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The first permanent
settlers in Auburn made the long trek from Watertown in 1722. They came
for land, and the community remained primarily a farming town during
most of the 19th century. By the end of the century, however, improved
transportation and expansion of industrial developments in Worcester
created a commuting population which lived in Auburn and went to work in
Worcester every day. This initiated the town's significant bedroom
community component and resulted in clusters of suburban residences
being developed. These clusters grew and spread as streetcar service
between Auburn and Worcester was established, although the watermills
making yarn and textiles still operated and there was still a strong
farming element. After World War II, much of the remaining agricultural
land was subdivided and developed, and Auburn became home to its present
population, which lives in town but goes elsewhere to work. The town has
retained some of its colonial buildings and the original stage coach
stop to display its historic past. A more recent event, however, ties
Auburn to the 21st century and beyond. The first liquid propelled rocket
ever flown was set off from Auburn by Dr. Robert Goddard in 1926,
heralding the interplanetary and orbital rockets which continue to take
Americans toward the stars.
(Seal and narrative based on information provided by
the Massachusetts Historical Commission)
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