Sudbury, an affluent town in Greater Boston’s MetroWest region, is known for its rich colonial history and rural character. A hub for historical landmarks and natural beauty, this town is home to the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States and numerous other attractions that offer a glimpse into America’s past. From scenic wildlife refuges to historic buildings and unique shopping experiences, Sudbury presents a blend of history and modern-day charm.
The Wayside Inn Historic District
The Wayside Inn, built in 1686 and in operation since 1716, holds the title of the oldest continuously operating inn in the country. The inn’s historical significance was amplified in the 1920s when Henry Ford, the famous car manufacturer, envisioned transforming the property into a living history museum. Although Ford’s complete vision never materialized, several historical structures remain on the site. Notable among these are a grist mill, the Martha-Mary Chapel, and the Redstone Schoolhouse, which was relocated from Sterling, Massachusetts. Inside the inn, visitors can explore rooms filled with colonial-era artifacts, including the Longfellow Parlor, which inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous poetry collection, Tales of a Wayside Inn.
The Wayside Inn Grist Mill
One of the key attractions on the Wayside Inn property is the water-powered grist mill. Built by Henry Ford in the late 1920s, this mill stands near the site of the original Howe family mill from the early 18th century. The grist mill, with its picturesque water wheel and millpond, provides a snapshot of rural New England’s charm. At one point, the mill produced flour for Pepperidge Farm, a well-known baked goods brand. Today, visitors can purchase flour at the inn’s store and witness milling demonstrations on weekends during peak seasons.
Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
Covering 2,300 acres, the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge is a significant natural landmark in western Sudbury. Initially used by the U.S. Army from 1942, the land was transferred to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in 2000. The refuge features 15 miles of trails that wind through forests, open fields, vernal pools, and along the shores of Puffer Pond. Visitors can explore remnants of the area’s military past, including WWII-era ammunition bunkers. The visitor center, housed in an eco-friendly building, offers exhibits on local ecology, prehistory, and the history of American conservation efforts.
Sudbury Center Historic District
Sudbury’s historic center feels like an open-air museum, showcasing architecture dating back centuries. It was here that the militia and minutemen gathered on April 19, 1775, to march to the Battles of Lexington and Concord, marking the start of the American Revolutionary War. The district features landmarks such as the First Parish Church, built in 1797, and the Greek Revival Town Hall, originally constructed in 1846. Nearby, the Loring Parsonage, now home to the Sudbury History Center and Museum, offers insights into the town’s history. The historic district also includes the Federal-style Hosmer House, surrounded by a charming park with a playground and pond.
Sudbury History Center and Museum
The Sudbury Historical Society established its new headquarters in 2021 at the Loring Parsonage, a building with roots dating back to around 1730. The museum’s Jonathan Baggott Gallery provides a comprehensive view of Sudbury’s history, from its earliest days to the present. Additional exhibits delve into the lives of notable local figures, such as Rev. Israel Loring. The museum’s gift shop features a selection of locally crafted items, including clothing, accessories, and unique gifts.
Tippling Rock
For those seeking outdoor adventure, Tippling Rock offers a rewarding hike with stunning views. Located on the slopes of Nobscot Hill, the summit rises over 600 feet above sea level, making it the highest point in Sudbury. From the top, visitors can see landmarks like the Great Blue Hill and Boston’s John Hancock Tower. The name Tippling Rock comes from a large boulder at the summit that, according to tradition, once wobbled and was used by Native Americans for communication.
Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Sudbury is also home to a portion of the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, which spans over 3,800 acres of wetlands along the Sudbury River. Renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, the refuge features trails such as the Weir Hill Trail and the Red Maple Trail, the latter offering a platform for observing marsh wrens, muskrats, and painted turtles. Visitors can also explore the river by canoe or kayak, enjoying the serene beauty of the area’s freshwater wetlands.
Redstone Schoolhouse
Part of the Wayside Inn Historic District, the Redstone Schoolhouse is a charming one-room schoolhouse that dates back to the late 18th century. Originally located in Sterling, Massachusetts, the schoolhouse was moved to the Wayside Inn property by Henry Ford in 1927. The schoolhouse is famously linked to the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” believed to have been written about a local girl named Mary Tyler, who brought her lamb to school.
New England Garden Company
Sudbury is also home to the New England Garden Company, which features a stunning outdoor display garden and an extensive indoor showroom. This company specializes in decorative garden elements, antique furniture, and art sourced from both America and Europe. The 6,000-square-foot space showcases a wide range of items, including sundials, statues, fountains, and Victorian ironwork, making it a must-visit for gardening enthusiasts and collectors.
Wayside Country Store
A short drive east along Route 20 in Marlborough brings visitors to the Wayside Country Store, a historic building that once stood in Sudbury Center. Dating back to 1790, the store was moved to its current location by Henry Ford as part of his vision for the Wayside Inn area. Today, the store offers an old-fashioned candy shop experience, along with a selection of board games, puzzles, and a European-style bakery. The store’s restaurant provides a cozy setting for enjoying a meal after exploring the historic site.
Sudbury offers a unique blend of history, nature, and local culture. From exploring centuries-old buildings and artifacts to hiking scenic trails and observing wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this charming New England town.
FAQs:
What is the significance of the Wayside Inn in Sudbury?
The Wayside Inn is the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States and has historical ties to Henry Ford, who attempted to create a living history museum around it.
What outdoor activities are available in Sudbury?
Sudbury offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking at Tippling Rock, birdwatching at the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and exploring trails at the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge.
Can visitors tour the grist mill at the Wayside Inn?
Yes, the Wayside Inn Grist Mill is open to the public, offering milling demonstrations during weekends and peak periods.