Congregational church

Acton Massachusetts History

Acton Center,Acton Massachusetts

Acton in History traces the town’s development from its beginnings as Concord Village in the seventeenth century through its emergence as a modest industrial community. It gives particular attention to the religious life of the town, including the building of early meetinghouses and the long ministries of figures such as the Rev. John Swift and the Rev. James T. Woodbury. The work devotes substantial space to Acton’s role in the Revolution, especially the events at the North Bridge in 1775 and the loss of Captain Isaac Davis and his company of minute-men. It also follows the growth of local industries, from blacksmithing and cooperage to the far-reaching effects of the Fitchburg Railroad after its arrival in 1844. Later chapters include brief sketches of notable residents in the 1880s. Throughout, the narrative weaves in discussions of Acton’s everyday life, civic engagement, and social values.

Builders of Pope County Minnesota

Pope County Minnesota First Court House

The historical book “Builders of Pope County” chronicles the pioneering and civil development of Pope County, Minnesota, from the Traverse des Sioux treaty to the establishment of its county seat. It details the evolution of public infrastructure, including courthouses, and features biographies of early settlers. The narrative highlights the formation of townships such as Glenwood and Starbuck, the founding of churches and schools, and the military service of residents. This work commemorates the community’s cultural growth and was released during the dedication of the new courthouse in 1930.

History of the Town of Goffstown New Hampshire

North Mast Street, Goffstown, New Hampshire

The “History of the Town of Goffstown, New Hampshire” chronicles the town’s development from its early territorial origins until the early twentieth century. Emerging from local preservation efforts, the book was formally initiated in 1908, with a dedicated committee tasked with organizing extensive records from various sources. It documents Goffstown’s civic, religious, and industrial life, along with genealogical records and maps. This historical account serves as a vital reference for current and future generations, preserving the town’s legacy and the contributions of its inhabitants.

History of Glastonbury Connecticut, 1653-1853

Indian Map of Glastonbury

The history of Glastonbury, Connecticut, from 1653 to 1853 chronicles an account of its schools, commerce, mills, and ecclesiastical societies. The author, Alonzo Bowen Chapin, balances the general history with personal narratives, making the reading engaging for individuals tracing their ancestry. The work provides valuable insights into the town’s development, the contributions of its early ministers, and the influences of religion and learning that shaped the community. Unfortunately, the work is limited in the depths of the genealogy presented.

History of Derby Connecticut, 1642-1880

Edmund Leavenworth of Derby, Connecticut

The book titled “History of the Old Town of Derby, Connecticut, 1642-1880” presents a comprehensive account of Derby’s development, including the town’s Indian history, early settlers, and significant events like the Revolutionary War. It emphasizes education, commerce, and church influences, while offering an extensive collection of biographies and genealogies.

History of the Town of Cornwall Connecticut

Foreign Mission School, Cornwall, Connecticut

The History of the Town of Cornwall Connecticut is a comprehensive account of the town’s evolution from colonial organization in 1731 to its involvement in national events like the Civil War. They include detailed geographical descriptions, ecclesiastical histories of local churches, and biographical sketches of families such as the Sedgwicks and Golds. The records also reflect social life, farming, early fashion, and the noteworthy Foreign Mission School.

Historical Sketch of Lisbon Connecticut, 1786-1900

Joseph Jewett Home in Lisbon Connecticut

Though the work, Historical sketch of Lisbon, Conn., from 1786-1900, forms a modest octavo volume of only eighty-four pages, this book condenses within that limit the ecclesiastical and narrative history of the town, together with brief biographies and genealogies of its sons and daughters. The ecclesiastical history covers the sixty-eight years from 1718 to 1786 when Lisbon was a part of Norwich, and brings the record down to the 1900, embracing the Hanover parish, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 1891. The narrative and descriptive history commences with Lisbon’s independent existence as a town, and comes down to the present day; and the brief biographical and genealogical sketches which follow occupy the last half of the book, and include lists of town officers, members of the General Assembly, and soldiers and sailors who served in the various wars of our country.

