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History of Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Journey back in time to Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Also known as(Feltonville)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Hudson, Massachusetts, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Hudson
Hudson, Middlesex, Massachusetts, USA
From around 1850 until the last shoe factory burned down in 1968, Hudson was known as a "shoe town". At one point, the town had 17 shoe factories, many of them powered by the Assabet River, which runs through town. kids.kiddle.co
Hudson includes: Collidgeville, Cove Landing, Gleason Junction, Ordway Station, and Wilkinsville.
From around 1850 until the last shoe factory burned down in 1968, Hudson was known as a "shoe town". At one point, the town had 17 shoe factories, many of them powered by the Assabet River, which runs through town. kids.kiddle.co
Hudson includes: Collidgeville, Cove Landing, Gleason Junction, Ordway Station, and Wilkinsville.
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MAP
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VINTAGE HUDSON
Hudson Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Main Street){kind=small}
Main Street
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Apsley Rubber Company
"The Goodyear Gossamer Company was founded in 1885 in Hudson by U.S. congressman and businessman Lewis Dewart Apsley and J. H. Coffin of Boston. This company produced rubber (or "gossamer") clothing; within the span of five years, the Goodyear Gossamer Company had become the largest producer of gossamer garments in the nation.
In 1892, Mr. Apsley purchased Mr. Coffin's share of the Goodyear Gossamer Company and reincorporated it as the Apsley Rubber Company. This company produced both rubber clothing and footwear. The plant employed around 1200 to 2000 people during its existence, more than half of all of those employed in Hudson at the time.
The plant was sold to the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company when Mr. Apsley approached retirement; the plant was renamed the Firestone-Apsley Rubber Company and it produced tires. A new smokestack that had the word "Firestone" spelled out on it in white-painted bricks was built by the Firestone Company. The factory folded in the 1930s, during the Great Depression..." wikipedia){kind=small}
Apsley Rubber Company
"The Goodyear Gossamer Company was founded in 1885 in Hudson by U.S. congressman and businessman Lewis Dewart Apsley and J. H. Coffin of Boston. This company produced rubber (or "gossamer") clothing; within the span of five years, the Goodyear Gossamer Company had become the largest producer of gossamer garments in the nation.
In 1892, Mr. Apsley purchased Mr. Coffin's share of the Goodyear Gossamer Company and reincorporated it as the Apsley Rubber Company. This company produced both rubber clothing and footwear. The plant employed around 1200 to 2000 people during its existence, more than half of all of those employed in Hudson at the time.
The plant was sold to the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company when Mr. Apsley approached retirement; the plant was renamed the Firestone-Apsley Rubber Company and it produced tires. A new smokestack that had the word "Firestone" spelled out on it in white-painted bricks was built by the Firestone Company. The factory... Read more
"The Goodyear Gossamer Company was founded in 1885 in Hudson by U.S. congressman and businessman Lewis Dewart Apsley and J. H. Coffin of Boston. This company produced rubber (or "gossamer") clothing; within the span of five years, the Goodyear Gossamer Company had become the largest producer of gossamer garments in the nation.
In 1892, Mr. Apsley purchased Mr. Coffin's share of the Goodyear Gossamer Company and reincorporated it as the Apsley Rubber Company. This company produced both rubber clothing and footwear. The plant employed around 1200 to 2000 people during its existence, more than half of all of those employed in Hudson at the time.
The plant was sold to the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company when Mr. Apsley approached retirement; the plant was renamed the Firestone-Apsley Rubber Company and it produced tires. A new smokestack that had the word "Firestone" spelled out on it in white-painted bricks was built by the Firestone Company. The factory... Read more
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - The Square){kind=small}
The Square
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Panoramic View of Bruce Pond Showing R.R. Bridge){kind=small}
Panoramic View of Bruce Pond Showing R.R. Bridge
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - View of Hudson, Mass. from Bellevue looking N.E., 1905){kind=small}
View of Hudson, Mass. from Bellevue looking N.E., 1905
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - High School, 1907){kind=small}
High School, 1907
Show more vintage photos, ads & postcards
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Methodist Episcopal Church){kind=small}
Methodist Episcopal Church
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Library, 1909){kind=small}
Library, 1909
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Fuller Chandler Pattern Co.){kind=small}
Fuller Chandler Pattern Co.
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - The Brett & Co.'s Factory, Hudson, Mass., 1910){kind=small}
The Brett & Co.'s Factory, Hudson, Mass., 1910
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Library and Engine House, 1910){kind=small}
Library and Engine House, 1910
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - Congregational Church){kind=small}
Congregational Church
Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
Postcard
 - St. Michael's Church from Bruce's Pond){kind=small}
St. Michael's Church from Bruce's Pond
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to HUDSON
MASSACHUSETTS Gift t shirt Made in MASS, Got Wicked Class Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt
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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 Hudson: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Hudson through the years.
1699 - Hudson / Feltonville is settled
1854 - Feltonsville
Feltonsville, a post-village in Middlesex county, Massachusetts.
1866 - Hudson founded
Hudson was formerly a part of Marlborough, and was known as Feltonville. It was officially incorporated in the year 1866 and named Hudson.
1874 - LOSSES BY FIRE.
A fire in Hudson, Mass., Saturday, destroyed the piano forte manufactory of KOELER & SHAW. The loss is $50,000, insurance $23,000. MR. GEORGE A. CATTING'S house and stable were also burned; loss, $5,000, insurance, $2,500. The business portion of the village was seriously threatened, but the prompt arrival of engines from Marlboro greatly aided in stopping the conflagration. KOELER & SHAW did a large business, and employed 100 hands.
