The document provides background information on early settlement in the Middle Grants region:
1) Native peoples including Abenaki tribes inhabited the region prior to European settlement.
2) Settlers began arriving in the late 17th century from southern New England colonies seeking land and opportunity. They established farms and communities along the Connecticut River Valley.
3) Early settlers subsisted through farming, hunting, and trade. They worked to establish local governments and defend their communities during conflicts with Native groups.