In May of 1885, Brattleboro formed a village improvement society. They called it the Rural Improvement Association, and many of the big names in town joined the executive committee. Dr Draper of the Retreat was chosen as president, and vice presidents included Gov. Holbrook, Jacob Estey, George Brooks, Edward Crosby and others.
The report of its formation in the Phoenix included the constitution of the new organization. Here are the first three articles:
1. This association shall be called the Rural Improvement Association of Brattleboro.
2. The object of this association shall be to cultivate public spirit, to promote public health by better hygienic conditions in our homes and surroundings, to improve our streets, roads, public grounds and sidewalks, and in general to build up and beautify the whole town, and thus enhance the value of its real estate and render Brattleboro a still more inviting place of residence.
3. Every person fifteen years of age, or over, who shall plant three trees by the roadside under direction of the executive committee, or pay one dollar annually, shall be a member of this association. Every person under fifteen years of age, who shall plant one tree by the roadside under the direction of the committee, or pay fifty cents annually, shall be a member of this association.
It then went on with operational details about meetings, amendments, and such.
What a novel idea – to invest in the future, plant trees to beautify the town, and raise property values. I’m impressed that they created options for all ages, too, allowing kids in town to take part.
The time may be right to do this again. It isn’t hard to plant a tree, and it is helpful when trees provide shade for people walking about town.
I see a number of small maple and oak trees just starting in my yard. I think I’ll aim to let some of them grow, and perhaps move one closer to the sidewalk, rather than pull them up like weeds. I expect someone living here in 50 years will appreciate the shade.
These guys should of been
These guys should of been around today to help defend the older park trees at Crowell Park threatened by possible development of a concrete skate park there and value the irreplaceable 75 ++ yr. old shade trees we already enjoy , as it is I think their kicking in their graves if they can sense underground how this park could be mistreated for current users.
Crowell and Chestnut Hill
In the report they praised Mr. Crowell for his work by the reservoir and the gardens and paths through the woods on Chestnut Hill as being an example of providing green space and clean water for the public.
But, this is more than parks. They really wanted trees lining the streets (and garbage cleaned up, for health reasons).
Anyone who walks around town in warm weather knows the areas where there are long stretches without shade. We should make an effort to put trees in those areas.
I love this
Thank you for sharing this. I love the picture it paints of “a still more inviting place of residence,” and I really like the opportunity for kids to be responsible and take part. I know lots of kids who would be happy to donate money and/or plant trees if they had the chance.