Milton History (cont'd)
By 1622, almost a generation after the first settlers arrived on what
was to be known as Milton Hill, the General Court established the area as
separate town to be known as Milton.
Although, the principal endeavor of the inhabitants was farming,
fishing and some activity at the mills provided further economic growth
for Milton. The mills, dating as early as 1634, included fulling
mills, gun powder mills, and grist and saw mills. Indeed, Milton's
grist mill was the first in the country.
By the eighteenth century, Milton was a reasonably prosperous
agricultural community. Milton Village came into existence as the
century developed with paper mills now joining the "husbandry"
mills.
As the century advanced, the area grew and a manufacturing industry
developed, producing the first pianoforte, bass viol, and artificial
leg. It was during this period that summer residents first began to
come to the area. Several successful merchants and two Royal
Governors of the Massachusetts Bay Colony from the Town of Boston chose to
reside in Milton during the heat of the summer months.
Many thanks to local historian Anthony Sammarco. He has really
captured the history and community aspects of many Massachusetts
towns. His books can be found in most bookstores and
libraries. His book on Milton is complete with history, facts, and
great period pictures.
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