Lincoln, Massachusetts is a small town west of Boston known for its deep connection to landscape, history, and conservation. Originally formed from portions of neighboring towns, Lincoln began as a rural farming community and was once informally known as “Niptown,” a reference to the way its land was pieced together. That agricultural foundation, combined with a long-standing commitment to land preservation, continues to shape Lincoln’s identity today.
Incorporated in 1754, Lincoln is notable for being named after Lincoln, England, rather than any American historical figure. Over time, the town also became home to country estates, many of which have since been adapted into schools, museums, public buildings, and protected open spaces. Safeguarding rural character and open land remains central to Lincoln’s civic values, making it one of the most environmentally focused communities in the Revolutionary Valley.
Lincoln played a direct role in the opening hours of the American Revolution. On the night of April 18, 1775, Paul Revere was captured by British soldiers in Lincoln while riding to warn colonial forces. The following day, Lincoln’s Minutemen were among the first to respond, reinforcing militia protecting supplies in Concord. These events are commemorated today within Minute Man National Historical Park, which preserves the landscapes where history unfolded.
Visitors to Lincoln can experience this history alongside remarkable natural beauty. The town is home to extensive conservation land, scenic trails, and cultural institutions such as The deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, which blends contemporary art with outdoor exploration. Lincoln’s quiet roads, wooded paths, and historic sites offer a reflective counterpoint to nearby urban centers, inviting visitors to slow down and connect with place.
Lincoln remains a community shaped by intention — preserving what matters, honoring its past, and maintaining a thoughtful balance between history, nature, and modern life within the Revolutionary Valley.
Lincoln, Massachusetts
Lincoln, MA
