15 Floyd St

"In consideration of that parental love and affection which we have and do bear towards our well beloved son Oliver Farmer," "all and singular our homestead that is situate or lying in the bounds and limits of Billerica ... and is by estimation sixty and four acres ... with one dwelling house barn stables and outhousing and orcharding standing and growing upon the same with the water and water courses," bounded "Southwardly by the homesteads of Thomas Dutton and John Jefts, Easterly from Thos. Dutton's land to Fox's stake, Northerly by the highway to Mill swamp & Westerly by the river"; also the meadow bought of Capt. Ralph Hill and four acres of upland "which we bought of the Town for the straitening our fences" at Long's Hill, except what had already been deeded to their son Edward; the parents reserved the use of half "during each of our natural lives." Dated Dec. 10, 1711, witnesses Jonathan Danforth, Thomas Dutton and John Pollard; acknowledged Dec. 18, 1717 before Jonathan Tyng; recorded at Cambridge Nov. 26, 1724. The Dutton homestead to the south was the later Timothy Foster place, the south abutter of 1796. Billerica town book 2, pages 548-550 (Southern Registry Book 24 Page 196).

For $200 "and for love good will & affection which I bear my son Jeremiah Farmer," "the one half both in quantity and quality of all the after described land and buildings": "First my homestead containing fifty acres more or less with a dwelling house and barn thereon bounding westerly on the county road leading from Chelmsford to Boston southerly on Timothy Fosters land and Solomon Pollards easterly on land of William Patten and northerly on Edward Farmer Esquires land to the road first mentioned"; second, twelve and a half acres on the west side of the road by John Shed, the Concord River and Isaac Wilkins; third, three acres on Fox Hill by the Rangeway, Josiah Bowers and Benjamin Davis; and fourth, ten acres "westerly of the said road and of the dwelling house" by John Shed, the Concord River and Edward Farmer. Dated and acknowledged Jan. 11, 1796 before Isaac Stearns; recorded March 5, 1835. Billerica town book 15, pages 64-65 (Southern Registry Book 339 Page 70).

• 1761 Administration: Estate of Oliver Farmer the elder, of Billerica to His son Edward Farmer, yeoman, administrator (Probate #7202) (the homestead was not in the 1761 estate)
• May 31, 1791 Executors' Deed (abutting lot): Joshua Abbot, yeoman, and Jonathan Stickney, gentleman, executors of the will of William Stickney Esq. to Timothy Foster of Billerica, tailor (104/424) (the Foster lot south of the homestead)

For $350 "and for love good will and affection which I bear to him as a son," "the one half or the other half of all my lands and buildings lying in said Billerica I having given him a deed of one moiety or half heretofore. The first piece is that whereon my buildings stand lying easterly of the county road," bounded westerly on the road, northerly on Edward Farmer Esq., easterly on William Patten and southerly on Capt. Solomon Pollard and Timothy Foster; with the land west of the road to the Concord River by Edward Farmer and Zacheus Shed, three acres on Fox Hill and ten acres by Shed and Isaac Wilkins. Dated and acknowledged June 11, 1798, witnesses Timothy Foster and Isaac Stearns; recorded March 5, 1835. Billerica town book 15, pages 65-67 (Southern Registry Book 339 Page 72).

• 1836 Estate administration (license to sell): Jeremiah Farmer of Billerica, yeoman, deceased intestate to Clarissa Farmer, widow and administratrix, for Sarah C. and Timothy F. Farmer, minor children and only heirs (Probate #7187) (Jeremiah Farmer's title)

• March 5, 1835 Warranty (undivided half): Oliver Farmer of Billerica, yeoman to Jeremiah Farmer of Billerica, yeoman, his son (339/70) (second half of the same homestead)

Middlesex probate case 7187, 16 pages (pages 2-5 read). Clarissa Farmer gave notice of her appointment as administratrix on April 12, 1836. Debts, including a $1,000 bond to the Trustees of Phillips Academy, the widow's allowance and charges came to $1,533.63 against personal estate of about $250, while the real estate was valued at $3,440, "consisting of the Homestead of said deceased containing about forty four acres with the buildings thereon, also a lot of 13 1/2 acres called the widow's thirds lot," a Fox Hill lot, a plain field lot and a wood lot in Chelmsford. Because a partial sale would injure the rest, she asked to sell the whole homestead (appraised at $2,300) and the widow's thirds lot (appraised at $600), with the consent of her children Sarah C. and Timothy F. Farmer; the court granted the license on Nov. 15, 1836.

• March 5, 1835 Warranty (undivided half): Oliver Farmer of Billerica, yeoman to Jeremiah Farmer of Billerica, yeoman, his son (339/72) (Jeremiah Farmer's title)

• March 18, 1841 Administratrix's Deed: Clarissa Farmer of Billerica, widow and administratrix of the estate of Jeremiah Farmer to Seth Crosby of Billerica, yeoman (401/542) (administratrix's sale under the 1836 license)

Under the Probate Court's license of Nov. 15, 1836, after thirty days' notice posted in Billerica, Tewksbury and Wilmington, sold "at Public Vendue in the premises" on March 20, 1837 to Crosby, the highest bidder, for $1,450: "The Homestead of said deceased situated in said Billerica containing fifty acres more or less with the Buildings thereon standing and bounded as follows viz. Westerly on the County Road leading from said Billerica to Lowell Southerly on Land of the Widow Sarah Foster and Land of Thomas Holden Easterly on Land of Josiah Stevens northerly on Land of said Stevens to the Road first mentioned." Dated March 20, 1837, acknowledged Oct. 12, 1837 before Marshall Preston, recorded March 18, 1841. Billerica town book 17, pages 81-82 (Southern Registry Book 401 Page 542). In 1841 Crosby quitclaimed the same "late the Homestead of Jeremiah Farmer deceased" to Bill Russell Esq. of Billerica for $1,700 (town book 17/83, S. 401/544). Russell held it until his death in 1842 (probate 40891); see the following rows.

