Introduction to Leominster, Massachusetts
Leominster, Massachusetts, in Worcester county, is 18 miles N of Worcester, Massachusetts (center to center) and 37 miles W of Boston, Massachusetts. It's situated along the Nashua River. Leominster and Fitchburg are known as the twin cities. The municipality includes several small villages. A granite marker indicates the birth place of the well known Johnny Appleseed. It's located on Johnny Appleseed Lane.
It was named in tribute to Leominster, Herefordshire England. The plastics industry is a significant factor for the economy. Even though it does include manufacturing, the city is primarily a residential community.
Leominster History
The town was settled in 1653 and in 1915 it was incorporated as a city. Beginning in the early 20th century, the plastics industry was flourishing and Leominster was called "The Pioneer Plastics City." It had a major role in the development of the plastics industry in the United States.
In 1919, Sam Foster began the Foster Manufacturing company which later became the Foster Grant Company. It was one of the prominent plastic manufacturers in the nation. Around 1928 the well known Foster Grant sunglasses were created. In 1925 the prominent Viscoloid company merged with Dupont and became The Dupont Viscoloid Company. Union Products created the well known pink flamingo lawn ornament.
Leominster Attractions
- The National Plastics Center & Museum
- Kendall Hall is a major landmark
- Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center
- Doyle Field
- Leominster Historical Society
- Sholan Farms is an apple orchard and offers a look at the region's agricultural history. It hosts a variety of festivals and is a popular tourist destination
- City Hall is a prominent landmark
Leominster Activities
Leominster State Forest is popular for hiking and mountain biking and features a variety of wildlife. The Midstate Trail is a scenic rural path which traverses through Worcester county and includes numerous interesting historic, geologic and natural features. Doyle Reservation is a large forest park.
Leominster Higher Education
The city is home to the Mount Wachusett Community College - Leominster Campus.
