There are many handsome residences and fine estates in and around the city, a few of which are represented in this sketch.  It is to be regretted that the residence of Mr. George F. Fay, of Crocker, Burbank & Co., cannot be shown.  It is in process of completion, and when finished will be the finest in the city.

Fitchburg is situated in a pleasant valley, extending nearly east and west, through the southern portion of which runs the little river.  Main street is just north of this stream, and, in a measure, parallel to it.  This is the principal business street in the city and from either side of it branch off streets most of which eventually climb up a hillside.  The city tends to increase along the course of the valley mainly, though now the surrounding slopes are fast becoming covered with dwellings.  The streets (with the exception of Main) are unpaved, but are carefully looked after by the city and always kept in good condition.  Good sidewalks, plenty of shade trees, and the general appearance of thrift and neatness on the part of citizens, make a stroll through the streets of Fitchburg very agreeable.  Such, at least, is the opinion of the writer who, as a native of the place, may be allowed to express pardonable pride in the general appearance of prosperity, neatness and intelligence in the community.

[Illustration:  THE “LYON AND WHITNEY” MILL.]

This sketch would be incomplete without some slight allusion to the surrounding country.  The most marked topographical feature in this region is Rollstone Hill, a rounded eminence, composed entirely of granite.  It is just southwest of the city.  Its top is bare rock, but the sides are covered with a thin layer of soil, which furnishes support for quite a forest.  Several quarries are worked during warm weather, and an immense amount of granite has been taken out without any apparent diminution in the size of the hill.  It may be of interest to state that the Fitchburg Railroad depot, in Boston, is built of granite taken from this hill; and there are several other large stone structures in the Hub built of the same material.  On the very summit of Rollstone is perched “the Boulder,” a round mass of rock, forty-five feet in circumference, and weighing at least one hundred tons.  The rock of which it is composed is totally unlike any rock formation within a radius of thirty miles or more, and it is probable that this boulder was brought to its present position by ice.  The view from the top of this hill is well worth the slight trouble taken in ascending it.  At the feet of the observer lies the city, forming almost a semi-circle.  Wooded hills arise on all sides.  Wachusett, twelve miles distant, rears its imposing pile in the south, while Big Watatic overtops its brethren in the northwest.  Almost opposite Rollstone is Pearl Hill, which is also well worth a visit.

[Illustration:  THE “BRICK” MILL.]

There are many pleasant drives around Fitchburg, which are thoroughly appreciated by the citizens.  But we must not dwell longer upon Fitchburg or its environs.  Let those who are strangers to our city come and see for themselves.  They will be welcome.