What is the geographical location of Concord, Massachusetts?

Concord, Massachusetts, is situated in Middlesex County, United States. It is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau as part of the Greater Boston area, located near the confluence of the Sudbury and Assabet rivers, which form the Concord River.

What was the population of Concord, Massachusetts, according to the 2020 census?

As per the 2020 United States census, the town of Concord, Massachusetts, had a population of 18,491 residents.

When was Concord, Massachusetts, established, and who were its primary founders?

Concord was established in 1635 by English settlers. The primary founders mentioned are Reverend Peter Bulkley and Major Simon Willard, who negotiated a land purchase with the local indigenous tribes.

What is the meaning of the original Algonquian name for the Concord area?

The area that became Concord was originally known by the Algonquian name "Musketaquid." This name translates to "grassy plain," aptly describing the region's landscape characterized by marshes and kettle holes.

How did a smallpox epidemic affect the indigenous population in the Concord area before English settlement?

Prior to the arrival of English settlers, an epidemic of smallpox in 1633 significantly depopulated the area. This disease, likely introduced by European explorers, drastically reduced the native population that had previously cultivated crops and utilized the rivers for fishing.

What was exchanged during the land purchase that led to the founding of Concord?

The English settlers, led by Peter Bulkley and Simon Willard, exchanged wampum, hatchets, knives, and cloth for a six-square-mile parcel of land from Squaw Sachem of Mistick. This peaceful acquisition led to the town being named Concord.

What significant event occurred in Concord on April 19, 1775, related to the American Revolutionary War?

On April 19, 1775, 700 British Army troops marched to Concord to confiscate militia ordnance. This action resulted in the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which are considered the opening military engagements of the American Revolutionary War.

Who was the British commander during the march on Concord in April 1775?

The British Army troops who marched from Boston to Concord on April 19, 1775, were led by Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Smith.

How did Patriot leaders prepare for the British arrival in Concord in 1775?

Patriot leaders had moved most of the militia ordnance stored in Concord to other locations before the British troops arrived. They had also been forewarned of the British march by Samuel Prescott on April 18, allowing local minutemen to muster.

What happened at the Old North Bridge in Concord during the battle?

At the Old North Bridge, approximately 400 minutemen engaged 100 British troops. This confrontation resulted in casualties on both sides and forced the British to fall back and rejoin their main force.

What is the historical significance of the phrase 'shot heard round the world' in relation to Concord?

The phrase 'shot heard round the world' was used by Ralph Waldo Emerson in his 1837 poem 'Concord Hymn' to describe the first shot fired by minutemen at the Old North Bridge. This phrase symbolizes the start of the American Revolutionary War, which had global implications.

How did the Battles of Lexington and Concord lead to the Siege of Boston?

Following the battles, as the British troops retreated to Boston, they were continuously attacked by minutemen. The minutemen then blockaded the land accesses to Charlestown, effectively initiating the Siege of Boston.

What literary movement was centered in Concord during the mid-19th century?

During the mid-19th century, Concord was the center of a rich literary community, strongly associated with the Transcendentalist movement. Key figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau lived and worked there.

Which major literary works were written in Concord during the 19th century?

Significant works produced in Concord during the 19th century include Louisa May Alcott's novel "Little Women," Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay "Self-Reliance," and Henry David Thoreau's "Walden" and "Civil Disobedience."

Who developed the Concord grape, and where did this occur?

The Concord grape, a variety that became widely popular, was developed by Ephraim Wales Bull at his home in Concord, Massachusetts, in 1849. The original vine from which this grape originated still exists there.

What is the historical connection between Concord and the company Welch's?

Welch's, a major producer of grape juice, was historically headquartered in Concord, Massachusetts. The company's origins are tied to the development of the Concord grape in the town.

How did Concord evolve in the 20th century?

In the 20th century, Concord transformed into an affluent suburb of Boston and a notable tourist destination. It attracted visitors interested in its historical sites and literary heritage.

What is Concord known for regarding its political leanings in the 21st century?

In recent times, Concord has become recognized for its progressive and environmentalist politics. A notable example is its 2012 decision to become the first community in the United States to ban the sale of single-serving PET bottles.

What was the nature of the smallpox epidemic that affected the region before Concord's founding?

Before Concord was settled by the English, a smallpox epidemic in 1633 significantly reduced the indigenous population. This disease was likely introduced to the New World by European explorers and settlers.

