Norton Center Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Norton Center Historic District
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Norton Town Common
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Norton, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 50 acres (20 ha) |
| Architect | Multiple |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 77000170 |
| Added to NRHP | December 23, 1977 |
The Norton Center Historic District is a special area in Norton, Massachusetts. It's like a time capsule showing how the town grew. This district includes the town center and the nearby Wheaton College campus. You can find many important town buildings here. It also has the oldest house still standing in Norton. This historic area is built around a large town common. This common is where Massachusetts Routes 123 and 140 meet. This district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. This means it's a very important place in American history.
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Exploring the Norton Center Historic District
This historic district covers about 50 acres. It shows how a classic New England town center looks. The main part of the district is a triangular town common. This common is bordered by East Main Street, West Main Street, and Mansfield Street. Taunton Street also extends from it.
A Glimpse into Norton's Past
The town of Norton was first settled a long time ago, in the 1660s. But it didn't officially become a town until 1711. Back then, a town had to build a home for its minister to become official. Norton's first minister's house was built in 1710. It helped the town become incorporated. This house is still standing today, right across from the town common.
Important Buildings and Their Stories
Two churches also stand facing the common. Both of these churches came from the town's first Congregationalist group. The town library was built in 1888. It was a special gift from the Wheaton family. This family was very important in Norton. The house of Laban Wheaton, a well-known family member, is now the home of the president of Wheaton College.
Wheaton College: A Place of Learning
Wheaton College was started in 1834. It began as a school just for women. A famous female educator named Mary Lyon taught there. She later went on to found Mount Holyoke College. The college campus stretches out to the east of the town common. Most of the college buildings fit in well with the historic feel. They don't block the view of the older streets.
Modern Touches in a Historic Place
While the district is old, it also has some newer buildings. There is a post office building. Some college buildings are also more modern. But these newer parts generally don't take away from the historic look. The district keeps its old charm while still being a living, active place.
 | Tommie Smith |
 | Simone Manuel |
 | Shani Davis |
 | Simone Biles |
 | Alice Coachman |
