This brief Historical Memorandum and Genealogical Register covers the period up to 1868, marking fifty years since the town of West Boylston was established and 138 years since its earliest settlement.
The purpose of this Memorandum and Register is to highlight the events that led to the founding of West Boylston. It also seeks to honor the first settlers who made their homes on these hills and in these valleys, paving the way for progress and future prosperity. By preserving their stories, this work aims to ensure that present and future generations remember and appreciate their perseverance and dedication in the face of challenges, which ultimately led to the establishment and organization of the town.
Additionally, the biographical notes included in the genealogical sketch serve as a tribute to the individuals they commemorate, acknowledging their contributions to the town’s history. An example of the brief genealogical details found within the manuscript is:
Merrifield, Timothy, came to this town probably in 1785 from Sherburne, and afterwards went to Worcester where he died.
Partridge, James, came from Medway, settled here in 1778, and went to Boyston previous to 1798, afterwards returned and d. in 1821, aged 92 years.
Pike, Ephraim, a native of this town, removed therefrom previous to 1800.
Sawyer, Manassah, came from Sterling and d. here suddenly in 1801.
Townsend Jacob, came from Reading, settled here and d. in 1806.
Whitcomb, Samuel, came from Sterling, settled here, and d. from accident in 1806. He m. Thankful, dan. of Lemuel Fairbank.
White, John, came from Groton, settled here, went to Grafton in 1798, afterwards to Springfield, Vt., where he died. He m. Acsah Bigelow.
Whiting, John L., came from Shrewsbury, settled here and d. in 1807.
Winn, William, a native of this town, removed to Vermont in 1805.
Source
Keyes, Benjamin Franklin, Historical memorandum and genealogical register of the town of West Boylston, Massachusetts, from its early settlement to 1858; together with miscellaneous items and incidents, Worcester : Spy printing house, 1861.