You probably pass these landmarks all the time—but do you know their stories?

Here are three hidden-in-plain-sight pieces of Northfield Center history that quietly connect us to our roots:

The Palmer House

Built in 1844 by William Palmer, this historic home was constructed around his parents’ 1832 log cabin. Now relocated and preserved as the Palmer House Museum, it offers guided tours and is lovingly maintained by the Historical Society.

The Town Center Water Pump

The red pump in the town square may look decorative, but it honors the original community water source from the 1840s. The current version dates to the 1970s and stands as a tribute to life before plumbing.

Joe’s Place Park

This peaceful bench and sign near Route 82 and Olde Eight honors Joe Janacek—a beloved local gardener and custodian whose legacy reminds us that history includes the everyday heroes too.

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Want to learn more?
To read the full article, visit Northfield Center Township Landmark Overview
For complete information about ourTownship’s History, visit The Historical Society of Old Northfield (hson.info)