This is a collection of free vital records books, otherwise known as “Tan Books” for Massachusetts towns. Generally, these records go up to 1849/1850 at which, the genealogist can use the census records to assist in identifying the family connections further. Included with this article is an account of why and how these manuscripts were published along with links to all 198 books which can be freely read or downloaded.
In the death of Davis Snow Packard, which occurred in Brockton, Mass., July 31, 1900, the city lost one of its foremost citizens as well as one of its most successful manufacturers. Mr. Packard was a native of the town of North Bridgewater, now the city of Brockton, born June 24, 1826, son of Apollos and Betsey (Packard) Packard, and a descendant of one of the oldest and most prominent families of the old Bay State. (I) Samuel Packard, the founder of the family in America, was a native of England, his home being at Windham, near Hingham. In 1638 … Read more
Adams, Marshall, son of John Abigail (Sampson) Adams, was born in Providence, Barnstable County, December 4, 1842. His early educational work was done in the Provincetown schools until 1856. He attended Paul Wing’s Academy, Sandwich, and subsequently Frost Academy, Framingham, and was graduated from the Cotting Academy, Arlington. Mr. Adams was first connected in business with Fairbanks, Adams & Co., Boston, ship brokers. Later on he was with O. D. Witherell, coal dealer, Boston, and with John P. Squire & Co., pork dealers, Boston. From 1865 to 1879 he was a grocer and ice dealer in Providence He is at the present … Read more