78 THE MASSACHUSETTS SOCIETY 



literated by the conveyances of later times; but a 

 distinct landmark appears in the public highway, now 

 called Dighton place, but, prior to annexation, Win- 

 ship place. This roadway, though originally four 

 rods wide, was the avenue of approach from Washing- 

 ton street to the half-acre lot. The building erected 

 by the society was known as Agricultural Hall, and it 

 stood in the centre of the half-acre lot. Its site is 

 within the open area that makes the upper end of 

 Dighton place, in front, or north of the Bennett pri- 

 mary school house there. The position of the south end 

 of Agricultural Hall corresponds very nearly with that 

 of the north end of the school house. The hall stood 

 upon or near the height of land, and the whole exten- 

 sive tract about it thereafter took on the name of 

 Agricultural Hall. Many years afterwards the society 

 obtained a deed, from the administrator of the Win- 

 ship estate, of three and a half acres, adjoining the 

 half acre tract, so phrased that it could convey a good 

 title to the whole, without conditions. It sold the 

 land to Stephen H. Bennett, who made a donation of 

 the school house lot to the town of Brighton. 



Agricultural Hall was a structure of 70 by 36 feet, 

 ground dimensions, and two stories high. The lower 

 story finished at twelve feet height, and the upper at 

 ten feet and seven inches. In the upper hall were 

 hung various paintings and engraved pictures, illustra- 

 tive of agricultural matters. The building was con- 

 structed during the summer of 1818 and occupied by 

 the society for the show of that year. No ceremonies 

 of breaking ground or dedication took place, but, in 

 conformity to the usage of that period, all stalwart 

 and willing citizens were invited to be present on 

 August 25, when, as appears by the society's cash 

 book, the sum of $10 was paid "for liquors for the 



