The Train

“What goes around comes around.” It’s an old saying that is particularly appropriate when we look at the changing modes of transportation today. With gasoline prices going through the roof, it doesn’t come as a big surprise that there is renewed interest in riding the train. Whether for commuter use, or to take in a show in Boston or Worcester, […]

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Marathon

Even though Hopkinton claims to be the home of the starting line of the Boston Marathon, we in Ashland know the real story. “It all started here” as the sign proclaims next to the site on Pleasant St. in Ashland, not Hopkinton. With all the rivalries between Ashland and Hopkinton, this may be just another one, but it is an […]

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Ocean House History

The Owners of Ocean House The Ocean House was built in 1748 by Colonel John Jones (b.1683 known as John Jones Esq.). An addition to the house was built about 1763. This addition is the East side of the house which includes the distinctive “Beverly Jog.” The new portion of the house was most likely occupied by John Jones, Esq. […]

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James Jackson House

One of the best parts of living in New England, especially if you love history, is the abundance of historical homes. We all know that Ashland was incorporated in 1846 making us the new kids in the neighborhood but that does not mean we didn’t have our share of stately homes. Today’s remaining homes like the Valentine and Enslin homes […]

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Tin Peddlers

When you hear the word “peddler” what comes to mind? Looking at it from today’s perspective it would probably be someone who sells beverages or hotdogs at a ballgame, or possibly a dealer surrounded by empty boxes displaying his or her wares at a flea market. But over the centuries there were many other varieties of peddlers. One of the […]

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Ashland in 1909

Ashland was a mere 63 years old in 1909. Much like our sister communities we created our own identity with churches, schools, businesses and civic organizations. The Ashland Historical Society was founded in 1909. Although it existed as the Home Study Club, the Society didn’t officially exist until 12 members signed an Agreement of Association in Judge Higley’s office on […]

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