Petersham Common Historic District

Petersham Common is the historic center of a small hill town in northwest Worcester County, Massachusetts. The common was laid out in 1733 with 72 settling lots, and the surrounding district takes in about fifty acres and forty-five structures along Common Street, North and South Main Streets and parts of Athol Road and North Street. Most buildings are wood frame and date before 1850, and many are Greek Revival, with a few Federal houses, including one from 1768. Public buildings around the green include the Unitarian Church, Town Hall, the Brick Building and the Memorial Library. Late nineteenth century additions such as the Nichewaug Hotel and the Fiske House reflect the arrival of summer visitors. The common was the site of the first meeting house in 1736 and of gatherings in 1773 and 1775. Residents have worked to protect it since 1878, and local historic district protection began in 1967. The district is significant for its intact village setting and its architecture.