Leominster, Massachusetts - History

History

Before European settlement, various divisions of the Pennacook or Nipmuc tribes inhabited the area, with a settlement nearby called Nashua. Leominster was first settled in 1653 as part of the town of Lancaster. The settlers of Lancaster lived in peace with the Native Americans for many years, until the start of King Philip's War in 1675. Many of Lancaster's inhabitants were either killed or fled the town. Once the fighting had ceased, the town was left virtually deserted. In an effort to bring people back, a new grant of land (containing what is now Leominster and Sterling) was offered to the former residents. To avoid further hostilities with the Native Americans, a negotiation with Chief Sholan of the Nashaway tribe resulted in one of the only parcels of land in central Massachusetts to be legally purchased. The first house was built in 1724, and by 1740 Leominster had gained enough inhabitants to be officially incorporated into a town.

Early Leominster consisted of family farms, growing mainly grains, vegetables, and fruit. It became a city in 1915. Leominster is now known as "The Pioneer Plastics City" because of its thriving plastics industry from the early part of the 20th century to the present day, and as "The Home of Street Hockey" due to its contributions to the game. Leominster and Fitchburg are commonly known as the twin cities in the area because of their similar populations, their shared history of industry, and their location on the Nashua River.

Leominster was a major contributor in the Underground Railroad. The Emory Stearn Schoolhouse and the John Drake home, both on Franklin Street, led anti-slavery campaigns and helped house slaves on their journey to freedom.