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.
The following are 5 free digitized directories found online for the cities and towns of Billerica, Chelmsford, Dracut, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro and Westford Massachusetts covering the years of 1896-1926 (incomplete), containing an alphabetical list of the inhabitants and business firms, streets, town offices, societies, churches and other miscellaneous matter. Directories can provide such information on an individual such as their employment and address during the year issued. They may also indicate whether they were renting or residing with somebody else at the time.