Poltrack Blog

For over 15 years I've taken morning walks with friends along the Smithville Reservoir and along the West Branch of the the Souhegan River. Among the collection of photos at the New Ipswich Historical Society, I found several of mills that were located in Smithville and one taken before the Reservoir (Flood Control Dam 35) was constructed in 1965. The first photo (below) is that of Charles Taylor chair factory. I would guess that this might have been located across from his home on Taylor Road. Two photos (below) of the Charles Wheeler Sawmill. I wonder if this was located near what is now called Hildreth Place in Smithville. Two views (below) from the same vantage point, before and after the dam was constructed. In September 2006 the dam was drained for maintenance, revealing stumps of trees.

Hazel E. Balch did a great job of organizing the photos taken by Charles A. Plumer and compiling them into this album. The photos were donated by Mrs. Melinda R. Kendrew in 1961. Click on the photo to open the album.

Schoolhouse #5 was located in Smithville and was closed in 1931. The teacher was Edna Martinson. The building was first sold in 1944. The exterior is remarkably unchanged  except for extra windows and removal of the side door. I've been processing many more photos than have been shared via this blog. You can see them on my New Ipswich History Collection or Website Page . Schoolhouse #5 Former Schoolhouse #5 is now a private residence Photo taken Apr 9, 2014 - John M Poltrack