• 1836 Estate administration (license to sell): Jeremiah Farmer of Billerica, yeoman, deceased intestate to Clarissa Farmer, widow and administratrix, for Sarah C. and Timothy F. Farmer, minor children and only heirs (Probate #7187) (administratrix's sale under the 1836 license)

• May 18, 1841 Quitclaim: Seth Crosby of Billerica, yeoman, with Mary his wife releasing dower to Bill Russell of Billerica, Esquire (401/544) (Crosby conveys what he bought at the administratrix auction)

For $1,700, "a certain parcel of Land with the Buildings thereon standing situate in said Billerica late the Homestead of Jeremiah Farmer deceased containing fifty acres more or less," beginning at the northwest corner at "the Great Road leading from Billerica Meeting House to Lowell" and land of Josiah Stevens, south by the road to the widow Sarah Foster, east by Sarah Foster and Thomas Holden to Stevens, then north and west by Stevens to the road; "being the same conveyed to me by Clarissa Farmer as Administratrix of the said Jeremiah Farmer decd by deed dated the 20th day of March 1837." The day and month were left blank; acknowledged Oct. 12, 1837 before Marshall Preston, the same day as the administratrix deed, so Crosby appears to have bid at the auction for Russell. Recorded May 18, 1841. Billerica town book 17, pages 83-84 (Southern Registry Book 401 Page 544).

• March 18, 1841 Administratrix's Deed: Clarissa Farmer of Billerica, widow and administratrix of the estate of Jeremiah Farmer to Seth Crosby of Billerica, yeoman (401/542) (Crosby conveys what he bought at the administratrix auction)

• 1842 Administration: Estate of Bill Russell of Billerica, Esquire, deceased intestate to Albert H. Nelson of Woburn, administrator (Probate #40891) (Russell held the homestead under the Crosby deed)

Middlesex probate case 40891, 22 pages (pages 2-5 read). On Aug. 11, 1842 the widow Phebe Russell reported that Bill Russell "has within sixty days last past died leaving both real and personal estate," declined the trust, and asked that A. H. Nelson Esq. of Woburn be appointed; Loring Emerson and Cyrus P. Simonds, "being all the heirs at law," joined the request. Albert H. Nelson was appointed administrator at Charlestown on Aug. 16, 1842 (probate vol. 227, p. 97). The court licensed him on Nov. 15, 1842 to sell the real estate, including the former Farmer homestead.

• May 18, 1841 Quitclaim: Seth Crosby of Billerica, yeoman, with Mary his wife releasing dower to Bill Russell of Billerica, Esquire (401/544) (Russell held the homestead under the Crosby deed)

• February 4, 1843 Administrator's Deed: Albert H. Nelson of Woburn, counsellor at law, administrator of Bill Russell to Benjamin Beard 2d of Billerica (426/87) (administrator sale under the Nov. 1842 license)

Under the Probate Court license of Nov. 15, 1842, with notices posted in Billerica, Bedford and Burlington, the administrator sold at public vendue on Jan. 3, 1843 to Benjamin Beard "the second of that name," the highest bidder, for $1,445, "the homestead of the said Bill Russell deceased containing about fifty acres," on "the County road leading to Lowell," bounded "westerly on the said County road southerly on land now or late of Thomas Holden easterly on land now or late of Josiah Stevens & northerly on land of the said Stevens to the road first mentioned," "being the same property & estate that was conveyed to the said deceased by Seth Crosby by his deed dated October 12th A.D. 1837 & recorded ... in Book 401 at Page 544." Dated and acknowledged Jan. 10, 1843 before Joshua Prescott; recorded Feb. 4, 1843. Billerica town book 17, pages 418-420 (Southern Registry Book 426 Page 87).

• 1842 Administration: Estate of Bill Russell of Billerica, Esquire, deceased intestate to Albert H. Nelson of Woburn, administrator (Probate #40891) (administrator sale under the Nov. 1842 license)

• October 18, 1847 Warranty Deed: Benjamin Beard 2d of Charlestown, yeoman, widower to James P. Rice of Charlestown, yeoman (511/330) (all of the Nelson administrator deed except the Brown strip)

• May 18, 1841 Quitclaim: Seth Crosby of Billerica, yeoman, with Mary his wife releasing dower to Bill Russell of Billerica, Esquire (401/544) (recites the Crosby deed)

For $1,375, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situate in the town of Billerica," beginning at the northerly (or north westerly) corner "on the county road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of William Hamlin (late Asa N. Brown's)," then east by Hamlin in several courses (24 rods 12 links, 50 rods 13 links, 41 rods 11 links, 19 rods 16 links), north 19 rods 16 links to John D. Dickerman, east by Dickerman 22 rods, south by Holden (formerly Stevens) 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of Farmer (formerly Fosters) as the wall now stands to the county road," and north by the road 17 rods to the start, "about twenty acres," "meaning to convey all the estate conveyed to me by A. H. Nelson Admr by deed recorded ... Book 425 [426] page 87 except the part of the same estate which I conveyed to Asa N. Brown," subject to a $600 mortgage that Rice assumed. Dated Sept. 15, 1847; acknowledged Sept. 21, 1847 before James H. Frothingham; recorded Oct. 18, 1847. Billerica town book 18, pages 355-357 (Southern Registry Book 511 Page 330).

• February 4, 1843 Administrator's Deed: Albert H. Nelson of Woburn, counsellor at law, administrator of Bill Russell to Benjamin Beard 2d of Billerica (426/87) (all of the Nelson administrator deed except the Brown strip)

• March 20, 1849 Warranty Deed: James P. Rice of Charlestown, yeoman, with Jane his wife releasing dower to Samuel Rice of Charlestown, gentleman (549/261) (recites the Beard deed)

• May 6, 1843 Deed (part): Benjamin Beard 2d of Billerica, yeoman, with Sarah his wife releasing dower to Asa N. Brown of Billerica, yeoman (428/145) (the excepted Brown strip)

For $1,800, "a certain piece or parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in Billerica," with the same bounds as the 1847 deed (beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of William Hamlin," east and south by Hamlin, east by John D. Dickerman 22 rods, south by "one Holden" 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of one Farmer as the wall now stands to the County road," and north by the road 17 rods), "meaning to convey the same premises conveyed to me by Benjamin Beard 2d by deed dated September 15th A.D. 1847 recorded ... in Book 511 Page 330," subject to the $600 mortgage, which Samuel Rice assumed as part of the price. Dated and acknowledged March 12, 1849 before James Dana; recorded March 20, 1849. Billerica town book 20, pages 205-206 (Southern Registry Book 549 Page 261).

