.
Keyes, Reuben, eldest s. of Simeon Keyes, b. in 1766,
m. Olive, dau. of Capt. Joseph Bigelow, had two sons, one
of whom is now living. He was a blacksmith, and erect
ed a shop on the premises now occupied by Charles Morse,
near the railroad station in this town, where he pursued
the business of his occupation awhile, and then disposed
of his establishment and built a dwelling-house now in the
possession of N. H. Goodale, where he resided a few years,
then sold out and removed to Barre, "Vt., where he d. at an
advanced age, his wife and eldest s. having previously de
ceased.

Keyes, Thomas, Jr., eldest s. of Thomas Keyes, b. in
1767 and d. in 1856, aged 89 years, tie m. Lydia, dau.
of Micah Harthan, in 1791, and had six ch., only one of
whom is now living. She d. in 1824, in the 60th year of
her age. He was a farmer and settled on the homestead
with his father, where he resided during the whole period
of his life. He was respected by his fellow citizens, who
frequently selected hira to fill stations of trust and re
sponsibility. He became the proprietor of the homestead
by inheritance from his father, and left the same with ad
ditions and improvements to his only surviving son, Ben
jamin F. Keyes.
Kilbukn, Levi, was b. in Sterling, and there m. Cath
erine, dau, of .Manassah Sawyer, from thence he removed
with his family to this town, having purchased a small
farm situated in the north part of the town, now in the
possession of John S. Cutting, where he resided until his
decease, which occurred in 1847, aged 76 years. His
wife d. in 1830, and he afterward m. a second wife who
survived him and d. in 1867. He had four ch. who are
now living. '
Lovell, Asa, Dea., s. of Jonathan Lovell, one of the
early settlers of this town, b. in 1751 and d. ii^ 1814, aged
63 years. He m. Betty Raymond, had one s. and five
dau., three of whom are now living. His wife survived
him and in 1825 m. Paul Goodale, and also survived him.
Dea. Lovell was the proprietor and occupant of a farm now
in the possession of Erastus Broad, situated a mile west
of the Common, on the north Maiden Hill road leading
to Holden. He was a man of integrity and exemplary
character, and a valuable citizen ,
Lovell, Amos, s. of Jonathan Lovell, b. in 1753 and
d, in 1816, aged 62 years. He m. Mary Ball of Concord,
had three s. and five dau„, four of whom are now living.
His wife survived him and d. in 1833, at the age of 77
years. He was a farmer and resided near his brother, Asa.
Lovell, on the farm originally occupied hy his father, and
now in the possession of his grandson, Addison Lovell.
LoTELL, Amos, Jr., eldest s. of Amos Lovell, b. in
1782, and is now living. In 1S07, he m. Martha, eldest

28
dau. of Abel Bigelow, who d. in 1837, aged 64 years.
They had three s.,- two of whom are now living. He was
a farmer and settled on the homestead, with his father,
where he resided during the earlier part of his life, but
eventually relinquished the possession of the premises to
his son, Addison Lovell, and erected a large commodious
"dwelling-house near the Common, where he has since
resided. Mason, Samuel, was b. probably as early as 17.'i6 and
d. in 1839, being over 80 years of age. He was m., and
had several ch., some of whom are now living. He was a
farmer and resided in the northwest part of the town, oc
cupying the farm now in the possession of his children,
John and Lucy Mason.
Mason, Daniel, s. of Samuel Mason, b. in 1780 and
d. in 1818, aged 38 years. He d. by an act of suicide,
supposed to be in consequence of a depression of mind
or a kind of mental derangement, to which he seemed to
be constitutionally predisposed. He was somewhat re
served and serious in his general deportment, industrious
and frugal in his habits, and respected by his friends and
associates in life.
May, Ezra, was b. in Sterling in 1772 and d. in 1815,
aged 43 years. He m. Elizabeth, dau. of Jabez Fairbank,
who survived him and d. in 1845, aged 75 years. They
had several ch., two of whora are now living. He set
tled on a farm in the northwest part of this town, now in
the possession of his son, John May, where he resided
until his decease.
M.aynard, Caltin, came from Marlboro' in 1801, was
a trader occupying a store near the Common in this town,
where he continued in business about five years, when he
removed to Sterling, and there established himself as a
trader. Hem. Olive, dau. of John L. Whiting, and resid
ed in Sterling a few years, when they both d., leaving
no children.
Merrifield, Asaph, was b. in 1741 and d. in 1820,
aged 79 years. He removed with his family from Sher
burne to this town in 1^85, having purchased a farm situ
ated in the southwest part of the town, now occupied by

29
Ira Warren, who m. one of his dau., where he resided un
til his decease. His wife survived him and d. in 1845,
aged 89 years. He had ten ch., several of whom are now
living. Merrifield, Louis, s. of Asaph Merrifi'eld,b. in 1781 ,
andd. in 1851, aged 70 years. He m. Phebe, daur'of
Sylvanus Morse, who died in 1839, aged 60 years. They
had several ch., one of whom is now living. They resid
ed wit)i her father assisting him in the management of his
farm. After the father's decease, he became the proprie
tor of the farm, and was the occupant thereof during the
continuance of his life, leaving the premises as a patrimo
ny to his only son, Louis W. Merrifield. He was m. a'
second time, his wife survived him and d. in 1853, aged
62 years.
Moore, Israel, s. of Dea. Israel Moore, b. in 1777
and d. in 1811, aged 34 years. He m. Mary Cheney,
dau. of Paul Goodale, who survived him and afterwards
m. Nathan Rogers of Holden, where she d. in 1828, aged
50 years. Mr. Moore settled on a farm in the north part
of this town, adjoining that occupied by his father, where
he resided a few years and then sold out and removed to
the hoiTestead, of which he becarae the proprietor at the
decease of his father, where he resided until his own de
cease. He had two sons and two daughters who are now
living, the eldest son, James H. Moore, being now the pro
prietor and occupant of the homestead.
Moore, Joel, s. of Dea. Israel Moore, b. probably in
1780, m. Susanna Kennan, of Rutland, and settled on a
small farm half a mile north of the Beaman place, on the
road leading to Lancaster, and now the residence of L. 1").
Newton. He afterward removed to Holden where he d.
in 1856, aged 76 years. He had ch. some of whom to
gether with their mother are now living.
MooEE, Asa, youngest s. of Dea. Israel Moore, b. per
haps in 1784 or about that tirae. He m. Sabia, dau. of
Dea. Asa Lovell, in 1804, and settled' on a farm in the
north part of this town, now held and occupied by a fam
ily of aliens. He removed from this town, afterward fre
quently changing his residence, and now resides in Hub-
3*

30
bardston. His wife d. in 1864, aged 68 years, arid he is
again connected in marriage.
Morse,' Sylvanus, s. of Joseph Morse, one of the
early settlers of this town, b. in 1746 and d. in 1813,,
aged 66 years'. He m. Phebe Church of New Marlboro',
who d. in'the meridian of life. They had several ch., all
of them having deceased. He was a farmer and during
the latter part of his life, occupied the premises original
ly belonging to his father where he resided until his
decease. '
Morse, Joseph, s. of Joseph Morse, b. in 1758 and d.
in 1826, aged 68 years. He m. Sophia, dau, of Benjamin
Bigelow, one of the early settlers of this town, who sur
vived him and d. in 1831, aged 70 years. They had nine
ch., four of whom are now living'. The farm on which he
resided is' three-fourths of a mile north of the Common,
and lately in the possession of his grandson, Joseph
Morse, now deceased. A considerable portion of this
farm once belonged to the elder Joseph Morse. It is an
incident worthy of notice, that four persons having the
same name in a regular line of descent, have successively
held and occupied the same premises during a period of
more than one hundred years.
MuRDocic, Artemas, Dea., eldest s. of William Mur
dock of Westminster, b. in 1776 and d. in 1856, aged 79
years. He m. Keziah Clark of Medfield, and came to this
town in 1801. He settled on the premises now in the
possession of his eldest s , David C. Murdock, where he
worked, being a cabinet maker. His wife d. in 1845,
aged 68 years. 'J'hey had nine ch., seven of whom are
now living. Dea. Murdock was a valuable and exemplary
citizen, possessing a mild, pacific temperament and dispo
sition, together with that honesty of purpose and integri
ty of character, which enabled him in all business mat
ters and transactions to act with that fairness and just
regard for the rights and interests of others, that secured
for him the respect and esteem of all with whom he
chanced to have intercourse relative to the common affairs
of life. He d. suddenly, a victim to extreme pain and
suffering.

31
Murdock, Joshua, Dea., a younger brother of Artc»
mas Murdock, was b. in 1780. He m. Clarissa Plartshorn
of Medfield, and in 1806, settled in this town near his
brother, the place of his residence being now in the pos
session of N. H. Goodale. He was a cabinet maker and
worked with his brother. In 1811, he remdved to Lei
cester, and there has continued to pursue his occupation
with success and advantage. His wife d. in 1847, aged
63 years. They had five ch., four of whom are now
living. Nash, Wili.i.vm, Rev., the first minister of this town,
was a native of Williarasburg, Hampshire County, Mass.,
was b. in 1769 and d. in 1829, aged 60 years. He came
here in 1796 and preached as a candidate for settlement,
and was ordained Oct. 11, 1797, as a minister of the
church and society previously organized in the second pre
cinct of Boylston, Sterling, a;id Holden. In 1801, or
about that time, Mr. Nash ra. Elizabeth Doubleday, and
having purchased a farm^ in the south part of the town,
now occupied by D. P. Worcester, settled thereon, where
he continued to reside until his decease. He continued
in the ministry until 1815, when his connection with the
chuch and society was formally dissolved at his own re
quest. His only surviving s., Charles Nash, now resides
in Worcester.
Newton, Silas, was b. in 1770 and d. in 1836, aged
66 years. He came from Paxton to this town in the ear
lier part of life, m. Eunice, youngest dau. of Ezra Bea
man, Esq., who survived him and is yet living, being 84
years of age. He had no permanent abode, frequently
changing his residence until 1810, when he purchased a
furra now in the possession of his son, Jabez B. Newton,
situated in the northwest part of this to-srn, where he set
tled and resided until his decease. He had six ch., sever
al of whom are now living. He was a respectable and
useful citizen, being frequently elected to places of trust
and responsibility, and once represented the town in the
State Legislature. In 181 1, he united with the Congrega
tional church, and afterwards became a prominent membei
of the Baptist church.

32
Paine, Ebenezer, was b. in 1777 and d. in 1847, aged
70 years. He came with his family to this town, proba
bly in 1806, and settled on the farm previously in the pos
session of Israel Moore, and now adjoining the farm of
James H. Moore, in the north part of the town, where he
continued ills residence until his decease. His wife d. in
1825, at the age of 49 years. He afferward m. widow
Cynthia Harthan, who survived him and d. in 1849, aged
64 years. They had ch., some of whom are now living.
Perry, Moses, was b. in 1758 and d. in 1843, aged
S5 years. He removed with his family from Hopkinton
to this town in ISOI, and settled on the farm once occu
pied by Ebenezer Inglesby, an early settler, and now the
residence of Jabez B. Newton. Here he resided nine or
ten years and removed to the state of Maine. He remain
ed in that state a dozen years, then returned and resided
in this town until his decease. He had several ch., some
of whom are now living. His wife d. in 1843, previous
to his death, aged 84 years, they having been connected in
marriage 64 years.
Perry, Joseph, s. of Moses Perry, b. in 1779, came
from Hopkinton to this town in 1801. He m. Sarah,
daughter jDf Manassah Sawyer, was a carpenter, resided
with his father a few years, and then removed to the state
of Maine where he and his wife are yet living.
Peirce, Oliver, s. of Josiah Peirce of Worcester, b.
probably as early as 1750 and d. in 1813. He had a fam
ily and resided in the south part of this town, and occu
pied the farm now in the possession of Nathan Morse,
where he continued to reside until his disease. His wife
died in 1831. He had some eight or ten ch., several of
whom are yet living.
Peirce, Levi, s. of Josiah Pierce, b. in 1760 andd.
in 1833, aged 73 years. He m. Persis Robinson who sur
vived him, and d. in 1838 aged 71 years. She was a na
tive of Lexington and distinctly recollected the battle
fought in that place in 1775, the approach of. the British
troops, and other scenes which there occurred on that
memorable occasion. They had seven ch., all of whom
are now living. His residence was in the south part of

33
the town, being now in the possession of Luke Hipsly.
He was a surveyor and was much employed in that occu
pation. Peirce, Hollis, eldest s. of Oliver Peirce, b. perhaps
in 1777, or about that time, and d. in 1833. He m. Lu
cinda Merrifield, who d. previous to 1830. He afterwards
m. Mercy Merrifield, of this town, who survived him and m.
Timothy Farker and removed to the state of N. Y. He
built a house and resided during the earlier part of life
half a mile north of the Common. The premises are now
occupied by Storrs Eldridge. He afterwards resided south
of the Common and there deceased. He had ch., some of
whom are now living.
Peirce, James, s. of Oliver Peirce, b. in 1779 and d.
in 1844, aged 65 years. He m. Sally Fiske of Holden
who is now living. They had several ch., some of whom
are also living. He was a farmer and resided in the south
part of the town, the premises being now in the posses
sion of his youngest son, Lyman Peirce.
Peirce, Jacob, came from Sutton to this town in 1805,,
being over 21 years of age. He was a blacksmith and
worked with Timothy Johnson at scythe making. He
eventually becarae the proprietor of the establishment in
connection with a younger brother. In 1808 he m. Azu-
bah, eldest. dau. of Oliver Glazier of this town; and in
1823 sold out his interest in business to his brother Eze
kiel Peirce, and removed to Northboro' where he died.
Plimpton, Jonathan, removed from Shrewsbury to
this town in 1803 with his family, and settled on a farm
in the south part ofthe town; previously occupied by Tim
othy Hildreth and now in tlie possession of James D.
Moore. Here he resided 20 years and d., being probably
abou-t 70 yearj of age. His wife had previously deceased.
They had two sons and perhaps other children.
Plimpton, Jonathan, Jr., eldest s. of Jonathan Plimp
ton, resided in the south part of the town on the premises
now in the possession of J. B. Eames. In 1806 he m.
Betsey Harris of this town, who d. in 1810. He subse
quently m. Eunice Peirce of Holden, and d. in 18 1 5, aged

