Person:William Barrett (51)

William Barrett, Esq., though not a native of Malden, was for many years one of the most distinguished citizens of the place; and probably did more while he lived to advance its business interests, than any other individual ever resident here. Mr. Barrett was born in Concord, Mass., and in early life went to Billerica as an apprentice to a clothier. Before he became of age, he purchased his time of his master, and also the business stand, securing the services of his master there. He succeeded in his new experiment; and having calls made upon him for dyeing silks, as well as other cloths, he determined to supply these calls, and did so, by an agreement with a dyer in Charlestown with whom he was acquainted. Subsequently he went into copartnership with the Charlestown dyer, Mr. Thompson; and in a few years purchased the establishment, and carried on business there, until about 1804, when he came to Malden and set up his dyeing works. He was prosperous, as he had little or no competition, and found his business increasing. In the winter of 1816, his first dye-house, including his dwelling-house, a wooden building, was burned to the ground. In no wise disheartened, by noon the next day after this disaster, Mr Barrett had a temporary building erected for his workmen, and his work going on; and soon after, by the assistance of friends, erected the large and substantial brick building so long and so extensively known as the Malden Dye House, a correct representation of which is given on another page [p. 179]. This stand is now occupied by his sons. Mr Barrett was one of the most enterprising of men. Obstacles which might seem to others most formidable, only served to excite him to action; and we might say, were an indication to him of his victory over them. He was an example of what may be done by the right ambition, and industry, and perseverance in the business of life. He was prompt in his business affairs, benevolent in his prosperity, a friend to those in need, and was ready to engage in any movement having the general good in view. He died November 15, 1834, aged 59.^[3]

1. ↑ Concord, Middlesex, Massachusetts, United States. Births, Marriages, and Deaths, 1635-1850. (Boston: Beacon Press, 1891)
   p. 240.

   William Barrett Son of Cap't Nathan Barrett and Meriam his wife was Born June ye 17th 1775.

2. ↑ Corey, Deloraine P., Compiler. Births, Marriages and Deaths in the Town of Malden, Massachusetts, 1649-1850. (Cambridge, Massachusetts: Printed at the University Press for the City of Malden, 1903)
   p. 330.

   Barrett
   [470] William, Esq., 59 y., [died] Nov. 15, 1834.
   [Birth about 1775.]

3. ↑ The Bi-centennial book of Malden: containing the oration and poem delivered on the two hundredth anniversary of the incorporation of the town, May 23, 1849, with other proceedings on that day, and matters pertaining to the history of the place. (Boston: Printed by G.C. Rand & Co., 1850)
   pp. 178-180.