Picture this a bustling New England town nestled near Boston. This is Wakefield a place where history whispers on every corner. Founded in 1638 as Lynn Village it later separated from Lynn and became Reading. The first church and mill were established in 1644 marking a significant step in its development. Thomas Parker a key figure in Reading’s founding had his home in what is now downtown Wakefield. He was also a founder of the 12th Congregational Church now the First Parish Congregational Church. Can you imagine the life of this early settler a selectman a judicial commissioner and a deacon? He likely played a significant role in shaping the town’s identity.
In 1812 South Reading as it was then known separated from Reading and became its own entity. The spelling was later changed to South Reading reflecting the evolution of its name. Then came the railroad in 1844 connecting Wakefield to Boston. This spurred further growth bringing about the Boston and Maine Foundry later the Smith and Anthony Stove Company. The Boston Ice Company harvested and shipped ice from Lake Quannapowitt starting in 1851. The lake itself an integral part of Wakefield’s identity.
The year 1856 saw the establishment of the South Reading Public Library the precursor to the Beebe Town Library. Then in 1858 Wakefield’s first weekly newspaper began publication. A testament to its growing community and its need for local news. Cyrus Wakefield a prominent figure in the town’s history established the Rattan Works. This later became the Wakefield Rattan Company employing a thousand people at its peak. In 1868 in gratitude for his generous donation of land and money for a new town hall the town changed its name to Wakefield.
The town experienced further industrial growth. Route 128 was built along its northern edge by 1958. The American Mutual Insurance Company established its headquarters bringing in over 1000 employees. Pleasure Island an amusement park once stood in the northeastern part of Wakefield. It was described as the Disneyland of the Northeast. But alas it closed in 1969.
Sadly tragedy struck Wakefield in 2000. A shooting spree at Edgewater Technology claimed seven lives a dark chapter in its history. In more recent times the town has also experienced major storms. The January 2011 Nor’Easter dumped two to three feet of snow. Winter Storm Nemo in February 2013 brought even more snowfall. A severe thunderstorm in 2020 caused significant damage. Then an October snowstorm an unusual occurrence in 2020 added to the town’s challenges.
Despite these challenges Wakefield perseveres. Its rich history its beautiful lake and its strong community spirit all contribute to its unique character. It’s a town with a vibrant past a present filled with activity and a future yet to be written. As you stand here today I invite you to reflect on the layers of history the triumphs and tragedies that have shaped the Wakefield you see before you.