34
33 years. His wife survived him and m. Edmund .Brig
ham — she also survived him and died in 1857.
Prescott, Bjrigham, s. of Jonathan Prescott, b. in
1783, and m. in 1807 Eunice, the youngest dau. of Abel
Holt. They are both now living, having been connected
in the married state 61 years. They have had four ch.
two of whom are now living. Mr Prescott is the proprie
tor and occupant of a farm in the north part of the town,
formerly the residence of Abiel Holt. As a manifestation
of confidence and respect, he was three successive years
chos'?n by the citizens of this town to represent them in
the State Ijegislature.
Prescott, John, s. of Jonathan Prescott, b. in 1785,
d. in 1848, aged 63 years. He m. Eunice, dau. of John
Dinsmore, who is now living. His residence was in the
north part of the town, near the residence of George Dana
on the road leading to Lancaster. They had several ch.
who are now living, and with whom the mother resides.
Read, John, was b. in Rutland in 1770. He came to
this town in early life, m. Hannah Dwelley, and settled
in the southwest part of the town, residing successively on
the premises now severally occupied by Benjamin Lee,
Moses Fisher, and Joseph C. Lovell. In the latter part
of his life he erected a, commodious dwelling house near
the Common, now in the possession of Silas Dinsmore,
where he resided until his decease which occurred in 1838,
at the age of 69 years. He had four ch., two" of whom
are now living. He was a successful farmer and held in
possession a large estate at the time of 'his decease. His
wife survived him and d. in 1860, aged 77 years.-
Shattcjck, Thaddeus, was b. in 1752 and d. in 1819,
aged 67 years. He came to this town in the earlier part
of life, m. Susannah Wait of Sterling, and settled a mile
from the Beaman place on the oldrojd leading to Sterling,
where he resided until his decease. His wife survived him
and d. in 1831. He had two sons who survived him and
have since deceased.
Shattuck, Walter, s. of Thaddeus Shattuck, born
in 1778, and d. in 1843, aged 64 years. He m. Betsey,
eldest dau. of Jeremiah Morse, and resided on the home
stead with his father where he continued his residence

35
through life ; his wife survived him and is now living.
He was a cooper and pursued that occupation as long as
he was able to labor.
Smith, Isaac, was b. perhaps as early as 1755, came
to this town in 1783, ra. Prudence Cutting, and settled on
a farra one mile west from the Common now belonging to
L. W. Merrifield, where he resided until his decease. His
"wife d. in 1801, and in 1802 he m. a widow Home of
Southboro', who survived him and d. in 1846. He d.
in 1824, having had six ch., four of whom are deceased.
He was a soldier of the revolution, and performed good
service for his country during that memorable struggle for
liberty and independence, and by the faithful discharge of
duty and the fatigue and hardship endured, he merited
and ought to receive the gratitude and veneration of the
present and future generations. He was truly one of
those brave spirits, who by their persevering efforts and
untold sufi'erings, helped to consummate the patriotic and
noble enterprise in which they were engaged.
Smith, John, was born in Southboro' in 1773. In the
earlier part of life he resided in Boylston, and m. a dau.
of Artemas Maynard, who lived but a few years after their
marriage. He afterwards m. Martha Hastings, and in
1804 removed to this town where he d. in 1866, aged 81
years. His wife survived him and is still living. He had
eleven ch., six have died, and five are now living. He
formerly worked at shoemaking, but latterly at painting.
His residence wa%a short distance south of the Common,
being now the residence of his son Stephen H. Smith.
Stone, Simon, removed with his faraily from Bolton to
this town in 1807, being probably about 25 yrs. of age. He
was a shoemaker, and resided successively in different
parts of the town about 20 years, when he removed to
Princeton, and there became the occupant of a farm where
he with his family still reside.
Temple, John, the eldest s. of Jonas Temple of Boyls
ton, was b. in 1762 and d. in 1841, aged 79 years. In
1791 he m. Lois, daughter of Micah Harthan, who d. in
1792, aged22 years. In 1793 he m. Persis, dau. of Ezra
Beaman, Esq., previously the wife of Dr. Amariah Bigelow.

36 •
Mr Temple was an enterprising, successful farmer, possess
ing and occupying an extensive farm situated in the south
erly part of the town, formerly the residence of Dea.
Amariah Bigelow, an early settler and prominent citizen
of the town, and now in the possession of Edmund F.
Brigham. His second wife d. in 1832, aged 70 years. —
She had three ch. while she was the wife of Dr. Bigelow,
and three after her second marriage, — one of each branch.
has deceased. Mr Temple was a prominent, active citizen,
possessing an enterprizing, energetic temperament, togeth
er with firmness and decision, which enabled him to act
promptly and unhesitatingly in matters of moment and
importance. He was chosen several successive years by
the citizens of the town as chairman of the Board of Se
lectmen ; and frequently was called to the performance of
other iraportant duties of a public character. After the
decease of his second wife, he m. Polly D akin of Boylston,
who survived him and d. in 1856.
Temple, Isaac, youngest s. of Jonas Temple, b. in
1784, and d. in 1832 aged 48 years. In 1806, hem.
Hannah Stillman Bigelow of this town, and settled on the
homestead, occupying his father's farm. In 1816, after
the death of his father, which occurred in 1815, he left
the homestead and becarae the occupant of the premises
formerly the residence of Capt. Joseph Bigelow, situated
a short distance west of the Common, where heNresided
until his decease. His wife d. in 1839, aged 64 years.
They had three ch. but one of whom is now living.
Thomas, William, was b. 1725*nd died in 1810,
aged 85 years. He came to this town and settled on the
farm now the residence of David D. Prescott, situated
half a mile northwest from the railroad station at Oakdale,
where he resided until his decease. He was m. and had ¦
two sons who survived him. His wife d. in 1781, aged
43 years. He was again m., his wife survived him and d.
in 1831, aged 88 years. He possessed a peculiar relish
for literature and science, and devoted much time to read
ing and study, thereby becoming intelligent and interest
ing to those with whom he associated. He had also a pe
culiar taste for astronomical research and calculation, his
bias and genius being strongly fixed in that direction.'

37
Thomas, Robert B., Esq., eldest s. of William Thom
as, b. in 1766 and d. in 1846, aged 80 years. He m.
Hannah Beaman of Princeton, who survived him, and d.
in 1855, aged 81 years. He resided in the northwest
part of the town, two miles from the Coramon, occupying
a small farm now the residence of Dea. Joseph White, and
near the railroad station at Oakdale. He was a promi
nent man in the town, was the first Town Clerk after the
incorporation of the town, several times chairman of the
Board of Selectmen, represented the town in the State Con
vention of 1820 for revising the Constitution, and was sev
eral years a member of the State Legislature. lie originat
ed and established the " Farmers' Almanack " in 1793,
annually preparing and furnishing the matter for that popu
lar manual for more than 60 years. He accumulated a
large araount of properly, leaving no children to inherit
and retain his estate after his decease. He died intestate,
leaving his estate to his widow and two children of a de
ceased brother who were his only legal heirs.
Thomas, Aaron, youngest s. of William Thomas, b.
in 1769 andd. in 1833, aged 64 years. Hem. Lydia,
dau. of Dea. Ebenezer Mason of Sterling, who survived
him a few months and d. the same year, aged 62 years.
They had three ch., two of whom are now living. He
resided in the northwest part of the town near the place of
his father's residence, occupying a farra, although unable
to perform much labor thereon, in consequence of partial
deprivation of sight. He enjoyed the confidence and re
spect of his family and others, leaving his ch. a valuable
patrimony at his decease.
White, Peter, was b. perhaps in 1770, or about that
tirae. He m. Sally Moore, and settled in this town in
1797. He had one son and two daughters, one of whora
d. young. His s. obtained an education and became a
settled minister of the gospel in the State of Maine. He
was a clothier, and pursued that business while he resided
here. His place of residence and business was near Har-
than's Mills, the premises being now occupied by Ruel
G. Co wee. In 1813 he sold out and removed to Spring
field, Vt., where he and his wife have since deceased.
4

Whittaker, Joseph, was probably b. as early as 17.50,
oi,- previous to that tirae. He d. in 1811. He ra. a dau.
of William Whitney, one ofthe early settlers of this town.
He T-esided on or near the premises originally occupied by-
Mr. Whitney, situated in the northwest part of the town
and now occupied by his grandson, Luther Whittaker.
"VViLDEB, Reuben, s. of Asa Wilder, b. in 1757 and
a. in 1832, aged 75 years. He m. Mary Peirce of Boyls
ton, who d. in 1807, leaving several children. In 1808
he m. widow Thankful Whitcorab of this town, who sur
vived him and d. in 1855, aged 80 years. He was a black-
.sraith and farmer, and resided in the north part of the
town, on the premises originally occupied by his grand
father, Josiah Wilder, and afterwards by his father, and
now occupied by John Bruce who is the legal proprietor
thereof >ViLLiNGTON, Ebenezer, was b. in 17*58 and d. in
1835, aged 67 years. He m. Susannah, dau. of Jonas.
Gale, who d. in 1833, aged 64 years. They had five ch.
two of whom are living. He was a'blacksmith and also
J. farmer, and resided in the southerly patt of' the town on
the premises originally accupied-by Mr. Gale, and now in
the possession of G. W. Mathews.
Winn, John, s. of Jacob Winn, b. in 1760 and d. in
184S, aged 83 years. He m. Abigail Cross of Boston, who-
d. in 1863, aged 89 yrs. They had ch., some of whom are
now living. He resided in the north part of the town,,
was a cooper, and occupied the premises formerly the res-"
idence of his father, and now in the possession of Robert
C. Toombs.
Winn, William, s. of William Winn formerly of this
town, born perhaps in 1780, or about that time. He m.
Dolly Goss of Sterling — was a cooper, and resided half a
mile north of the Beaman place, occupying the premises
now in the possession of "Windsor Morse. - He removed
from this town, and afterwards died in mature- life-.

39

RESIDENTS— NOT VOTERS.

The following persons were residents here in 1808, and
each at the head of a family, but were not legal voters :
Boynton, Abiel, was b. perhaps in 1755, or about that
time, and d. in 1810. He m. Lois Raymond who surviv
ed him, and was again m. and left this town. He resided
in the north part of this town, near Stillwater river, and
had a numerous family of children.
Carroll, Benjamin, removed from Rutland with his fam
ily to this town in 1807. His wife d. in 1808 and in 1809
he left the town. He was a carpenter and millwright.
Dinsmore, John, was b. probably before 1750 and d. in
1811. Hem. Sarah Winn who survived him and d. in
1837. They had some eight or ten ch., two of whom are
now living. He resided one mile north of the Beaman
place, where he continued his residence until his decease.
Farr, Simeon, a native of Stowe, b. in 1745, came to
this to-wn in 1790, and d. in 1810, aged 65 years. He
m, Mary Snow of this town, who d. in 1800-. In 1803 he
m. Phebe Blanchard of Harvard, who survived hira and re
turned to that town after his decease.
Hatherly, Thomas, wash, in 1743, and d. in 182S, aged
85 years. He was a native of England where he was
pressed into the military service when young, and came to
this country with the British army, which was stationed at
Boston at the commencement of the Araerican Revolution.
He deserted from the array, carae to this town, was mar
ried, and afterwards resided here until his decease. His
wife survived him and d. in 1833, aged 84 years.
Keyes, Benjamin, eldest s. of Benjamin Keyes of Boyls
ton, b. in 1768, came to this town in 1807 and d. in 1821,
aged 53 years. He m. Annise, dau. of Capt. Joseph Big
elow, who survived him and d. in 1845, aged 77 years.
They had six ch., four of whom are now living.
Morse, Jeremiah, s. of Joseph Morse of Holden, b. in
1759 and d. ift 1841, aged 82 years. He m. Relief Strat-

40
ton, who survived him and d. in 1848, aged 87 years.
They had a numerous family of ch., several of whom are
now living. He was a shoemaker. •
Prouty, Daniel, was b. in 1779, and m. Sarah, dau. of
Aaron Goodale, in 1803, had ch. ; \i&i a shoemaker ; resid
ed in the west part of the town one mile fromthe Common,
the place of his residence being now in the possession of
Jonathan M. Keyes. In 1814 he removed to the far west,
. where he and his wife have probably died.
Wilder, Nathan, s. of Abner Wilder, b. in 1760 andd.
in 1822, aged 62 years. He was m. and had ch., some of
whom are now living. His wife d. when about 50 years
of age.

A BRIEF NOTICE
Of the Original and Earlier Settlers of West Boylston,
the time of iheir Settlement, £^c., as nearly as can le
ascertained,
Beaman, Jabez, came from Bolton and settled here in
1746, and d. in 1757, aged 52 years. His wife d. in 1774,
aged 60 years.
Beaman, Ephraim, s. of Jabez Beaman, settled here
perhaps in 1763 and d. in 1805, aged 62 years. He m.
Tamar Howeof Boylston, who survived him and d. in
1824, aged 81 years.
Belknap, Stephen, settled in this town previous to 1 740
and died or went elsewhere before 1773.
Belknap, Ebenezer, settled here in 1764, and went else
where previous to 1773. He m. Silence, daughter of
David "Winch.
Bennett, Phineas, settled in this town probably as early
as 1740, or previous to that time, and d. here.
Bigelow, Amariah, Dea., came to this town and settled
perhaps in 1745, andd. in 1780, aged 58 'years. Hem.

