Martin Marsh

Martin Marsh (1777-July 26, 1865) was a mason, tavern keeper, and businessman from Dedham, Massachusetts. He built 19 Court Street in Dedham.

Personal life Marsh was born in Hingham, Massachusetts in 1777 and moved to Dedham as a young adult. He joined the First Church and Parish in Dedham and became a deacon there. He was responsible for managing the church's finances.

Marsh was a large landowner in Dedham. He was married for nearly 66 years at the time of his death. Marsh had a son, Henry. He was a Freemason and a charter member of the Society in Dedham for Apprehending Horse Thieves, which was formed at his tavern.

He died in Dedham July 26, 1865. Marsh Street in Dedham was named for him.

Public life Marsh was described as "public spirited [and] at all times ready to aid in whatever might contribute to the improvement of society." For 36 years, he was chairman of the Board of Overseers of the House of Correction. He was also a selectman in Dedham for several terms.

He was connected with the Fire Department in 1802 and was a candidate for a seat in the United States House of Representatives in 1844.

Career Marsh was a mason by trade. By 1803, he was successful enough to advertise for an apprentice.

Marsh was repeatedly reëlected as a Director and Treasurer of the Norfolk Insurance Company and was "a watchful guardian of the interests" of the Dedham Institution for Savings.

Norfolk House

During the first few years of the 19th century, several turnpikes, including those linking Boston and Providence and Dedham and Hartford, were laid through Dedham. Inns and taverns sprung up along the new roads as more than 600 coaches would pass through Dedham each day on their way to Boston or Providence.