Alphabetical indexes to the vital records of Ashfield, Massachusetts, up to the year 1850, supplemented by information from bible records, church registers, cemetery inscriptions and other sources. PDF file is free to read and download.
The Massachusetts Tax Valuation List of 1771 contains the names and descriptions of taxable property of nearly 38,000 individuals who resided in 152 Massachusetts towns in 1771
Lysander Franklin Gurney, a prominent figure in Brockton, descended from early settlers and the ancient Barons of Gournay in Normandy. His lineage includes notable ancestors who fought alongside William the Conqueror. Born in 1843, he became a respected jeweler, establishing Gurney Brothers Company, a leading jewelry business in New England. Gurney was admired for his charitable contributions, dedication to his church, and mentorship within the community. He married Chloe Richmond Lyon, and they had three sons, continuing the family’s legacy of craftsmanship and service.
Lysander Franklin Gurney, a prominent figure from Brockton, Massachusetts, was a direct descendant of early settlers, tracing lineage back to the ancient Barons of Gournay in Normandy. His family’s legacy in America began in the 17th century, with notable ancestors involved in military service. A skilled watchmaker and jeweler, Gurney established the Gurney Brothers Company, which became a leading jewelry establishment in New England. Active in his community and church, he was known for his generosity and conservative values until his passing in 1905.
This is a collection of free vital records books for Massachusetts towns, most of them known as “Tan Books.” Generally, these records go up to 1850 at which, the genealogist can use the census records to assist in identifying the family connections further. They’re called “tan books” because they were bound by tan cloth. Included with this article is an account of why and how these manuscripts were published along with links to all 274 Massachusetts vital record books which can be freely read.
Rev. Samuel Parker, born on April 23, 1779, in Ashfield, Massachusetts, was a pivotal figure in early American missionary work. After graduating from Williams College and Andover Theological Seminary, he began his ministry in New York. In 1833, he offered to explore the West for the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. His significant journey in 1835 to the Oregon territory culminated in the publication of “Parker’s Exploring Tour,” which raised awareness about the region. Parker remained influential until his death on March 21, 1866, at nearly 87.
Arthur Burdette Daniels, born on October 21, 1861, in Ashfield, Massachusetts, rose to prominence as the president of the L. L. Brown Paper Company in Adams, a key player in New England’s paper manufacturing. Starting as a bookkeeper in 1878, he became treasurer and general manager before assuming the presidency in 1919. A notable figure in various industrial organizations, he contributed to the founding of the Knickerbocker Portland Cement Company and held multiple director roles. Daniels was also a family man, married to Ida A. Millard, with three children.
Charles L. Gardner, born May 27, 1839, in Cummington, Massachusetts, hailed from a lineage of early New England settlers. A distinguished lawyer and legislator, he became a prominent figure in Hampden County’s legal community, practicing law for over fifty years. Gardner’s career included roles as trial justice, State Senator, and district attorney, where he balanced justice with mercy. He was a dedicated community leader, serving as president of both the Palmer Savings Bank and the Hampden Savings Bank. He married Esther Ely Gilmore in 1869, and their two sons continued his legal legacy.
Henry Hill Couillard, born in 1828 in Exeter, Maine, led a life filled with adventure and change. His experiences spanned the Mexican War, the African slave trade, and gold mining in California, before transitioning to a successful career in the hotel industry and farming. Starting with humble beginnings, he owned over twenty-five hotels across New England and became a prominent cattle raiser. Couillard’s remarkable journey from impoverished youth to esteemed entrepreneur earned him widespread respect and admiration. He passed away in 1905.