41 «
Sarah Eveleth of Princeton who survived him and d. in
1797. Bigelow, Benjamin, came here from Marlboro', and
settled in 1735, afterward moving to Connecticut. Elem.
a sister of William Thomas of this town.
Bigelow, Joseph, Capt., s. of Joseph Bigelow of Boyls
ton, settled here in 1750 and d. in 1801, aged 75 years.
He married OJive, dau. of Jabez Beaman of this town,
who survived him and d. in 1810, aged 76 years.
\ B^y, Samuel, came frora Woburn and settled here
jrftShably as early as 1750, andd. in 1800. His wife d.
the sarae year.
Child, David, settled here perhaps in 1740 or about
that tirae, and d. in 1803, aged 92 years. His wife d. in
1804. Cutting, Jonathan, settled here in 1746, or about that
tirae, and d. at an advanced age. He had a large family
of children.
Estabrook, Samuel, carae from Concord and settled in
this town perhaps as early as 1760, and d. here, being
aged. Fairbank, Jonathan, carae frora Woburn and settled
herein 1736, and d. in 1798, aged 89 years. His wife d.
in 1799.
Farr, Daniel, settkd here in 1760 or about that time,
and d. in 1774. His wife survived him, and afterwards
left this town.
French, Joseph, settled in this town in 1740 or about
that time and probably d. here. He resided near Maiden
Hill. Frizzol, Ebenezer, came here and settled as early as
1730 and resided here about 20 years, then d. or left the
town. Gale, Jonas, settled in this town probably as early as
1750 and d. here, being aged. His wife survived him
and d. in 1814.
Glazier, Joseph, settled here perhaps as early as 1765,
and d. or left the town previous to 1 790.
4*

Goodale, Edward, came from Marlboro' in 1738 and d.
here in 1756, aged 42 years. He m. Sarah Temple of
Marlboro', who survived him and d. in 1810 aged 96 yrs.
Goss, William, settled here in 1750 or about that time,
and after a few years' residence d. or left this town.
Harthan, Slicali, came from Marlboro', and settled here
in 1761, and d. in 1803, aged 68 years. He m. Sarah
Jones of Marlboro', who survived him and d. in 1820,
aged 86 years.
Hinds, Jacob, came from Marlboro' and settled here in
1720, or soon after that time, being perhaps the first white
settler in the town. His residence was one mile south of
the Coinmon, about 80 rods distant from the residence of
Edmund F. Brigham. He m. Grace Morse of Marlboro'.
He probably d. in this town.
Hinds, Benjamin, s. of Jacob Hinds settled here in
1746. He d. in 1794. aged 69 years. He m. Elizabeth,
eldest dau. of Isaac Temple of Boylston. She d. in mid
dle life. He afterwards m. Tabitha Holland, who survived
him and d. in 1826, aged 84 years. He had 17 ch., 16
of whom lived to mature age.
Inglesby, Ebenezer, settled here probably as early as
1750, and removed from this town in 1794. He married
a dau. of Aaron Newton. They had a large family ot
children. Keyes, Simeon, s. of Henry Keyes of Boylston, settled
here in 1765, and d. in 1782, aged 42 years. He m. Lucy,
dau. of Isaac Temple of Boylston — she died in 1779, aged
35 years.
Keyes, Thomas, s. of Dea. Jonathan Keyes of Boylston,
settled here in 1767, and d. in 1812, aged 75 years. He
m. Mary, dau. of Isaac Temple of Boylston, who died in
1800, aged 69 years.
Lovell, Jonathan, came from Medfield and settled here
in 1736, andd. in 1792, aged 79 years. His residence
was at the west part of this town.
Marshall, William, came from Concord and settled in
this town in 1765. He afterwards removed to Holden
where he died.

13
Moore, Israel, Dea. settled here probably soon after
1760, and d. in 1807, aged 73 years. He was a native of
Sterling, and resided in the north part of this town.
Morse, Joseph, came from Marlboro' and settled here
in 1746, and d. in 1776, aged 64 years. He m. Mary
Thomas of Marlboro', who survived him and d. in 1801,
aged 71.
Newton, Aaron, settled here in 1730, and afterwards
removed to Holden where he probably died.
Newton, Edward, came to this town and settled in
1730, and d. here, being aged.
Newton, Ezekiel, was probably a s. of Edward Newton,
and settled here in 1762, and d. in mature life.
Pike, Ebenezer, settled in this town in 1760, or previ
ous to that time and d. here being aged. He was a sol
dier in the revolutionary war and served his country faith
fully. Prescott, Jonathan, settled in this town in 1770 and
d. in 1801, aged 78 years. He was a s. of Ebenezer
Prescott. Prescott, Jonathan, Jr., s. of Jonathan Prescott, settled
here in early life, and d. in 1805', aged 56 years. He m.
Mary Brigham of Shrewsbury, who survived him, and m.
Joseph Goss of Sterling — -she d. in 1834, aged 86 years.
Raymond, Paul and William, were early settlers here.
Paul left the town previous to 1780, and William d. sud
denly about the same time.
Snow, Seth, settled in this town perhaps in 1770, or
near that tiime, and resided here some 20 years then rem,ov'
ed elsewhere.
Temple, Ephraim, eldest s. of Isaac Temple of Boylston,
settled here in 1751 and removed from this town in 1767.'
He m. a dau. of Jacob Hinds ; she d. soon after their
marriage. Ward Jo'nas, settled here in 1758, and d. or went else
where previous to 17!!;0.
Whitney, William, settled in this town probably as
early as 1730, and d. here, being aged.

44
Wilder, Josiali, settled in this town as early as 1730
and d. here at an advanced age.
Wilder Abner, s. of Josiah Wilder, settled here in 1750
or about that time, and d. in 1813, aged 88 years.
Wilder, Asa, s. of Josiah Wilder, settled here perhaps
in 1765, and was killed by accident when about 50 year-s
of age.
Willard, Thomas, settled in this town perhaps as early
as 1750, he afterwards went to Holden where he d., being
aged. Winch, David, carae from Framingham and settled in
this town in 1750, and died in 1776, being aged.
Winn, Jac»b, came from Woburn and settled in this
town probably as early as 1746. He d. here, being aged.
He ra. Sarah Buck of Woburn, who survived him and d.
in 1798.
Wooley, Joseph, came from Concord and settled hero
in 1730, or about that time. He afterwards went to
Princeton where he died.

THE FOLLOWING PERSONS,
With tlieir Families, had a residence in this Town some
portion of the time between the years of 1780 and 1808:
Anderson, Allen, came here frora N. H. in 1790, went
to Holden in 1806, and returned to this town and d. in
1838, being about 70 years of age.
Andrews, Samuel, settled here perhaps in 1780 or pre
vious to that time, and afterwards went to Boylston where
he died.
Ball, Jonah, came here from Concord previous to 1795,
and left this town in 1802.
Baily, Ephraim, settled in this town, went elsewhere
previous to 1790.

45
Bartlett, Phineas, settled here, left this town in 1801,
went to Ohio and died.
Bigelow, Amariah, Dr., s. of Dea. Amariah Bigelow,
settled here in 1780, and d. suddenly in 1787.
Beaman, Josiah, settled here, left this town' in 1805,
and went to Shutesbury and there died.
Boutwell, John, settled here in 1792, and went to Town-
send in 1805, where he died.
Cutting, Josiah, settled here perhaps in 1780, or about
that time, and d. previous to 1797. His wife d. in 1815,
aged 91 years.
Cutting, Silas, was a native of this town, settled here
probably as early as 1780, went to Boylston in 1806, and
there died.
Davis, Simon, came from Paxton and settled here in
1790, went to Boston in 1803, and from thence to Maine,
where he died.
Dwelley, Joseph, carae from Old Colony, settled here,
and d. in 1807. His wife survived him and d. in 1834,
aged about 95 years.
Estabrook, Ezra, was a native of this town, settled
here in 1790, went to Stratton, Vt., in 1795, where he d.
Flagg, Rufus, came from Worcester and settled here,
and died in 1805.
Fletcher, Benjamin, came from New Hampshire in 1 790,
settled here, and went to N. Y. in 17.98.
Goodale, David, a native of this town, went to Oak
ham in 1793, and d. in 1832, aged 82 years. He was a
s. of Edward Goodale.
Gates, Amos, settled here perhaps in 1790 and removed
elsewhere in 1801.
Harris, Daniel, settled in this town, and in 1806 went
to Lancaster.
Hildreth, Timothy, settled here, and went to Sterling
in 1803, and there died.
Holt, Amasa, s. of Abel Holt, settled here, went to
Berlin in 1798, and there died.
Keyes, Francis, s. of Thomas Keyes, settled here in
1793, went to Central New York in 1807, afterwards to
Pennsylvania where he d. in 1851 aged 80 years.

46
Merrifeld, Timothy, came to this town probably in 1785
from Sherburne, and afterwards went to Worcester where
he died. ,
Partridge, James, came from Medway, settled here in
1778, and went to Boylston previous to 1798, afterwards
returned and d. in 1821, aged 92 years.
Pike, Ephraim, a native of this town, removed there
from previous to 1800.
Sawyer, Manassah, came from Sterling and d. here
suddenly in 1801.
Townsend Jacob, came from Reading, settled here and
d. in 1806.
Whitcomb, Samuel, came from Sterling, settled here,
andd. from accident in 1806. He m. Thankful, dau. of
Lemuel Fairbank.
White, John, came from Groton, settled here, went to
Grafton in 1798, afterwards to Springfield, Vt., where he
died. He ra. Acsah Bigelow.
Whiting, John L., came from Shrewsbury, settled here
and d. in 1807.
Winn, William, a native of this town, removed to Ver
mont in 1805.

A BRIEF NOTICE

Of several Persons who settled in West Boylston, aud be
came Legal Voters therein after the organizatian of the
Town and previous to 1820.
Bigelow, Ezra, s. of Dr. Amariah Bigelow, b. in 1782,
settled here in 1809, m. Cynthia Child, who d. in 1820,
aged 35 years, afterward m. Sarah Grossman who has also
deceased. Cheney, Joseph, from Newton, ra. Sarah Merrifield, set
tled here in 1809; d. in 1856, his wife having previously
deceased.

47
Davis, Francis, from Northboro', s. of Phineas Davis,
settled here in 1818, ra. Mary Parmenter, who d. in 1828,
aged 33 years. In 1833, he m. Eunice Parmenter, and
d. in 1838, being 44 years of age.
Fisher, Alpheus, from Medfield, m. Sylvia Cleveland,
settled here in 1813, d. in 1851, aged 66 years. Mr.
Fisher was honest and Justin all the transactions of life,
ever actuated by the sublime principles of the " higher
law." Flagg, Samuel, frora Holden, m. Margaret Kennan, set
tled in this town in 1808, removed to "Worcester in 1840
where he now resides.
Gerrish, Paul, from Ashby, m. Sophia Kilburn, settled
here in 1817 and removed to Townsend in 1822.
Hartwell, Edmund, ra. Olive Lovell, settled here in
1810 and d. in 1856, aged 71 years. His wife survived
him and is still living.
Hastings, Ezra, from Holden, m. Eunice Rice, settled
in this town in 1810 and d. in 1829, being 70 years of age.
Holmes, Pttcr, from New Hampshire, m. Olive Graves,
settled here in 1809, and continued his residence in this
town 15 or 20 years, then went elsewhere.
Holmes, Thomas, brother of Peter Holmes, m. Sarah
Graves, settled here in 1810, d. in 1848, aged .""lO years.
His wife survived him and d. in 1857, aged 72 years.
Holt, Asa, s. of Abel Holt, settled in this town in 1816
and d. in 1847, aged 72 years. His wife survived him
and is yet living.
Howe, Asa, settled here in 1810, resided in this town
10 or 15 years then weat elsewhere.
Howe, Joel, a brother of Hiram Howe, b. in 1779, m.
Dolly Peirce, settled in this town in 1815 and d. in 1843,
aged 63 years.
Knight, Elijah, from Worcester, m. Eunice Lovell, set
tled here subsequently to the organization of this town,
and d. in 1843, aged 63 years.
Lee, Benjamin, from Douglas, b. in 1776, m. Eunice
Lesure, settled in this town in 1811, being now 82 years

48
of age. His wife d. in 18S8, aged 54 years. He after
ward m. Lydia Sheldon.
Lees, Jolm, from England, settled in this town in 1814,
resided here 20 years then removed to Worcester. He
was several years agent for the Beaman Manufacturing
Company. Moore, Oliver, frora Boylston, settled in this town in
1813, ra. Olive Temple, d. in 1831, a^ed 40 years. His
wife survived him and m. Chester C. Cutting.
Peirce, Ezekiel, from Sutton, brother of Jacob Peirce,
b. in 1787, settled in this town in 1808, m. Ruth Perry in
1811, having been connected in marriage 47 ySars.
Severy, Caleb, from Boylston, m. Sarah Moore, settled
in. this town in 1813, was suddenly killed in 1816, when
attempting to stop a horse and carriage while running,
having escaped from the owner. He d. in early life, be
ing 28 years of age, in the midst of usefulness and prom
ise, having the respect and confidence of the citizens of
the town, who greatly lamented his premature death. His
wife survived him and m. John Merriam of "Westminster,
who has also deceased.
Taft, Andre, from Uxbridge, settled here in 1818, and
after a residence of 30 years, removed to Worcester and d.
in 1850, aged 59 years. His wife survived him and is
still living.
White, Joseph, Dea. s of Thomas White, settled here
soon after the organization of this town, m. Matilda Davis,
iu 1817, and during a series of years, was principal agent
of the West Boylston Manufacturing Company.
Whitcomb, John, settled in this town perhaps in 1813,
was accidentally killed in 182^ while in the employment
of the Beaman Manufacturing Company. He was 50
years of age, and left a wife and several children to mourn
his untimely death.
Winter, Calvin, settled here after the organization of
this town, and d. in 1838. His wife survived him and is
now living.
Wood, Nathaniel G., settled here in 1814 or about that
time, and after a residence 6f several years, removed from
this town. His wife died here in;i819, aged 46 years.

