Ancestors of George Mitchell Hooper of Bridgewater, MA

George Mitchell Hooper

The Hooper family, established in New England by William Hooper in 1635, has deep roots in Bridgewater, MA. His son, John Hooper, settled in Bridgewater and had several descendants involved in various local endeavors. George Mitchell Hooper, born in 1838, engaged in the brick manufacturing business and served in local government, reflecting the family’s long-standing commitment to community service. His marriage to Jane Hayward further connected the Hoopers to influential local families, including the Mitchells, whose ancestry traces back to early colonial times.

Free Massachusetts Vital Records

Vital Records of Bellingham Massachusetts to 1850

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.

Biography of Aaron White

Aaron White, born October 8, 1798, in Boylston, Massachusetts, passed away on April 15, 1886. A Harvard graduate of the class of 1817, he practiced law in Rhode Island and later became involved in banking. An advocate for Governor Dorr, he relocated to Connecticut in 1842. A teetotaler, White was also an avid numismatist, amassing a significant coin collection. His will, detailing his burial wishes, reflects his commitment to human rights. He was survived by his son, who resides in Grafton, Massachusetts.