Most roads began as private footpaths, ways of getting from front door to outlying field, wood lot, and meeting house, and were paid for by abuttors and frequent users who had responsibility for maintaining them. As traffic justified, a tax for repair of highways in common use was voted annually at town meeting and surveyors responsible for work were appointed for each length of public road. After 1800 are examples from all system components: signatory petitions for road repairs, reports of committees to view roads, orders or warrants, surveyor's bills, and lists of townsmen who could fulfill their tax obligations by providing labor at formula rates. Documents concerning claims for land taking as well as damages for highway accidents are found throughout. Road layouts which became increasingly detailed included. Also includes materials concerning bridges and canal (1787-1869) and Goose Cove (1831-1872).
