Gardner Heritage State Park

Gardner Heritage State Park was a history interpretation center housed in a restored firehouse building. The facility displayed exhibits about the furniture manufacturing traditions that made Gardner known.

The center opened in 1985 to present the industrial history and manufacturing heritage of the city. It remained operational until 2002, when it ceased activities.

The exhibits showed how furniture making shaped the town and influenced daily life for everyone who lived there. Visitors could see the skills and techniques that workers passed down through generations.

The collection of artifacts and historical materials is now cared for at the Gardner Museum. This is where you can view the preserved objects and documents from the former park facility.

Unusual for a state park, the focus was on industrial and cultural history rather than nature and outdoor recreation. This approach made it a distinctive place for understanding working communities.

GPS coordinates: 42.57720,-71.99420

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:22