Framingham Centre Common Historic District

Framingham Centre Common is the historic heart of Framingham, Massachusetts. Set aside in 1735 as grazing land and the site of a meetinghouse and training field, the green is now a U-shaped open space ringed by churches, a library, a school and houses. The district covers about 98 acres and includes 46 contributing buildings, along with structures, sites and objects. Its architecture runs from Georgian and Federal houses through Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate and High Victorian Gothic buildings, and many were later altered with Colonial Revival detailing. Notable buildings include the 1834 Village Hall with its two colossal Doric porticoes, the 1837 Framingham Academy in rubble masonry, the 1872 Memorial Library and the 1885 Edgell Memorial Chapel. Many buildings were moved, remodeled or reused, and road widening in the 20th century reshaped the southern edge. The district's mix of styles and its continuity of use give it lasting significance.