It might surprise some people to learn that the initial concept of a Hardwick Fair, a time of gathering crops, animals, and people that showcased this town’s distinguished position, at least until its interruption during the tumult of 1775, was the result of the actions of British loyalist and Tory, Brigadier General Timothy Ruggles.

A non-profit group has been formed by citizen volunteers of Hardwick to purchase and completely restore the original Warner/ Mixter store, (the Paige building).

When restored, it is the desire of the “PAIGE BUILDING FRIENDS” (PBF) to provide space for the purposes of agriculture, education, history and community use.

Captain Samuel Ruggles Jr., born in 1658 in Roxbury, Massachusetts Bay Colony, was a prosperous man, innkeeper, and an active participant in town and colony matters, spending many years as selectman, representative, and Captain of Roxbury military company. 

The 2025 Winter Hardwick Historical Society Newsletter -

The Hardwick Historical Society is in the final stages of the attic work to make our storage area complete. However, the carpenters discovered the cupola has big issues…