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Town Utilities

 Collection — Multiple Containers
Identifier: TC027

Scope and Contents

This collection contains information on early utility services in the Town of Southborough. It is primarily composed of contracts between the Town of Southborough and gas, water, and electric companies. The Marlborough Electric Company was founded in 1886, and extended its services to Southborough about 1900. It continued to expand in subsequent years, bringing electricity to Northborough in 1908, Berlin in 1909, Westborough in 1910, and Bolton in 1912. The Boston Water Board was created in 1876, and quickly expanded its service to neighboring communities. The earliest surviving contract between the Boston Water Board and Town of Southborough is dated 1894. In 1898, the Boston Water Board became known as the Metropolitan Water Board.

Dates

  • Creation: 1890 - 1950

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research. Whenever possible, digital surrogates must be consulted in lieu of the original documents to prevent unneccesary handling and mitigate wear. Research is accommodated by appointment only. Please call (508) 485-0710 x 3005 to make an appointment, or send an email to: [email protected]

Extent

0.5 Cubic Feet (18 file folders)

Language of Materials

English

Arrangement

The Town Utility Records are organized into four series:

  • Series 1: Electricity (1900-1950)
  • Series 2: Natural Gas (1905-1941)
  • Series 3: Water (1890-1945)
  • Series 4: Telephone Companies, Garbage Collection, Railroads, and Other Utilities (1907-1949)

  • Within each series, materials are organized thematically.

    Title
    Town Utilities, 1890-1950
    Status
    Completed
    Author
    Jeremy G. Berry-Cahn, Archivist
    Date
    September 20, 2022
    Description rules
    Describing Archives: A Content Standard
    Language of description
    English
    Script of description
    Latin
    Sponsor
    James F. Hegarty, Town Clerk

    Revision Statements

    • May 5, 2024: Converted to EAD

    Repository Details

    Part of the Southborough Town Clerk’s Office Municipal Archive Repository

    Contact:
    17 Common Street
    Southborough MA 01772 United States
    (508) 485-0710