Lost Village of Robert’s Meadow by John Clapp

On February 8, 2017 from 7:00-8:15pm in the Leeds School Music Room, Leeds author, John I. Clapp, will read from his latest book, The Lost Village of Roberts Meadow: Northampton’s Forgotten Settlement. John will reveal the little known history of the small village of Robert’s Meadow that was located in the northwest corner of Northampton on Kennedy, Sylvester and Chesterfield roads. John will read selected parts from his book, discussing some of the early history, industries and characters that inhabited this small community. These individuals include Colonel William Edwards who was the grandson of Jonathan Edwards, the famous and controversial minister of Northampton in the 1730s and 40s. Edward’s large tannery helped put Northampton on the map by trading finished leather with Boston. Nathaniel Edwards III, cousin of William, owned Edward’s Tavern, a popular stop-off for the stagecoach traveling the turnpike from Boston to Albany. Nathaniel Edwards III hosted a banquet for General Lafayette during his return tour of the United States in 1825. Another colorful character who frequented this tavern was Captain Elijah Ayers; his documented stunts included riding his horse into the bar as he called for a drink.