Medallion for the Lancaster Massacre
One of the unexpected treasures we discovered during our visit to the Thayer Memorial Library was the Historical Museum located on the upper floor. Established in 1863, even before the construction of Memorial Hall, the museum preserves an eclectic collection of artifacts that tell the story of Lancaster and its people. From Civil War memorabilia and Native American tools to maps, photographs, clothing, and household objects, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into nearly four centuries of local history.
Among the objects on display was a small keepsake fashioned from what was identified as “Rowlandson Pine.” Embedded in the wood is a medallion commemorating the Lancaster Massacre of February 10, 1676, when Native warriors attacked the frontier settlement during King Philip’s War. The attack resulted in the destruction of much of Lancaster and the capture of Mary Rowlandson, whose subsequent captivity narrative, The Sovereignty and Goodness of God, became one of the earliest and most influential books published in colonial America.
The Historical Museum at the Thayer Memorial Library serves as a remarkable repository of those memories, ensuring that the people and events that shaped Lancaster continue to be remembered by future generations.
Read More From Nancy
Prescott Building
Exploring Lancaster, I came upon the Prescott Building, one of the town’s most important civic landmarks. Standing prominently near the town center, the stately brick structure reflects the pride and sense of community that characterized early twentieth-century New England. With its classical proportions, white pilasters, and formal entrance, the building conveys a sense of permanence […]
Site of Rowlandson Garrison
One of the most poignant markers I encountered in Lancaster commemorates the site of the garrison house of Reverend Joseph Rowlandson, where one of the most dramatic episodes of King Philip’s War unfolded. On February 10, 1676, during an attack on the frontier settlement, Native warriors destroyed much of Lancaster. The Rowlandson home was burned, […]
Lafayette’s Visit
One of the most unexpected stories we uncovered during our visit to Lancaster centered on one of the most beloved figures of the American Revolution. Inside the Historical Museum at the Thayer Memorial Library hangs a large banner proclaiming: “Welcome La Fayette. The American Eagle in triumph shall wave its pinions of glory to welcome […]
