Hear the story of Groton’s time as a destination in the early 1800s. This walking tour will travel from Prescott Community Center down Main Street to Old Ayer Road and back, focusing on Groton’s prominence during the stagecoach days, and the legacy those times left in the town, including Lawrence Academy. Participants will meet at the Prescott Community Center. The walk is 1 mile down and back. While children are welcome to attend, these are history tours that involve walking, standing, and listening for 8-10 minute intervals at each stop. Please plan accordingly. * Prior registration is required to attend. No drop-ins. * Here's what they are saying about Joshua's Walking Tour: Courts & Coaches: "I learned so much about the history of the town of Groton. Joshua is an extremely knowledgeable young man and he has an easy manner of making the past come alive. The relationships of the courts and stage coaches was fascinating. The history of Lawrence Academy and the other schools in the area was interesting as well." "Thoroughness and wealth of information of our tour guide. He was very prepared and enthused about Groton's history. He had an encyclopedic memory of facts and knowledge of things we asked not in his prepared talk. Loved his interest in the subject." "Such a grand tour! Josh Vollmar gives informative and fun historical tours. Groton is blessed to have him offer these!"

On March 26, 1792, a group of Groton citizens gathered with the vision of founding a school—one that would become Lawrence Academy, now one of the oldest independent schools in the country. Today, the Academy is known for its warm, compassionate, and welcoming community. We will begin at Academy Hill, where Head of School Dan Scheibe will share insights into the Academy’s history, key milestones, and current initiatives. Following this, archivist Paul Husted will lead a guided tour of the campus, offering a deeper look into its rich history. **All proceeds benefit the Prescott Community Center.**