The phrase refers to notices of death published in a specific local newspaper. These announcements typically include biographical information about the deceased, highlighting significant life events, family relationships, and funeral arrangements. For example, a researcher might search the newspaper’s archives to locate information about a past resident of Athol, Massachusetts, who recently passed away.
Such announcements serve as crucial historical records, offering insights into community demographics, social connections, and genealogical data. They are valuable resources for family history research, providing details that may not be available elsewhere. Furthermore, these notices often reflect the values and customs of the time period in which they were published.