Saugus

From a rural farming community to a convenient suburb of Boston, the town of Saugus has developed over the years to include a modest amount of industry, a middle-class residential community, and easy access to America's first highway. With Saugus, author Norman Down seeks to provide a visual history of the town that continues the efforts of noted town historian Helen Cutter. Saugus traces the town's history from its earliest colonial period, when it was the site of America's first successful iron works. It played a part in the purchase of Alaska, sent the largest contingent of Minutemen to Lexington, and was the site of the nation's first drive-in theater. Over the years, Saugus has produced coffee, chocolate, tobacco, and mill goods, as well as its share of scoundrels and scaliwags. In addition, Saugus was home to one winner of the Congressional Medal of Honor and the president of Harvard College.