10 Things That Say North Reading

Every community has its landmarks, sources of pride and oddities. Here’s a look at our top 10 things that are as North Reading as a fighting hornet. In fact, that’s number one:

1. The Hornets. A high school team named after an angry pest. How cool is that?
2. Ryer’s Store. It’s much bigger than it once was, but remains North Reading to its core. Stepping into the Park Street landmark is like being transported to a simpler time.
3. Horseshoe Grille. Another North Reading landmark that has seen change over the past decade, has gone from a North Reading favorite to a place where people across the region go to enjoy a meal.
4. Lobster Claw. Speaking of an eatery that sees its share of out-of-towners, is a favorite spot for those looking for seafood. Sure it’s in North Reading, but the décor makes customers feel like they were transported to the coast of Maine.
5. Hornets Nest. A popular location for North Reading High School students,  serves up subs, pizza and other food to patrons of all ages. The walls are covered with North Reading’s history.
6. Flint Memorial Library. Across the street from Hornets Nest is one of the town’s most historic locations and versatile buildings. Before becoming a library, was a private residence,  police station and town hall. Not at the same time, of course.
7. Kitty’s. Known for its gigantic portions and the spot for many North Reading sports banquets, is another restaurant that sees its share of people from other communities.
8. Moynihan Lumber. When North Reading has a home project that requires wood, it heads to the place where their fathers bought lumber – .
9. Green and gold street signs. Newcomers might not realize it, but not too long ago North Reading had white wooden street signs (as did Reading). The days of wooden signs are gone and now the street signs are in the high school team colors. You can drive for days without seeing a street sign as unique as North Reading's. 
10. The schizophrenic nature of Park Street. Park Street starts at Chestnut Street, takes a left at Center Café, proceeds through the Center, takes a left at Winter Street  and then bears right at the fork in the road when Park meets Concord Street. Confusing for those not familiar with North Reading, but second nature to those who know the road’s twists and turns.