Attleboro

Attleboro, at the turn of the century, was entering a period of growth and change. In 1887, East Attleborough separated from North Attleborough by a very close vote and became known as Attleborough. In 1914, the township changed the spelling of its name to Attleboro. This engaging collection of images returns to these days in the community's history and
embarks on a journey through the first few decades of the 20th century. Capt. Thomas Willett purchased land for inhabitants of Rehoboth from Wamsutta, the elder son of Massasoit, on April 8, 1661. In 1694, this purchase, known as "The North Purchase," was incorporated into a township by the Great and General Court of Massachusetts and became Attleborough. The new township took its name from the town in England from which some of its settlers came. Division within the community began in the 1700s, with groups forming separate churches and the arrival of the railroad. With over 200 photographs,
including many that have never before been published, this book explores how the changes have affected Attleboro and what the community has become. See early residents at work and at play,
through the magic of carefully preserved historic images.

Victor Bonneville has recently retired from teaching U.S. history at Attleboro High School, where Paula Sollitto continues to teach. Both were awarded the DAR Outstanding Teacher of American History, as well as the Boston Globe Coach of the Year, Bonneville for swimming and Sollitto for tennis. Having taught more than 9,000 students over the course of their careers, the authors bring their love for history to Attleboro in a tribute that will be enjoyed by many for years to come.