Historical Records Survey (Mass.)

About the Author

The Historical Records Survey of Massachusetts, a pivotal initiative under the Division of Community Service Programs of the Work Projects Administration, was established during the Great Depression to meticulously document and preserve the state's historical records and local histories. Operating in the late 1930s and early 1940s, the survey employed thousands of researchers and writers to compile comprehensive inventories of public archives, church records, and vital statistics, while also producing detailed town histories that captured the essence of Massachusetts communities. This collaborative effort not only safeguarded invaluable historical materials from potential loss but also provided employment and fostered a deeper appreciation for regional heritage. In 1942, the survey culminated in the publication of the 'History of the town of Ashland,' a leather-bound volume that exemplifies their dedication to scholarly accuracy and narrative depth in recounting local evolution from settlement to mid-20th century.