Nestled along the Quinebaug River, Southbridge, Massachusetts, is a historic mill town that dates back to the 18th century. Originally known for its sawmills and gristmills, Southbridge eventually grew into a hub for textile and spectacle manufacturing. One company, in particular, the American Optical Company, dominated the town’s industrial scene for over a century, earning Southbridge the nickname “Eye of the Commonwealth.” Today, the legacy of this once-booming industry is visible throughout the town, from historic buildings to museums, giving visitors a glimpse into Southbridge’s rich past.
American Optical and the Optical Heritage Museum
Founded in 1869, the American Optical Company shaped Southbridge’s economy and identity for over a century. While the factory closed in 1984, its impact is preserved in the Optical Heritage Museum. This museum, opened in 1983, delves into Southbridge’s long history of optical manufacturing. Exhibits feature an array of antique spectacles, optical instruments, and protective eyewear, showcasing the evolution of optical technology. Notably, the museum includes original paintings by Herbert Morton Stoops, reminiscent of mid-20th-century opticians’ offices across the United States.
Old Sturbridge Village: A Glimpse into the Past
Just a short drive from Southbridge, Old Sturbridge Village is New England’s largest living history museum. This expansive 200-acre site replicates rural life in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. With more than 60 original and relocated structures, including homes, meetinghouses, a school, and shops, the village provides an immersive experience. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts and customs, and the village hosts various seasonal events, from craft fairs to candlelit Christmas celebrations.
Westville Lake Recreation Area: Outdoor Activities
Upstream from Southbridge lies the Westville Lake Recreation Area, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Built for flood control in the 1960s, the dam has since become a popular recreation site. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas with charcoal grills, fishing spots, and a canoe and kayak launch. During the winter months, the lake area transforms into a venue for ice skating and sledding, making it a year-round attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
Exploring Downtown Southbridge
Southbridge’s downtown area retains much of its Victorian-era grandeur, with fine brick buildings and historic Revivalist towers lining Main Street. Noteworthy landmarks include the Romanesque Revival Town Hall, the old Universalist Church, and the Renaissance Revival Elm Street Fire House, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Notre Dame Parish Church, completed in 1916, is a testament to the town’s French Canadian heritage, which flourished due to waves of immigration in the 19th century. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, offering everything from French bistro classics to Puerto Rican cuisine.
Southbridge Town Common: A Historic Green Space
Contrary to typical town commons located in bustling centers, the Southbridge Town Common is set away from the commercial heart, overshadowed by the former American Optical Company factory. This historic green space is adorned with mature trees, benches, and picnic tables, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation. A large sculpture of eyeglasses on the lawn pays homage to the town’s optical heritage. The common also features a bandstand that hosts the “Concerts on the Common” series during the summer months.
St. John Paul II Parish: A Blend of Architectural Styles
Formerly known as Notre Dame Parish Church, St. John Paul II Parish reflects Southbridge’s deep French Canadian roots. Established in 1869, the current church building was completed in 1916, designed by Quebecois architect Joseph Venne. Its architecture is a mix of Rococo, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles, with a soaring 210-foot tower and intricate stucco moldings. The church’s interior is adorned with over 30 oil paintings and six murals by Roman artist Gonippo Raggi, complemented by Romanesque-style stained glass windows imported from Germany.
Cultural Enrichment at Gateway Players and the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts
Since 1975, Gateway Players has been a cornerstone of Southbridge’s cultural scene, staging plays and musicals at the Elm Street Congregational Church. In addition to classic Broadway productions, the community theater group also features original works by local playwrights. Adjacent to this, the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts, housed in a historic mid-19th-century residence, offers a space for exhibitions and art classes. The center celebrates a range of artistic disciplines, including painting, photography, and pottery, and hosts a shop selling unique handcrafted items.
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters: A Local Favorite
Established in 2004, Sturbridge Coffee Roasters is a beloved local coffeehouse that has grown to include locations in Dudley and Charlton. Its main branch in Southbridge is conveniently located near the Optical Heritage Museum. Known for its freshly roasted coffee beans, the café offers a range of beverages, from robust power brews to creamy hot chocolates. Patrons can also enjoy light breakfast and lunch options in a cozy setting, making it a popular stop for locals and visitors alike.
Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest: Nature’s Retreat
Just over the Connecticut border, Bigelow Hollow State Park and the surrounding Nipmuck State Forest offer 9,000 acres of natural beauty. As part of the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor, this area is one of the largest unspoiled tracts of forest in the region. With 35 miles of trails, visitors can explore pristine woodlands, serene ponds, and the picturesque Breakneck Pond, accessible only by foot. In the warmer months, the park’s lakes are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, providing a refreshing escape into nature.
Southbridge, with its rich history and blend of cultural, recreational, and natural attractions, offers a charming and multifaceted destination for visitors. Whether exploring the town’s optical legacy, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the historic ambiance, there’s something in Southbridge for everyone.
FAQs:
What is Southbridge known for?
Southbridge is known for its historical significance in the optical industry, primarily due to the presence of the American Optical Company. The town is often referred to as the “Eye of the Commonwealth.”
What can I do at the Optical Heritage Museum?
At the Optical Heritage Museum, you can explore the history of optical technology, including displays of antique eyewear, optical instruments, and artwork related to the industry.
Are there any outdoor activities in Southbridge?
Yes, Southbridge offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and water sports at the Westville Lake Recreation Area. Additionally, nearby Bigelow Hollow State Park provides extensive trails and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.