Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
Journey back in time to Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Ashby, Massachusetts, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Ashby
Ashby, Middlesex, MA
Ashby was first settled in 1676 and was officially incorporated in 1767. The town was formed from portions of Townsend, Ma., Lunenburg, Ma., Fitchburg, Ma., and Dorchester, Canada (portion of Ashburnham, Ma.) kids.kiddle.co
Included in Ashby are: Mill Village and South Village.
netronline.com/ mass_lookup.htm
Ashby was first settled in 1676 and was officially incorporated in 1767. The town was formed from portions of Townsend, Ma., Lunenburg, Ma., Fitchburg, Ma., and Dorchester, Canada (portion of Ashburnham, Ma.) kids.kiddle.co
Included in Ashby are: Mill Village and South Village.
netronline.com/ mass_lookup.htm
Source
Have family roots in Ashby?Add your family to this place
MAP
Use the map to explore this place and its surroundings.
VINTAGE ASHBY
Ashby Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
The Ashby Inn.
Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
Carr's Mill
Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
Library Building
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to ASHBY
MASSACHUSETTS Gift t shirt Made in MASS, Got Wicked Class Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt
Are you looking for a t-shirt that's as comfortable as it is stylish? Look no further! Our Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt is the perfect blend of comfort, quality, and Massachusetts pride. Whether you're a lifelong Massachusetts resident or just passing through, you'll appreciate the "wicked class" that this shirt exudes.
MASSACHUSETTS Gifts - Cranberries, Baked Beans and Fluffernutter - I Love Massachusetts! - Ceramic Mug MA
Our Ceramic Mug, Cranberries, Baked Beans, and Fluffernutter - I Love Massachusetts! is more than just a beverage holder; it's a piece of art that celebrates the flavors and traditions of the Bay State. So whether you're sipping your morning coffee, evening tea, or a comforting cup of hot cocoa, you can do it with style and a dash of Massachusetts charm. Plus, it's a fantastic conversation starter. Imagine sharing stories about your favorite Massachusetts memories while enjoying a drink from this delightful mug.
MASSACHUSETTS Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug - Celebrate Your Bay State Heritage!
Show off your deep-rooted connection to the Bay State with our Massachusetts Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug! Perfect for sipping your favorite brew while tracing family history, this ceramic mug is a tribute to the rich heritage of Massachusetts.
MASSACHUSETTS Pride Coffee Cup - Made in Mass “Got Wicked Class” Mug
Show off your Massachusetts pride with a sip of sass! The Made in Mass “Got Wicked Class” Mug delivers local humor and hometown swagger in every cup. Perfect for coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, this high-quality ceramic mug comes in 11 oz or 15 oz and is dishwasher & microwave safe. Ideal for early commutes, porch mornings, or late-night study sessions, it’s a bold, fun reminder of where you’re from—and the attitude that goes with it. A must-have gift for anyone who loves Massachusetts, humor, and a wicked good cup of coffee!
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Ashby: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Ashby through the years.
1676 - Ashby is settled
1767 - Ashby is incorporated
1836 - September 28 - The first of three early season snows brought two inches to Ashby MA.
1839 - Ashby
Ashby, Massachusetts
This is a pleasant town, in the county of Middlesex on the line of N.H. It is 25 miles N.W. from Concord, 42 W.N.W. from Boston and 8 S.E. from New Ipswich, N.H. Population, 1837, 1,201. It has some manufactures of palm-leaf hats, boots, shoes, chairs, wooden ware, and curled hair.
This is a pleasant town, in the county of Middlesex on the line of N.H. It is 25 miles N.W. from Concord, 42 W.N.W. from Boston and 8 S.E. from New Ipswich, N.H. Population, 1837, 1,201. It has some manufactures of palm-leaf hats, boots, shoes, chairs, wooden ware, and curled hair.
1845 - ASHBY. [Pop. 1,246. Inc. 1767.]
Ashby is situated at the northwest corner of the county. The soil is very fertile, though the land is elevated ; and the chief employment of the inhabitants is agriculture.
The only manufacture, of any importance, is that of palm-leaf hats.
Distance from Concord, 25 miles ; from Boston, 42.
The only manufacture, of any importance, is that of palm-leaf hats.
Distance from Concord, 25 miles ; from Boston, 42.
1848 - Ashby
This town was incorporated in 1767. It is situated at the north western extremity of the county. This township is on elevated land, varied with hills and valleys, furnishing rich pastures and agreeable prospects. This is an agricultural town, and the farms are productive. The two churches in the central part of the town stand on high land, and may be seen from a great distance. Population, 1,201. Distance, 25 miles from Concord, and 42 from Boston. The manufacture of palm leaf hats is the principal manufacturing business performed in the town. In 1837, there were 59,989 hats manufactured, the value of which was $7,751 50.
