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Copyrite 2008 Browse the Brookfields ~ Web Design & Intellectual Concept by K.J.C.
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Members of Browse the Brookfields
We invite you to take a picturesque ride through the Brookfields!
Stop and enjoy the unique local flavor of these specialty shops and destinations.
We welcome local pictures and suggestions as we expand and clarify the site.
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and BEYOND
Franklin Mile Markers
History has it that Benjamin Franklin directed the erection of sandstone mile markers in 1753 when he was Postmaster General.
Since postage rates were set by the mile, Franklin attached an ingenious device to the wheel of his wagon that counted the revolutions to measure each mile. He marked each mile with a stake. Workmen followed and replaced the stake with a stone marker. These “Franklin Markers” indicate the miles to Boston and the best preserved string of markers that exist today is in this area. There is evidence that Franklin personally measured the distance from milestones between important cities as he traveled from Boston to Philadelphia. In 1905 during a search for markers, one was found anchoring a shed to the ground while another was being used as a doorstep on a farmhouse. Both were removed to their proper locations. While approximate locations are shown on this map, detailed directions to each marker are on our website. For more information, refer to
“A History of West Brookfield 1675-1990” by Jeffrey H. Fiske.
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Mile marker located on The West Brookfield Historic Common.
