Many of America’s most influential literary figures of the 19th century lived near each other in Concord, Massachusetts. Many of them were friends in life, meeting together to discuss the popular philosophy of transcendentalism. Their insights, the lectures they provided, and the artistic works that resulted from them, are all symbolic of the revolution that began here in the arts and sciences, politics, and social reform. The area is perfect for literary tours because of the many famous authors who lived nearby. Your tour of Concord, Walden Pond, Amherst, and Salem, Massachusetts, will give you a greater understanding of this fascinating era and the literature it produced. Check out the attractions you’ll visit, and click on them to learn more.
Emily Dickinson Museum (Amherst, MA)
Two homes that were part of Dickinson’s life. Many tours are offered here with insight into her world and her work.
Orchard House
Where Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women. The home is a tribute to her life and to the novel, with scenes evoking both, as well as the study that belonged to her father, a well-known philosopher.
Concord Museum
With a room for every famous era in Concord’s history, you’ll learn more about the American Revolution, Concord’s famous literary figures, and more.
Old Manse
This was the scene for many philosophical discussions that led to a revolution of another kind in America – that of social reform and growth in the arts, sciences, and politics. Nathaniel Hawthorne lived here with his wife.
Emerson Memorial House
Long-time home of Ralph Waldo Emerson, where he wrote his famous essays, and which still contains many of his own personal effects and the same appearance it had when he lived there.
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
A beautiful cemetery where many of Concord’s favorite sons and daughters are buried, including its literary figures.
Walden Pond
This is the beautiful setting for Henry David Thoreau’s Walden. Now a State Reservation, you can still enjoy its natural, untamed beauty, as well as discover a replica of the cabin where Thoreau wrote the book believed to birth the conservation movement.
Nathaniel Hawthorne House (Salem, MA)
The author’s birthplace and the 17th century wood mansion that inspired his novel, The House of the Seven Gables.