1720

John Stearns establishes a mill near Newton Square, just off Pleasant Street.

1850-1888

For several years, a major portion of the land belongs to Colonel John Wetherell and his wife Hester, whose father is Rejoice Newton, for whom the hill was named.

1888

Newton Hill is purchased by the City of Worcester and becomes part of Elm Park.  This 61-acre purchase combines with the original 27 acres, bringing the total to 88 acres.  The City plans to build a reservoir at the summit for fire protection, but eventually decides the idea is impractical.

1890

A tree and shrub nursery is established at the present location of the Doherty High School athletic fields.

1891

Benches are placed along the summit trail so visitors can have a place to rest and “enjoy the view.”

1892

Walls are constructed along Pleasant Street.

1895

A road is built along the Highland Street entrance.

1909

A greenhouse is constructed in the Southeast corner of Newton Hill; the first two tennis courts are built; a wooden flagpole and shelter are erected at the summit. The original flagpole is later replaced by a steel pole, which still stands at the summit.

1920

Work begins on construction of an amphitheatre in the Northeast corner for a pageant to commemorate the 300^th anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrims and the City of Worcester’s 200^th anniversary. More than 40,000 people attend the festivities.

1929

The Founders Monument (Rogers-Kennedy Memorial) is dedicated December 6, 1929. The monument is sculpted by Maurice Stearne of New York as a tribute to the early settlers of the Commonwealth.

1940

The area around the Founders Monument is graded and planted.

1949

A basketball court is added to Newton Square, prompting a series of protests concerning the inclusion of recreational facilities. A request to build a ski tow is turned down.

2001

Friends of Newton Hill is established by area residents.