Times Past: Route 2 by-pass

This Feb. 5, 1955 photo shows work in progress on the Athol-Orange Route 2 by-pass, a $3,200,000 state-financed project. Looking east, the 1,000 acres, located behind Cass farm on Pleasant Street (white building in distance at right) was designated as Hill No. 827. It was located within sight of Pleasant Street and a few rods off Batchelder Road. With 103 construction workers employed, the three-span bridge, built to provide underpass travel for Route 2 motorists, was constructed where the road appears to end. Athol Daily News/File