• October 18, 1847 Warranty Deed: Benjamin Beard 2d of Charlestown, yeoman, widower to James P. Rice of Charlestown, yeoman (511/330) (recites the Beard deed)

• September 25, 1850 Warranty Deed: Samuel Rice of Lexington, trader, with Eliza his wife to James P. Rice of Billerica, farmer (594/359) (reconveyance of the 1849 deed)

For $1,500, "a certain piece or parcel of land, with the buildings thereon situate in Billerica," beginning on the County road at land "formerly Wm Hamlin now one Ford," east by the Hamlin or Ford land "as the walls run" to John D. Dickerman, southeasterly by Dickerman 22 rods, southerly by Holden about 20 rods, westerly by Holden "and land of Farmer as the wall now stands to the County road," and north by the road 17 rods, "it being all and the same more or less which J P Rice conveyed to me by deed dated March 12, 1849." James P. Rice, now living in Billerica as a farmer, took the place back. Dated Aug. 1, 1850; acknowledged Sept. 7, 1850 before Marshall Preston; recorded Sept. 25, 1850. Billerica town book 18, pages 476-477 (Southern Registry Book 594 Page 359).

• March 20, 1849 Warranty Deed: James P. Rice of Charlestown, yeoman, with Jane his wife releasing dower to Samuel Rice of Charlestown, gentleman (549/261) (reconveyance of the 1849 deed)

• March 26, 1851 Warranty Deed: James P. Rice of Billerica, with Jane his wife releasing dower to Henry Sperry of Billerica, yeoman (605/38) (Rice title by the 1847 and 1850 deeds)

For $1,750, "a certain piece or parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in Billerica," beginning at "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," east by Floyd in several courses along cross walls (24 rods 12 links, 50 rods 13 links, 41 rods 11 links, 19 rods 16 links), north 19 rods 16 links to John D. Dickerman, east by Dickerman 22 rods, south by "one Holden" 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of one Farmer as the wall now stands to the County road," and north by the road 17 rods, "meaning to convey the same premises conveyed by Benjamin Beard 2d by deed dated Sept 15 A.D. 1847 ... Book 511 Page 330. The above measurement supposed to be twenty five acres more or less," subject to a $1,000 mortgage due Samuel Rice of Lexington. Dated and acknowledged March 10, 1851 before John Baldwin Jr.; recorded March 26, 1851. Billerica town book 18, pages 582-584 (Southern Registry Book 605 Page 38).

• September 25, 1850 Warranty Deed: Samuel Rice of Lexington, trader, with Eliza his wife to James P. Rice of Billerica, farmer (594/359) (Rice title by the 1847 and 1850 deeds)

• 1852 Warranty Deed: Henry Sperry of Billerica, trader, with Mehitable P. Sperry his wife to John H. Keyes of Boston, gentleman (624/472) (the same premises conveyed by James P. Rice)

• March 19, 1851 Mortgage: James P. Rice of Billerica, farmer, with Jane his wife to Samuel Rice of Lexington, trader (605/323) (subject to the Samuel Rice mortgage)

For $1,800, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in Billerica," with the same bounds as the 1851 deed (beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," east and south by Floyd along the cross walls, east by John D. Dickerman 22 rods, south by Holden 20 rods, and west by Holden "and one Farmer as the wall now stands to the County road"), "supposed to be twenty five acres," subject to the $1,000 mortgage "payable in three years from the 10th day of March 1851," "the same premises conveyed to me by James P. Rice." The deed is dated "the first day of May" 1851 as copied, but was acknowledged at Boston on Jan. 29, 1852 before Lyman Mason and recorded in 1852; witness Charles Sperry. Sperry, a trader, bought and sold many Billerica lots in these years. Billerica town book 19, pages 188-189 (Southern Registry Book 624 Page 472).

• March 26, 1851 Warranty Deed: James P. Rice of Billerica, with Jane his wife releasing dower to Henry Sperry of Billerica, yeoman (605/38) (the same premises conveyed by James P. Rice)

• April 3, 1858 Warranty Deed: John H. Keyes of Boston and Mary his wife, by David B. Keyes of Billerica, their attorney to Eben Haskell of Boston (14/5) (the same premises conveyed by Henry Sperry)

For $1,700, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in said Billerica," beginning on "the County Road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," east and south by Floyd along the cross walls, east by "land formerly owned by John D. Dickerman" 22 rods, south by Amasa Holden 20 rods, and west by Holden "and land of T. Farmer as the wall now stands to said County Road," "supposed to be twenty five acres more or less," subject to a $1,000 mortgage which the grantee was to pay and discharge, "being the same premises conveyed to me by Henry Sperry ... dated May 1st 1851 and recorded ... Book 624 Page 472." The Keyeses, who lived in Boston, acted through David B. Keyes under recorded powers of attorney. Dated March 20, 1858, witness Dudley Foster; recorded April 3, 1858. Middlesex North Book 14, pages 5-7.

• 1852 Warranty Deed: Henry Sperry of Billerica, trader, with Mehitable P. Sperry his wife to John H. Keyes of Boston, gentleman (624/472) (the same premises conveyed by Henry Sperry)

• 1864 Warranty Deed: Eben Haskell of Billerica and Fanny his wife to Charles J. Atkinson of Chelsea (36/505) (Haskell bought from Keyes in 1858)

The price was paid partly in a deed of real estate in Chelsea and partly by a mortgage back on this place. Haskell, now living on the farm, conveyed "a certain piece of land with the buildings thereon situated in said Billerica," with the same bounds as before (beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," along the Floyd cross walls, east by land "formerly owned by John D. Dickerman" 22 rods, south by Amasa Holden 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of T. F. Farmer as the wall now stands to said County road"), "supposed to be twenty-five acres." Dated Feb. 15, 1864; acknowledged before Dudley Foster; recorded February 1864. The next instrument (Book 36 Page 507) is Atkinson's $800 mortgage back to Haskell on "a certain piece or parcel of land with all the buildings thereon," the same land. Middlesex North Book 36, pages 505-507.

