Bancroft Tower, Worcester

Bancroft Tower, Worcester (must see)

Сonstructed around 1900, Bancroft Tower is a monument built to honor George Bancroft, a distinguished figure born on nearby Salisbury Street. Bancroft was a prominent historian and statesman, serving as the U.S. Secretary of the Navy, founding the U.S. Naval Academy, and acting as the U.S. Minister to Great Britain and Germany. His significant contributions to the nation and his close ties to the Salisbury family inspired Stephen Salisbury III to fund the tower's construction as a tribute to his esteemed friend.

Designed by the architects Stephen C. Earle and C. Fisher, Bancroft Tower showcases elements of Romanesque architectural style. This striking structure, built at a cost of approximately $15,000, is characterized by its robust and rustic aesthetic, featuring thick stone walls, rounded arches, and a rugged, medieval appearance. The tower’s design reflects the romanticism and historical revivalism popular in architecture at the turn of the century, making it a notable example of this stylistic approach in Worcester.

Beyond its historical significance, Bancroft Tower serves as a popular spot for outdoor recreation. The surrounding area provides a picturesque setting for visitors, offering scenic views and a tranquil environment for picnics, walks, and leisurely exploration. The tower's elevated position offers panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings, making it a beloved landmark for both locals and tourists.

In recognition of its historical and architectural importance, Bancroft Tower was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Worcester. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Bancroft Tower on Map

Sight Name: Bancroft Tower
Sight Location: Worcester, USA (See walking tours in Worcester)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Worcester, Massachusetts

Create Your Own Walk in Worcester

Create Your Own Walk in Worcester

Creating your own self-guided walk in Worcester is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Canal District Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Worcester Historic Houses Walk

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One of the notable...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
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Worcester Introduction Walking Tour

Worcester Introduction Walking Tour

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The name "Worcester" is taken from the city in England. The Massachusetts counterpart was incorporated in 1722 and has since grown into the second-largest city in New England. Its growth...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles