During the summer of 1899, several Oakham residents met with the idea of forming an organization that would preserve the past for future generations. Charles M. Packard was elected president of the newly formed organization that sought to "collect and preserve . . . relics of historic worth . . . (that) would attract, instruct, or amuse when placed on exhibition." A century later, another group of Oakham residents have come together in the same spirit of preservation to compile an unprecedented
pictorial collection that chronicles the unique history of Oakham, Massachusetts, and its people.
Located in the north-central region of the state, Oakham was known before its incorporation as Rutland West Wing, which was a part of the original Naquag Deed of 1686. During its first 100 years, the residents built the town into a self-supporting community committed to family values. Oakham flourished under the leadership of men such as Reverend Daniel Tomlinson, who ministered in the town for 56 years, Henry P. Wright, dean of Yale College, and his son, Henry B., who were both responsible for many social organizations, as well as James and Jesse Allen, who were active church members and leaders in education. Carefully preserved images of Oakham residents at work and at play are combined with an exciting and informative text in this collection. In Oakham, view the now non-existent village of Coldbrook Springs, which was once a popular tourist attraction. Discover the wonders of the past, from the homes to the farms and
businesses of Oakham's early families, and the railroad and turnpike that connected Oakham to the rest of the state.