Concord History – The town that started a revolution

To live in a comfortable home within a quaint community is a homeowner's suburban dream, but to live in a location that is rich in U.S history is a luxury not everyone can afford. The town of Concord, MA is a prime location to reside in with a quaint community and the historical backdrop for some of the most pivotal moments in our country's storied history. Concord homes stay true to the colonial image, which is another major factor that makes this town so attractive and inviting to reside in.

As with many New England towns, Concord was acquired from local Native American tribes by British colonials in 1635. The scenery in Concord is quite breathtaking, with colonial houses anchoring the tree-lined streets. These grassy plains were inspiring to many individuals including some of the greatest literary and transcendentalist minds in America. These idealistic authors created a social movement in response to rationalism, centering around their use of romance and nature. Henry David Thoreau, author of ‘Walden Pond,' Ralph Waldo Emerson, essay on of Self-reliance, Louisa May Alcott, author of ‘Little Women' and Nathaniel Hawthorne who wrote ‘The Scarlett Letter' all lived, worked and wrote in Concord. All four authors are also buried in the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in the center of town, which you can still visit today. Signs of their presence in the community remain to this day through the abundance of historic and cultural resources offered. Henry David Thoreau was deeply inspired by nature and actually lived near Walden Pond, which was created by retreating glaciers.

In addition to the beautiful Concord scenery, the town is home of the Concord grape used to make the brand Welch's juice. The grapes were first cultivated in 1849 by Ephraim Wales Bull. He wanted to create a grape vine that could withstand the colder climates of the Northeast. Bull's original vine still exists today in Concord!
Concord has been a beacon of hope for civil rights activists, dating as far back as the 1850's, when Concord was a major hub on the Underground Railroad. Concord is said to be the birthplace of the nation where, "the shot heard round the world" for liberty and self-government was fired. Concord is home to the battle of Lexington and Concord, which was a pivotal moment in the American Revolution.

My fondest memories as a child are of my grandparents, and the times we spent together in Concord. My grandmother and I were even tour guides together at the Orchard House when I was in high school. I still go to visit this peaceful place and like to sit on the bench we commemorated in her memory.

It is truly fascinating knowing that this small town accomplished so many crucial moments in American history. Concord is an ideal community to reside in or just to visit with its beautiful scenery and historical sites.