History of Bethany Connecticut

The Gate Schoolhouse in Bethany Connecticut

Bethany Sketches and Records, was compiled and published by W. C. Sharpe in Seymour, Connecticut, with Part 1 issued in 1908 and Part 2 in 1913. These books aim to present historical sketches, transcripts of records, and other collected data in a convenient form for reference. The compiler acknowledges that errors may exist in names and dates, likely originating from the original records themselves, where spellings varied and dates were not always correctly entered. The content contains the ecclesiastical and civil history of Bethany, Connecticut, including details on its incorporation as a society in 1762 and as a town in 1832, the development of its Congregational and Episcopal churches, vital statistics such as marriages, baptisms, and funerals, and information on local families, schools, and topography.

Newport County Rhode Island Cemeteries

A complete listing of all available online Newport County Rhode Island cemeteries, with links to transcriptions, gravestone photos, official records, etc.

Bristol County Rhode Island Cemeteries

A complete listing of all available online Bristol County Rhode Island cemeteries, with links to transcriptions, gravestone photos, official records, etc.

Beal Genealogy of Abington Massachusetts

Old Families of Southeastern Massachusetts

The Beal family of Abington, Massachusetts, descends from immigrant John Beal, who arrived in 1635. Over generations, the family has played a significant role in the community, notably through George A. Beal, a distinguished public figure and businessman. His contributions included numerous public offices, reflecting a commitment to civic duty. The Beals have connections to early Puritan settlers and intermarriages with prominent local families, including the Reeds. This lineage continues to influence Abington’s history, emphasizing their longstanding presence in the area.

French Genealogy of Fall River Massachusetts

Job B. French

The French family has significantly influenced Fall River’s history since its founding, tracing their roots to Rollo, Duke of Normandy. Notable figures include Hon. Enoch French and his descendants, who were involved in various trades, notably tanning and shoemaking. Enoch established the first boot and shoe store in Fall River and contributed to local governance and community organizations. His sons, including Job B. French, also played vital roles in business and civic life. The family’s legacy continues through their active involvement in the First Baptist Church and local affairs.

Ancestry of Alfred Pierce of Attleboro Massachusetts

Old Families of Southeastern Massachusetts

Alfred Pierce, born January 1, 1822, in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, is a retired contractor and builder from Attleboro, where he contributed significantly to the construction of public and private buildings over fifty years. A descendant of a notable lineage tracing back to the Norman Conquest, his ancestors participated in many historical events. Alfred and his wife Martha Richardson Williams, a prominent community member, had one daughter, Marion, who pursued a career in art and was active in civic organizations. Alfred remains a respected figure in his community.

Corthell Genealogy of Hingham to South Abington, Massachusetts

Elmer Lawrence Corthell

William P. Corthell, a prominent figure from South Abington (now Whitman), Massachusetts, came from a lineage distinguished by their contributions to society. The Corthell family, established in Hingham in the early 18th century, produced numerous influential individuals. William himself was a dedicated public servant, engaging in various roles, including county commissioner and trustee of the Abington Savings Bank. He was recognized for his integrity and commitment to community service and church, leaving behind a legacy of honorable public life and a devoted family.

Descendants of William Sturdy of Attleboro MA and Slatersville RI

John F. Sturdy

The Sturdy family, descended from John Jenkins, who became William Sturdy after fleeing the British navy, played a significant role in the jewelry industry of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Settling in Attleboro, William transitioned from farming to work in cotton mills during the industrial boom. His sons, notably William A. and John F., contributed to the family’s legacy in jewelry manufacturing, establishing successful businesses that thrived for generations. The family’s collective efforts reflect their industrious spirit and commitment to their community in the Attleboros.

Genealogy of the Fox Family of Taunton, Massachusetts

The Connecticut-Massachusetts branch of the earlier family of this name of the old Bay State is one of long and honorable standing in New England, and as well of historic connection. The especial family here considered, and which for designation is styled the Taunton family, is that of pome of the descendants of Capt. Jabez Fox, of Berkley, Mass., one of whose sons was the late Henry Hodges Fox and the latter’s son the present Hon. William Henry Fox, lawyer and judge, who for forty and more years has been judge of the First District court of Bristol county and otherwise prominently identified with the public affairs of the city of Taunton.

Descendants of Rev. James Keith in Bridgewater, Massachusetts

Roland Keith

The Keith family is one of the oldest of southeastern Massachusetts. Its founder in America was Rev. James Keith, born in 1644, who came to America, landing in Boston in 1662. He became minister of the Bridgewater Church, where he administered to the spiritual needs of the people for half a century. He died July 23, 1719. He was twice married. His first wife was Susannah Edson, daughter of Deacon Samuel Edson.