1701The town voted that new householders would not automatically be granted a right to common land.Economy and Industry, Government and Public Service, Land Ownership, City Government

By the beginning of the 18th century, much of the land in Gloucester was owned by individuals, although there was a significant portion of common land that had not been granted. Before 1661, anyone who built a house had a right in the common land. However, regulations surrounding these rights were adjusted over time both by the General Court and the town meeting members. A committee was later chosen to hear all the claims to common land, and a list of 112 rights was recorded. Some commoners held more than one right.