Medford Historical Society Papers, Volume 29.

[p. 45] ship them via Salem or Boston. But more decisive than probability is the proof afforded by some old maps.¹ On one map of about 1633, the way from Mistick ford to Salem is indicated by two dotted parallel lines, and the farmhouse of Mr. Cradock is located between the way and the river. The word ‘Meadford’ appears close beside the house, and in the margin, said to be in the handwriting of Governor Winthrop, are the words ‘Meadford. Mr. Cradock's ferme house.’ In a second very careful map of Mr. Winthrop's Ten Hill farm, dated October, 1637, the Cradock farmhouse is located as on the first map. Neither map shows any indication of a house near the present ‘Cradock’ house, which is remarkable in the sparsely settled condition of the colony, if the house were really standing at that time. This house in Medford square then was probably the residence of Cradock's agents, where all the business of the colony was transacted. It was without doubt the meeting house and the tavern. According to the indication afforded by the maps it was close to the present Garrison house, behind the savings bank, while the great barn was probably on Salem street, about opposite the Medford theatre. A deed of 1722 mentions ‘the place where the great barn formerly stood, bounded north upon the country road to Malden.’ It was apparently a landmark. It was probably one hundred feet or more in length, with a lean-to. The location of this great barn, as recognized by later deeds, accords exactly with the Ten Hill farm plan of 1637, and was undoubtedly the Cradock barn. The brick house now standing on the hill back of the savings bank was built by Major Jonathan Wade after he came into possession of his estate under his father's will. In the year 1692-93, Mrs. Elizabeth Wade, widow of Major Wade, petitioned the Court of General Sessions of the Peace for an abatement of taxes assessed upon the Wade