• April 3, 1858 Warranty Deed: John H. Keyes of Boston and Mary his wife, by David B. Keyes of Billerica, their attorney to Eben Haskell of Boston (14/5) (Haskell bought from Keyes in 1858)

• 1865 Warranty Deed: Benjamin J. Gilbert of Boston to William K. Phelps of Boston (46/185) (Gilbert held under an unrecorded 1865 deed from Atkinson)

For $1,000, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situate in Billerica," with the same bounds as before (beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," along the Floyd cross walls, east by land "formerly owned by John D. Dickerman" 22 rods, south by Amasa Holden 20 rods, and west by Holden "and land of T. F. Farmer as the wall now stands"), "supposed to be twenty five acres," subject to an $800 mortgage held by Eben Haskell which Phelps was to pay and discharge, "being the same premises conveyed to me by Charles J. Atkinson ... deed dated April 5th 1865"; also a second tract of about an acre and a half adjoining at the northwest corner at Daniel Floyd, "being the same premises conveyed to me this day by Daniel Floyd," Phelps to fulfil the obligations in Floyd's deed "with regard to building wall." Dated Nov. 13, 1865; recorded December 1865. The Atkinson to Gilbert deed of April 5, 1865 is not in the Middlesex North indexes. Middlesex North Book 46, pages 185-186.

• 1864 Warranty Deed: Eben Haskell of Billerica and Fanny his wife to Charles J. Atkinson of Chelsea (36/505) (Gilbert held under an unrecorded 1865 deed from Atkinson)

• September 3, 1872 Guardian's Deed: Matilda S. Phelps of Boston, guardian of Mary Ella and Annie Melissa Phelps, minor children of William K. Phelps to Frederick Dickson (Dixon) of Arlington (88/443) (the minors inherited from their father William K. Phelps)

For $1, the widow released "all my right and title of or to both dower and homestead in all and singular the parcels of real estate situated in Billerica" described in her deed as guardian of Mary Ella Phelps and Annie Melissa Phelps, and in the deed of Benjamin J. Gilbert to William K. Phelps, father of the minors, dated Nov. 13, 1865 and recorded in Book 46 Page 185. Signed in 1872, witness A. A. Richardson; acknowledged at Boston before Amelius D. Parker; recorded Sept. 3, 1872 at 11:50 a.m. Middlesex North Book 88, page 443.

• 1865 Warranty Deed: Benjamin J. Gilbert of Boston to William K. Phelps of Boston (46/185) (recites the Gilbert deed)

For $3,200, "a certain farm and the buildings thereon near the centre of said Billerica. Containing twenty five acres," beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," along the Floyd cross walls, east by land formerly owned by John D. Dickerman 22 rods, south by land "now or late of Amasa Holden" 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of now or late T. F. Farmer to the said County road"; also the adjoining acre and a half at Floyd's northwest corner, "being the same tract of land conveyed by Daniel Floyd to Benja. J. Gilbert by deed dated November 13th 1865. The whole of the above premises being the same as conveyed by said Benjamin J. Gilbert to Wm. H. Phelps by deed dated Nov. 13th A.D. 1865 and recorded at Lowell Book 46 Page 185." Recorded June 3, 1875. Middlesex North Book 110, pages 397-399.

• September 3, 1872 Guardian's Deed: Matilda S. Phelps of Boston, guardian of Mary Ella and Annie Melissa Phelps, minor children of William K. Phelps to Frederick Dickson (Dixon) of Arlington (88/443) (Dixon bought from the Phelps guardian in 1872)

• March 1, 1883 Warranty Deed: Charles H. Stackpole of Billerica, unmarried to John M. Bailey of Woonsocket, Rhode Island (158/299) (Stackpole title from Dixon)

• 1865 Warranty Deed: Benjamin J. Gilbert of Boston to William K. Phelps of Boston (46/185) (recites the Gilbert deed)

For $1 (the buyer assuming the mortgage), "a certain farm with the buildings thereon, situate in said Billerica. Containing twenty five acres," beginning on "the County road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd," along the Floyd cross walls, east by land formerly owned by John D. Dickerman 22 rods, south "by land of Amasa Holden deceased" 20 rods, west by Holden "and land of the late T. F. Farmer to said County road"; with the adjoining acre and a half at Floyd's northwest corner; "subject to a mortgage of eighteen hundred dollars running to Isabella F. Randlett dated June 12, 1875 and recorded ... Book 110 Page 526 which the said grantee is to pay and discharge." Dated June 6, 1879, before Dudley Foster; recorded March 1, 1883 at 9:30 a.m., together with a deed from Archibald K. Carruthers whose grantee was changed to Phebe J. Bailey before delivery. Bailey paid off the mortgage in 1885. Middlesex North Book 158, pages 299-300.

• June 3, 1875 Warranty Deed: Frederick Dickson (Dixon) of Billerica to Charles H. Stackpole of Billerica (110/397) (Stackpole title from Dixon)

• August 15, 1901 Administratrix's Deed: Phebe J. Bailey of Billerica, administratrix of the estate of John M. Bailey to Frederic A. Fisher of Lowell (332/373) (John M. Bailey title from Stackpole)

For $2 and other considerations, "the right of way across all my land in said town of Billerica which is included within the location of the Bedford and Billerica branch of the Boston & Lowell Railroad Company" as shown on its location plan dated Oct. 1, 1884, "said location being two rods in width," on condition that the corporation within one year "construct and operate over my said land a standard gauge railroad between its present tracks in said Bedford and in Billerica," and that "should the operation of this railroad ever be discontinued the land shall revert to myself heirs or assigns." Dated Jan. 27, 1885, witness Dudley Foster; recorded May 2, 1885. This is the railroad that later formed the back (east) line of the house lot. Middlesex North Book 173, pages 398-399.

