PREFACE.
It is the design of this volume to show the origin and growth of school privileges in an old New England town. As the chief factor of every school is the teacher, special attention has been given to ascertain who have held that responsible office in Dedham; for it is not to be doubted that their influence has shaped in a large degree the moral and intellectual character of the town. In making up this record we have often thought how difficult it would be to estimate the work of this long procession of public servants, under whose care the minds of Dedham citizens have been nurtured. We have therefore judged such a record worthy of preservation as a vital part of our town’s history. As constant care was exercised that fit persons only should have charge of school instruction, it has been a chief pleasure in preparing this work to feel that it is done in behalf of men and women whose names ought not to be forgotten.
