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Andover, geographically one of the largest townships in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, has a long and illustrious history. Founded more than 350 years ago, Andover has played a part in several critical events in American history, including the French and Indian wars, the witchcraft hysteria of the 1690s, the American Revolution, the abolitionist movement, the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution. It is the birthplace of the song "America," written by Samuel Francis Smith. It has been the home of such notables as Anne Bradstreet, the first poet in the New World; Salem Poor, former slave and hero of the Battle of Bunker Hill; Samuel Osgood, the first postmaster general of the United States; and Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. It is home to the Andover Village Improvement Society, the second-oldest land conservation group in America. Pres. Franklin Pierce called Andover his summer home, and countless leaders of business and government resided in Andover while students at Phillips Andover Academy, one of the most prestigious private academies in the country.
When Samuel F. Smith wrote the lyrics to "America" in 1832, he said he was inspired by Andover's beauty, which is reflected in his second stanza: "I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills." Conservationists such as Alice Buck and Harold Rafton have kept Andover beautiful, and innumerable others made Andover a unique and extraordinary town. From Martha Carrier, defying her accusers to the moment of execution, to all the townspeople who fought in our nation's wars, Andoverians have never lacked for courage. Former slaves such as Salem Poor, a hero of Bunker Hill, made many contributions. Teachers such as the Stack sisters and Ted Boudreau kept Andover's standards high. Philanthropists like Sarah Abbot, Benjamin Punchard, and Yvon Cormier contributed to Andover's youth. Literary talent such as Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mary McGarry Morris make life poignant and interesting. Jay Leno keeps America amused. Businesspeople like Samuel Phillips Jr. and William Wood created wealth and jobs, and smaller businesses through the years added to local lore and traditions. These pages are filled with the stories of people who created the admirable, complex tapestry that is Andover.
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Chronology of the library 1841-1901: 50th report, 1901/02.
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