John Higgins settled on this farm some seventy years ago, and there resided until the close of his long and useful life in 1883. He was a thoroughgoing farmer and improved his farm. His three sons, J. Clark Higgins, George I. of West Concord, and William Higgins, were born and bred here. The latter remained and assisted his father in the management of the 300-acre farm. He completed his education at St. Johnsbury academy, and in 1862 married Miss Julia C. Blinn of this town. Mr. Higgins is a successful farmer and has invested a portion of his savings in that safe and sound bank, his farm. 

     He formerly pursued mixed farming, but in recent years the dairy has been the principal feature. He has recently retired from the active management of his farm, which is assumed by his son, Albert J. Higgins. Forty-five full blood and high grade Jersey cows and twenty-five young cattle are now kept upon the farm, and the milk and cream are sold at St. Johnsbury village. 

     In 1884 the large barn, 50x100 with entire basement was erected. The house was rebuilt and another story added in 1894. The implicit confidence of the public in the judgment and integrity of William Higgins is evidenced by his election for thirteen years as selectman, usually as chairman, and four years as road commissioner. He has had a large experience in the settlement of estates. 

     His eldest son, Charles H. Higgins, born in 1863, is the proprietor of the Ingleside farm. Albert J. was born in 1868 and is a good representative of the progressive Vermont farmer. He married in 1894 Nellie Marden of St. Johnsbury and they have one daughter, Celia. Miss Ellie B., only daughter of William Higgins, a graduate of St. Johnsbury academy of the class of '93, is residing with her parents. 
 
 
 

Source:  Successful Vermonters, William H. Jeffrey, E. Burke, Vermont, The Historical Publishing Company, 1904, page 116-117.

Prepared by Tom Dunn, September 2005