I asked the artificial intelligence bot, ChatGPT, two questions about our town – see below:
I wonder if the statement about “poet Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. and abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison” having lived in town is correct? It did find the straw hat making. Not at all sure about the basis for saying we are known for our “long history with the military” that appears in both answers. Interesting, but all in all, I think Richard DeSorgher’s position as Town Historian is safe.
ChatGPT can be accessed at https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt/


history of Medfield, Massachusetts?
Medfield is a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. It was first settled in 1649 and was officially incorporated in 1651. The town was named for its location in the midst of several meadows.
Medfield was originally a farming community, but it also had a number of small industries, including gristmills, sawmills, and tanneries. In the 19th century, the town became known for its production of straw hats, and the hat-making industry became an important part of the local economy.
Medfield has a long history of involvement in the military, with many of its residents serving in wars dating back to the American Revolution. The town has also been home to several notable figures, including poet Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. and abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison.
Today, Medfield is a residential suburb of Boston with a population of about 12,000. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful natural setting, and rich history.

for what is Medfield, Massachusetts famous?
Medfield, Massachusetts is known for a few things. One notable feature of the town is its rich history and long involvement in the military. Many of its residents have served in wars dating back to the American Revolution.
Medfield is also known for its excellent schools and beautiful natural setting. The town is located in Norfolk County, which is known for its rolling hills, wooded areas, and abundant green spaces. Medfield is home to a number of conservation areas and parks, including the Medfield State Hospital grounds, which offer hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails.
Medfield was once home to a number of small industries, including gristmills, sawmills, and tanneries. In the 19th century, the town became known for its production of straw hats, and the hat-making industry became an important part of the local economy.
Overall, Medfield is known for its rich history, excellent schools, beautiful natural setting, and involvement in the military.
While William Lloyd Garrison did visit Medfield a number of times to visit with and stay with fellow abolitionist Ellis Allen-at Allen’s 260 North Street home, which was also a stop on the Underground Railroad , he never lived in Medfield and the same goes for Oliver Wendell Holmes; he never lived in a Medfield ; perhaps they are getting them mixed up with Lowell Mason and Hannah Adams
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Thanks Richard.
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Thanks Richard. I suspected you would know the real story.
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