1. Billerica is the Only Billerica in the U.S.
Every single city or town in the U.S. shares a name with another city or town, except Billerica! The name is thought to have come from Billerica's original settlers who were mostly from Billericay, England.
2. Billerica is home to Asa Pollard
Not many people know his name, but Pollard, the first man killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill, was a Billerica resident. He was killed by a cannonball shot from a ship that took off his head. Definitely a sad piece of history, but history nonetheless.
3. Yankee Doodle Weekend Goes Way Back
Yankee Doodle weekend, celebrated every September in Billerica, has some pretty gory history. Thomas Ditson, a resident of Billerica, was tarred and feathered by the British during a visit to Boston in 1775. The song "Yankee Doodle" refers to his death and has become a song of national pride. Those fireworks are for for you Tom!
4. Manning Manse is the Oldest Building in Billerica
Located at 56 Chelmsford Road, Manning Manse is the oldest building in the town dating back to 1696. In 1994, the house was damaged by a fire but has since been restored. In 1982 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Check it out next time your drive by!
5. It's One of America's Safest Cities
Neighborhood Scout named Billerica the 61st safest town in the U.S. in 2016. Not only does it have a lot of history, but it's safe too!
