Nestled in the hills 38 miles west of Boston; the area that would become Grafton originally belonged to the Nipmuc Indians. In the mid-1600s; John Eliot; a Puritan missionary; traveled throughout Massachusetts converting the natives to Christianity. He created a series of �praying Indian� villages; including Hassanamesit. In 1728; most of Hassanamesit was purchased by a group of investors; and in 1735 it was incorporated as the town of Grafton. By the early 19th century; Grafton was a national leader in leather tanning and shoe production. Textile mills appeared along the rivers; attracting emigrant workers from Canada and Europe. Three geographic areas evolved; each with its own identity: Grafton Center; North Grafton; and South Grafton. Today; residents celebrate the differences and salute the forces that brought them together to form one united town. Grafton is the birthplace of the famous Willard clock makers�Simon; Benjamin; Ephraim; and Aaron�whose home and clock shop are now the Willard House and Clock Museum. Grafton is the birthplace of Robert Bailey Thomas; the founder; editor; and publisher of the Old Farmer�s Almanac. Native Jerome Wheelock invented a steam valve system; revolutionizing transportation worldwide. Grafton is also the childhood home of noted American poet Frank O�Hara.
#3140233 in eBooks 2016-05-25 2016-05-25File Name: B01G6919GW
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