1854 - Ashby
Ashby, a post-township, Middlesex county, Massachusetts, 40 miles N. W. of Boston ; contains some manufactories of boots, hats, &c. Population, 1218.
1859
ASHBY, a township in Middlesex co., Massachusetts, U. S., 50 m. NW of Boston. Pop. 1,246.
Show more local history, news & stories
Ashby Massachusetts, 1890
Ashby, distinguished for its beautiful hills, clear streams, and valleys, occupies the northwest extremity of Middlesex County; having for its bounds, New Hampshire on the north, Townsend on the east, Fitchburg on the south, and Ashburnham on the west. It was taken from the three above-mentioned towns; named, perhaps, in honor of the tenth Earl of Huntington, whose family seat was Ashby, in England; incorporated March 5, 1767. It contained, in 1885, 244 dwellings and 871 inhabitants. In it are Mill Village and South Village. The post-office is Ashby, simply. The nearest railroad station is at West Townsend, on the east, four miles distant.
Prospect Mountain is the highest elevation within the borders of Ashby, unless it includes a spur of Watatic Mountain, whose summit (1847 feet high) is just within the line of Ashburnham. The surface rocks are chiefly granite, found in nearly cubical blocks. The land is generally elevated, the soil strong, and the air healthful. From the bases of ...
Read more
Prospect Mountain is the highest elevation within the borders of Ashby, unless it includes a spur of Watatic Mountain, whose summit (1847 feet high) is just within the line of Ashburnham. The surface rocks are chiefly granite, found in nearly cubical blocks. The land is generally elevated, the soil strong, and the air healthful. From the bases of ...
1895 - Ashby
Ash'by, a post-township of Middlesex co., Mass., about 6 miles N. of Fitchburg. It has 2 churches, and manufactures of lumber, pails, and tubs. Pop. 962.
1916
Ashby, a post-township (town) of Middlesex co., Mass., about 6 miles N. of Fitchburg. It has various manufactures of wood. Pop. of the town in 1900, 876.
Here's a list of places to see and things to do in and around Ashby:
Willard Brook State Forest:
Explore the outdoors in Willard Brook State Forest. It offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and even a pond for fishing. Great for a day of nature and relaxation.
Ashby Free Public Library:
Check out the local library. Libraries are often underrated, and Ashby's library might surprise you with its collection. It's a peaceful spot to read or get some work done.
Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area:
If you're into hiking and want a bit more challenge, head to Watatic Mountain. The trails offer great views, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Cushing Academy Art Galleries:
If you're interested in art, see if there are any exhibits or events happening at Cushing Academy. It's a private school, but they often open their art galleries to the public.
Local Farms:
Explore local farms. Depending on the season, you might find apple picking, pumpkin patches, or other farm activities. Places like Hollis Hills Farm could ...
Read more
Explore the outdoors in Willard Brook State Forest. It offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and even a pond for fishing. Great for a day of nature and relaxation.
Ashby Free Public Library:
Check out the local library. Libraries are often underrated, and Ashby's library might surprise you with its collection. It's a peaceful spot to read or get some work done.
Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area:
If you're into hiking and want a bit more challenge, head to Watatic Mountain. The trails offer great views, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Cushing Academy Art Galleries:
If you're interested in art, see if there are any exhibits or events happening at Cushing Academy. It's a private school, but they often open their art galleries to the public.
Local Farms:
Explore local farms. Depending on the season, you might find apple picking, pumpkin patches, or other farm activities. Places like Hollis Hills Farm could ...
GENEALOGY IN ASHBY
Discover YOUR Roots: Ashby Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Ashby through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Ashby, Massachusetts, USA
We currently have information about 23 ancestors who were born or died in Ashby.
View ancestors by year of birthCONTINUE YOUR RESEARCH
Search Ashby Genealogy
Search by place or by ancestor name to keep exploring families connected to Ashby.
SEARCH BY PLACE
Find Family by Place
Not the place you were looking for? Start another place search and choose a location from the suggestions.
SEARCH BY ANCESTOR
Find Family by Name
You can enter part of a name if you are unsure of the full name or exact spelling.
Updated: 10/7/2023 6:17:54 PM
COMMUNITY
Discussion & Local Contributions
Share corrections, memories, local history, or family connections that may help other researchers.