Hudson Massachusetts, 1890
Hudson is an attractive, enterprising and progressive town in the western side of Middlesex County, 28 miles directly west of Boston, on the Massachusetts Central Railroad. Through the midst of the town passes also the Marlborough Branch of the Fitchburg Railroad. The township is wedge-shaped with the thinner edge eastward. Its boundaries on the north are Bolton and Stow; on the east, Sudbury; on the south, Marlborough; and on the west, Berlin. The assessed area is 6,780 acres.
There are nearly 2,000 acres of forest, consisting largely of walnut, chestnut, elm and pine. Mount Assabet, near the centre nearly 200 feet in height, is a favorite resort.
In general, only the borders of the town are hilly, with a nearly level valley along the Assabet River, which runs from southwest to northeast through the centre, then eastward along the northern side. Two considerable brooks come down from Bolton to this stream near the centre; and, farther east, Fort-meadow Brook enters it from...
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There are nearly 2,000 acres of forest, consisting largely of walnut, chestnut, elm and pine. Mount Assabet, near the centre nearly 200 feet in height, is a favorite resort.
In general, only the borders of the town are hilly, with a nearly level valley along the Assabet River, which runs from southwest to northeast through the centre, then eastward along the northern side. Two considerable brooks come down from Bolton to this stream near the centre; and, farther east, Fort-meadow Brook enters it from...
1894 - THE DANGEROUS FIRECRACKER.
It Causes a Half-Million Dollar Fire in Hudson, Mass.
HUDSON, Mass., July 4 - Hudson was visited today by the most serious fire in the history of the town. It originated about 3 P. M. in a small building near F. H. Chamberlin's shoe factory, and, fanned by a strong breeze, spread very rapidly in an easterly direction. The following buildings were burned:
Assabet factory, occupied by F. H. Chamberlin; S. Wood & Co.'s block; A. K. Grave's block; Lewis Block and tenement building; Atkinson's boarding house; Frank Brown's residence; one of F. Brigham & Co.'s factories; Manson's block; Peter's store; H. W. Chase's block and tenement building; Cockran's block; the Mansion House; Mongovin's stable; C. E. Holden's block; Hasting's block; Dr. Soule's house; Underwood's block; H. Tower's house; John Fosgate's house, occupied by C. M. Randall.
The following tenants of business blocks were burned out:
H. W. Chase, Dr. Carpenter, R. B. Lewis, Wood & Co., Dr. Cochrane, Mrs. S. A. Holt,...
Read more
HUDSON, Mass., July 4 - Hudson was visited today by the most serious fire in the history of the town. It originated about 3 P. M. in a small building near F. H. Chamberlin's shoe factory, and, fanned by a strong breeze, spread very rapidly in an easterly direction. The following buildings were burned:
Assabet factory, occupied by F. H. Chamberlin; S. Wood & Co.'s block; A. K. Grave's block; Lewis Block and tenement building; Atkinson's boarding house; Frank Brown's residence; one of F. Brigham & Co.'s factories; Manson's block; Peter's store; H. W. Chase's block and tenement building; Cockran's block; the Mansion House; Mongovin's stable; C. E. Holden's block; Hasting's block; Dr. Soule's house; Underwood's block; H. Tower's house; John Fosgate's house, occupied by C. M. Randall.
The following tenants of business blocks were burned out:
H. W. Chase, Dr. Carpenter, R. B. Lewis, Wood & Co., Dr. Cochrane, Mrs. S. A. Holt,...
1895 - Hudson
Hudson, a post-village in Hudson township, Middlesex co., Mass., on the Assabet River, and on the Marlborough Branch of the Fitchburg Railroad, about 28 miles W. of Boston, and 17 miles N.E. of Worcester. It has 5 churches, a high school, 3 banks, 2 newspaper offices, a tannery, and manufactures of boots and shoes, gossamers, paper-boxes, lasts, and shoe-machinery. Pop. of the township, 4670.
1916
Hudson, a banking post-village in Hudson township (town), Middlesex co., Mass., on the Assabet River and on the Boston and Maine R., 28 miles W. of Boston. It has manufactures of leather, rubber shoes, and webbing, gossamers, paper boxes, lasts, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 5454.
Show more local history, news & stories
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Hudson, Massachusetts:
Hudson Historic District: Start your exploration of Hudson by taking a stroll through the historic district. You'll find beautifully preserved homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, which provide a glimpse into the town's past.
Hudson Town Forest: If you're a nature enthusiast, the Hudson Town Forest is a great place for hiking and birdwatching. The trails are well-maintained, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Cellucci Skate & Splash Park: Perfect for families, this park offers both a skate park and a splash pad. Kids can cool off on hot summer days while skateboarders and BMX riders can enjoy the ramps and rails.
Assabet River Rail Trail: This scenic trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It stretches for miles, offering picturesque views of the Assabet River and surrounding natural beauty.
CJ's Northside Grill: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at CJ's Northside Grill. They serve classic American...
Read more
Hudson Town Forest: If you're a nature enthusiast, the Hudson Town Forest is a great place for hiking and birdwatching. The trails are well-maintained, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Cellucci Skate & Splash Park: Perfect for families, this park offers both a skate park and a splash pad. Kids can cool off on hot summer days while skateboarders and BMX riders can enjoy the ramps and rails.
Assabet River Rail Trail: This scenic trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It stretches for miles, offering picturesque views of the Assabet River and surrounding natural beauty.
CJ's Northside Grill: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at CJ's Northside Grill. They serve classic American...
GENEALOGY IN HUDSON
Discover YOUR Roots: Hudson Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Hudson through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
We currently have information about 29 ancestors who were born or died in Hudson.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Hudson, Massachusetts, USA
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Updated: 9/24/2023 8:56:51 AM
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