City of Worcester: 300 Years 29
W
W
orcester's interest in sports, leisure and recreation
has evolved and grown over time. As Worcester
became an industrial powerhouse in the late
19th and early 20th century and its population
began to grow, residents began to seek out new
forms of activities and leisure.
Initially, Worcester's parks, ponds and lakes provided the perfect escape.
The "Dummy Railroad" would transport residents to the banks of
Quinsigamond Lake where they could enjoy a steamboat cruise or
competitive rowing. In the early 20th century, White City on Lake
Quinsigamond provided plenty of amusement with attractions and
rides. Residents could also enjoy an afternoon boat ride at Institute Park
or Elm Park or picnic in Green Hill Park.
Residents also began to join social clubs like the Worcester Club and
various sports clubs. In 1907, the Worcester Tennis Club was founded on
Sever Street and expanded over the next 10 years with a new clubhouse
and grandstand, which would attract nationally ranked players. With
golf's rise in popularity in the U.S. in the late 19th and early 20th
century, two new country clubs were founded in Worcester – Tatnuck
Country Club, a charming nine-hole golf course on Worcester's west
side, and Worcester Country Club, which was the site of the inaugural
Ryder Cup in 1927. These historic clubs and Worcester's municipal-
owned Green Hill Golf Course continue to provide serene respites from
the city life.
Norton employees enjoy a summer afternoon
on Lake Quinsigamond.
source: Worcester Historical Museum
Lake Quinsigamond College Regatta, July 24, 1860
source: Worcester Historical Museum
Sports and Sports and Sports and
Entertainment