49

SUMMARY NOTICE
Of those Individuals, who in 1808, were resident citizens
of West Boylston, and under 21 years of age, but sub
sequently attained ihat age and became legal voters in
the town.
Bigelow, Ephraim, s. of Abel Bigelow, m, Mary Brigham in 1812.
Bigelow, Asa, s. of Abel Bigelow, m. Lois Harthan in 1817.
Bigelow, Joseph,..^, of Stephen Bigelow, m. Betsey Marshall in 1824.
Child, Amos, s. of Amos Child, m. Eiinioe Goodenow in 1824.
Dwelly, Joseph, s. of Joseph Dwelly, m. Tryphosa Parmenter in 1815.
Fairbank, Isaac, s. of Seth Fairbank, m. Prudence Gerrish in 1817.
Fairbank, Aretas, o. of Seth Fairbank, m. Hannah Cook in 1826.
Fairbank, G. W., s. of Alpheus Fairbank, m. Joanna Flagg in 1828.
Glazier, John, s. of Oliver Glazier, m. lucinda Parmenter in 1815.
Goodale, Asaph, s. of Peter Goodale, m. Betsey Parmenter in 1812.
Goodale, Ezra, s. of Aaron Goodale, m. Sena Perry in 1813.
Goodale, Charles, s. of Aaron Goodale, Jr., m. Sarah Burdett in 1829.
Goodenow, Lyman, s. of Elijah Goodenow, m. Eebeooa Flagg in 1830.
Harthan, A. S., b. of David Harthan, m. Cynthia Fairbank iu 1810.
Harthan, Silas, s. of David Harthan, d. unmarried in 1813.
Harthan, Dennis, s. of David Harthan, la. Anna Redding in 1822.
Harthan, W. B., o. of David Harthan, m. Harriet Morse in 1827.
Hinds, Cicero, s. of Jacob Hinds, d. unmarried in 1856.
Hinds, Solon, s. of Joseph Hinds, m. Sarah Underwood in 1839.
Holt, H. K.) s. of Abel Holt, m. Lydia Fairbank iu 1813.
Holt, Tyler, s. of Abel Holt, m. Arathusa Fairbank in 1812.
Holt, Eussell, s. of Jonas Holt, m. Sarah Parker in 1S47.
Howe, Barney, b. of Hiram Howe, m. Melinda Knowlton provioas to 1840.
Keyes, B. F., s. of Thomas Keyes, m. Lois Nichols in 1822.
Keyes, Thomas, a. of Thomas Keyes, m. Eveline Murdock in 1827.
Keyes, Artemas, a. of Benjamin Keyes, m. Susan Barker in 1837.
Keyes, Hezekiah, s. of Benj. Keyes, m. Phebe Keyes in 1823.
Lovell, Asa, s. of Dea. Asa Lovell, m. Hannah Eaymond in 1812.
Lovell, John, 8. of Amos Lovell, m. Maria Lyman in 1822.
May, John, s. of Ezra May, m. Anna Hastings in 1828.
Moore, J. H., ». of Israel Moore, m. Jane Delano, previous to 1830.
Morse, Joseph, s. of Joseph Morse, m. Dolly BuUard in 1822.
Morse, Bernico, o. of Joseph Morse, m. Edna Conant in 1840.
M«rse, Sylvanus, s. of Joseph Morse, m. Harriet Jenks in 1838.
6

50
Morse, 'William, 9. of Jeremiah Morse, m. Mindwell Prescott in 181S.
Morse, "Windsor, s. of Jeremiah Morse, m. Sarah Glazier in 1820.
Morse, Simon, s. of Jeremiah Morse, m. Luoj^ Glazier in 1824,
Murdock, D. C, o. of Dea. Artemas Murdock, m. Adaline King in 18,27.
Murdock, Artemas, s. of Dea. Art. Murdock, m. Mary Simonds iu 1833,.,,
Newton, B. B., s. of Silas Newton, m. Sarah Turner in 1B18.
Newton, L. D., s. of Silas Newton, m. Nancy Robinson iu 1826.
Peirce, Levi, s. of Levi Peirce, m. Mary Merriam in 1818.
Peirce, Josiah, a. of Levi Peirea, m. Sarah Merriam in 1821,
Peirce, E. B., b. of Levi Peirce, m. Mary S. Bigelow in 1854. ,"
Plimpton, Simon, s. of Jonathan Plimpton, m, Betsey Brigham in lS19l|^
Prescott, David, s. of Jonathan Prescott, d. unmarried in 1814,
Prescott, David D., o. of John Prescott, m. Lucy C. PeiFee in 1827.
Reed, John, s. of John Reed, m. Lydia Conant in 1820.
Smith, Amos, s. of Isaac Smith, m. Lydia Marshall in 1813.
Whiting, Seth, a, of J. Lake "Whiting, m. Mary Kendall ia 1813.
Willington, Oliver, s. of Ebenezer Willington, m. Luoy Abbott in 18-23. -

VOTERS IN 1858.
The following named persons are citizens and legal vot
ers of West Boylston, at the present time, (1868) haidng'
been residents here during a series of past years :
D. W. Allen, C. H. Baldwin, O. C. Bassett, Ezra Bea
man, Joseph Bigelow, A. M. Bigelow, Ezra Bigelow, E.
W. Bigelow, Luther Bigelow, S. L. Bemis, Ethan Blodg
ett, Joseph Blunt, William Bolton, John Bolton, Erastus-
Broad, S. F. Brown, E. F. Brigham, G. T. Brigham, John
Bruce, S. P. Bruce, Ira Bruce, Charles Buck, Pliny Buck,
Joshua- Chamberlain, B. T. Chase, Abner Chase, Amos
Child, Lotan Cleveland, C. M. Cleveland, E.. G. Cowee,
J. W. Cross, O. B. Cutler, J. S. Cutting, Lewis Ctitting,
F. L. Cutting, N. L Daggett, George Dana, G. E. Dana,!
Elias Davis, J. H. Davenport, Liberty Dinsmore, Luther
Eames, G. W. Eames, J. B. Eames, Gershon Eames, Storrs-
Eldridge, Washington Fairbank, Uriah Fairbank, Harri
son Fairbank, James Fisk, Lewis Fletcher, Jotham Glaz
ier, E, A. Gla?ier, N. H. Goodale, Charles Goodale, ©.

51
E. Goodale, Aaron Goodale, F. E. Goodale, Levi Goss,
Samuel Haley, L. M. Harris, T. H. Harris, 0. B. Harris,
Nahum Hastings, Dennis Harthan, W. B. Harthan, S. F.
Hemmenway, Henry Hennessy, Solon Hinds, Bertrand
Hinds, Albert Hinds, E. H. Hinds, Luke Hipsley, E. W.
Holbrook, Stephen Holt, Henry Holt, H. F. Holt, Russell
Holt, W. E. Holt, George Holmes, Horatio Houghton,
John Houghton, E. M. Hosmer, L. M. Hosmer, G. B.
Howe, Samuel Howe, W. P. Howe, Joel Howe, G. F.
Howe, Barney Howe, Francis Johnson, W. H. Johnson,
H. S. Jewett, B. F. Keyes, Artemas Keyes, Hezekiah
Keyes, J. M. Keyes, T. N. Keyes, W. W. Keyes, A. F.
Knight, C. L. Knight, J. F. Knight, Samuel Lawrence,
John Lawrence, D. R. Lamson, Benjamin Lee, R. M.
Lord, Washburn Lombard, L. A. Lesure, H. A. Loring,
Amos Lovell, Addison Lovell, Ephraim Lovell, J. C. Lov
ell, John May, John Mason, Samuel Mason, William
Mason, G. W. Matthews, William Matthews, Charles
Merrifield, L. W. Merrifield, Windsor Morse, Simon Morse,
Bernice Morse, Charles Morse, Nathan Morsq, F. E. Morse,
J. H. Moore, J. D. Moore, D. C. Murdock, "William Mur
dock, G. L. Murdock, Cephas Muzzy, Jonas Muzzy, J. B.
Newton, L. D. Newton, L. F. Newton, William Nichols,
Henry Norcross, Albert Oakes, T. V. Phelps, Ezekiel
Peirce, Estes Peirce, Levi Peirce, Jonathan Peirce, Lyman
Peirce, E. B. Peirce, Henry Peirce, C. L. Pratt, Alonzo
Pratt, Brigham Prescott, D. D. Prescott, Sylvester Pres
cott, D. G. Rawson, David Reed, R. G. Reed, Thomas
Sargent, O. B. Sawyer, Henry Sawyer, Randolph Scarlett,
S. H. SmitH, Benjamin Smith, Roland Shepard, Emerson
Spofibrd, A. V. Sheldon, Levi Sturtevant, Pliny Stearns,
A. G. Taylor, A. W. Taylor, William Thoraas, N. R. Til-
ton, Aaron Tilton, L. B. Tilton, R. C. Toombs, D. T.
Tenny, Horace Warner, W. W. Warner, G. W. Warren,
Ira Warren, Eli Walker, Joseph White, Thomas White,
W. N. White. T. H. White, Joseph Whittaker, Luther
Whittaker, Woodbury Whittemore, J. N. West, A. E,
Winter, A. H. Wood, John Wheeler, D. P. Worcester.
Ezra. Beaman, Elias Davis, Amos Lovell, and Brigham
Prescott, were residents and legal voters here in 1808, as
they also are in 1868.

52

TOWN OFFICERS FROM 1808 TO 1858.

MoDEKATOK. The following persons were severally
Moderators of the annual March Meetings in West Boyls
ton, from 1808 to 1858, viz. :
Silas Beaman, Silas Newton, Paul Goodale, William
Fairbank, R. B. Thomas, J. M. Smith, Andre Taft, J. F.
Fay, E. M. Hosmer, D. C. Murdock, Benjamin F. Keyes,
J. C. Lovell.
Town Cleek. Since the organization of the town of
West Boylston in 1808, to 1858, the ofiice of Town Clerk
has been held as follows :
From 1808 to 1809, R. B. Thomas; 1809 to 1813, Jo
seph Hinds ; 1813 to 1823, Ezra Bigelow; 1823 to 1825,
Francis Davis ; 1825 to 18S0, Seth White ; 1830 to 1837,
Ephraim Bigelow ; 1837 to 1840, B. F. Keyes; 1840 to
1850, Barney Howe ; 1850 to 1865, O.B. Sawyer ; 1855
to 1858, Horatio Houghton.
Seiectmbn. The following persons were each elected
and respectively served one or more years as Selectmen
of West Boylston, from 1808 to 1868 :
Ezra Beaman, Jonathan Plimpton, William Fairbank,
Silas Beaman, Amos Lovell, Paul Goodale, John Temple,
Barnabas Davis, Silas Newton, Jacob Hinds, R. B. Thom
as, Joseph Hinds, Hiram Howe, Alpheus Fairbank, Eben
ezer Paine, Ezra Bigelow, Caleb Severy, Jonathan Plimp
ton, Jr., Ezekiel Peirce, Ezra Beaman, Jr., Thomas Keyes,
B. B. Fairbank, John Reed, Paul Gerrish, Levi Goodale,
Francis Davis, Simon Plimpton, Oliver Moore, Jacob
Peirce, Abel Goodale, Brigham Prescott, Seth VVbite,
Levi Peirce, Jr., Joseph White, Thomas Holmes, Dennis
Harthan, Asa Bigelow, Aaron Goodale, Silas Walker,
Amos Lovell, Jr., Samuel Brown, John M. Smith, Ephm.
Bigelow, Charles Nash, B. F. Keyes, J. H. Moore, Thom
as White, Jr., John Lees, Cicero Hinds, E. M. Hosmer,
Moses, Brigham, Lotan Cleveland, E. F. Brigham, W. B.
Harthan, D. C. Murdock, Samuel Lawrence, John May,
E. W. Holbrook, Addison Lovell, J. D. Lovell, L. D.

