In the early settlement of Garland log-cabins were few and far between. The proprietors of the township caused a saw-mill to be built and to be made ready for use as soon as houses would be needed by incoming families.

This mill was placed on the site of the mill now occupied by Edward Washburn. There was, also, a saw mill at Elkinstown, now Dexter, as early as 1803, where settlers in the west and northwest part of the township could obtain boards to cover their buildings. Log barns for temporary use were common, but the first framed barn in the township was built by John M. Chase in the summer of 1802, on lot one in the seventh range. The site of this barn may now be seen on the farm of the late Bradbury G. Atkins.

The first framed house was built in the autumn of 1802 on lot five in the seventh range, near the site of the present residence of Charles H. Brown. Joseph Treadwell, the grandfather of our present citizen, Joseph C. Treadwell, built this house for John Tyler. Mr. Treadwell came from is home in Danville, Maine, on horseback, bringing his tools with him. He cut and hewed the timber for the house, hauled it with his horses, framed it and superintended the subsequent work until it was ready for use. An old-fashioned roof with double slope covered the body of the house. Years ago this old landmark was removed by John L. Jackman to give place to a house of more modern style. This old farm is now owned and occupied by Charles H. Brown. Some of our older citizens will remember with pathetic interest, the tall, spare, pale, patient and sorrowful woman. Aunt Susan Tyler, the last of her family, who lived in the quaint old house, tenderly caring for many years for an imbecile brother.