Take A Journey Through This One-Of-A-Kind Bridge Park In Massachusetts
By Sophia
|
Published November 21, 2017
Here in Massachusetts we have an almost endless supply of gorgeous parks and green spaces to enjoy. However, there’s one park in Concord that offers the perfect blend of beauty and history topped off with one truly fabulous bridge. Here’s why you should visit North Bridge and the Minute Man National Historical Park.
Minute Man National Historical Park is the site of the start of the American Revolution and the absolutely beautiful Old North Bridge.
The battle took place in 1775, with the British militia facing off against the Minutemen of Concord on the bridge. The first shot of this skirmish is popularly known as the "shot heard round the world."
The original "battle bridge" was built in 1775. Most people don’t realize that the North Bridge in the park today is actually fifth bridge to span that spot over the Concord River.
The traditional wooden construction of the bridges means that they have been prone to decay. The most recent bridge was built in 1956 and restored in 2005.
The park is perfect for strolling, picnicking and cycling. It’s filled with towering old trees that provide a green canopy in the summer and a brilliant carpet of fall foliage in the fall.
Exploring the Battle Road Trail is a great way to experience the park. This five mile trail links historic sites from Meriam’s Corner in Concord to the eastern edge of the park in Lexington. It follows the route the Minutemen took on the day of the first battle and traverses fields, wetlands and forests.
This park is also filled with indoor attractions and educational opportunities.
Popular spots to visit int he park include the Jacob Whiitemore house, where you can try on colonial clothing and explore hands-on exhibits; the Hartwell Tavern, an authentic period home that was once a properous farm; and the North Bridge Visitor Center, where you can learn about the battle and browse the park’s bookstore. You can also visit the Grave of the British Soldiers, where two solider from the first battle the Revolution are buried and commemorated with a poem by James Russel Lowell.
Minute Man National Historical Park is free to visit and the perfect place for an adventure this season.
You can find the Minute Man National Historical Park on Monument Street, Concord MA . For more stunning bridges across Massachusetts, check out this list .
Save Save
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Related Articles
Explore Massachusetts