Gardner Massachusetts

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 John W. Jefts

John W. Jefts, born on December 4, 1859, in Langdon, New Hampshire, was the son of Alphonso and Almira Jefts. His ancestry traces back to England, with his great-grandfather, Jonathan, being the first to settle in New Hampshire. John initially pursued education for the ministry but shifted to become a skilled machinist. Due to health issues, he turned to farming nine years ago. He is married to Harriet E. Simpson and is an active member of the United Order of Workmen, practicing as an Episcopalian.

Biography of J. Herbert L. Smead

J. Herbert L. Smead, a prominent businessman in Erving and active in Orange’s civic life, was born on November 8, 1870, in Greenfield. Son of J. Henry and Sarah Adell Smead, he began his career in the printing trade before moving to Gardner, where he spent 28 years in the chair industry. As manager of the Heywood-Wakefield Company in Erving, he significantly contributed to the local economy. Smead married Alice M. Sawin in 1899, and they had three children: Robert, Helen, and Elsie.

Biography of Clarence Harland Fisher

Clarence Harland Fisher, born on September 21, 1893, in Gardner, Massachusetts, is the son of George Robert and Carrie E. (Whittaker) Fisher. He was educated in Greenfield and Athol and has been deeply involved in the family livery and garage business, working alongside his father in South Deerfield. An accomplished mechanic, Clarence also established a bus service connecting Sunderland, South Deerfield, and Greenfield. He has served as Captain of the South Deerfield Fire Department and is a member of several fraternal organizations. He married Mary E. Young in 1910.