Area Guide – Town of Athol |
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Photo: Athol Town Hall, photo by David Brothers Town of AtholAthol, MA A town once powered by the Millers River, today reveling in its scenic, environmental and recreational values. Description:The Millers River once dominated Athol by its rushing force, providing power for mills small and large that eventually earned the town the nickname “Tool Town USA.” Today the river is regaining importance for its scenic, environmental, and recreational values, and is celebrated annually at the River Rat Race. Plans are also in place to create the Millers River Greenway, a pedestrian and biking trail linking Athol and Orange. Athol offers numerous recreational opportunities, the river itself drawing hunters, anglers, and canoeists. Hikers enjoy the Bearsden Conservation Area, the Thousand-Acre Swamp, the Minnie French Area, Cass Meadow, and Lawton State Forest; swimmers dive in at Silver Lake and Lake Ellis; riders saddle up at the New England Equestrian Center; and lovers of nature explore and learn at the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park, the Millers River Environmental Center and Skyfields Arboretum. A drive through Athol along Route 2A, from the east, gradually unfolds the woods that still enrich the town, the Uptown Common and a small commercial area, lovely views to Tully Mountain and other hills, the dramatic old mills, and the bustling main commercial area, with varied shops and eateries. Another driving tour takes visitors along the History Trail, a series of 24 roadside signs commemorating special places and events. Originally known by the Native American name Pequoig, the town was renamed Athol (Scottish for “pleasant place”) when it was incorporated in 1735. Over 11,000 residents live in Athol’s 32 square miles.
Directions:
From Rte. 2, take Exit 18 and follow Rte. 2A west into Athol Center. Contact:
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