The Upton Historical Society invites the public to step back in time with a special narrated bus tour to one of Upton’s earliest surviving workshop buildings — the 1788 Seth Wood Boot Shop and the Old First Cemetery founded in 1735. Interpreters will be on site to tell these stories.
The tour will take place on Sunday, May 31, with buses departing from the Upton Town Hall parking lot at 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM. Each tour will include a short, narrated ride and a visit to the historic building, where participants will learn about Upton’s important role in New England’s early boot-making industry.
The Seth Wood Boot Shop, built in 1788, is a small independent workshop where artisans crafted boots in a structure known as a “Ten Footer.” Measuring roughly 10 feet by 10 feet, these buildings were a defining feature of early New England’s cottage industries. Craftsmen worked close to home, producing goods for larger merchants long before the rise of industrial factories and providing boots to the deep south during the American Reformation following the American Civil War.
During the 19th century, Upton was a major contributor to the regional boot and shoe trade, producing a significant portion of the footwear used throughout New England.
The building later took on a second life in 1938, when it was converted into a blacksmith shop by Clarence Forsberg. The Forsberg family eventually donated the historic structure to the Upton Historical Society, helping preserve this unique piece of the town’s industrial heritage.
Today, the restored shop offers a rare glimpse into the early working life of Upton’s craftsmen and the small structures that supported a thriving local economy.
Tickets for the bus tour are $5 per person. Because seating is limited, reservations are recommended. To reserve a seat, email uptonmahistoricalsociety@gmail.com
or call (508) 529-6600.
The Upton Historical Society encourages residents and visitors alike to join this short journey into the town’s past and discover how a small ten-foot building helped shape a local industry.

Local Event: Upton Historical Society Announces Bus Tour to Historic 1788 “Ten Footer” Boot Shop

Worcester County

Upton

Massachusetts

Upton Historical Society Announces Bus Tour to...

The Upton Historical Society invites the public to step back in time with a special narrated bus tour to one of Upton’s...

Upton Historical Society Announces Bus Tour to Historic 1788 “Ten Footer” Boot Shop

The United Parish of Upton

The Upton Historical Society invites the community to step back in time for a special program, Tea with Martha, held at the United Parish on Thurs June 4th at 11:00 a.m. Attendees will enjoy an engaging, first‑person portrayal of Martha Washington, brought to life through a dramatic reading by Cheryl Lampshire, D.M with the assistance of Patty Lynn.
The event offers a unique opportunity to explore the wit, wisdom, and daily experiences of America’s original First Lady. Following the presentation, guests are welcome to stay, mingle, and enjoy light refreshments.
Free Event - Reservations are requested by May 22. To RSVP, email UptonMAHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or call (508) 529‑6600.

Local Event: Tea with Martha

Tea with Martha

The Upton Historical Society invites the community to step back in time for a special program, Tea with Martha, held at the...

Upton Community Center

The Upton Historical Society will present a special community event, Wanderings with Wayne – World Hiker, on Wednesday, June 18th at 6:30 p.m. at Upton Town Hall.
The evening will feature acclaimed world traveler and Upton native Wayne Garland, who will share stories and reflections from his global hiking journeys, bringing audiences along on a vivid exploration of landscapes, cultures, and personal discovery gathered from trails across the world.
Interwoven with the presentation will be a meaningful remembrance of 2nd Lt. Richard Rand of Upton, who lost his life during the Vietnam War. His service and sacrifice will be honored as part of the program, connecting local history with broader global experiences and paying tribute to a member of the community whose legacy continues to be remembered.
This event is designed not only to inspire through travel storytelling, but also to ground those stories in reflection on history, service, and the individuals from Upton whose lives have shaped the town’s story.
The program is open to the public, and residents of all ages are encouraged to attend this evening of storytelling, remembrance, and community connection at Upton Town Hall on June 18th at 6:30 p.m.

Local Event: Wanderings with Wayne – World Hiker

Wanderings with Wayne – World Hiker

The Upton Historical Society will present a special community event, Wanderings with Wayne – World Hiker, on Wednesday, June...

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Upton Town Common

Join 140Arts Collaborative and Soul Fuel for an en Plein air, a creative gathering for artists of all types and ages. Bring your own supplies and enjoy the outdoor setting. Donate a food pantry item to receive a free coffee during the event.

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Canvas & Coffee

Join 140Arts Collaborative and Soul Fuel for an en Plein air, a creative gathering for artists of all types and ages. Bring...

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Posting Activity

Upton Historical Society Announces Bus Tour to Historic 1788 “Ten Footer” Boot Shop

MAY

31

1:00 PM

1 Main St, Upton, MA

Tea with Martha

JUN

4

11:00 AM

The United Parish of Upton, 1 Church St, Upton, MA

Wanderings with Wayne – World Hiker

JUN

18

6:30 PM

Upton Community Center, 9 Milford St, Upton, MA

Canvas & Coffee