Worcester, often called the "Heart of the Commonwealth" for its central location in Massachusetts, is a city with a rich and surprising history. While many people know it as a hub for education and healthcare, a deeper look reveals a city of remarkable "firsts" and unique stories.
The Birthplace of the Smiley Face: The iconic smiley face was created in Worcester. In 1963, artist Harvey Ball was hired by an insurance company to create a symbol to boost employee morale. He came up with the simple, recognizable design that has since become a global icon. In 1999, Ball also founded World Smile Day to be celebrated on the first Friday in October.
Pioneer of Rocketry: Robert H. Goddard, often called the "father of modern rocketry," was a Worcester native and a professor at Clark University. He conducted his groundbreaking research and development right in the city and successfully launched the world's first liquid-fueled rocket in a field in nearby Auburn in 1926, paving the way for space exploration.
The First National Women's Rights Convention: Worcester played a pivotal role in the fight for women's suffrage. The first National Women's Rights Convention was held here in 1850, a full eight years before the Seneca Falls Convention in New York. The event brought together prominent figures and helped to formalize the movement for women's voting rights.
A Seven-Hilled City (and Then Some): Like Rome, Worcester is often said to be built on seven hills. While this is a popular local saying, the city actually has many more hills, including Airport Hill, Bancroft Hill, Belmont Hill, Grafton Hill, Green Hill, Pakachoag Hill, and Vernon Hill, among others.
The Original "Wormtown": The nickname "Wormtown" originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s, coined by a local DJ to describe the city's burgeoning punk rock and underground music scene. Although the city's tourism board has sometimes tried to distance itself from the moniker, it's a badge of honor for many locals and remains a popular nickname.