Learn About Lancaster, Massachusetts

Lancaster Overview

Lancaster is a town in Worcester County, Massachusetts that was first settled in 1643 and incorporated in 1653.
The town played a significant role in the King Philip's War, a conflict between Native American tribes and European settlers in the 1670s.
During the American Revolution, Lancaster was the site of a small battle known as the Battle of the North Bridge, where local militia forces clashed with British troops.
Lancaster has a rich history as an agricultural community, with farming playing a major role in its economy for many years.

Lancaster is home to the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States, the Bull Run Restaurant.
The town is also known for its historic town center, which features many well-preserved Colonial-era buildings.
Lancaster was the birthplace of Mary Rowlandson, a colonial American woman who was captured by Native Americans during King Philip's War and later wrote a bestselling account of her experiences.

John Thayer, a naturalist and ornithologist, was born in Lancaster in 1755.
Deborah Sampson, a woman who disguised herself as a man to fight in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, lived in Lancaster for a time.

The population of Lancaster has steadily grown over the years, from just a few hundred residents in the 1700s to over 8,000 today.
The town has seen an increase in population in recent years due to its proximity to major cities like Boston and Worcester.

Lancaster is located in central Massachusetts, bordered by the towns of Clinton, Bolton, and Sterling.
The town is known for its rolling hills and scenic countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.

Lancaster's economy is diverse, with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries.
The town is home to several small businesses, as well as larger companies like Johnson Controls and Atlantic Plastic Systems.

Lancaster has a strong sense of community, with many events and festivals held throughout the year, including the Lancaster Fair and the Lancaster Farmers Market.
The town is also known for its historic architecture, with many well-preserved buildings dating back to the Colonial era.