53
Newton, John Ijawrence, Jonathan Peirce, L. M. Harris,
John Prentiss, G. F. Howe, Levi Goss, H. F. Holt.
C11.VIRMAW OP Selectmen. The several individuals
here indicated, were each respectively Chairman of the
board of Selectmen of West Boylston one or more years,
from 1808 to 1868, as follows :
Ezra Beaman, 4 years ; William Fairbank, 1 year ; John
Temple, 6 years ; R. B. Thomas, 3 years ; Ezra Bigelow,
3 years; Joseph Hinds, 4 years; Francis Davis, 1 year;
Joseph White, 4 years ; Silas Newton, 1 year ; Asa Big
elow, 1 year; Dennis Harthan, 2 years ; B. F. Keyes, 2
years ; Thomas Holmes, 1 year ; E. M. Hosmer, 3 years ;
Lotan Cleveland, 5 years ; D. C. Murdock, 4 years ; Addi
son Lovell, 1 year; Jonathan Peirce, 1 year; L. M. Har
ris, 1 year ; John Prentiss, 1 year ; Samuel Lawrence,
1 year. OvERSEEBs OF THE PooE. From 1808 to 1835 the
Selectmen had the oversight of the paupers of V/est Boyls
ton. Since 1836, Overseers have been chosen who have
had the charge and direction of those supported at the
expense of the town. The following persons here named
have been severally and successively chosen Overseers of
the Poor from 1835 to 1868 :
Joseph White, Francis Davis, Ephraim Bigelow, Andre
Taft, Cephas Muzzy, Waldo Winter, Benjamin Smith,
Windsor Morse, Thomas White,. Jr., Cicero Hinds, E. M.
Hosmer, Henry Holt, Levi Goodale, Charles Goodale, J.
H. Moore,. John Lawrence, R. C. Toombs, James Fisk,
L. M. Hosmer, L. M. Harris, Aaron Goodale, Levi Stur
tevant, Moses Fisher, S. H. Smith, J. C. Lovell, C. C.
Cutting, E. F. Brigham.
AssEssoES. The following persons were chosen and
served as Assessors for the town of West Boylston, one
or more years from 1808 to 1858 :
R. B. Thomas, Silas Newton, Moses Perry, Barnabas
Davis, Jacob Hinds, John Temple, Hiram Howe, Ezra
Beaman, Jr., Thoinas Keyes, Levi Kilburn, John Read,
B. B. Fairbank, Ezra Bigelow, Ezekiel Peirce, Jacob
Peirce, Alpheus Fisher, Francis Davis, J. W. Fairbank,
Joseph White, Levi Peirce, Jr., Asa Bigelow, A. E. Win-

54
ter, Cicero Hinds, Amos Child, Jr., James Lees, D. C.
Murdock, W. P. Howe, E. M. Hosmer, Francis Flagg,
Samuel Lawrence, Brigham Prescott, A. F. Knight, F. L.
Cutting, Elias Davis, David Read, O. B. Sawyer, Henry
Holt, Jonathan Peirce, Horatio Houghton, Addison Lov
ell, S. H. Smith, L. M. Harris, Uriah Faifbank.
Town Teeastjeee. The office of Town Treasurer of
West Boylston has been successively held from 1808 to
1858, by the following persons, viz :
Ewa Beaman, Ezra Beaman, Jr., Barnabas Davis, Jon
athan Plimpton, Andre Taft, Francis Davis, John Lees,
Seth White, Thomas Holmes, Ezekiel Peirce, A. E. Win
ter, E. B. Newton, Moses Brighan, Samuel Brown, E. W.
Holbrook, Dennis Harthan, O. B. Sawyer.
Repeesentatives. West Boylston has been entitled
to one Representative each year since her incorporation as
a town, and has been represented from 1808 to 1868 as
follows :
Ezra Beaman, 4 years ; Barnabas Davis, 0 years ; Jo
seph Hinds, 5 years ; R. B. Thomas, 5 years ; Silas New
ton, 1 year; Thomas White, jr., 1 year; Siiaa Walker, 1
year ; B. F. Keyes, 1 year ; Levi Pierce, jr., 1 year ;
Dennis Harthan, 1 year ; Samuel Brown, 1 year ; Brigham
Prescott, 3 years; Addison Lovell, 1 year ; Amos Child,
jr., 3 years ; Eli "W. Holbrook, 2 years ; E. M. Hosmer, 2
years; O. B. Sawyer, 1 year; D. C, Murdock, 2 years.
Delegates to State Conventions.
In 1820, a State Convention was held in Boston for the
purpose of revising the Constitution of Massachusetts. —
Robert B. Thomas was chosen delegate to the aforesaid
Convention frora West Boylston, and accordingly repre
sented the town on that occasion,
In 1853, a second State Convention was held in Boston
for the purpose of further revising the Constitution. Rev.
Joseph W. Cross was chosen a delegate from thi» town to
said Convention and performed the sen vice for which he
was appointed.
Delegates to the County Contention of 1812.
At a legal town meeting iu West Boylston, held in July,
1&12, Joseph Hinds, John Temple, and William Fairbanls ,

55
Avere chosen delegates to the County Convention then soon
to be holden at Worcester, to take into consideration the
situation of the country iu consequence of the war then
existing between the United States and Great Britain, and
to adopt such measures as circumstances, the exigences of
the times, and the public good might seera to demand. — ¦
They accordingly attended the Convention and participated
in its proceedings.

ECCLESIASTICAL RECORD, &c.

the congkegational societv.
The original church (Congregational) in West Boyls
ton was formed in 1796, consisting of 33 members, em
bracing widely diflferent opinions relative to religious doc
trine. The majority favored Armenian sentiments, while
the minority were decidedly Calvinistic. Rev. William
Nash, the first minister, favored the Armenian side, and on
that account was opposed at the time of his settlement by
the Calvinistic portion of the church and society, who
were never satisfied with his preaching and ministerial
labors. In lb02, religious conference meetings were orig
inated and regularly held on the first Thursday of each
month, by a respectable portion of the church, the meet
ings being open to all who wished to participate in them.
This movement received no favor from Mr. Wash, although
repeatedly consulted and urged to afford aid and assistance
in its origin and eventual progress, These meetings were
sustained, although Mr. Nash and the majority of the
members of the church declined to countenance or assist
in promoting the object in any way whatever.
In 1809, the first religious revival in this town occurred,
and continued with increased interest for several months.
It caused much excitement and encountered severe oppo
sition, although a large portion of the people were favora
bly affected thereby. During this revival season raany '
persons became interested, were hopefully converted, and

56
afterwards professed religion, some joining the Congrega
tional church, while others united with the Baptists.
The Congregational church and society, during the last
40 years, have been favored with several interesting sea
sons of special religious attention, resulting in the hope
ful conversion and addition of many persons to the church.
The first meeting-house (Congregational) in West
Boylston, was dedicated to the service and worship of Al
mighty God, January 1st, 1798. A sermon was preached
on the occasion by Rev. Daniel Grosvenor of Paxton. —
After that period several candidates were successively em
ployed to preach until March, 1797, when Mr. William
Nash from Williamsburg and a graduate of Yale College,
received a call frora the church and society to settle with
them as a preacher of the gospel, with a stipulated annual
salary of $333.33, which invitation he. accepted, and was
accordingly ordained the llth day of October of that year.
The church and society in extending the invitation to
Mr. Nash to become their minister were not altogether
united. In his answer of acceptance, Mr. Nash speaks of
"the want of entire unanimity", and further says, " those
gentlemen to whom my services have not been so accepta
ble as I could wish, I respect." He continues, " In act
ing agreeably to their own best judgment, they have
exercised a right which belongs to every christian, and
ought not on that account to receive the censure or disaf
fection of any."
The opposition to Mr. Nash came from those who ad
hered to the Calvinistic faith, and supposing him to cherish
sentiments decidedly antagonistic to their views, believed
it to be their duty to oppose his settlement with them in
the ministry. The minority for the time quietly submitted
to the wishes of the majority, and for several years " kept
the unity of the spirit, not by au entire union of opinion,
but in the bond of peace."
Although the feelings of disapprobation of the senti
ments and services of Mr. Nash seemed for a while to be
dormant, yet they were never extinguished, but remained
smouldering, preparatory for an explosion when the pres
sure should become sufficiently intense. In 1812, the
disaffection toward Mr, Nash had become so great that an

57
attempt was made to dismiss him. In 1814, his henlth
became seriously impaired, rendering hira unable to preach
or discharge other parochial duties. In 1816, he was dis
missed at his own request, and his connection with the
society formally dissolved by a mutual council, in accord
ance with the conditions of his settlement. After the
dismission of Mr. Nash, various gentlemen were succes
sively employed to preach as candidates until 1820, when
Marshall Shedd from Newton, received a call to settle, with
an annual salary of $'i00, which he declined to accept.
In December, 1820, Mr. John Boardman from New-
buryport, a graduate of Dartmouth College, was invited
to settle here in the ministry, with an annual salary of
§500, by a vote of 66 to 28, which invitation he accepted
and was ordained as pastor of the Congregational church
and society, February 28tl«, 1821. In 1834, Mr. Board-
man was dismissed at his own request, and afterward set
tled in East Douglas where he died in 1842, in the merid
ian of life.
In September, 1834, Rev. Elijah Paine, a native of
Ashfield, and who had been a settled minister in Clare
mont, N. H., was invited to become pastor of the Con
gregational church and society in this town, with an annual
salary of $600. He accepted the invitation and was in
stalled the 3d day of November, in that year. Mr. Paine
died suddenly, Sept. 14th, 1836, aged 38 years.
In 1837, Mr. Brown Emerson of Harvard, was ordained
as successor of Mr. Paine, having received a call from the
church and society, with an annual salary of $600. He
was dismissed at his own request, Nov. 6th, 1839.
Rev. Joseph W. Cross, who had been settled in Box-
torough and dismissed, was installed pastor of the Con
gregational church and society in this town, March llth.
.1840, with an annual salary of $700.
the baptist societt.
About 70 years ago, a Baptist clergyman from abroad,
of reputable character and standing, on one or two oc
casions, preached at the house of David Goodale in this
town, being probably the first minister of that denoraina-
tion that had ever preached here. It has been said by

58
those who were in attendance at the time, that his labors
were able, effective, and well received, producing a good
impression upon the hearers. Not long after this time,
another rainister of the same order preached at Mr. Good-
ale's to a respectable audience, which was edified and much
interested. After this time it is not known that any Bap
tist minister preached in this town until the spring of
1810, when Elder Luther Goddard of Shrewsbury, was in
vited by a member of the Congregational church, to attend
a religious meeting at the Centre School-house in this
town. He cordially accepted the invitation and preached
on that occasion, and also on a similar occasion not long
afterward. Probably the year 1810 is the period from
which to date the origin of the Baptist denomination in '
West Boylston, which has gradually increased until it has
become an eflacient church and«society.
In 1813, the Baptists formed a society in this town, but
had preaching only a part of the tirae for several years —
In 1819, a Baptist church was organized here, consisting
of about 50 raerabers, and since that period the church
and society have sustained and enjoyed the regular preach
ing of the gospel. They have also been favored with
several seasons of special religious interest, resulting in
the hopeful conversion and ultimate accession of a large
number to the church.
The following ministers have been successively pastors
of the Baptist Church in this town since 1819, viz : Rev.
Nicholas Branch, Rev. Allen Hough, Rev. C. C. P. Crosby,
Rev. Abiel Fisher, Rev. Joseph G. Binney, Rev. Lorenzo
O. Lovell, Rev. Sewall S. Cutting, Rev. Leonard Tracy,
Rev. Kazlett Arvine, Rev. Timothy C. Tingley, Rev. Zenas
P. Wild, Rev. Geo. R. Darrow.
THE LIBEEAL SOCIETT.
The Liberal Society in this town at the coraraenceraent
of its existence, was composed of those who seceded from
the Congregational Society, in consequence of the settle
ment of a minister who held and preached Calvinistic
sentiraents. The history of the origin and formation of this society
is substantially as follows: — In 1815, the connection exist-

59
ing between the Rev. Mr. Nash and the Congregational
church and society, was dissolved at his own request, after
which the majority ofthe society manifested an unyielding
determination to have Unitarian preaching, and eventually
to settle a minister of that stamp ; while a majority of the
Church and a minority of the Society were opposed to
every movement having a tendency in that direction. TJie
exertions put forth to eflTect the favorite and anticipated
result eventually proved an entire failure.
The committee for supplying the pulpit, after having
employed several Unitarian candidates to preach, inadver
tantly procured one of the Orthodox stamp, who made a
favorable impression, thus entirely changing the feelings
and course of many of the people, thereby giving the Or
thodox the ascendency, which, after ranch effort and perse
vering exertion, resulted in the settleraent of a rainister
embracing evangelical sentiments. The opposition event
ually seceded and forraed a new Society, taking the narae
of The First Liberal Society in West Boylston. This So
ciety at the present time (1858) has little more than a
norainal existence. Most of the prominent original mem
bers have deceased, and the society has had preaching
during the last few years only a portion of the time.
THE METHODIST SOCIETT.
The Methodists have also a Church and Society at Oak
dale, where they enjoy the stated ministrations of the
gospel, attended with apparent benefit and, success. Re
spectable nurabers attend meeting here on the sabbath,
and considerable interest is manifested by the people for
the support and maintenance of the institutions of religion
among themselves.
In former years, dissension and animosity prevailed to
sorae extent between the several religious societies in this
town, but during the last 20 years very little denomina
tional feeling has been manifested, while harmony and
fraternal intercourse have generally been in the ascendent.

60

PHYSICIANS IN WEST BOYLSTON.

Dr. Amariah Bigelow was the first resident physician in
this town. He settled here as a practitioner in 1780, or
about that time, and died suddenly in 1787.
Dr. Uriah Bigelow from Weston, settled here as a phy
sician in 1788, and afterwards went to central New York,
where he died at an advanced age.
Dr. Nicholas Jenks from North Brookfield, settled in
this town as a physician in 1809, and after a residence of
ten years, went to Southbvidge.
Dr. John M. Smith settled in this town as a physician
in 1819, and resided here fifteen years, then went to
Southbridge, where he died in the meridian of life.
Dr. Jacob Moore settled here as a physician in 1828 and
died in 1831. He was a young man of amiable character
and of much promise relative to the future.
Dr. Sherman Smith settled here as a physician after the
decease of Dr Moore, then went-to Walpole, N. H. where
he afterwards died suddenly.
Dr. Samuel Griggs settled here as a physician in 1832,
and remained in this town some fourteen or fifteen years,
then went to Westborough where he now resides.
Dr. Ephraim Lovell is a native of this town, and settled
here as a physician in 1841, and still remains here.
Dr. George W. Warren settled here as a successor to
Dr. Griggs, and still continues his residence here as a
practising physician.
Dr. Isaac Chenery settled in the easterly part of Holden,
adjacent to this town, in 1770 or about that timei where
he resided until his decease in 1822, being in the eighti
eth year of his age. He was distinguished on account of
his skill and sound judgment, and also for his moderate
demands upon his employers for medical attendance. He
obtained the confidence and respect of the community
around him, including the population of this town. The
people here became so attached to Dr. Chenery, and so
highly appreciated his practice, that younger physicians
who made the experiment of locating here, failed to obtain
sufficient encouragement to remain permanently.