• March 1, 1883 Warranty Deed: Charles H. Stackpole of Billerica, unmarried to John M. Bailey of Woonsocket, Rhode Island (158/299) (granted out of the farm Bailey bought from Stackpole)

For $3,000, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situate in said Billerica containing twenty five acres, more or less," beginning "on the Boston road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman," running easterly by Dickerman about 148 rods to a stake, southerly about 13 rods, westerly about 122 rods, northerly about 2 rods, westerly again about 24 rods to the road, and northerly on the Boston road about 16 rods; also a five acre tract "northerly on the old Salem road, easterly by land of R. K. Underhill, southerly by Floyd's land above mentioned, and westerly by land formerly of the heirs of Timothy F. Farmer, known as the Alanson Stewart lot." Free of encumbrances "except the rights of the Boston & Lowell Railroad Corporation through said farm as conveyed to them by me." No title recital. Signed May 12, 1886 before Dudley Foster, justice of the peace; recorded May 15, 1886. Book 181, Pages 306-307.

• April 3, 1891 Warranty Deed: Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica, with his wife Marietta C. Hutchins releasing dower and homestead to Robert Robertson of Cambridge (222/280) ("conveyed to me by Daniel Floyd & Susan M. Floyd ... May 12, 1886")

For $3,500, the same "parcel of land with buildings thereon situated in said Billerica containing twenty five acres more or less," beginning on the Boston road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman, and the five acre Alanson Stewart lot on the old Salem road, "being the same premises conveyed to me by Daniel Floyd & Susan M. Floyd wife of Daniel Floyd by their deed dated May 12, 1886" (the recital gives Libro 161 Folio 311; the deed is at Book 181, Page 306), excepting "the rights of the Boston & Lowell Railroad Corporation through said farm as conveyed to them by me." Signed March 31, 1891 before Charles H. Kohlrausch Jr., justice of the peace. Robertson gave Hutchins a mortgage back the same week (grantee index, Book 222, Page 545). Book 222, Pages 280-281.

• May 15, 1886 Warranty Deed: Daniel Floyd of Billerica, with his wife Susan M. Floyd releasing dower and homestead to Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica (181/306) ("conveyed to me by Daniel Floyd & Susan M. Floyd ... May 12, 1886")

• May 22, 1893 Warranty Deed: Robert Robertson of Cambridge, with his wife Olissa Robertson releasing dower and homestead to Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica (243/328) ("conveyed to me by Henry M. Hutchins by deed dated March 31st A.D. 1891 ... Book 222 Page 280")

"In consideration of One Dollar and other good and valuable considerations," the 25 acres "with buildings thereon" beginning on the Boston road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman and the five acre tract on the old Salem road "known as the Alanson Stewart lot," "being the same premises conveyed to me by Henry M. Hutchins by deed dated March 31st A.D. 1891 and recorded Book 222 Page 280," subject to "a certain mortgage of $2000 with accrued interest to Ann B. Hall, which the grantee assumes and agrees to pay." Robertson handed the farm back to Hutchins. Signed and acknowledged in Suffolk County May 22, 1893; recorded the same day. Book 243, Pages 328-329.

• April 3, 1891 Warranty Deed: Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica, with his wife Marietta C. Hutchins releasing dower and homestead to Robert Robertson of Cambridge (222/280) ("conveyed to me by Henry M. Hutchins by deed dated March 31st A.D. 1891 ... Book 222 Page 280")

For $2,800, "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situate in Billerica, containing twenty five acres more or less," beginning on the Boston Road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman, and the five acre Alanson Stewart lot on the old Salem Road, "being the same premises conveyed to me by Henry M. Hutchins by deed of even date, to be recorded herewith." Repayable at $150 every six months with interest at five and one half percent, the buildings to be insured for at least $1,900, with a power of sale at public auction in Billerica. Dated July 1898; recorded July 28, 1898 (grantee index). Margin: possession Book 353, Page 293; sale Book 355, Page 522. Hutchins had sold the farm to Frost and taken back this mortgage. Book 298, Pages 396-398.

• June 4, 1903 Mortgagee's Deed (Foreclosure): Henry M. Hutchins, mortgagee under the mortgage of Charles H. Frost to Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica (355/522) (sale under the power in the 1898 Frost mortgage)

• May 22, 1893 Warranty Deed: Robert Robertson of Cambridge, with his wife Olissa Robertson releasing dower and homestead to Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica (243/328) ("conveyed to me by Henry M. Hutchins by deed of even date"; Hutchins held under the 1893 deed)

Under a license of the Middlesex Probate Court granted July 16, 1901, the administratrix sold at public auction on Aug. 13, 1901 to Frederic A. Fisher, the highest bidder, for $500, "a certain farm and land with the buildings thereon situated in that part of said Billerica called Billerica Centre, containing about twenty-six and 1/2 acres and forty-four hundred and ten square feet, and being the same two lots of land conveyed to the said John M. Bailey by Charles H. Stackpole by deed dated June sixth, A.D. 1879 ... Book 158, Page 299, together with an additional lot adjoining the above named and forming with them one tract of land, conveyed to the said John M. Bailey by Jane L. Farmer by her deed dated August thirty-first A.D. 1885 ... Book 177, Page 559," subject to a mortgage on which $2,000 and interest was due, and to the taxes of 1900 and 1901. Dated Aug. 14, 1901 before Frederick P. Marble; recorded Aug. 15, 1901. Middlesex North Book 332, pages 373-374.

