Massachusetts § 14 - Contents of agreement of association
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 14 — Contents of agreement of association, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14. Contents of agreement of association
Section 14. The agreement of association shall state:
(a) That the subscribers thereto associate themselves with the intention of forming a railroad corporation.
(b) The corporate name assumed, which shall be one not in use by any other railroad corporation in the commonwealth, or, in the judgment of the department, so similar thereto as to be likely to be mistaken for it, and which shall contain the words, ''railroad corporation'', at the end thereof.
(c) The termini of the railroad.
(d) The length of the railroad, as nearly as may be.
(e) The name of each county, city and town where the railroad is to be located.
(f) The gauge of the railroad, which shall be either four feet eight and one half inches, or three feet.
(g) The total amount of the capital stock of the corporation, which shall be not less than ten thousand dollars for each mile, if the gauge is four feet eight and one half inches, and not less than five thousand dollars for each mile, if the gauge is three feet.
(h) The par value of the shares, which shall be one hundred dollars.
(i) The names and residences of at least five persons, who shall be subscribers to the agreement of association, to act as directors until others are chosen and qualified in their stead.
Each associate shall subscribe to the agreement of association his name, residence, post office address, and the number of shares of stock which he agrees to take; but no subscriber shall be bound to pay more than ten per cent of the amount of his subscription unless a corporation is incorporated.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 14
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 14 cover?
Section 14 ("Contents of agreement of association") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 14?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 14" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 14 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.