THE HISTORY OF LEOMINSTER, OR THE NORTHERN HALF OF THE LANCASTER NEW OR ADDITIONAL GRANT, FROM JUNE 26, 1701, THE DATE OF THE DEED FROM GEORGE TAHANTO, INDIAN SAGAMORE, TO JULY 4, 1852. BY DAVID WILDER. FITCHBURG: PRINTED AT THE REVEILLE OFFICE. 1853. PREFACE. LEOMINSTER, December 3, 1851. This day I commence the work of preparing a history of this town from its earliest existence as a purchase from the Indians. And in view of my incompetency to perform a task of so great responsibility, in a manner satisfactory to myself or to others, I am ready to exclaim, O, that some abler native son And 'tis too late to count the cost. Submitting myself however, to the disposal of that Almighty Being through whose goodness my life has been spared beyond the common age of man, I would humbly pray for a few months more, and that He will continue my health, and grant me strength, both of body and mind, to complete an undertaking which, as I trust and believe, may not be wholly uninteresting to those who are at present, or who may hereafter be citizens of DAVID WILDER. this town. December 3, 1852. It is done. My prayers have been answered. My life has been prolonged. My health and strength, both of body and mind, have been preserved. The work which, a year ago, was commenced with doubts and fears has been completed. And while I would be truly grateful for the unmerited favors of the past, I would for the future humbly submit myself to Him who has sustained me through a long and diversified life of difficulties and trials. |