A Sense of New England History at the Old North Bridge, Concord, MA

Article and Photo by Eric H.

Let's face it, some people just don't like history. Looking at old buildings, reading Colonial scripture on cruddy-looking plaques, and taking expensive tours with locals dressed up in period clothing while masking their Boston accents might not be as exciting as a water slide, ice cream stand or outlet store.

I personally love history, especially when in New England. It's part of the fabric that gives our region its personality. Give me a well-kept 1800s Colonial home, a village green festival, a walk along Boston's Freedom Trail, or a visit to the site of where the first American victory in the Revolutionary War (April 19, 1775) took place: the Old North Bridge in Concord, MA.

The Old North Bridge does indeed have a storied history and the current day markers to validate it with its bridge (thoroughly reonovated), the Minuteman Statue, graves of two British Soldiers, and the 1836 monument commemorating the 1775 battle. The North Bridge area, however, will please those who want to forgo history for a truly scenic country location. The area is perfect for an extended walk, views of the Concord River, and extensive gardens at the Buttrick Estate home with a network of paved stones and steps offering beautifully terraced gardens and more views of the Concord River. The old Buttrick brick mansion features a visitor's center with a book store and video presentations of the fight at the Old North Bridge.

History lovers will ultimately embrace the Old North Bridge, while those with other travel preferences will find it hard to resist the ironic peacefulness of this famous New England attraction.

North Bridge and North Bridge Visitor Center:
174 Liberty St. Concord MA