61

PROGRESS AND IMPROVEMENT IN W. BOYLS
TON FROM 1803 TO 1858.

During the last fifty years, much has been done to pro
mote the prosperity and improve the condition and general
appearance of this town. Within the last fifteen years
the Worcester and Nashua Railroad has been built, pas
sing directly through the town, aflfording such convenience
and accommodation to the inhabitants as in no -other way
could be secured. At the West Boylston station, a dis
tinct and delightful view of a large portion of the town
presents itself to the eye of the observer, often attracting
the special notice and attention of the passing stranger.
The several Manufacturing Establishments in West
Boylston present a thrifty and flourishing appearance. —
Much taste and skill are discernable in the location and
construction of the several manufactories, and in laying
out and building up the villages connected therewith. The
scenery about them is pleasant and delightful and cannot
fail to attract the attention of every observer.
That which first meets the eye when viewing the prem
ises of the Beaman Manufacturing Companjr, is the artifi
cial pond filled with water for the operation of machinery.
This pond was originally designed and built by Major
Beaman, sixty-five years ago, for the purpose of operating
a gristmill. It has been recently enlarged, and now pre
sents a sublime and magnificent appearance. The trees
and railing about this pond, and elsewhere in the vicinity,
contribute essentially to the beauty and splendor of the
village. The proprietors of this establishment have raade
large expenditures for the purpose of rendering it commo
dious and valuable as well as pleasant and attractive. The
property of the corporation is estimated at more than
§100,000. The West Boylston Manufacturing Corapany at Oakdale,
together with the village connected with it, is pleasantly
and commodiously situated, exhibiting neatness and order
in its position and arrangement. This establishment has
long been mostly under the superintendence and direction of
6

&2
Dea. Joseph White, who is one of the proprietors, and has
devoted much time and attention to the promotion of its
prosperity and success. The farm belonging to the com
pany is a specimen of good husbandry, having by proper
care and judicious management become fertile and produc
tive. The Central Manufacturing Establishment is conven
iently located near the centre of the town and in the vicin
ity of the railroad station. The scenery about this es
tablishment consists mostly of trees of various kinds
planted by the proprietor, E. W. Holbrook, and presents a
tasteful appearance, and a few years hence will probably
exhibit a degree of beauty and splendor which will attract
the notice of strangers and others who may chance to view
the same.
The Manufactory at Harrisville has a substantial and
enduring appearance, being built of stone. This establish
ment exhilDits apparent thrift and enterprise, and speaks-
favorahly of the industry and perseverance of the proprie
tors. The public roads in various parts of the town are to
some extent adorned with trees, mostly elm and maplev
planted by enterprising individuals, not only beautifying
their localities but also affording convenience and comfort,
to the passing traveller, protecting him frora the scorching.
rays of a meridian sun, during the summer months of the
year. There are now standing in different sections ofthe town,
not only within the limits of the highways but also on
adjoining localities, several large majestic elms and other
trees of original growth, which it is hoped will long be
permitted to remain as objects of splendor and attraction.
It would seem ruthless indeed, and exhibit an utter desti
tution of that good taste and generous feeling which ought
ever to be cherished, to aUow these monuments of individ
ual protection and care to be destroyed.
Within the last few years there have been erected in this
town two large buildings, which are occupied as Boot
Manufactories ; one near the Railroad Depot and the other
on the opposite side of the river near the brick meeting
house. A considerable amount of business is done at each

63
of these establishments. A large quantity of boots are
annually manufactured at Oakdale village in this town ;
there are also several shops in the town where boots are
manufactured to some extent. A large number of persons
tire here actively engaged in this business, profitably alike
to theraselves and their employers.

MISCELLANEOUS.

Fire, that devouring element, has occasionally broken
over the restraints of caution and care, and done its fearful
work here. The first destructive fire which is known to
have occurred in this town, one in which was involved the
most seiious and awful consequences, was the burning of
the dwelling house of Josiah Wilder, situated in the north
part ofthe town, on or near the spot where the house now-
occupied by John Bruce and son stands. This fire
occurred in January, 1740. About the middle of the
night, Mr. Wilder and his wife were aroused from sleep,
their house being on fire ; the flames had already made
such progress as to compel them to leave the house as
speedily as possible. Mr. Wilder rushed out, siezed an
axe, cut a hole through the side of the burning house near
the bed where his son Asa lay, and pulled him out thereat,
while the room was full of fire and smoke. He was nearly
suff'ocated and badly burned, but soon recovered. Mrs.
Wilder, in haste to make her escape, inadvertantly opened
the cellar door, and with a child in her arms, plunged into
the cellar, where they perished. Three other children also
perished in this dreadful conflagration. Abner, the eldest
son, was fortunately from home at the time, staying at a
neighbors for a few days, and consequently escaped this
calamity so fatal in its efi'ects.
On the 6th of May, 1770, the dwelling house of Capt.
Joseph Bigelow, situated near where the house of Jonas
Muzzy now stands, a short distance west of the coramon,
took fire by a spark from the chiraney alighting on the

64
roof, and the house with a portion of its contents was
entirely consumed. This fire occurred on the sabbath
while the people were generally gone to raeeting three
miles distant, and only Mrs. Bigelow with the younger
children of the family were at home ; consequently no
seasonable effort could be raade to extinguish the fire.
In 1842, a dwelling house belonging to Liberty Dins
more and Mrs. Olive Whitney, situated near the brick
meeting house, was burned with a.portion of its contents.
In 1848, a dwelling house belonging to Luther Eames
and occupied by him, situated in the southerly part of the
town, took fire on the roof and was mostly consumed, with
ijome portion of its contents.
In 1853, the Valley Hotel, situated near the Beaman
place, belonging to Elias Davis and occupied at the time
by James E. "Wood, was destroyed by fire with a part of
its contents.
A few years since, a dwelling house belonging to Charles
Fairbank, and 30 years ago the residence of Hiram Howe,
situated in the northerly part of the town, then unoccupied,
was entirely consumed by fire, supposed to be the work
of an incendiary.
' August 23d, 1831, the Congregational Meeting-house
then standing on the common, was set on fire by a flash
of lightning, and entirely consumed. The fire took in
consequence of shavings being carelessly left under some
part of the flooring at the time the house was erected.
In 1801, a grist-mill belonging to Micah Harthan, and
the fulling-mill adjoining belonging to Peter White, with
raost of their contents, were entirely destroyed by fire.
Another mill upon an improved plan, was immediately
erected on the same spot, and also burned in 1847, then
belonging to Amos Child and G, W. Dinsmore. Another
building standing near, and formerly occupied as a cloth
ier's shop, was also burned at the same time. Still anoth
er grist-mill, more valuable and comraodious, in connection
with a shop for mechanical purposes, has since been erect
ed and put in successful operation on the same preinises
by Ruel G. Cowee. It is hoped that this valuable build-

65
ing will never fall a prey to the same devouring element
which consumed its predecessors.
In 1825, the blacksmith shop situated near where the
Central factory now stands, then, belonging to E.^ekiel
Peirce, and occupied by him as a scythe manufactory, was
entirely destroyed by fire.
Within the last 20 years three valuable cotton manufac
tories have been destroyed by fire in this town, and others
erected in their stead.
During the last 60 years, 4 barns have been burned, 3
by lightning and 1 by an incendiary.
In 1790, there were four farailies in this town and nearly
in the sarae neighborhood, whose children then living
amounted in the aggregate to 43, all of whom, with two
exceptions, lived to mature life, were married, and had
from five to ten children each. Four of the original num
ber are now living.
Sarah Harthan is the oldest person now living in this
town. She was the eldest child of MiKih Harthan, was
born January 19, 1763, being now 95 years of age. She
was born in Lancaster, where she resided 18 years; then
resided in Sterling five years ; afterwards in Boylston 22
years ; and during the remainder of life to the present
time, her residence has been in West Boylston. During
60 years of the first part of her life she resided successive
ly in each of the four towns just mentioned, not changing
her residence or leaving the place of her nativity. Since
that time she can hardly be said to have left the homestead,
still living with one of the family descendants and within
a short distance of the very place where she commenced
life. The dwelling-house now occupied by Ezra Beaman was
erected in 1764, by his father Ezra Beaman, Esq. It was
built in a thorough and substantial manner, perfect and
complete in all its parts, special care being exercised in
selecting materials and in the construction, with reference
to durability and permanence. It is now in a good state
of preservation from its base to the top, clearly showing
that with proper attention and care, it may remain another
century as a memento of its original and venerable occu-
6*

66
pant, unless destroyed by some unforeseen casualty, Of
demolished by a ruthless hand, careing littie or nothing for
antique specimens of innate enterprise and adventurous,
active energy. This ancient, noble structure, in its size,
form and appearance, was probably at that time, with few
exceptions, unsurpassed by anything of the kind in the
adjacent towns or even in the county. If nothing further
is to be done to perpetuate the memory of Major Beaman,
the father and benefactor of this toWn, it is to be hoped
that this specimen of early enterprise may be allowed to
remain, and be carefully preserved to mark the residence
of one, who by his own persevering efforts, arose to wealth
and distinction, at the same time acquiring and exercising
an influence justly belonging to a patriot aad public ben
efactor. In 1794, the first meetinghouse in this town was erect
ed; and in 1831 it was destroyed by fire, caused by a
stroke of lightning. At the raising of this house, a man
whose name is lust, was suddenly killed. In 1832, three
commodious meeting houses were erected, belonging re
spectively to the Congregational, Baptist, and Liberal
Societies. A convenient Hall has been erected at Oakdale,
and is now occupied by the Methodist Society. A Chapel
has also been erected in the central part of the town for
the accommodation of the Catholic portion of the popu
lation. In 1808, now 60 years since, there was but one church
and religious society and but one clergyman in this town.
To that society every family in the town belonged, and all
taxable persons paid their legal proportion towards the
support and maintenance of the ordinances of religion.
In 1818, George Merrifield, a lad nine years of age and
brother of Charles Merrifield of this town, when sliding
from a bay scaffold, came in contact with a hay-puller
which entered his body and caused bis dea^h.
In 18,55, Emmons Glazier, son' of Jonas Glazier, was
drowned here while bathing in the river.
There have been six deaths in this town, by s-uicide,
¦ within the last 60 years..

er

VARIOUS ITEMS.

At the time of the incorporation of the town of West
Boylston, Jonas Temple and Thomas Keyes of Boylston,
and Jonas Mason of Sterling, although included within
the liraits of the new town, were allowed, together with
their estates, to remain connected with the respective
towns to which they then belonged. This privilege so
liberally granted them, they tenaciously adhered to until
their decease, when their real estate came under the juris
diction of the town within the limits of which it was
included. «
Anthony Taylor, son of Eleazer Taylor, of Boylston,
was born in 1749, came to West Boylston in 1808, where
he resided until his decease which occurred in 1819, aged
70 years. He was a large, stout built man, and supposed
by his contemporaries not to be surpassed in physical
force and muscular strength by any man in New England.
In early life, while in full possession of vigor and vivacity,
he performed several extraordinary feats, the relation of
which might seem to challenge the belief of the most cred
ulous. Yet the credibility of those who witnessed and
have given an account of the wonderful exhibitions of
power and strength manifested and put forth by this man,
would render it quite certain, and perhaps beyond a rea
sonable doubt, that nothing more than the truth has been
stated relative to hira. An instance of the manifestation
of his extraordinary muscular power, was the lifting of a
field piece, while with the army at Cambridge in 1776,with
the intention of placing it upon his shoulder, which he
probably would have accomplished had not those around
him by their interference prevented, regarding such an ef
fort imprudent and hazardous. Other accounts relative to
the developement of the uncommon physical force of this
individual might bo mentioned, having been received from
reliable sources and corroborated by indisputable testi
mony. The nuraber of deaths in West Boylston, from 1808 to

68
1858, was near 1100. During the twelve years previous
to 1808, while the town was a precinct, the number of
deaths was between 70 and 80. Much the larger portion
of the mortal remains of those who have deceased in this
town since 1796, are deposited in tho public burying
ground adjoining the Common.
There is a large buttonwood tree, venerable for age and
appearance, standing by the roadside near the ancient Bea
man mansion house, planted there raore than one hundred
years ago by the elder Ezra Beaman while in his boyhood,
being at the time but thirteen years of age. This relic of
the early doings of him who once resided on those prem
ises, may serve as a memento to awaken the memory rela
tive to the distinguished individual who possessed a larger
share of energy, enterprise, and public spirit than any one
else who ever resided in this town.
There is standing at the present tirae, within the liraits
of fhe road and opposite the Beaman burying ground, near
the residence formerly occupied by Ephraim aud Silas Bea
man, a stately oak of venerable appearance and ancient
growth, which should be permitted there to remain as a
specimen of enduring permanence. Although there have
been instances in this town of splendid and beautiful trees
situated in special localities, having been unnecessarily
destroyed, it is hoped that such examples henceforth will
be of rare occurrence.

MILITARY.

