Local History

Take pride in Milton’s history.

There’s a lot to learn about Milton, and fortunately we have the resources to give everyone a peek into the past. Check out the links here to see photos, illustrations, and written accounts of our history.  For more in depth research, please contact the Reference Department ahead of time to make an appointment. You can reach our Reference Staff at 617-898-4964 or miref@ocln.org.

The Milton Historical Society

The Library partners with the Milton Historical Society to celebrate and preserve the history of Milton. The Historical Society provides an index to help researchers search the Society’s archives and the Milton Public Library archives. This index and the archives are located in the Library.  Please ask at the Reference Desk on the second floor.

Milton Historical Markers

Thanks to the efforts of the Milton 350th Celebration Committee, there are twelve markers located throughout town. These markers highlight the rich history of Milton.

You can find the map here.

Milton Images

Mass. Memories Road Show (May 2012) – A collection of local family pictures and memories

Milton History & Maps

The History of Milton, 1640-1887
1896 Atlas of Milton
1905 Atlas of Milton

Massachusetts Sanborn Maps

Founded in 1867 by D. A. Sanborn, the Sanborn Map Company was the primary American publisher of fire insurance maps for nearly 100 years. The maps provide a wealth of information, such as building outline, size and shape.

Milton maps range from 1901 – 1949.

You can explore maps for Milton and other Massachusetts communities.

Historic Properties in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Cultural Resource Information System (MACRIS) allows you to search the Massachusetts Historical Commission database for information on historic properties and areas in the Commonwealth:

MACRIS

Local Newspapers

The Library has microfilm available for many historical Milton newspapers. These include:

Milton News 1882-1904
Milton Record 1904-1953
Milton Record-Transcript 1954-2012
Milton Times Dec.1995 –