• March 1, 1883 Warranty Deed: Charles H. Stackpole of Billerica, unmarried to John M. Bailey of Woonsocket, Rhode Island (158/299) (John M. Bailey title from Stackpole)

• August 15, 1901 Quitclaim: Frederic A. Fisher of Lowell, unmarried to Phebe J. Bailey of Billerica, widow of John M. Bailey (332/374) (straw reconveyance of the administratrix deed)

• November 17, 1885 Discharge of Mortgage: Joseph Steele, executor of the will of Isabella F. Steele (formerly Randlett) to John M. Bailey of Billerica (177/559) (the Jane L. Farmer strip deeded on the same page)

For $500, "a certain farm and land with the buildings thereon situated in that part of said Billerica called Billerica Centre, containing about twenty-six and 1/2 acres and forty-four hundred and ten square feet," with the same recitals (the Stackpole deed, Book 158 Page 299, and the Jane L. Farmer deed, Book 177 Page 559), subject to the $2,000 mortgage and to the 1900 and 1901 taxes, "which taxes the grantee hereby assumes and agrees to pay," "intending hereby to convey ... the same premises conveyed to me by Phebe J. Bailey as Administratrix of the estate of John M. Bailey, of even date." The auction buyer reconveyed at once, so the widow took the farm in her own right. Dated and acknowledged Aug. 14, 1901 before Frederick P. Marble; recorded Aug. 15, 1901. Middlesex North Book 332, pages 374-375.

• August 15, 1901 Administratrix's Deed: Phebe J. Bailey of Billerica, administratrix of the estate of John M. Bailey to Frederic A. Fisher of Lowell (332/373) (straw reconveyance of the administratrix deed)

• August 15, 1921 Executor's Deed: John C. Cosseboom of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, executor of the will of Phebe J. (Jennie J.) Bailey to Cassius W. White and Mabel S. White of Billerica, husband and wife (648/412) (recites the Fisher deed to Phebe J. Bailey)

Charles H. Frost having defaulted on his mortgage of July 27, 1898 ("libro 298, folio 396"), Hutchins, after notices published May 7, 14 and 21, 1903, sold the premises at public auction in Billerica and, "in consideration of the sum of twenty-four hundred dollars," conveyed to himself as highest bidder "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in said Billerica, containing twenty-five acres more or less," beginning on the Boston Road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman, and the five acre Alanson Stewart lot ("northerly on the old Salem Road; easterly by land of R. K. Underhill; southerly by land of Daniel Floyd"), "being the same premises conveyed to the said Charles H. Frost by Henry M. Hutchins by deed dated July 27th, 1898." Signed June 2, 1903 before John J. Harvey; recorded June 4, 1903 at 4:50 p.m., with Hutchins's affidavit of sale. This is the foreclosure that the 1939 Stowers deed recites (it gives Page 582 for Page 522). Book 355, Pages 522-524.

• July 28, 1898 Mortgage: Charles H. Frost of Lowell to Henry M. Hutchins of North Billerica (298/396) (sale under the power in the 1898 Frost mortgage)

• June 9, 1939 Quitclaim Deed: Mary L. Stowers of Falmouth (George A. Stowers, her husband, releasing curtesy) to Edward T. Murphy and Annie T. Murphy of Medford, husband and wife, as tenants by the entirety (930/212) ("conveyed to my father, Henry M. Hutchins ... under a power in a power of sale mortgage dated June 2, 1903")

Under the power in the will of Phebe J. Bailey, "sometimes known as Jennie J. Bailey," late of Billerica (proved in the Middlesex Probate Court in 1916), the executor conveyed to the Whites as tenants by the entirety "the following described parcels of land with the buildings thereon": the farm beginning "at a corner of the premises on the easterly side of the County Road leading from Boston to Lowell at land of Daniel Floyd, now or formerly," along the Floyd cross walls, by land formerly John D. Dickerman 22 rods and land now or formerly Amasa Holden 20 rods, and west by Holden "and land now or formerly of T. F. Farmer as the wall now stands," "containing twenty five acres more or less"; the acre and a half at the northwest corner; and the 4,410 square feet on "the Lowell Highway" bought from Jane L. Farmer; "meaning ... the same premises as conveyed to said Phebe J. Bailey by Frederick A. Fisher by his deed dated August 14, 1901 ... Book 332, Page 374," subject to the 1885 railroad grant (Book 173 Page 398) and to a taking by the Middlesex County Commissioners (Book 597 Page 197). Dated and acknowledged at Lowell Aug. 15, 1921, witness Thomas Higgins. Middlesex North Book 648, pages 412-413.

• August 15, 1901 Quitclaim: Frederic A. Fisher of Lowell, unmarried to Phebe J. Bailey of Billerica, widow of John M. Bailey (332/374) (recites the Fisher deed to Phebe J. Bailey)

• November 18, 1941 Quitclaim Deed: Mabel S. White of Billerica, widow of Cassius W. White to George S. Flint of Billerica (970/518) (a portion of the 1921 executor deed to the Whites)
• November 5, 1941 Quitclaim Deed: Mabel S. White of Billerica, unmarried (widow of Cassius W. White) to Edward T. Murphy of Medford (969/528) ("For my title see deed to Cassius W. White and Mabel S. White dated August 15, 1921 ... Book 648, Page 412")

• May 2, 1885 Right of Way Grant: John M. Bailey of Billerica, with Phebe J. his wife releasing dower and homestead to Boston and Lowell Railroad Corporation (173/398) (subject to the railroad grant)

Signed and acknowledged in Barnstable County June 7, 1939; recorded June 9, 1939 at 11:06 a.m.; stamps $3.50. "Two certain parcels of land, with the buildings thereon": the twenty-five acre lot beginning on the Boston Road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman and running easterly by Dickerman about 148 rods, and the five acre "Alanson Stewart lot," northerly on the old Salem Road, easterly by R. K. Underhill, southerly by land of Daniel Floyd and westerly by land formerly of the heirs of Timothy F. Farmer (the same bounds as the 1953 deed). "Being all and the same premises conveyed to my father, Henry M. Hutchins, late of said Billerica, deceased testate, by himself under a power in a power of sale mortgage dated June 2, 1903 and recorded ... Book 355, Page 582 [the foreclosure deed is actually at Book 355, Page 522]," her title being one half as devisee under his will and the other half as remainderman of a trust in the will after the life interest of her brother Henry M. Hutchins, "who has recently deceased." Book 930, Pages 212-213.