Benjamin Bigelow, one of the early settlers of this
town, went as a soldier with others in 1745, and assisted
in the reduction and capture of Louisburg and Cape Bre
ton, then belonging to France and considered as the Gi-
bralter of Araerica. The capture and possession of this
-place with its fortress was regarded as a highly important
acquisition to the British crown. On his return from this
fexjiedition, Mr. Bigelow brought with him seTeral articles

69
of iron manufacture, sorae of which are yet in use on the
farm which he then occupied, and which is now in the
possession of B. F. Keyes.
Ephraim and Ithamer Bennett, sons of Phineas Bennett,
one of the early settlers of this town, enlisted as soldiers
in the army which went to Ticonderoga in 1768, and at
tempted the reduction of the fortress at that place. They
were in the so called " Morning Fight " that then occur
red, and which continued four hours, resulting in a disas
trous defeat. These two young men were both killed in
that terrible conflict.
At the commencement and during the progress of the
war of the American Revolution, the inhabitants of the
district now comprising the town of West Boylston, were
zealous and active in efforts to obtain and secure for them
selves and the Colonies, liberty and independence. Major
Beaman was a prominent and leading spirit in this impor
tant and patriotic enterprise, while others around hira
were also firm and deterrained in favor of freedora and
the rights of the people. ' On several special and iraport
ant occasions the citizen soldiers here turned out, readily
leaving their families and business to engage in the service
of the country, and that without pay or remuneration,
other than the satisfaction of having promptly discharged
their duty. During the continuance of the v/ar, several
men here enlisted and were joined to the regular army at
different periods, all of whom, with a single exception,
served out their tirae, returned home, and lived to enjoy
the blessings and advantages resulting from the toils and
suffering which they had bravely endured. Their names
were Ezra Beaman, John Bixby, Jos. Bixby, Zachariah
Child, Jos. Dwelley, Wm. Fairbank, Oliver Glazier, Benj.
Hinds, Jr., Jason Hinds, Ebenezer Inglesby, Ebenezer
Pike, Paul Raymond, Isaac Smith, John Temple, Nathan
Wilder, and John Winn. These brave and patriotic men
have all deceased, but their memories should long be cher
ished by a grateful people with feelings of respect and
veneration. Several of them lived to receive from the
country a pension, which their faithful services merited and
to which they were justly entitled. Oliver Glazier who
survived all the others, died in 1856, aged 92 years.

70 ¦ ¦
The first Military Corapany or Train Band in this town,
was organized' in 1801, consisting of the able bodied
raen between 18 and 45 years of age. This company
then numbered about 50 men, and at the first election of
officers, Silas Newton was chosen Captain ; Elijah Goode
now, Lieutenant ; Hiram Howe, Ensign. The following
persons were severally and successively elected to the Cap
tainship of this company, from time to time, during the
continuance of its organization, viz : Silas Newton, Elijah
Goodenow, Levi Kilburn, Silas Dinsmore, Barak B. Fair-
bank, Josiah P. Brown, Jonathan Plimpton, Jr., Peter
Holmes, Levi Goodale, Ephraim Bigelow, Asa Bigelow,
Dennis Harthan, Levi Pierce, Jr., Willard Worcester, Eb
enezer Fisk, and Ward B. Harthan. This company con
tinued some 30 years in an organized capacity, and then
became extinct.

RIVERS AND BRIDGES.

There are two rivers running into this town, the Still
water from Sterling, and the Quinepoxet from Holden,
forming -a junction near the village of Oakdale, thence
passing along through the central "portion of the town to
Boylston and Lancaster, continuing its course to Nashua,
N. H., where it empties into the Merrimac.
There are four prominent bridges in the town ; two at
Oakdale, one at Central Village, and another near the an
cient and Ivell known Beaman situation.
In 1856, the Bearaan bridge was rebuilt with stone, at
an expense of about $4000, and is considered durable and
permanent. It has ttiree arches of sufficient capacity to
take the water that passes along in the channel of the
river. The committee chosen by the town to superintend
the building of this bridge, were Addison Lovell, John
Prentiss, and Samuel Lawrence.
In 1849, the Central Bridge was rebuilt in a thorough
substantial manner, upon an improved plan, principally
under the direction and superintendence of David C. Mur
dock. Chairman of the Board of Selectmen at that time,
at an expense of about $900.

THE FARMING INTEREST.

The nuraber of farmers in West Boylston at the pres
ent time (1868,) is 70, having slightly increased during
the last 50 years. Although. some advance has been made
in the business of agriculture and the art of husbandry,
yet it is doubtful whether larger quantities of grain and
other valuable products are now produced, than there
were 60 years ago. In 1808 and previous to that time,
there were annually produced in this town, probably not
less than 3000 bushels of rye, and perhaps about the same
quantities of corn and oats. Most of the farmers produc
ed a sufficient quantity of wheat to afford a supply for
their families. It was an occurrence almost unknown at
that, time, for a farmer to purchase a barrel of flour. During
the winter season the farmers transported considerable
quantities of rye meal to Boston, for which they received
$1.25 per bushel, thereby realizing a fair profit.
Fifty years ago and previous to that time, large quanti
ties of cider were made in the town which was not often
sold for less than $1.00 and sometiraes for $2.00 or mole
per barrel, consequently it was a profitable production.
It was then generally considered a necessary article for
comraon use, and alraost every faraily used several barrels
annually. Most of the large farmers considered a cider
mill to be a necessary appendage to their farm, and would
feel themselves greatly deficient if not in possession of
this convenience.

PECULIAR AND EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS.

The following peculiar and extraordinary events have
occurred in by-gone years, operating not only in this im
mediate locality, (West Boylston,) but were experienced
and their effects felt generally throughout New England.

" The Great Earthquake," as it has been termed, hap
pened late in the evening of Nov. 18, 1756, and produced
great alarm and consternation, its effects being very appa
rent and surprising. Dwelling houses were shaken so
severely as to cause kettles and other things to rattle ahd
make an unusual noise, dishes, plates, &c,, falling from
shelves, and beds on which people were sleeping, apparently ¦
rocking like a cradle. Iij the westerly part of this town
a small piece of land settled down several feet, evidently
in consequence of this occurrence, traces of it being yet
visible. The Hard Winter . The Winter of 1750 has ever
been spoken of as " The Hard Winter," by those who
lived at that time, and others who have succeeded them.
It was remarkable for the great depth of snow which lay
upon the ground for a long while, and on account of the
severe cold weather, which continued for several successive
weeks. A snow of some depth fell in November before
the ground was frozen, and remained through the winter.
Towards the last of December, a snow storm occurred of
several days continuance, and having subsided, the snow
was ascertained to be five or six feet in depth, entirely
cohering the rocks, fences, &c., the roads being wholly im
passable and go remaining for several weeks. Oxen and
horses were not used for a long tirae. Wood for the fire
was om; from day to day in the lots, and drawn to the
dwellings on hand-sleds, by raen and boys wearing snow-
shoes. By the same process grain and meal were trans
ported to and from the mill for family use. After the
lapse of six or eight weeks the cold began to abate, the
snow gradually settled down, and eventually vanished
away, the ground imraediately becarae dry and ready for
cultivation. There was no rain after the ground was cov
ered in November, until the snow had entirely disappeared
in the spring — a period of four or five months.
" The Dark Day," ever remembered and spoken of by
those who witnessed it, occurred May 19, 1780. It was
remarkable on account of its extraordinary appearance,
filling the rainds of the people generally with wonder and
surprise. So strange and novel was the appearance on that
day that many were struck with consternation, spending

73
the most of their time in conversation relative to this sin
gular phenomenon and what might follow it. Early on
the morning of that day, the atmosphere had the appear
ance of being filled with dense fog of a yellowish hue,
bsing in great commotion, apparently rolling about in
large masses, constantly rising and raoving along. So
great was the darkness at mid-day that many families
found it necessary to use lighted candles while they par
took of their dinner. The following night was as uncora
raonly dark as was the preceding day. Nothing unusual
followed this phenomenon.
A Severe Frost occurred on the night of May 17th,
1794, causing great damage and loss to the farmers in con
sequence of it's destructive effects upon grain, fruit, &c.,
not only in this immediate vicinity, but also throughoiit a
large portion of New England. The day preceding was
unusually cold, and during the night the surface of the
ground was frozen, and in many localities, ice was formed
on water an eighth of an inch in thickness. The spring
was early and unusually forward. The farmers had large
quantities of winter rye growing upon their lands, which
at this time looked remarkably well, and seemed to prora
ise an abundant crop. It had already attained its full
height, and was in bloom, but was so severely frozen that
on the next day being thawed by the rising sun, it fell to
the ground, and was entirely destroyed. A second growth
sprung up but produced no grain of any value, being en
tirely blasted. Indian corn having been planted early, was
up and looked well, and although much frozen, was not
materially injured. Apples at this time, in some localities,
were nearly as large as full grown cranberries, and with
very few exceptions were wholly destroyed, and most
•other kinds of fruit also shared the sarae fate.
Drought of 1805. During the summer of 1805, a
drought was experienced in this vicinity and other portions
of New England, probably of greater severity than has
occurred since that period, or for many years previous.
On the tenth of June of that year, the rain fell in torrents
during the day, thoroughly soaking the ground and filling
the streams with water to overflowing, producing the great
est freshet which happened throughout the year. From
7

Ii
that time there was no rain hereabouts until the last day
of July following, when a small cloud carae over late in
the afternoon, raining raoderately twenty or thirty minutes.
The drought continued with increased severity until Sep
tember, when frequent showers occurred, sufficient to
moisten the ground and revive drooping nature, thereby
dissipating tho alarm and gloomy forebodings then exten
sively prevalent. During this season of drought the pas
tures and other grass lands became sere and destitute of
any thing green, affording but a scanty subsistence for
cattle, sheep, &c. In some localities grasshoppers became
so numerous as to devour and destroy every kind of vege
tation that came in their way, causing great injury and
damage to grain, fruit, and other productions of the soil,
resulting in loss to the farming interest, and consequently
to the community.
A Total Eclipse of the Sun, visible in this vicinity and
adjacent parts of the country, occurred June 16, 1806;
probably the most reraarkable one in its appearance and
effects, that has occurred for a hundred years. The day
On which this phenomenon happened, was fail; and pleas^
ant, the atraosphere still and serene, and the sky cloudless,
thus affording ara pie opportunity for notice and observation.
This eclipse occurred in the forenoon, the middle being
between eleven and twelve o'clock. The sun was in total
obscuration about two minutes, when nature assumed the
appearance of evening, the fowls hastened to their roosting
places, apparently overtaken by surprise, the chill of even
ing was felt, and stars were distinctly visible to the eye of
the observer. The greatest splendor of the scene was the
suddenness of total obscuration and afterwards the sudden
and precipitant rush of the sun into open day. Asa whole
the scene was sublime and magnificent, and highly grati-»
fying to the many who beheld it.
The Great Blow, as it has generally been termed, occur
red Sept. 23, 1815, was severely felt in this vicinity, and
throughout a large portion of New England. It was de
structive in its effects, causing much damage and loss to
the comraunity. Extensive quantities of wood and timber
were blown down, many valuable fruit trees were turned
over and destroyed, apples, pears, peaches, &c., were

nearly all blown from the trees, almost entirely covering
the ground in orchards and other localities where fruit
trees chanced to stand. In many instances sheds and
small buildings were blown down and demolished, and
wooden fences generally shared the same fate. Traces of
this tempest are yet to be found in some places, and prob
ably will be visible for years to come. This was undoubt
edly the greatest and most extensive tornado that has
occurred in this region since the settlement of New Eng
land. Cold Summers. During the last fifty years, or from
1808 to 1858, several seasons have occurred which were
rather cold and consequently unfavorable to agricultural
pursuits. The coldest and most unpropitious season was
that of 1816, it being unusually cold from the commence
ment to the end of the year. During the suramer months
there was very little warm weather, and many days were
so cold as to render the clothing of winter convenient and
necessary. In June of that year, spots on the sun were
distinctly visible to the eye, the atmosphere frequently
presenting a thick, dusky appearance, like that of a severe
winter's day, the cold at the same time being so severe as
to make it pleasant and desirable to sit by a fire. It was
frequently so cold as to render it uncomfortable to labor
in the fleld. One farmer in this town (West Boylston,)
on one of those cold days in the latter part of June, being
busily engaged in ploughing a piece of land, actually left
the field and turned out his team, then retired to his-house
saying it was so cold he could not stand it to 'follow the
plough. During the summer there was a scarcity of feed
in the pastures, and not more than half the usual crop of
kay was cut firora the mow-lands. So scanty was the crop
in some cases, that hay was taken frora the field and sold
for $25 per ton. Many farmers disposed of a portion of
their cattle the best way they could for fear of starvation.
Indian corn was mostly spoiled by the autumnal frosts,
very little of it being fit for use. English grain being
better adapted to a cold season, was heavy and good, and
a fair crop was generally obtained by the farraer.
In 1832, the season was colder than usual. During the
night of the last Wednesday in May of that year, snow

fell in this region so as to entirely cover the ground,- and
remained through the next day, it being so' cold as to pre
vent thawing, but no damage was caused thereby. Indian
corn on low land was mostly spoiled by the early frosts of
autumn, while on more favorable localities it ripened arid
produced an abundant crop of hale heavy corn.
Remarkable Longevity. Mrs. Sarah Goodale, relict of
Edward Goodale, one of the early settlers of this town, was
born in Marlboro' in 1714, and died here in 1810, being
in the ninety-seventh year of her age. She was the oldest
person who has died here since the settleraent ofthe town,
having been a resident here nearly 80 years. She was a
robust, vigorous woman, industrious and frugal, being well
qualified for the station she occupied in life. When about
40 years of age, Mr. Goodale died leaving six young child
ren, (five sons and a daughter,) with their mother, to get
along in the world the best they could. The mother be
carae the guardian of the children, assuming the direction
and management of them until they arrii^ed at the age
when they might legally act for theraselves. She retained
the farra in her possession, and by her industry aud econ
omy attended by the blessing of God, she was enabled to
award to each of her children their just proportion of their
father's estate, at the time when they became legally enti
tled to assume the possession thereof, while at the same
time herself had become the bona fide owner of the home
stead. These children all lived to old age, and in their
turn ilianifested a filial respect for their honored mother
by extending the same dutiful care to her during the latter
portion of her life, which she bestowed on them while in
their childhood and early years. She was a professor of
the Christian religion and always apparently acted in the
fear of God and in accordance with the principles of •' the
Higher Law." During her life, she manifested a firm
faith and confidence in Christ as her Savior, and conse
quently her death was peaceful and happy. Her children
survived her and afterwards died as follows :
Moses died in 1815, aged 76^years ; Elizabeth died in
1837, aged 96 years; Aaron died in 1817, aged 74 years ;
Paul died in 1828, aged 81 years; David died in 1832,
aged 82 years ; Peter died in 1854, aged 82 years. These

children were early taught to regard and observe the prin
ciples and customs of the puritans, and manifested through
life a becoming respect and veneration for the instruction
received from an affectionate, devoted parent. They were
also professors of the Christian religion.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF
•THOMAS KEYES, Jr.

