A look back at Southborough in the 70s: From Cows to Computers (Updated)

Above: My fond memories of the 70’s in Southborough include the now defunct “Buffalo Farm”. One of our town’s historians will share her memories knowledge of that transitional decade. (Photo “Where the Buffalo used to roam” by Susan Fitzgerald)

This month, the library will host a presentation on the history of Southborough. But this won’t focus on town roots or long ago heritage. Instead, it’s a look at a more recent period – the 70s.

Donna McDaniel will revisit the changes in town as it was evolving from farmland into suburbia.

Southborough: “From Cows to Computers”
Thursday, May 14, 7:00 p.m., Southborough Library

AS THE 1970S BEGAN, SOUTHBOROUGH, like the other “boroughs,” was undergoing significant changes. From a farming community it was turning into a sought-after suburb with homes, businesses, and buildings serving the “high tech” world.

Journalist, author, and historian Donna McDaniel will share research and observations on this difficult and remarkable decade in an illustrated presentation.

Donna moved to Southborough as the 70s began. As a reporter for the then-Middlesex News, she was intrigued by changes in the town and by the many dedicated townspeople who had the foresight to prepare for the future with careful zoning, updated public works systems, additional human services, and especially by building and re-organizing schools.

Her research for the program and broadcasts on SAM (Southborough Media Access) are supported by a grant from the Southborough Cultural Arts Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Updated (5/1/15 8:40 am): The date was corrected above.