City Common

Worcester Common, located in the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts, is a historic public park that has served as a central gathering place for the city since its establishment in 1669. Originally encompassing about 20 acres, the Common has been reduced to its current size of approximately 4.4 acres, but it continues to play a vital role in the civic life of Worcester.

The Common is situated in the center of downtown Worcester, bordered by Main Street to the west, Franklin Street to the south, and Front Street to the north and east. Worcester City Hall, an impressive Italianate structure built in 1898, stands at the western end of the Common, serving as a focal point for the area.

Throughout its history, Worcester Common has been the site of many significant events and structures. In 1719, the first public building on the Common was erected - a meeting house used for both religious and civic purposes. This was replaced in 1763 by the Old South Meeting House, where the Declaration of Independence was first read publicly in New England on July 14, 1776.

The Common features several notable monuments and memorials. The Soldiers' Monument, located near the northeast corner, honors the 398 Worcester soldiers who lost their lives in the American Civil War. Near the center of the Common is the old burial ground, marked by gravestones and the Bigelow Monument. The southeast corner is home to the Burnside Fountain, which includes the sculpture "Boy with a Turtle," commonly known as "Turtle Boy."

In recent years, the City of Worcester has invested in improvements to foster both passive and active recreational uses of the Common. During winter months, a public outdoor skating facility is installed, which has proven popular among residents. In warmer seasons, this space is repurposed for seating, concerts, and other public gatherings and events.

Worcester Common is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical, cultural, and civic significance to the city of Worcester and the surrounding region.