Palmer Massachusetts

Biography of Charles L. Gardner

The family from which Charles L. Gardner came is one of very old New England ancestry, as his first forebear in this country was an early settler in Massachusetts, known as John Gardner, of Hingham, who settled and died in that town November 24, 1668. More than ten generations of Gardners have made New England their home, the family, of course, originating in England. Charles L. Gardner, noted as lawyer and legislator, aided in making the name illustrious. John Gardner, of Hingham, and his wife, Mary, were the parents of the second John Gardner (a), who was baptized July 18, … Read more

Biography of James Rathbone

JAMES RATHBONE, prominent citizen of Palmer, Massachusetts, is associated with his brothers in the enterprise known as A. B. & J. Rathbone, manufacturers of pinion rod and pinion wire. He was born in Warrington, England, August 24, 1887. His education was acquired in the public schools of his native town, and after leaving school he served an apprenticeship at a mechanical trade. He came to the United States in 1905 and located immediately at Palmer, and in association with his brother, Andrew B. Rathbone, he started manufacturing pinion wire and special cold-drawn shapes. This manufacture began in a barn in … Read more

Biography of Reese James Richards

Mr. Richards’ long experience in the jewelry business has culminated in one of the most popular and well-equipped jewelry establishments at Northampton, and in this part of the State; and to bring about its gradual and substantial development he has added the results of investigation and training that have been lifelong. His interest in the broadening of civic affairs has always been a most active feature of his Northampton citizenship; and he has held office that has been productive of progressive results to the community. Mr. Richards is the son of William T. Richards, who who was born in England … Read more

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.

Biography of Charles S. Potter

CHARLES S. POTTER, treasurer and manager of the Hampden Lumber Company of Springfield, and prominent in the civic life of Springfield and vicinity, is a man who holds a high place in the regard of his fellow citizens. Influential in business and social spheres he has been called also to accept the responsibilities of public office, and as president of the City Council of Springfield won general recognition for his efficient and public-spirited administration. He can be counted upon to search out and consistently follow a businesslike, constructive policy in any matter of public welfare to which he gives his … Read more

Biography of Nelson L. Jarvis

NELSON L. JARVIS is known throughout the United States through his association with Jarvis & Jarvis, one of the leading concerns in the country in the field of rubber tired castors. Mr. Jarvis, who is senior partner in the firm, is known as one of the prominent men of Palmer. He is a trustee of the Palmer Savings Bank, and is active and well known in civic and fraternal circles. Nelson L. Jarvis was born in Malone, New York, September 23, 1883, the son of Bernard Jarvis, a native of New York State, who was a carpenter, and Virginia (Boyea) … Read more

Descendants of Benjamin S. Atwood of Whitman, MA

Benjamin S. Atwood

Benjamin S. Atwood, the well-known box manufacturer of Whitman, Mass., was one of the best known men in Plymouth county, and as a business man and as a soldier stood high in the estimation of all who know him. He was born in the town of Carver, Plymouth county, June 25, 1840. The Atwood family of which Benjamin S. Atwood is a descendant is an old and prominent family of Plymouth Colony. The founder was John Wood, who came to Plymouth in 1643, and was later known as John Atwood – a spelling of the name that has been retained to the present time.

Biography of Rev. John Dunbar

Rev. John Dunbar was a missionary to the Pawnes Indians of the West for a period of more than twenty years before he became a resident of Kansas. He spent a little over a year in the territory and, as its first treasurer, assisted in the organization of Brown County. Mr. Dunbar was a native of Palmer, Massachusetts, born March 3, 1804. In 1832 he was graduated at Williams College, and later at the Auburn Theological Seminary. While a student at the latter institution he received an appointment as missionary to the western Indians; was ordained at Ithaca, New York, … Read more

Biography of Albert Henry Warren Stimson

ALBERT HENRY WARREN STIMSON – After a rich experience in the business world, Albert Henry Warren Stimson, of Northampton Massachusetts, since 1909 has followed farming and become not only one of the prosperous farmers of the vicinity but a man active in community affairs and highly regarded by all his fellow citizens. He is the descendant of a very old New England family, which traces back to early Colonial days. (I) The surname Stimson is in its origin identical with Stephenson, Stevenson and Stimpson, and in its various forms is common in England and Scotland and of very ancient usage. … Read more