What was the significance of Simon Willard's role in Concord's founding?

Simon Willard played a crucial role in Concord's founding as he was a skilled trader who spoke the Algonquian language and had earned the trust of Native American tribes. This facilitated the peaceful negotiation and purchase of land for the new settlement.

How was the town of Concord named?

The town was named Concord in appreciation for the peaceful acquisition of land from the indigenous tribes. The name reflects the harmonious agreement reached during its founding.

What is the total area of Concord, Massachusetts, and how much of it is water?

Concord, Massachusetts, has a total area of 25.9 square miles (67 km²). Of this, 24.9 square miles (64 km²) is land, and 1.0 square mile (2.6 km²), or approximately 3.75%, is water.

What was the function of the American Powder Mills complex in Concord?

The American Powder Mills complex, located along the Assabet River, was involved in the manufacture of gunpowder. This operation spanned from 1835 to 1940.

What type of local government does Concord utilize?

Concord operates under an open town meeting system for its legislature, with executive functions managed by a five-member Select Board.

Which U.S. Congressional district does Concord belong to, and who represents it?

Concord is part of Massachusetts's 3rd congressional district. As of the provided text, the representative for this district is Lori Trahan.

Who are Massachusetts's current U.S. Senators as mentioned in the text?

The text identifies Elizabeth Warren as the state's senior U.S. Senator (Class I) and Ed Markey as the junior U.S. Senator (Class II).

Describe the racial composition of Concord based on the 2020 census data.

According to the 2020 census, Concord's racial makeup was predominantly White (82.94%). Other reported groups included African American (2.61%), Asian (6.18%), Hispanic or Latino (4.55%), Native American (0.02%), Pacific Islander (0.02%), and individuals identifying with two or more races (6.86%).

What was the median household income in Concord in 2020?

In 2020, the median household income in Concord was reported as $184,086.

What percentage of Concord's population lived below the poverty line in 2020?

In 2020, approximately 2.5% of Concord's population was living below the poverty line. This included 1.7% of those under 18 and 1.1% of those aged 65 and older.

How do residents typically pronounce the name 'Concord'?

Concord residents pronounce their town's name as KONG-kərd, which sounds identical to the American pronunciation of the word 'conquered.' In the local Greater Boston dialect, the 'er' sound is often replaced with an 'uh' sound, resulting in a pronunciation closer to KAHN-kəd.

What are the principal employers in Concord, Massachusetts?

The principal employers in Concord include Emerson Hospital, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Corrections Department, Newbury Court senior living facility, Atrius Health, Care One of Concord, Caring Companion Home Care, Concord Academy, and Dynasil Corporation of America.

What are Concord's sister cities?

Concord has two sister cities: Nanae in Japan and Saint-Mandé in France.

Which historical figures are buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery's Authors' Ridge?

Authors' Ridge in Concord's Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is the final resting place for prominent literary figures including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and the Alcott family.

What is the significance of The Wayside house in Concord's literary history?

The Wayside, located on Lexington Road, has a rich literary history, having been home to several authors. It was occupied by scientist John Winthrop, then the Alcott family (who called it 'Hillside'), followed by Nathaniel Hawthorne, and later Daniel Lothrop and his wife Harriett (Margaret Sidney). Today, it operates as a museum.

What is the Concord grape known for?

The Concord grape is known for its development by Ephraim Wales Bull in Concord, Massachusetts, in 1849. It is recognized for its early ripening, rich flavor, and hardiness, making it suitable for cultivation in colder climates and popular for grape juice.

What was the outcome of Concord's ban on the sale of single-serving PET bottles?

Concord's ban on the sale of water in single-serving PET bottles (one liter or less) was approved in 2012 and took effect in 2013. Despite national controversy and some local opposition, repeal efforts have failed in town meetings, indicating continued support for the measure.

What role did Charles Ives play in Concord's cultural landscape?

The 20th-century composer Charles Ives created his "Concord Sonata" as a series of musical portraits inspired by the literary figures associated with Concord, Massachusetts, reflecting the town's deep cultural and artistic heritage.

What is the historical significance of the Old North Bridge?

The Old North Bridge is historically significant as the site of a key engagement during the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. It is where minutemen confronted British troops, an event immortalized by Emerson's 'shot heard round the world'.

Which public figures visited Concord for the battle's bicentennial celebration?

