Historic leaves, volume 2, April, 1903 - January, 1904

[45] S. Runey, who lived opposite us, Frank Russell, whose place adjoined the Munroe estate, forming the corner of Greenville street, and near by, on the opposite side of Greenville street, was the Alexander Wood place.

At the junction of Highland avenue and Medford street was the John Bolton homestead, and opposite Bolton, on Highland avenue, was the farm of Ira Thorp.

Mr. Munroe was prematurely old, had retired from business, and could be found generally about his place or along the street. He was a little lame, carried a stout cane, and moved about cautiously. He was a genial, sociable fellow, and his hearty greeting and loud laughter I recall with pleasure.

James S. Runey was with his brother John in the pottery business on Cross street. He was a quiet, kindly, home-loving man, it seemed to me; his widow, Mrs. Maria M. Runey, is still living in the Munroe house with her sister, Miss Louisa Munroe.

Frank Russell was a well-known resident; everybody knew him. Like his neighbor Munroe, he had retired from active business. He and Charles H. North had been in the pork packing business together for some years; he had been in the boot and shoe business, also.

He owned the triangle bounded by Chester avenue, Cross street, and Medford street, and property in other places, as well. His home partook of the well-to-do country type, and he is well remembered by the older people.

The place has gone out of the family, but remains much the same as in the early days.

Mr. Bolton occupied the premises bounded by Walnut street, Highland avenue, and Medford street, one of the best locations for a home in Somerville. He had a fine house, with ample grounds, was an engraver in Boston, a tall man, somewhat grey, intelligent, well-to-do. The land has been divided up and built over. The house has disappeared.

Ira Thorp, quite an old man, rather under size, thin and stooping, a good neighbor, was the typical milkman of the vicinity. He produced milk, and dispensed it to the neighbors straight. His house was at the corner of Walnut street and