The photos in this collection document the history of West Boylston, Massachusetts. Highlights include photographs taken around 1890, at the time of the building of the Wachusett Reservoir, and photographs by James Higgins.
James Higgins was born in 1867 in Fitchburg, married Lila G. Dana of Hudson in 1892, and according to the 1900 census he and his family were living in West Boylston. His occupation was given as grocery man. He moved about during his lifetime and had various occupations but never "photographer." This seems to be a hobby for him and, based on the images, he was highly skilled.
James Higgins was born in 1867 in Fitchburg, married Lila G. Dana of Hudson in 1892, and according to the 1900 census he and his family were living in West Boylston. His occupation was given as grocery man. He moved about during his lifetime and had various occupations but never "photographer." This seems to be a hobby for him and, based on the images, he was highly skilled.
Albert Hindes?, Arthur Tidd?, 1895-1900
Cora Sawyer (seated on ground), Sadie Sawyer, Mildred Prescott Luce,
Carl Sawyer (in hammock), Ralph Sawyer (standing), 1895-1900
Couple in horse-drawn sleigh, 1895-1900
Girl seated with dog, 1895-1900
Hotel, Central House, lower village, 1895-1900
In front of Sawyers' store in valley
Laborers' huts for reservoir workers
Unidentified man with bike and child
Source: Digital Commonwealth