Azel R. Emerson, son of Hazen, and grandson of Richard, who came t Alstead from Haverhill, Mass., in 1786, was born December 29, 1822. H lived with his father upon the farm until twenty-one years of age, taught school two terms, and in 1847 started, with O. F. Beckwith, the first iron foundry and plow manufactory in Alstead. In 1849 he purchased Mr. Beckwith’s interest, and in 1893 sold out the business. In 1854 he was elected selectman of the town, and later on removed to Hinsdale, N. H., where t engaged in the foundry, machine and agricultural, implement business, remaining until 1860, when he sold out, and, in 1861, and for some years aft 1862, was engaged here in the same business. He held the office of to clerk from 1866 to 187 1, was selectman in 1868,’70, ’71,’73 and ’76, and h held most of the town offices at various times. In 1873 he was appoint postmaster, which position he now holds.
