Meredith Historical Society Program Aug. 23

MEREDITH — Cynthia Waterman and Nancy Simons of the Meredith Historical Society will present “West Meredith’s Rebellious Stilson Pioneers” on Sunday, August 23, at 2:00 PM. The program will be at the former Charlotte Valley Presbyterian Church, 10044 Elk Creek Road, East Meredith. The presentation is based on extensive primary and secondary research. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome, and admission is free.

The presentation, “West Meredith’s Rebellious Stilson Pioneers,” will explore the early settlement of West Meredith and the families who shaped the community that emerged.” In 1791, Nathan Stilson and his brother-in-law, Nathanial Stewart, purchased 1,000 acres of unsettled land in West Meredith. As their families grew, so did the small enclave around them, eventually earning the name “Stilsonville.”The first part of the presentation will feature an account by Nathan’s grandson, Asahel Stilson, who was born in 1802. His recollections describe growing up in West Meredith and the pioneer struggles faced by the Stilson and Stewart families. The settlement was originally part of the town of Franklin, but it became part of Meredith when the town was formed in 1800. By 1820, residents had grown dissatisfied with Meredith and attempted to secede West Meredith from the town. The second part of the presentation will describe Meredith’s response and the countermeasures it took to prevent the secession.

Questions and discussion will follow the formal discussion, followed by the serving of complimentary desserts.