The value of town histories is a subject which has been editorially considered more than once in this magazine. Recognizing the importance of these local histories in their relations to New England history in general, it always gives us pleasure to note the additions which are made from time to time to this department of historical literature. Such an addition has recently been made in consequence of the centennial anniversary of the town of Heath, Franklin county, Mass., which was observed on the nineteenth of August last, the historical addresses with other matter having been just published in a neat volume[G] of about one hundred and sixty pages. Heath, which was named from General William Heath, is a striking example of the decadence of the New England hill towns, its population having fallen from eleven hundred and ninety-nine in the year 1830, to five hundred and sixty-eight at present. The site of old Fort Shirley is in the township. Fifty years ago, the town afforded an unusual proportion of its population to the professional ranks, and was noted for its religious and educational influence and patronage. The two principal addresses given in the book are by John H. Thompson, Esq., of Chicago, and Rev. C. E. Dickinson, of Marietta, Ohio, and will be found valuable to the general reader, as well as to the native of the town. Excepting some typographical errors, the book is a model of such a work, and reflects credit on the editor, Mr. E. P. Guild. * * * * *