Thomas Keyes, Jr., was born April 20, 1802, and died
Oct. 30, 1831, at the age of 29 years. He was the sec
ond son of Thomas and Lydia Keyes, of West Boylston,
and grandson of Thoraas Keyes who settled here in 1767.
He was a member of the Congregational Church in this
town. The following biographic sketch is taken from
"The Young Mechanic," for April, 1832. The writer
of the sketch was then and is now a citizen of Boston, as
indicated by the signature ;
THOMAS KETES, JR.
It is a pleasing task, to follow through ali the mazes,
and to dwell upon the incidents connected with the rise
of an ingenious raan, however he may have been favored
by circumstances, or assisted by fortune. If we dwell
with pleasure «-pon the character of such a man, with
what sensations must we trace the rise aad progress of
that man, who, imitating tlie course pursued by Franklin,
Ferguson, and Simpson, rises from obscurity by his own
efforts, without the advantages of education, the assist
ance of fortune, or the advice of friends, and beats out a
path which those ia better circumstances would scarcely
attempt to follow. That the life of a mechanic, distin
guished for his peiseverence and application, and with all,
a native of our own states, will be interesting, (at least to
mechanics,) I will not questi<m. It indeed must be a
source of interest to any one, to see an individual of their
7*

own class in society, in circumstances iliferior to theni''
selves and with less means of improvement, struggling to
overcome the difficulties and disadvanta.ges with which he
is surrounded ; endeavoring, by every means in his pow
er, (without injury to others) to better his condition,
cither in fortune or acquirements. Such an individual
should surely be the object of universal esteem. It has
been justly remarked, that although the disadvantages
are great, of those who are obliged to begin their acquaint-
iince with science late in life, yet all the chances of the
race are not against them. The time they have lost, and
are anxious to redeem, of itself gives a stimulus that will
make up for many disadvantages.
Such was the case with the subject of this sketch, who
was born at West Boylston, Mass. His time appeared of
so rauch importance to him that he often denied himself
the necessary time for sleep. As he did not apply him
self to a mechanical business until he was 20 years of age,
he considered it a duty to redeem it if possible. The
cause which prevented him until this age from following
his favorite pursuit, was neither poverty nor inclination,
but the wishes of his friends, who "not seeing as he saw,"
endeavored to check what they considered his wayward
fancies, and to fix his mind upon the cultivation of the
farm, of which he Was to become a part possessor. Al
though he appeared to yield to the wishes of his friends,
yet he never could bring his mind to acquiesce in the idea
of spending his life in a pursuit so contrary to his inclina
tions. While with his hands he cultivated the soil, his
mind was panting for tbat knowledge which he knew as a
mechanic he could practice. And, the time which was
not occupied in labor on the fatm, he spent in the cultiva
tion of his mind. Although he devoted himself to math
ematics, natural philosophy, and astronomy, yet his taste
for music appears first to have shown itself; and the in
genuity displayed in his first attempt to gratify himself is
worthy of notice, and is thus described by a friend : "the
fii'st.known of his musical performances was upon an in-
.strument of his own manufacture while he was very
young ; it was made of a shingle, with silk stririgs strained
across in the manner of a violin, a small stick from an.

f9
Rpple tree, and some hair from a house's tail sei'ved for a
bow ; and upon this rude instrument the young performer
has produced music which has been listened to with con-'
siderable pleasure." From this rude but successful at
terapt may probably be traced the first desire he had to
make himself master of the art in which he afterwards
became very proficient as a performer upon several instru
ments. Some time previous to his leaving the farm, his
attention was attracted by a description of an organ in a
cyclopedia to which he had access, and from the accurate
account of the different parts there given, he formed the
idea of making one himself, the parts of which were to
be of wood. This was considerable of an undertaking to
one situated as he was, without tools or materials, and
many would probably have abandoned the scheme as im
practicable ; but his persevereance led hira to devise raeans
to obviate these difficulties, and by the friendly assistance
of a cabinet raaker who allowed hira the use of his tools,
he was enabled to accomplish his object to his perfect
satisfaction. But, with all the fascination and pleasure which natural
ly follows the study of music, it was made to give way to
the more solid sciences. Of these, mathematics, (which
is considered by sorae as the most dry and insipid of all
studies,) held, the first place in his esteem." It was con
sidered by him in its true light — as the only foundation
on which the other sciences could be firmly built. He
thought no tirae mispent, while engaged in solving the in'
tricate and abstruse problems with which it abounds ; and
I have often heard him observe, that "mechanics were not
aware of the disadvantage of attending so little to this
all-important science.'* It must certainly be confessed,
that it has been very much neglected by this class of the
community ; for if we look around and see how many
have been ruined by schemes, which, with a little atten
tion to the truths explained in this science, they raight
have avoided, we cannot fail of being impressed with the
necessity of urging it upon the candid consideration of
mechanics. Let it but be realized, that this is the key
stone by which the grand arch of science is secured, and
on which the hopes of genius must be based, then will

80
those difficulties which appear insurmountable, vanish—
the abstruse will be simple, the useless important, and
the tedious pleasing.
In the study of astronomy, which had engaged his at
tention during the latter part of his life, he found his
knowledge of mathematics of the greatest service in mak
ing the numerous calculations which were necessary in
the construction of apparatus, by the aid of which correct
ideas could be conveyed to the minds of the youthful and
uninformed, of this sublime and interesting science. An
Orrery, which he contrived for the purpose of illustrating
the relative motions of the solar systera, is very simple
and economical, and when united with its correct calcula*
tions and ease of management, forms one of the most
useful instruments of the kind. To be used in connexion
with his Orrery, he had in view an apparatus which was
to embrace the Lunarium and Tellurium on a different
plan from any at present known. But unfortunately the
traces of the design which he has left are so obscure, that
it is impossible for any one to understand his views suffi
ciently to complete it. A piece of board which he had
prepared for the purpose of making a working draft of
his plans, was not used, in consequence of his being taken
ill with that disease, from which he never recovered.
In addition to the studies which have been mentioned,
he likewise pursued that of drawing and painting ; the
latter, however, occupied but a small share of his time.
To his taste for painting, may be attributed an apparatus
he contrived, a description of which, may not be uninter-
-esting ; an experiment in optics, which is no doubt famil
iar to many, and is performed by having a, piece of circular
board painted in equal proportions of blue, yellow and
red, and made to revolve with great velocity. The board
will appear while whirling of a dirty white. If the board
were divided into twelve parts instead of three, and should
have four series of the teolors, blue, yellow, and red, one-
fourth of the velocity would produce the same effect. The
• caraeleoscope ' is the name of the machine contrived by
Mr. Keyes, so called from the various changes of color
produced by it while in motion. It is made by cutting
out nine of the twelve parts of the board, and leaving but

81
one series of colors equally divided. Then by making
four such boards painted with various colors, revolve be
hind each other with different velocities, it will exhibit a
continual change of color; and if by any means it could
be stopped, when a pleasing shade presented itself, it
raight be known what colors had produced it. This was
a scheme, which is probably more curious than useful. —
But although it might not have been of any practical utili
ty, yet it might have contained hints which may hereafter
be applied with advantage.
We may here regard a trait in the character of ^Slr.
Keyes which is worthy of all imitation, that of corarauni
cating' information to others freely, and especially those
discoveries which we have made, and do not know to
what purpose to apply them. A free coraraunication of
sentiraent and opinion between different persons, is ac
knowledged to be of the greatest benefit. The institu
tion of Lyceums, and other societies, is but to assist in
accomplishing this end. Mr. Keyes was fully aware of
the advantage resulting from persons associating together
for mutual instruction ; and acknowledged that he had
been greatly assisted in the study of astronomy by being
a member of a small society of individuals in his native
village, who met together for mutual improvement in that
science. At the head of this social club, was the venera
ble and respected astronomer and philosopher, Robert B.
Thomas. To this gentleman Mr. Keyes looked up with
reverence ; his kindness in furnishing books, and assist
ing hira in his various studies, were favors which were
never forgotten.
Let it not be urged, that a person who turns his atten
tion to many things can do nothing well ; for, although
it may be true in sorae degree, yet it is not without excep
tions. Sir William Jones, the greatest civilian of raodern
tiraes, contended, "that no opportunity for improvement
in any study, which presented itself, should be neglected;
and he himself, while studying the law, took advantage of
vacations to peruse the light works of the French and
Italians, besides making a favorite pursuit of dancing and
fencing. And yet, all this variety, which would be
thouo-ht to distract his attention, aided in making him

82
the greatest lawyer and most profound scholar of his
age. The whole object of all the studies of Mr. Keyes
tended to one grand point — the acquisition of knowl
edge. If his pursuits are various, they were no less
correct. As a cabinet maker, a clock maker, an ap
paratus maker, or a student, his work bore the stamp of a
mathematical mechanic.
I have thus attempted to compile a few incidents of the
life of one, worthy of the respect of all classes, but es
pecially of that of which he was the ornament. I will
not pretend to say, that he was more of an ornament to
mechanics that many others who have preceded hira ; for
there have been those, whose names have been s'iiffered
to moulder in oblivion, when they deserved to have been
handed down for the admiration of posterity. But, if
some have been neglected, it does not follow that we
should neglect all. Instead of neglecting them, let us en
deavor hereafter, to perpetuate the remembrance of those
whose lives afford an example worthy of imitation. The
rapid march of intellect and iraprovement araong the pro
ducing classes, within a few years past, awakens the fond
est hopes for its permanence and duration. If this state
of things should continue, biographies and examples will
be needless. And we can now apparently lift the veil of
futurity and see the existence of that state, " when in the
proud career of mind our country will seek her fame."
J. M. w.

CONCLUDING REMARKS.

In closing the Historical Memorandum of West Boyls
ton, it may not be thought improper to inquire somewhat
in regard to the past and respecting the future.
Where are those adventurous, enterprising raen, together
with those directly and intiraately associated with thera in
life, who commenced the settlement of West Boylston,
and others who followed and resided here from 1720 to

83
1770, or a portion of that tirae, some in the maturity of
life, others in childhood and youth, all looking forward
with hope and anticipation ? None of that interesting and
.long to be remembered portion of our ancestors and prede
cessors are now living, all having paid the debt to nature
due. Where are those who commenced life in this town after
the close of the first 50 years from the period when the
original settlers located here and previous to 1808, the
time when the town assumed a legal organized position ?
Some 50 or 60 of that number are yet living and reside
here, and perhaps about the sarae number are also living
and reside elsewhere, thus showing that since the incorpor
ation of the town, now fifty years since, about five-sixths
of those in life and residing here at that tirae, have found'
" the last of earth " and gone to participate in scenes be
yond this fleeting world.
What is in the future and will be developed to huraan
view and observation during the next 50 years, is to a
great extent, altogether beyond the stretch of the imagina
tion or conception of the far-seeing and accurate calcula
tor ; and what might now be suggested for consideration
as a probable or possible occurrence, raay not only be a
demonstrable fact but an existing reality, before the close
of the next half century. Events auspicious and desirable
and also adverse and lamentable, will undoubtedly trans
pire, alternately causing joy and sorrow, not only to indi
viduals and to distinct farailies, but to the whole cora
raunity. In 1908, when the centennial anniversary of this town
shall be celebrated, perhaps some, how many cannot be
conjectured, who are now here enjoying and participating
in occurrent scenes and events, raay be present with others
yet unborn on that interesting occasion ; while much the
Iaro-er portion of the present inhabitants of this town will
then be numbered with the silent dead.
What will then be said of us who are now here actively
engaged in the busy scenes and transactions of life. _ Will
our general course as social beings, residing and acting in
this community, and our individual moral influence be
such through life as to merit and elicit the grateful recol-

84
lection and approval of our successors, who may chance
then to hold and occupy these dwellings, which we must
ere long vacate, 'and leave to be remodelled and become
the residences of our descendants and others r Shall we
rightfully deserve the same tribute of veneration and re-'
spect from those we leave behind, to which our ancestors
and predecessors are justly entitled to frora us ? Consid
erations like these raight profitably occupy sorae of those
leisure moments which occasionally overtake us, and raay
the effect be to cause our mark in life to be so made as
not to prove a blot on our future memory.

ERRATA.
Oa page 10,— 4th line from the bottom, read Persis for Tersis.
On page 11. — 9th line from the bottom, read Maj.or Beaman for Mayor
Beaman.
Qa page 25 — last line in the slsetsh of Abiel Holt, read leading for lead.
On page 29 — 5th line from the bottom, read Sabra (or Sabia,
On page 37,— in the sketch of the life of Aaron Thomas,— 3d line, read
Doa. Jonas Mason instead of Dea. Ebenezer Mason.