Taunton Green | Taunton

Taunton Green is the historic central square of Taunton, Massachusetts, and serves as the symbolic and physical heart of the city. Steeped in colonial history, surrounded by architectural landmarks, and actively used for civic events and community gatherings, Taunton Green remains a cherished public space representing both the city’s past and its ongoing traditions.

🏛️ Historical Significance

Established in the early 1740s, Taunton Green quickly became a civic commons for public meetings, markets, and militia drills. It reflects the New England town green tradition-an open, central space around which churches, government buildings, and commerce developed. Taunton, incorporated in 1639, was one of the earliest settlements in the Plymouth Colony, and the Green played a central role in its colonial governance and daily life.

Its most prominent historical moment occurred on October 21, 1774, when a group of local patriots raised the Taunton Flag on the Green. This red banner, emblazoned with the words “Liberty and Union,” was flown in defiance of British authority, marking Taunton as one of the first communities in the American colonies to declare its independence-minded sentiment. The event predates the Declaration of Independence by nearly two years and is commemorated annually as part of the Liberty and Union Festival.

🏙️ Architectural Context and Surroundings

Taunton Green is encircled by a number of historically significant and architecturally rich buildings, many of which contribute to the Taunton Green Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Notable structures include:

The U.S. Post Office – Taunton Main Branch (1930): A fine example of Classical Revival style architecture.

Union Block and Dunbar Block (19th century): Commercial buildings with ornate facades reflecting the architectural tastes of the time.

Taunton City Hall (adjacent): A 19th-century structure that reinforces the governmental presence around the Green.

These buildings, along with tree-lined walkways, statues, and green lawns, create a harmonious and historic setting that is both formal and inviting.

🎖️ Monuments and Memorials

Taunton Green is home to several monuments that honor the city’s military and civic heritage:

The Hiker Statue: Created by famed sculptor Theo Alice Ruggles Kitson, this bronze figure honors veterans of the Spanish–American War, the Philippine–American War, and the Boxer Rebellion. The statue is one of many “Hiker” replicas placed in communities across the U.S., but the one on Taunton Green has special local significance and prominence.

Veterans Memorials: Several plaques and markers commemorate local soldiers who served in various American wars, including the Civil War and both World Wars, anchoring the Green as a place of remembrance.

🎉 Civic and Cultural Use

Over the centuries, Taunton Green has remained a hub of community life. It hosts:

Public speeches, protests, and political rallies

Farmers’ markets and small vendor fairs in warm months

Seasonal festivals and cultural events

Annual holiday celebrations, especially the famous Christmas light display. Known as “The Christmas City”, Taunton decorates the Green with thousands of lights and displays each winter, drawing visitors from across southeastern Massachusetts and beyond.

The Liberty and Union Festival held each October includes historical reenactments, parades, musical performances, and a ceremonial flag raising on the Green. This modern-day event draws attention to Taunton's early revolutionary fervor and community pride.

🧭 Layout and Features

Shape & Design: The Green is an elongated oval surrounded by roadways that converge at its edge-specifically, Main Street, Broadway, and Court Street. This intersection makes the Green a natural center for vehicular, pedestrian, and ceremonial activity.

Landscaping: Shaded by mature trees and lined with benches and walking paths, the Green offers both visual beauty and a relaxing environment.

Pedestrian Access: Paved crosswalks and traffic lights facilitate foot access to and from surrounding commercial areas.

Statues and Greenery: Flowerbeds, ornamental shrubs, and historic lamp posts contribute to the overall charm of the space.

📍 Location and Practical Information

Address: Intersection of U.S. Route 44, Massachusetts Route 140, and Route 138, downtown Taunton.

Proximity to Landmarks: A short walk from the Old Colony History Museum, Taunton Public Library, City Hall, and numerous cafes, shops, and public offices.

Parking: On-street and public lot parking available nearby.

Summary

Taunton Green is not only a geographic focal point but also a spiritual and cultural center of the city. With deep historical roots dating back to the colonial era, it continues to function as a vital space for commemoration, celebration, and civic unity. Whether visiting to admire its architecture, honor veterans, attend a seasonal event, or simply enjoy its serene beauty, Taunton Green stands as a timeless symbol of liberty, heritage, and community pride in the heart of southeastern Massachusetts.