Maple River Crossing

The Maple River crossing was one of the most dangerous obstacles faced by pioneers traveling to what would become Hubbardston and North Plains Township. The first settlers, including Hector Hayes and his family in 1836, had to ford or canoe across the river with their livestock and belongings. Hayes's family famously capsized their canoe during the crossing, adding to the perils of an already arduous journey from New York. The Maple River was a significant natural barrier that separated the settled areas to the south from the frontier lands to the north. Its hazardous crossings tested the resolve of every family that made the journey to claim land in the township.