• June 4, 1903 Mortgagee's Deed (Foreclosure): Henry M. Hutchins, mortgagee under the mortgage of Charles H. Frost to Henry M. Hutchins of Billerica (355/522) ("conveyed to my father, Henry M. Hutchins ... under a power in a power of sale mortgage dated June 2, 1903")

• March 18, 1954 Quitclaim Deed: Annie T. Murphy of West Medford, widow to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy of Medford, as joint tenants (1250/97) ("For my title see M. N. D. Registry Book 930, page 212, dated June 9, 1939")

Signed and acknowledged Oct. 20, 1941 before Marion D. Gould; recorded Nov. 5, 1941 at 4:20 p.m.; stamps $1.10. "For consideration paid," with quitclaim covenants, "the land in said Billerica Being a certain parcel of land containing twenty-three (23) acres, more or less, on the easterly side of the B. & M. Railroad tracks. Such parcel includes all the land which I now own on the easterly side of said railroad tracks. Meaning and intending also to convey any right or interest that may accrue to me in the future in connection with a certain grant of land given by John M. Bailey to the Boston and Lowell Railroad Corporation dated January 17, 1885 ... Book 173, Page 398. For my title see deed to Cassius W. White and Mabel S. White dated August 15, 1921 ... Book 648, Page 412. A right of way ten (10) feet wide is hereby granted to said grantee on the northerly side of said property adjoining the Hutchins property." The back of the old Farmer and Bailey farm; the house lot west of the railroad went to George S. Flint the same month. Book 969, Pages 528-529.

• August 15, 1921 Executor's Deed: John C. Cosseboom of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, executor of the will of Phebe J. (Jennie J.) Bailey to Cassius W. White and Mabel S. White of Billerica, husband and wife (648/412) ("For my title see deed to Cassius W. White and Mabel S. White dated August 15, 1921 ... Book 648, Page 412")

• March 18, 1954 Quitclaim Deed: Annie T. Murphy of West Medford, widow to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy of Medford, as joint tenants (1250/98) ("For my title see deed to Edward T. Murphy, now deceased dated October 20, 1941 ... Book 969, Page 528")

Acknowledged in Suffolk County Dec. 23, 1953; recorded March 18, 1954 at 3:16 p.m. "Two certain parcels of land, with the buildings thereon": the first "beginning on the Boston Road at land formerly of John D. Dickerman; thence running easterly by said Dickerman's land about one hundred forty-eight rods to a stake; thence southerly about thirteen rods ... westerly about one hundred twenty-two rods ... northerly about two rods ... westerly again about twenty-four rods to said road; thence northerly on said Boston Road about sixteen rods to the corner begun at. Containing twenty-five acres, more or less"; the second "containing five acres, more or less ... Northerly on the old Salem Road; easterly by land of R. K. Underhill; southerly by land of Daniel Floyd; and westerly by land formerly of the heirs of Timothy F. Farmer, known as the Alanson Stewart lot," excepting land deeded to Edward Liberty et al. (Book 1003, Page 555). "For my title see ... Book 930, page 212, dated June 9, 1939. See Middlesex Probate No. 278462." Book 1250, Page 97.

• June 9, 1939 Quitclaim Deed: Mary L. Stowers of Falmouth (George A. Stowers, her husband, releasing curtesy) to Edward T. Murphy and Annie T. Murphy of Medford, husband and wife, as tenants by the entirety (930/212) ("For my title see M. N. D. Registry Book 930, page 212, dated June 9, 1939")

• July 3, 1968 Quitclaim Deed: Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn H. Murphy and Natalie G. Murphy, all unmarried, of Brighton to Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust (1849/558) ("Deed of Annie T. Murphy to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy ... Book 1250, Page 97")

Acknowledged in Suffolk County Dec. 23, 1953; recorded March 18, 1954 at 3:17 p.m. "For consideration paid" (less than $100), with quitclaim covenants, "a certain parcel of land containing twenty-three (23) acres, more or less, on the easterly side of the B. & M. Railroad tracks. Such parcel includes all the land which I now own on the easterly side of said railroad tracks," with any future right under John M. Bailey's 1885 railroad grant (Book 173, Page 398). "For my title see deed to Edward T. Murphy, now deceased dated October 20, 1941 ... Book 969, Page 528. See Middlesex Probate No. 278462." Grants a ten-foot right of way "on the northerly side of said property adjoining the Hutchins property." Book 1250, Page 98.

• November 5, 1941 Quitclaim Deed: Mabel S. White of Billerica, unmarried (widow of Cassius W. White) to Edward T. Murphy of Medford (969/528) ("For my title see deed to Edward T. Murphy, now deceased dated October 20, 1941 ... Book 969, Page 528")

• July 3, 1968 Quitclaim Deed: Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn H. Murphy and Natalie G. Murphy, all unmarried, of Brighton to Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust (1849/558) ("Deed of Annie T. Murphy to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy ... Book 1250, Page 98")

Order of taking dated April 4, 1966, passed by the Board of Selectmen under the vote of a special town meeting of March 19, 1966, recorded April 20, 1966 at 2:31 p.m. (No. 1117): permanent, temporary and slope easements "for the construction, installation, and maintenance of a sewage system and all mains," as shown on Plan No. 8 of the "Plan of Easements in Billerica, Mass. for sewer main construction and Maintenance" (Emmons, Fleming & Bienvenu, Sept. 1965). On the Murphy land east of the Boston and Maine Railroad it took permanent easements P-3, P-4, P-5 and P-6, a strip 30 feet wide running south from Floyd Street along the easterly line of the railroad (P-4 alone 17,100 square feet and about 557 feet long), and temporary construction easements T-1 to T-4 on a further 30 foot strip; it also took easements on land of Thomas Quinn Co., James A. and Domenic Scipione, the railroad, Grossman Lumber Co., Kenneth J. and Hildegarde Pockett and John B. and Mary L. Keaney, all subject to the easements of the Lowell Electric Light Corp. The 1968 school deed is "subject to a taking of an easement thirty (30) feet in width" (it appears as the "30 Sewer Easement" along the railroad on Plan Book 107, Plan 147). Book 1747, Pages 124-135.

