Stony Brook
Chartley Pond Area
This historic area along Stony Brook was named Chartley before 1700. The name is thought to be related to the iron business, which thrived in this area.
In 1695, the Taunton North Purchase granted to Thomas and James Leonard land along the Stony Brook on which to establish a bloomery and to manufacture iron. They excavated bog iron along Stony Brook. Later, Chartley Pond was formed when the excavated land along Stony Brook was flooded. Major George Leonard, son of Thomas, is credited with making this iron business a success.
On the southeastern corner is the site of the old forge. Major George Leonard's mansion was located on the northeastern corner. The Devil's Footprint Rock is still located there. In the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century, ice was harvested from the pond.
The nearby Wading River was used for fishing and hunting by Native Americans Long before the arrival of the Leonard family.
Marker is on West Main Street (Massachusetts Route 123), on the right when traveling west.
Courtesy hmdb.org
