There is always a lot to see in Concord any time of year and it is often hard to know which to do first. But right now as the fall colors swirl around us here are three gems you don’t want to miss this month:
1. The Robbins House
The Robbins House is one of the only known historic sites commemorating the legacy of a previously enslaved Revolutionary War veteran. This historic early 19th-century house was originally inhabited by the first generation of descendants of a formerly enslaved African American Revolutionary War veteran, Caesar Robbins. Today, the Robbins house embodies the determination of Caesar Robbins and his family to support themselves on the land and to shape their own destinies as free men and women—and serves to inspire conversations about race and social justice issues. The house aims to stimulate dialogue about race and help foster a spirit of reconciliation and healing. This crucial site to understanding Concord’s history is located in a grove of trees in the North Bridge lower parking area and can be visited any day. Interpreters are available for guided tours of the interior of the home every FRI through SUN from 10-4 during the month of October.
2. Walden Pond
Walden Pond was once home to the renowned author, Henry David Thoreau, and is particularly stunning at this time of year. Walden Pond State Reservation includes 462 acres of protected open space that allows you to experience the pond that inspired Thoreau. A replica of Thoreau’s house and the location of his modest home are available for viewing by the public. Year-round interpretive programs and guided walks are offered as well as a gift shop, bookstore, and gallery. Additionally, there are several easy trails that allow you to stroll along the lake and in the trees to take some time for quiet contemplation of the natural world surrounding you. you. https://www.mass.gov/locations/walden-pond-state-reservation
3. Sleepy Hollow
Sleepy Hollow is one of the earliest and best examples of a “rural” or “garden” cemetery. The rural cemetery movement was inspired by romantic ideas about death and the new attitudes regarding the healing powers of nature and art. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is on the National Registry of Historic Places and containers over 10,000 gravesites, Composed of 119 acres, it is laid out in several phases and is a quick beautiful walk from the center of town on any autumn day. Along the woodland path in the hollow, you will find the gravesite of Alcott, Thoreau, Hawthorne, and Emerson in an area known as Author’s Ridge.
Take it from a local, don’t miss these spots this month!
Let us know about your visit and send us a pic to:
Joe Palumbo, born and raised in Concord on a farm along Battle Road works as an interpreter and tour guide here in town. He is focused on sharing both the well know and the lesser-known local narratives as we work to broaden the story of our town.