Biographical Sketch of Abel Smith

Abel Smith, from Hubbardston, Mass., located on a farm in the central part of Eden, at an early date. He was a shoemaker by trade, but the latter part of his life he devoted entirely to farming. His death occurred in 186o, at the age of seventy-eight years. His family consisted of twelve children, all of whom located in the town, and three of whom are now living. Asa, his sixth child, born in 1809, now occupies the old homestead. John H., the second son of Asa, born in 1840, has been a resident of the town all his life.

Free Massachusetts Vital Records

Vital Records of Bellingham Massachusetts to 1850

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.

Biographical Sketch of Eli Hinds

Eli Hinds, from Hubbardston, Mass., came to Eden in the spring of 1801, being, according to a sermon preached at the funeral of his oldest son, Eli, the first person who entered the town with a team of any kind. He had a family of four sons and three daughters. Two of the sons served in the war of 1812, and two, Freelove and Abel S., are now living, the latter, born in 1809, being one of the oldest residents of the town. Mr. Hinds held many of the town trusts, and was actively interested in church matters.