Local History Videos

Old picture of a view from Union Hill of Worcester, Mass

Old Images of Worcester, Massachusetts

Old picture of a view from Union Hill of Worcester, Mass

Glimpse history through old images of Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.

Old Pictures of Worcester MA

Old picture of a view from Union Hill of Worcester, Mass
Old picture of a view from Union Hill of Worcester, Massachusetts. Image: Boston : T. Moore’s Lithography, [between 1835 and 1841]; Library of Congress.
Old picture of the Worcester Memorial Auditorium and Central Congregational Church Mass
Old picture of the Worcester Memorial Auditorium and Central Congregational Church Mass. Image: Billy Rose Theatre Division, The New York Public Library.
Old photo of Worcester Polytechnic, Mass
Old photo of Worcester Polytechnic, Massachusetts, published 1908. Image: Brady’s National Photographic Portrait Galleries, photographer; Library of Congress.

Old Photos of Worcester MA

Old stereographic photo of the Mechanics Hall and Union Block at Worcester, Mass
Old stereographic photo of the Mechanics Hall and Union Block at Worcester, Massachusetts. Image: The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library.
Old stereograph image of Fallon's block and Trinity Church, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph image of Fallon’s block and Trinity Church, Worcester, Massachusetts. Image: The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library.
Old stereographic photo of Main Street, opposite City Hall, Worcester, Mass
Old stereographic photo of Main Street, opposite City Hall, Worcester, Massachusetts. Image: The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library.
Old stereograph of damage caused by the flood at Worcester, Mass, on March 30, 1876
Old stereograph of damage caused by the flood at Worcester, Massachusetts, on March 30, 1876. Image: The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library.
Old stereograph image of the State Normal School, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph image of the State Normal School, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph photo of the High School, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph photo of the High School, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph image of Central Church on Main Street, Worcester, Mass
Old stereograph image of Central Church on Main Street, Worcester, Mass. Image: The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Photography Collection, The New York Public Library.
Old photo of Boynton Hall, Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Mass, circa 1900
Old photo of Boynton Hall, Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Mass, circa 1900. Image: Library of Congress

Downtown Worcester MA in 1989

WGBH: Worcester, MA: 1989 – Worcester Heritage Society on YouTube

History of Worcester MA

Did you know that Worcester played a significant role in American baseball history? In 1880, Jay Lee Richmond pitched the first perfect game right here! It forever cemented the city’s place in the baseball hall of fame.

But that’s not all! Worcester is also the birthplace of the iconic baseball poem, “Casey at the Bat.” Ernest Del Fair penned this timeless piece right here in 1888, capturing the spirit of the game and its beloved characters.

Ever visited the Bancroft Tower? This stunning memorial, built in 1900, is a tribute to George Bancroft. It’s part of Stephen Salisbury III’s incredible development of Massachusetts Avenue and a must-see for history buffs!

Step back in time at Worcester’s Union Station, completed in 1911. After a renovation in the late 20th century, it now serves as a major transportation hub connecting the city with Boston – a gateway to new adventures.

Did you know that Worcester has been a transportation hub since the 1830s? From railroads to roadways, the city has always been at the forefront of connectivity. And let’s not forget the infamous traffic flow at Kelly Square!

In the Worcester Canal District, you’ll find a legacy of improved transportation. The Blackstone Canal connected us with Providence, transforming the city with new opportunities. Let’s celebrate our past while looking forward to an even brighter future!

Discover the rich history of Worcester at the Worcester Historical Museum. For 142 years, this incredible institution has been preserving and interpreting the city’s captivating story. From the 7 hills to the birth of diners, our history comes alive here!

Speaking of diners, Worcester’s charming night lunch wagons transformed into beloved dining cars. These gathering places were not only about comfort food but also the hub for neighborhood gossip and news before the rise of social media.

Have you noticed Worcester’s iconic three decker housing? These lovely buildings provided affordable and cozy living spaces for the hardworking population. They’re a symbol of our city’s commitment to quality living for all.

Fun fact: Worcester is the proud home of the all American smiley face! Created in 1963 by Harvey Ball, that cheerful grin has been brightening up our days ever since. Spread that smile far and wide!

William Wallace, Executive Director of the Worcester Historical Museum, talks about Worcester’s history in this 25 minute video.

It includes many old photos and pictures, along with contemporary footage of the same sites today.

Exploring Worcester’s History – Center for Community Media at WSU on YouTube

Topics discussed in this video include:

Worcester Landmarks

Bancroft Tower, a memorial to George Bancroft, offers a panoramic view of Worcester and represents the city’s history and creativity. Union Station, built in 1911, symbolizes Worcester’s growth as a major city and serves as a transportation hub connecting Worcester to Boston. Worcester’s transportation infrastructure, particularly the railroad, has played a crucial role in the city’s development and continues to facilitate commuting to Boston.

Worcester History

The Worcester Historical Museum was organized in 1875 and continues to be the Library and Museum of the History of the City of Worcester. Worcester history encompasses all time periods and subject areas, serving as a family scrapbook and album for the community. The Seven Hills of Worcester, although there are more than seven, hold historical significance and were part of a marketing campaign to promote the city.

Diners and Lunch Wagons

Diners are a significant phenomenon in Worcester, originating from Providence and brought to Worcester by Samuel Messer Jones in 1886. Lunch wagons evolved into dining cars and eventually diners, serving as gathering places for comfort food and neighborhood gossip. The number of diners in downtown Worcester has decreased due to urban renewal, but the remaining diners are iconic and celebrated.

Worcester Inventions

Worcester has a history of creative inventions, including the Monkey wrench, steam calliope, and the assembly line for Valentine’s Day cards. Worcester also played a role in the evolution of the birth control pill and continues to contribute to medical discoveries. Worcester’s baseball history includes the first perfect game and the creation of the iconic poem ‘Casey at the Bat. ‘

Blackstone Canal
Challenges and potential for replication

Union Station
A historic landmark and transportation hub

Worcester’s Name
Origins and connection to English history

Parks in Worcester
Recreational spaces for the community

Worcester Canal District
Revival of creative economy

Kelly Square
Organic growth and unique identity

More about Massachusetts

Discover more old images of Massachusetts

About the author

Hi, I’m Debbie. I’ve enjoyed books, films, and documentaries about history for more than 30 years. My favourite trips with friends and family are to museums, historic houses, archaeological sites, and I love unearthing old photos and archive film bringing history to life.

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