Barre Common District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Barre Common District
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Old Town Hall
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Bounded roughly by South, Exchange, Main, Pleasant, Broad, School and Grove Sts., Barre, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 22 acres (8.9 ha) |
| Built | 1836 |
| Architect | Elias Carter; Multiple |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival, Other, Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 76000298 |
| Added to NRHP | May 4, 1976 |
The Barre Common District is a special area in Barre, Massachusetts. It is called a historic district because it includes the town's main grassy area, called the common, and many old buildings right next to it. This district is surrounded by streets like South, Exchange, Main, Pleasant, Broad, School, and Grove.
The Barre Common was first created in 1792. Since then, it has been a very important place for the town's community events. Many beautiful buildings in the Greek Revival style, and other styles, stand around the common. This entire district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
What is the Barre Common Like?
The Barre Common is a large, grassy area in the middle of Barre village. It covers about 15 acres (6 hectares). The common has a unique shape, like a bent triangle. Its southern tip is formed by Common and South Streets.
The common is divided into four sections by roads. The northernmost part is angled slightly to the west. Across Park Street from this northern section is the Barre Congregational Church. This church was built in 1849 and is a great example of Greek Revival architecture.
Important Buildings Around the Common
Many other buildings around the common show off the Greek Revival style. One is the Lawrence-Holman-Graziani House, built in 1836. It is thought to have been designed by Elias Carter. This house has a grand front porch with six columns, like an ancient Greek temple.
The Barre Historical Society Building was also built in 1836. It also features a "temple front" design. The only major building not made of wood is the Barre Savings Bank. This building was constructed in 1894 and has a Romanesque style, made of brick.
History of the Common
The common has played a big part in Barre's history since the town began. It holds memorials that honor the town's soldiers. For a long time, it has also been the place for summer concerts. The current bandstand is actually the third one built there.
In the past, the common was used as a training ground for the local militia. This was a group of citizens who could be called upon to defend the town. It was also the site of the town pound. This was a place where stray animals could be kept safely until their owners claimed them. One small part of the common still has a horse trough and hay scales from the 1800s.
