Let us know why you love Northborough

In order to best represent our community and what we love about our town we would like your opinion on what comes to mind when you think of this place we call home.

The Northborough Arts Council has received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support public art initiatives. One of our key projects is to commission a large, iconic sculpture that will serve as a focal point for Northborough’s placemaking efforts. This sculpture will be installed on town property and is envisioned as a lasting symbol of the pride and love we share for our community. With the theme “LOVE Northborough”, we will invite artists to submit sculpture proposals that reflect the unique spirit of our town. Our hope is to create something as beloved and recognizable as Boston’s Ducklings — a landmark that residents and visitors alike can connect with. This installation could become a focal point for the town, contributing to its identity and enhancing community branding. To make this vision a reality, we need your input! Please take a moment to answer 3 questions and help guide us toward a sculpture that truly resonates with Northborough.

Our survey has concluded. Feel free to expand each section in the dropdown list for a short description of the themes listed. We will post updates on the results of the survey and our progress on the project soon!

  • Community represents the strong bond between families, friends, neighbors, and all those who share similar interests and values within Northborough. It speaks to the collective spirit seen at town activities, seasonal festivals, parades, and local sporting events. Think AppleFest, Summer Concert Series, Tree Lighting, Jacob Rogers Pickleball Memorial Tournament, Open Mic, Boy Scouts Food Drive, Community Yard Sale, HallowArt, Window Wonderland, Taste of Northborough, etc.

    Our sense of belonging is further highlighted by national recognition — Northborough was recently named the best place to live west of Boston by The Boston Globe. Residents are proud of our welcoming atmosphere, active volunteerism, and strong civic engagement.

    When we talk about Community, we celebrate the feeling of safety, inclusion, and pride that comes from living in a town that values togetherness.

  • Northborough’s story is also a story of immigration and cultural growth. Early contributions from French-Canadians, who worked in the mills and factories, and Irish immigrants, who served as housekeepers and farm laborers, helped to shape the town’s economy and culture. Black families also played an important role in the community’s development, contributing to its social and economic fabric.

    Today, Northborough’s traditions continue to expand, with the last 2020 Census showing a community that is 77% White, 11% Asian, 3.6% African American, and 5.6% multiracial. We are proud of our changing population, which brings a rich variety of traditions, languages, cuisines, and perspectives to our town.

    Celebrating culture means acknowledging the different stories that make up our collective history and embracing an inclusive future where everyone feels welcome and valued.

  • Education has been a cornerstone of Northborough’s identity from its earliest days. Reverend Joseph Allen was a visionary leader who advocated for public education at a time when it was rare for farming communities. He supported the creation of public schools, ran a private academy, started the lyceum lecture series to bring intellectual discussions to the public, and championed the development of libraries with open access.

    Today, that spirit continues through our highly regarded public school system, early childhood education programs, and commitment to lifelong learning opportunities, such as programs at the Northborough Free Library and adult education initiatives offered through our highly regarded Recreation Department. Additionally, Algonquin Regional High School ranks #3 among all high schools in the Worcester area, reflecting our shared commitment to quality education and excellence.

    In Northborough, education is not just about academic achievement; it is about nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth at every stage of life.

  • Heritage connects us to Northborough’s rich historical roots dating back to colonial times, particularly its evolution as a hub of transportation, agriculture and industry. The arrival of the steam and electric trolley transformed the downtown area, fostering growth in small-scale manufacturing and agriculture.

    Businesses thrived along Main Street, Blake Street, Church Street, Whitney Street, Mill Street, and Hudson Street, with the nearby Assabet River and local brooks like Cold Harbor and Howard providing vital resources for industry and farming.

    Understanding our heritage gives us a sense of pride and perspective — it reminds us of the resilience and innovation that built the foundations of our community. Preserving historic buildings, landmarks (like the Aqueduct Bridge), and traditions is key to maintaining the town’s unique character for future generations.

  • Investing in youth and children is essential to the vitality of Northborough. Our town offers an array of programs and activities that focus on the enrichment, health, and happiness of young residents. From organized sports leagues and creative arts programs to Scouting troops and youth leadership opportunities, children are given many ways to grow, socialize, and learn outside of the classroom.

    Public spaces like Ellsworth-McAfee Park provide safe, well-maintained areas for play, recreation, and community gatherings. Our children are supported by the many programs and initiatives offered by the Recreation Department, with a variety of events including the Gala, Gala Jr., Trivia Night, and Scarecrow Day — keeping them actively engaged throughout the year.

    Prioritizing youth and children reflects Northborough’s belief in building a strong future by fostering creativity, confidence, and a sense of responsibility in the next generation.