Our History
A Legacy of Hospitality and Community
Briggs Crossing stands on historic ground, once home to the Briggs Hotel, a grand Queen Anne-style landmark built in 1883. With its striking octagonal towers and central pavilion, the hotel was a symbol of elegance in Attleboro.
Operated by Seth Briggs, it offered modern conveniences of its time, including steam heat, gas and electric lights, and a spacious dining room that often hosted celebrities performing at the nearby Bates Opera House. The hotel remained in operation until Briggs retired in 1925. Later converted into apartments, much of its original architectural charm was lost in a fire in 1970, but its legacy as a cornerstone of Attleboro’s history endures.
History
1883
Briggs Hotel is Built
A grand Queen Anne-style hotel with modern conveniences for its time, including steam heat and electric lights. It quickly became a central hub for travelers and performers from the Bates Opera House.
1906
South Main Fire Station Opens
To ensure emergency access across the railroad tracks, Attleboro establishes a downtown fire station. The tracks were later elevated, making the station unnecessary.
1925
The Hotel Becomes Apartments
After Seth Briggs' retirement, the hotel was converted into residential apartments, continuing its role in the community.
1945
The First Parish Parsonage Transformed
Once a historic home for clergy and notable figures like Joseph Capron, the First Parish Parsonage was converted into apartments before its eventual demolition in 1998.
1970
Fire at Briggs Hotel
A devastating fire stripped away the hotel's original Queen Anne-style architecture, but the structure remained in use as apartments with street-level businesses.
1971
The Senior Center is Established
Rev. Gordon Larson repurposed the South Main Fire Station into a senior center, providing a gathering space for the elderly and enriching the community.
TODAY
A New Chapter for Briggs Crossing
The site continues to evolve, blending modern living with deep historical roots, preserving the legacy of Briggs Hotel and the pioneering spirit of Attleboro.