In April 1975, Concord hosted a bicentennial celebration of the battles, which included an address at the Old North Bridge by President Gerald Ford, highlighting the town's enduring historical importance.

What is the Concord Free Public Library's significance?

The Concord Free Public Library is noted as a point of interest in the town and was also a filming location for Lucio Fulci's 1981 horror film 'The House by the Cemetery'.

Which educational institutions are located in Concord?

Concord hosts public schools including Concord-Carlisle Regional High School, Sanborn and Peabody Middle Schools (now unified under the Ellen Garrison building), and elementary schools named Alcott, Willard, and Thoreau. It is also home to private preparatory schools such as Concord Academy and Middlesex School, as well as The Fenn School and Nashoba Brooks School.

In what popular culture media has Concord been featured?

Concord has been featured in video games like 'Assassin's Creed 3,' 'Assassin's Creed Valhalla,' and 'Fallout 4,' as well as the game 'Walden, a game.' Additionally, scenes from the film 'Daddy's Home 2' were filmed there, and parts of 'Little Women' (2019) were shot on the Concord River.

What is the historical context of the 'shot heard round the world'?

The 'shot heard round the world' refers to the opening volley fired during the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. This event marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War and its impact resonated globally.

What is the origin of Patriots' Day?

Patriots' Day originated from a compromise between petitions for 'Lexington Day' and 'Concord Day' by historical societies. Governor Frederic T. Greenhalge proclaimed the day as Patriots' Day, commemorating the battles that began the American Revolutionary War.

What is the significance of the Concord River's formation?

The Concord River is formed near Concord, Massachusetts, at the confluence where the Sudbury and Assabet rivers join. This river system is central to the town's geography and historical development.

What was Ephraim Wales Bull's epitaph related to his development of the Concord grape?

Ephraim Wales Bull, the developer of the Concord grape, died a relatively poor man despite his contribution. His tombstone bears the epitaph: 'He sowed—others reaped,' reflecting the commercial success that followed his invention.

What specific type and size of plastic bottles were banned in Concord in 2013?

In 2013, Concord banned the sale of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles containing water that were one liter or less in volume.

What was the outcome of the vote to repeal Concord's plastic bottle ban?

An effort to repeal Concord's ban on the sale of plastic water bottles was overwhelmingly defeated at a town meeting. The vote indicated strong support among residents for maintaining the ban.

Which notable authors have resided in Concord in recent years?

In recent years, Concord has been home to notable authors such as Doris Kearns Goodwin, Alan Lightman, Robert B. Parker, and Gregory Maguire, continuing its legacy as a literary hub.

Concord Massachusetts Wiki: Concord: A Tapestry of History, Literature, and Revolution

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A Storied Past

Founding and Early Settlement

Established in 1635 by English settlers led by Rev. Peter Bulkley and Major Simon Willard, Concord was named for the peaceful land acquisition from the indigenous tribes. Originally known as "Musketaquid" by the Algonquian people, the area was characterized by its grassy plains and river confluence.

Birthplace of Revolution

Concord holds a pivotal place in American history as the site of the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. The British attempt to confiscate militia ordnance led to the "shot heard round the world," igniting the American Revolutionary War.

Literary Heartland

During the mid-19th century, Concord became a hub for literary and philosophical thought, attracting figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau. Major works, including Walden and Little Women, were penned here.

Modern Identity

In the 20th century, Concord evolved into an affluent Boston suburb and tourist destination, preserving its historical sites and literary culture. It also gained recognition for progressive initiatives, notably becoming the first U.S. community to ban single-serving PET bottles.

Literary Luminary

The Transcendentalist Circle

Concord's intellectual zenith occurred in the 19th century, centered around Ralph Waldo Emerson. His circle included luminaries such as Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau, fostering an environment of profound literary and philosophical output.

Iconic Works

This era yielded seminal works like Emerson's essays (e.g., Self-Reliance), Alcott's Little Women, Hawthorne's Mosses from an Old Manse, and Thoreau's Walden and Civil Disobedience.

Literary Landmarks

Key sites like The Old Manse (home to Emerson and Hawthorne), Orchard House (Alcott family home), and Thoreau's Walden Pond cabin remain testaments to this rich heritage. The town's authors are memorialized on Authors' Ridge in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.

The Concord Grape

Cultivation and Legacy

In 1849, Ephraim Wales Bull cultivated the famous Concord grape at his Concord home, a variety that thrives even in northern climates. Bull's dedication, though financially unrewarding for him, led to a globally recognized fruit.

