History of Phillipston, Massachusetts, USA

1751 - Phillipston is settled

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1786 - Phillipston is incorporated

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1839 - Phillipston
Phillipston, Massachusetts
Worcester county. There is a large pond in this town, the source of Burnshint river. This pleasant town was taken from Athol and Templeton, in 1786. It was called Gerry until 1812. The manufactures of the town consist of cotton and woolen goods, palm-leaf hats, leather, boots and shoes; annual value, about $75,000. It lies 58 miles N.W. by W. from Boston and 25 miles N.W. from Worcester. Population, 1837, 887.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1845 - PHILLIPSTON. [Pop. 919. Inc. 1786.]
Phillipston was chiefly taken from Templeton.

It was first named Gerry, in honor of Elbridge Gerry, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence ; but his measures, when Governor of the State, displeasing the inhabitants, they changed the name to Phillipston, in honor of a family long distinguished for its wealth and its munificence.

The soil is good, but uneven. Small branches of Swift, Ware, and Miller's River water the town, and afford a few good mill-sites.

Some cotton and woollen goods, and palm-leaf hats, are manufactured.

Distance from Worcester, 30 miles; from Boston, 58.
An Elementary Geography for Massachusetts Children by William Bentley Fowle and Asa Fitz, 1845

1848 - Phillipston
This town was chiefly taken from Templeton, and was set off as a separate parish in 1774, and in 1786 was incorporated a town, and named Gerry, in honor of Elbridge Gerry, a vice-president of the United States; “but on account of the disapprobation of his measures when governor of Massachusetts, and especially a law for districting the state for the choice of senators, which was highly obnoxious to a majority of the town, they petitioned to the court, and the name was changed to Phillipston, in 1812.” The organization of a church was retarded on account of the revolutionary war. However, in 1785, one was gathered, under the direction of the ecclesiastical council, and in 1788 Rev. Ebenezer Tucker was ordained pastor. He was succeeded, in 1800, by Rev. Ezekiel Bascom; the next minister, Rev. Joseph Chickering, was installed in 1822, and was succeeded by Rev. Alexander Lovell, in 1835.

This town is uneven, consisting of hills and valleys, but the soil is productive. Two miles west of ... Read MORE...

1854 - Phillipston
Phillipston, a post-township in Worcester co., Mass., intersected by Miller's river, 60 miles N. W. by W. from Boston. Pop., 809.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

Phillipston Massachusetts, 1890
Phillipston is a good farming town lying in the northwesterly section of Worcester County, 58 miles from Boston. The Ware River Railroad crosses the southern extremity, and the Fitchburg touches the northern angle. The general form of the township is triangular, with a very irregular base-line running northwest and southeast; the town of Templeton, on the east, covering this entire side. Hubbardston and Barre lie at the southeastern angle; Petersham lies on the southwest, and Athol on the west, with Royalston at the north.

The assessed area is 14,756 acres. The soil is principally a light loam. The forests consist chiefly of pine, and cover 3,245 acres. The central part of the town consists of broad hills. Prospect Hill, about two miles west of the central village, is the highest, and a beautiful elevation. Echo Pond, a mile south of the centre, 1¼ miles long and one third wide, is the source of Burntshirt River. The latter also enters and drains Factory Pond, on the eastern line,... Read MORE...

1895 - Phillipston
Phil'lipston, a post-township of Worcester co., Mass., about 18 miles W. by S. of Fitchburg. It contains a public library and 2 churches, and has manufactures of chairs and toy wagons. Pop. 666.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1906
Phillipston, a post-township (town) of Worcester co., Mass., about 18 miles W. by S. of Fitchburg. Pop. in 1900, 441.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Phillipston:
Phillipston Common:

Explore the heart of the town, the common, which often hosts community events and gatherings.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the picturesque surroundings.

Templeton Fish & Game Club:

If you enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and shooting, this club provides a welcoming environment for enthusiasts.

Birch Hill Dam:

Head to Birch Hill Dam for hiking, birdwatching, and serene views. It's a great spot for nature lovers.

Otter River State Forest:

Embrace the outdoors with camping, hiking, and fishing in this state forest. The Otter River provides a scenic backdrop.

Local Farms:

Check out local farms in the area for seasonal activities such as apple picking or enjoying fresh produce.

Gardner Ale House:

While Gardner is nearby, Gardner Ale House is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts and those looking for a delicious meal.

Local Antique Shops:

Explore antique shops in and around Phillipston to discover unique... Read MORE...