Same date and acknowledgments as the deed at Page 558; recorded July 3, 1968 at 11:57 a.m. "Two certain lots of land": the first "beginning on the old 'Salem Road'; thence SOUTHERLY on the wall by land now or formerly of Israel Dunham to land now or formerly of Daniel Floyd; thence EASTERLY on said Floyd's land to land now or formerly of one Stewart; thence NORTHERLY by said Stewart's land to said Salem Road; thence WESTERLY by said Road to the point of beginning. Containing 12 acres more or less"; the second a house lot on Bridge Lane (the land deeded to Catherine Maloney in 1898, Book 303, Page 90). "Being the same premises as conveyed to us by deed of Annie T. Murphy, dated October 18, 1955 ... Book 1314, Page 116." The trustee's 1968 deed to the town cites this deed as part of her title; whether the 12 acre lot lies within the school site is not stated. Book 1849, Pages 556-557.

• October 25, 1968 Deed: Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust to Town of Billerica, "a municipal corporation" (1863/636) ("Deed of Raphael J. Murphy, et als, to me dated March 15, 1968 ... Book 1849, Page 556")

Dated March 1968 (Raphael J. Murphy acknowledged in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, certificate of March 15, 1968); recorded July 3, 1968 at 11:58 a.m. "For consideration paid," with quitclaim covenants, to the trustee under an indenture of trust dated Feb. 23, 1968 (recorded Book 1849, Page 545), "two certain parcels of land." Parcel I begins "at a point on Floyd Street on the Easterly side line of land of the Boston & Maine Railroad," runs along Floyd Street and around land conveyed to Gerald D. Bly (Plan Book 90, Plan 167B, 1958), along Floyd Street 194.11 and 707.93 feet to Lois Schmelzer, by walls along Schmelzer, Joseph Torre, Doris Oppinger, Leahy, Goozay and Baraldi to land of Foster Trust, southerly and southwesterly by walls along Foster Trust and Rachael Rosatto, westerly to the railroad, and "NORTHEASTERLY along said land of the Boston & Maine Railroad one thousand one hundred thirty-four and 83/100 (1134.83) feet to the point of beginning. Containing 41 acres of land more or less." Parcel II is a lot on the west side of the railroad on Floyd Street (Lunan, Sampson, Parant, a brook). Conveys all their interest under five deeds of Annie T. Murphy dated Dec. 23, 1953 (Book 1250, Pages 96, 97, 98, 99 and one more); subject to the town's sewer taking of April 4, 1966 (Book 1747, Page 124); excepting the land in Annie T. Murphy's deed of Oct. 18, 1955 (Book 1314, Page 116). Book 1849, Pages 558-561.

• March 18, 1954 Quitclaim Deed: Annie T. Murphy of West Medford, widow to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy of Medford, as joint tenants (1250/98) ("Deed of Annie T. Murphy to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy ... Book 1250, Page 98")
• March 18, 1954 Quitclaim Deed: Annie T. Murphy of West Medford, widow to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy of Medford, as joint tenants (1250/97) ("Deed of Annie T. Murphy to Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn Murphy and Natalie Murphy ... Book 1250, Page 97")

• October 25, 1968 Deed: Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust to Town of Billerica, "a municipal corporation" (1863/636) ("Deed of Raphael J. Murphy, et als, to me dated March 15, 1968 ... Book 1849, Page 558")

• April 20, 1966 Order of Taking: Raphael J. Murphy et al. (owners) to Town of Billerica (1747/124) ("Subject to a taking made by the Town of Billerica for sewer purposes")

Signed and acknowledged in September 1968 before William J. Bannan Jr., notary public; recorded Oct. 25, 1968 at 10:20 a.m. "For the total consideration of Seventy Thousand Dollars paid," the trustee grants to the town "a certain parcel of land ... being shown as Parcel A on 'Plan of Land in Billerica, Mass., surveyed for Billerica Permanent School Building Committee', dated July 1968, drawn by Emmons, Fleming & Bienvenu, Inc., Engineers and Surveyors" (Plan Book 107, Plan 147): beginning "at a point on the Southerly side of Floyd Street, and the Easterly side of Boston & Maine Railroad location," northeasterly on Floyd Street 108.28 feet to land of Bly, around the Bly land and behind house lots 1 to 7 on Floyd Street, back to Floyd Street for 27.24 feet between Lots 1 and 2, then by stone walls along land of St. Hilaire, Torre, Wasiah, Howland, Ekenngren, McLaughlin and Penny, southwesterly by twenty courses of stone wall along land of Visco, Inc. to a drill hole, northwesterly by four courses to the railroad, and "NORTHEASTERLY along the said Easterly side of the Boston & Maine Railroad location, one thousand one hundred thirty-five and 08/100 (1135.08) feet to the point of beginning. Containing 37.16 acres." Subject to "a taking of an easement thirty (30) feet in width made by the said Town of Billerica by instrument dated April 4, 1966" (Book 1747, Page 124). Title: two deeds of Raphael J. Murphy et als. to the trustee dated March 15, 1968, Book 1849, Pages 556 and 558. Book 1863, Pages 636-638.

• July 3, 1968 Quitclaim Deed: Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn H. Murphy and Natalie G. Murphy, all unmarried, of Brighton to Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust (1849/558) ("Deed of Raphael J. Murphy, et als, to me dated March 15, 1968 ... Book 1849, Page 558")
• July 3, 1968 Quitclaim Deed: Raphael J. Murphy, Gwendolyn H. Murphy and Natalie G. Murphy, all unmarried, of Brighton to Natalie G. Murphy, trustee of Gregoria Realty Trust (1849/556) ("Deed of Raphael J. Murphy, et als, to me dated March 15, 1968 ... Book 1849, Page 556")

• April 20, 1966 Order of Taking: Raphael J. Murphy et al. (owners) to Town of Billerica (1747/124) ("Subject to a taking of an easement thirty (30) feet in width ... Book 1747, Page 124")