Welch's Connection

The Concord grape became the foundation for the Welch's company, the first to commercially sell grape juice. Welch's maintained its headquarters in Concord, linking the town's agricultural innovation to a major food industry brand.

Community Governance

Progressive Policies

Concord is noted for its progressive and environmentalist political leanings. A significant example is its 2012 ban on the sale of water in single-serving PET bottles, a pioneering move in the United States.

Local and Federal Representation

The town operates under an open town meeting system, guided by a five-member executive Select Board. Federally, Concord is part of Massachusetts' 3rd congressional district and is represented by Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey.

Geographic Profile

Location and Waterways

Concord covers approximately 25.9 square miles (67 km²), situated 19 miles (31 km) east of Boston. It lies near the confluence of the Sudbury and Assabet rivers, which form the Concord River, flowing northward to the Merrimack River.

Major Routes

Several state routes traverse Concord, including Routes 2, 2A, 62, 111, 117, 119, and 126, facilitating connectivity within the region.

Maps

Visual context for Concord's location within Massachusetts, the Greater Boston area, and the United States is provided below.

Concord

Civic Structure

Local Administration

Concord employs an open town meeting system for its legislative function, overseen by a five-member Select Board, which serves as the executive body.

Federal Representation

In the national political landscape, Concord falls within Massachusetts' 3rd congressional district. It is represented in the U.S. Senate by Senators Elizabeth Warren (Class I) and Ed Markey (Class II).

Demographic Snapshot

Population and Household Data

As of the 2020 census, Concord's population was 18,491, with a density of approximately 714 inhabitants per square mile. The town exhibits a diverse racial makeup, with a median household income of $184,086.

Historical Population
Year	Pop.	±%
1850	2,249	—
1860	2,246	−0.1%
1870	2,412	+7.4%
1880	3,922	+62.6%
1890	4,427	+12.9%
1900	5,652	+27.7%
1910	6,421	+13.6%
1920	6,461	+0.6%
1930	7,477	+15.7%
1940	7,972	+6.6%
1950	8,623	+8.2%
1960	12,517	+45.2%
1970	16,148	+29.0%
1980	16,293	+0.9%
1990	17,076	+4.8%
2000	16,993	−0.5%
2010	17,668	+4.0%
2020	18,491	+4.7%
2024*	18,092	−2.2%
*=population estimate. Source: United States census records and Population Estimates Program data.

The town's demographic profile includes a significant proportion of residents aged 25-64, with a median age of 42 years. Households are predominantly family-oriented, with a notable percentage including children under 18.

Local Pronunciation

Distinctive Articulation

Residents typically pronounce "Concord" as /kɒŋkərd/ (KONG-kərd), phonetically similar to the word "conquered." Within the Greater Boston dialect, the second syllable's sound may shift to /ə/, resulting in /kɒŋkərd/ (KAHN-kərd).

Economic Landscape

Key Employers

Concord's economy is supported by several key employers, primarily in healthcare and education, alongside state services. According to the town's 2022 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, major employers include:

Principal Employers in Concord, MA (2022)
#	Employer	# of Employees
1	Emerson Hospital	1,000+
2	Corrections Department (Commonwealth of Massachusetts)	500+
3	New England Deaconness (Newbury Court)	100+
4	Atrius Health	100+
5	Care One of Concord	100+
6	Caring Companion Home Care	100+
7	Concord Academy	100+
8	Dynasil Corporation of America	100+

Connectivity

Rail Services

Concord and West Concord stations are integral stops on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Fitchburg Line, providing commuter rail access to Boston.

Bus Routes

The Yankee Line service offers commuter bus transportation connecting Concord directly with Boston, enhancing regional mobility.

Global Connections

International Partnerships

Concord maintains sister city relationships with two international locations:

Nanae, Japan
Saint-Mandé, France

These affiliations foster cultural exchange and international understanding.

