THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY recently visited the Partridge Island Conservation area and the previous location of Rombult’s Farm. (Courtesy Photo)

 

 

LYNNFIELD — The Lynnfield Historical Society, in partnership with Trails and Sails, recently offered an encore presentation of its “Discover Lynnfield” walk down Partridge Island Trail, visited the site of Rombult’s Grove and discussed the Henfield House tragedy.

A crowd of more than 30 participants gathered to participate in the event.  Historical Society President Ron Sarro and Communications Coordinator Linda Gillon led historical talks at the three locations.

At Partridge Island, trail attendees walked down the boardwalk out to the island. All the way enjoying the sights and sounds of nature as well as hearing Sarro tell the intriguing history of the marsh. Originally, the property was used as an encampment and hunting ground by Native Americans and later as a meadow for haying by local Lynnfield farmers.

At Village Row, Gillon brought back to life the story of hardworking immigrants from Poland, Julius and Alice Rombult, and how they in 1922 transformed a 25-acre parcel of land into a charming family-owned farm known as Rombult Farm, Dairy and Grove.  With the aid of much research and support from the Rombult family, Gillon told the story and showed pictures of the farm that existed there for 47 years.  In 1969, the farm ceased operating, buildings were demolished and 20 houses were built on the street now known as Village Row.

Across the street at the Henfield House, at 300 Main St., Gillon discussed the 17th century home’s history and architecture. Thereafter, she read a stirring tale, written by former homeowner, Barbara Spear, about a man who was killed on the property in 1907 when the limb of a giant elm tree crushed him during a tornado.

In addition, 70 signs honoring some of Lynnfield’s most prominent people and landmarks from over the centuries were on display.  They were created in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the 1954 founding of the Lynnfield Historical Society.

“If you didn’t get a chance to see them on Sunday, they will be on exhibit again Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Lynnfield Library Book Sale on the Common,” said Gillon. “If anyone would be interested in being on our mailing list for upcoming Discover Lynnfield walks and talks, please contact us at thelynnfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.”