The History of the Nashua River in Pepperell Mural will open to the public on May 24, 2025, one day after its official unveiling. The mural includes seven large panels conceived by Nan Quintin, designed by Mark Fountain, and painted by a consortium of local artists. It portrays the story of the life along the Nashua River from indigenous times into the period of colonial agriculture and through the various industrial phases that benefited the town but also led to serious pollution. The story goes on to convey the clean-up of one of the most polluted rivers in the United States as well as its ongoing environmental oversight, all initiated and inspired by the heroic efforts of Marion Stoddart. The result is the current pristine condition and Federal designation as a ‘Wild and Scenic River’ that so many can now appreciate and enjoy.

This is a free event, open to the general public, with no registration required. Docents and artists will be onsite to guide visitors through the mural display. The event is outdoors, rain or shine.

Following the opening weekend, the mural will be on permanent display and open to the public at no cost. Signage will provide a permanent self-guided historical narrative for visitors.

DATE: Saturday – Monday, May 24th – 26th

TIME: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday); 1:00 – 5:00 PM (Monday)

LOCATION: Nashua River Rail Trail, across from 142 Main Street, Pepperell, MA 01463

PARKING: Free parking nearby is limited.

ACCESSIBILITY: The area is accessible to persons with mobility limitations.

This program is offered by the Pepperell Cultural Council, Massachusetts Cultural Council, Mass Department of Conservation and Recreation, Town of Pepperell Highway Department, Peter Fitzpatrick Collaborative, Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, Hazel Brooks Fund as part of the Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History, an annual month-long celebration showcasing events and activities hosted by local partners celebrating the unique places, objects, and stories of the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area. Hidden Treasures programs are free and open to the public. Click to discover more Hidden Treasures!