Points of Interest

Historic and Cultural Sites

Concord boasts numerous sites of historical and cultural significance:

📍 Barrett's Farm
📍 Reuben Brown House
📍 Concord Armory (home to Concord Players)
📍 Concord Art Association
📍 Concord Free Public Library
📍 Concord Museum
📍 Concord Scout House
📍 Concord's Colonial Inn
📍 Egg Rock
📍 Emerson Hospital
📍 Ralph Waldo Emerson House
📍 Estabrook Woods
📍 Fairyland Pond
📍 First Parish in Concord
📍 Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
📍 Massachusetts Correctional Institution – Concord
📍 Minute Man National Historical Park (incl. The Minute Man statue)
📍 Northeastern Correctional Center
📍 The Old Manse
📍 Old North Bridge
📍 Orchard House
📍 Punkatasset Hill
📍 Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
📍 Walden Pond
📍 The Wayside
📍 Wheeler-Minot Farmhouse (Thoreau Farm)
📍 Wright's Tavern

Additionally, Concord is featured in various media, including video games like Assassin's Creed 3 and Fallout 4, and films such as Daddy's Home 2.

Educational Institutions

Public Schools

Concord's public school system includes Concord-Carlisle Regional High School, Concord Middle School (Ellen Garrison building), and elementary schools: Alcott, Willard, and Thoreau.

Private Institutions

The town is also home to notable private preparatory schools:

Concord Academy
Middlesex School
The Fenn School (Boys, Grades 4-9)
Nashoba Brooks School (Co-ed PK-3, Girls Grades 4-8)

Notable Residents

Literary and Historical Figures

Concord has been home to numerous influential figures, including literary giants like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau. Contemporary authors such as Doris Kearns Goodwin and Gregory Maguire also reside here.

A comprehensive list of notable individuals associated with Concord is available via the List of people from Concord, Massachusetts.

Cultural Contributions

Media and Arts

Concord's unique character has inspired various artistic expressions. Its history and landscapes feature prominently in literature, film, and even video games, reflecting its enduring cultural significance.

Visual Heritage

The town's visual heritage is captured in numerous engravings and photographs, showcasing landmarks like Main Street, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, The Wayside, and various historic homes, preserving the essence of Concord's past.

References

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References

"Native Americans, Colonial Settlement, and the Concord River". Lowell Land Trust. Retrieved July 28, 2013.

"Simon Willard's Life In Concord." Marian H. Wheeler, Willard Family Association. Retrieved on July 28, 2013.

First Parish in Concord

A full list of references for this article are available at the Concord, Massachusetts Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, cultural, or geographical consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

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Concord: A Tapestry of History, Literature, and Revolution

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past 🏛️

🌱 Founding and Early Settlement

⚔️ Birthplace of Revolution

✍️ Literary Heartland

♻️ Modern Identity

Literary Luminary 📚

💡 The Transcendentalist Circle

📖 Iconic Works

🏡 Literary Landmarks

The Concord Grape 🍇

👨‍🌾 Cultivation and Legacy

🏭 Welch's Connection

Community Governance ⚖️

📜 Progressive Policies

🗳️ Local and Federal Representation

Geographic Profile 🗺️

📍 Location and Waterways

🚗 Major Routes

📍 Maps

Civic Structure 🏛️

🧑‍⚖️ Local Administration

🇺🇸 Federal Representation

Demographic Snapshot 👥

📊 Population and Household Data

Local Pronunciation 🗣️

🔊 Distinctive Articulation

Economic Landscape 💼

🏢 Key Employers

Connectivity 🚆

🚂 Rail Services

🚌 Bus Routes

Global Connections 🤝

🌍 International Partnerships

Points of Interest 🌟

🏛️ Historic and Cultural Sites

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 Public Schools

private Private Institutions

Notable Residents 👤

✒️ Literary and Historical Figures

Cultural Contributions 🎭

🎬 Media and Arts

🖼️ Visual Heritage

References 🔗

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Founding and Early Settlement

Birthplace of Revolution

Literary Heartland

Modern Identity

Literary Luminary

The Transcendentalist Circle

Iconic Works

Literary Landmarks

The Concord Grape

Cultivation and Legacy

Welch's Connection

Community Governance

Progressive Policies

Local and Federal Representation

Geographic Profile

Location and Waterways

Major Routes

Maps

Civic Structure

Local Administration

Federal Representation

Demographic Snapshot

Population and Household Data

Local Pronunciation

Distinctive Articulation

Economic Landscape

Key Employers

Connectivity

Rail Services

Bus Routes

Global Connections

International Partnerships

Points of Interest

Historic and Cultural Sites

Educational Institutions

Public Schools

Private Institutions

Notable Residents

Literary and Historical Figures

Cultural Contributions

Media and Arts

Visual Heritage

References

Teacher's Corner

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Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice