Brockton, Hardcover/James E. Benson

The official seal of Brockton boldly proclaims education, industry, and progress as hallmarks of the city. These three attributes guided Brockton to greatness in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and continue to shape and influence the community today. From its humble days as North Bridgewater, the growing industrial center of the region changed its name to Brockton in 1874 in part to entice business to the town. In 1881, Brockton became a city and was well on its way to becoming one of the world's foremost centers for the manufacturing of shoes.