Middlesex County Archives – Massachusetts Genealogy

Col. Francis Faulkner of Acton, Massachusetts

Col. Francis Faulkner, born in 1728 in Andover, Massachusetts, was an influential figure during the American Revolution. Initially loyal to the British crown, he turned against oppressive policies and became a prominent military leader, achieving the rank of major in 1775. Faulkner played a crucial role in the Concord engagement and served multiple terms in public office, including town clerk and member of the Provincial Congress. He was known for his sound judgment, military courage, and commitment to community service. Col. Faulkner passed away in 1805, leaving a lasting legacy through his family and contributions to the revolution.

A Brief History of Acton, Massachusetts

Acton, Massachusetts, has a rich history linked to its early settlement by Concord in the 17th century. Initially part of Concord, it became a separate town in 1735. Early settlers faced conflicts with Native Americans and the challenges of frontier life, exemplified by Captain Thomas Wheeler’s contributions and sacrifices during King Philip’s War. Acton played a significant role in the American Revolution, with local men participating in key battles. Over the years, Acton transformed from an agricultural community into a thriving town, marked by industrial growth, the establishment of schools, and civic institutions, preserving its historical legacy while adapting to change.

Joseph Hills of Malden

Joseph Hills, born in 1602 in Essex, England, emigrated to New England in 1638, settling in Charlestown, Malden and Newbury, Massachusetts. He was a prominent figure in the early colonial government, serving as a selectman and speaker of the House of Deputies. Joseph married four times, his first wife being Rose Clarke, who died in 1650. He is noted for compiling the first codification of Massachusetts laws. Hills died in Newbury in 1688, leaving a legacy as Malden’s first deputy and significant contributions to the colony’s governance and legal framework.

Sargeant Family of Malden

William Sargeant, a “godly Christian,” was among the first settlers of Malden, arriving in 1638 from England. He became a freeman in Charlestown in 1639 and had several children, establishing a notable family lineage. His son Peter served on the Council of Safety, while another son, John, had multiple descendants, including Nathan Sargeant, who became a prosperous farmer in Leicester, Massachusetts. The Sargeant family has a rich history of marriages and descendants recorded in Malden, showcasing their lasting impact on the community.

Historic USGS Maps of Ayer, Massachusetts Quadrangle

Southwest Corner of 1951 Ayer, Massachusetts USGS Topographical Map

These maps are part of USGS Topographical Maps made since 1882. They’ve been broken down into quadrangle’s to make viewing them easier. We have digital copies of three different series for the Ayer, Massachusetts Quadrangle. The first surveyed in 1923 and 1935, and published in 1939, and then a partial revision surveyed in 1944 and printed in 1945; and then a final revision in 1950, and published in 1951. For information about these maps see Historic USGS Topographical Maps. 1939 Ayer, Massachusetts Quadrangle Historic USGS map Surveyed 1923, 1935. 1945 Ayer, Massachusetts Quadrangle Historic USGS map Surveyed 1923, 1935, and … Read more

Malden High School Yearbooks 1919-2015

The Boston Public Library has digitized numerous yearbooks for the high school in Malden, Massachusetts. These yearbook images they have placed online for everyone at Internet Archive. To facilitate your access we have provided links to the individual yearbooks below, by year published, oldest to newest. All 105 of these yearbooks, can be read, and/or downloaded from this page for free!