Page 404 - BOXFORD

Since its establishment in 1976, the Boxford Historic Document Center has served as an
archives and local history center for the town. Focusing on the documentation of Boxford’s
history through written records, maps, and photographs, the collections at the Center range
in date from the 17th century through to the present. This material helps provide the
necessary context for understanding the history of the town and its people.

The Boxford Historic Document Center is located in West Boxford Village, in the little
brick building next to the Second Congregational Church. Last year over 70 curious people,
including students, genealogists, historians, and residents, visited the BHDC. Many others,
both old friends and newcomers, attended the open house held in December in conjunction
with the West Boxford Winter Fest.

Among the Center’s activities in 2015 was the development of a new exhibit focusing on
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Boxford’s 19 century mills. Mill sites were scattered throughout the town on various
brooks and ponds. The exhibit previewed at the Apple Festival and may now be viewed at
the Document Center. Monthly history articles have been published in the Tri-Town
Transcript, with a focus on photographs and archival material from the Center. Happily,
there are many fascinating aspects of Boxford’s history and compelling photographs to
write about. Topics have included Boxford’s schools, churches, various town
organizations, the World War II scrap metal pile, and an overview of Boxford in 1760.

The Document Center is always looking to acquire new collections. Materials do not need
to be “old” or “valuable” as long as they document the history of the town and its people.
Among the donations we enthusiastically accept are photographs and postcards of buildings
or town events, memorabilia and records of local organizations, schools, and churches,
newspaper articles, scrapbooks, and files recording personal involvement in town
government.

We look forward to 2016 and the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the founding of the
Boxford Historic Document Center. The BHDC was established by the Boxford
Bicentennial Commission as an enduring legacy of the celebration of the American
Revolution, and found a suitable home in the old Ingalls Memorial Library.

The Document Center relies on volunteers to assist with reference work and collection
management and we are always interested in having new Wednesday helpers. This year
Alice Holden volunteered. Staff members are Kathy Phillips and Martha Clark.

The Boxford Historic Document Center is open for researchers and visitors on
Wednesdays, from 9 until 4, and Wednesday evenings, 7:00 to 9:00. We are also open the
first two Saturdays of each month, 10 to 3. Appointments may be made with the archivist if
these hours are not convenient. Please call 978-352-2733 with any questions.

Martha Clark
Archivist

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