Jack Kerouac is a well-known American novelist that grew up in Lowell, Massachusetts; his prose has inspired people around the world for years. If you’re a fan and are in the area, you have to check out these five essential Lowell sights for Kerouac fans. As he says, “Live. Travel. Adventure. Bless. And don’t be sorry.”
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Jack Kerouac Park
A must-see for all fans is Jack Kerouac Park. This park is dedicated to this inspiring man and lets you catch a glimpse into his childhood and his early writing days. Nestled right in the heart of the city, you can find several slabs of his writing that are perfect for you to enjoy or take some photos. As you walk along the path be prepared for an emotional experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. The Jack Kerouac Park is located at 75 Bridge St.
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Edson Cemetery
Jack Kerouac is actually buried right here in Lowell. You can visit his grave located inside of Edson Cemetery, located at 1376 Gorham St. His modest flat marker can now be found near a large memorial stone to honor his voice and life. Fans frequently visit and leave memorabilia and notes behind as gifts for the man who has changed their lives.
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The Lowell Sun
The Lowell Sun is the place where Kerouac earned his first dollar for his writing. While not the work he became known for, it is still pretty humbling to see where he began. He worked as a sports reporter for the local newspaper company for a while before he became the great poet laureate for the Beat Generation.
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The “Lowell Celebrates Kerouac” Event
While this event won’t take place until next fall, it is one of the most vital points of our list today. The Lowell Celebrates Kerouac takes place every year as a 3-day event in October to honor the man that put Lowell on the map. They put together a tour of the town complete with stops at places that keep his memory alive – this tour is essential for every fan.
In addition to the tours, you can also check out the open mics, poetry workshops, and art exhibits. You’ll also find that they do a yearly service for the remembrance of Jack Kerouac to honor his life and work: this is held at the Archambault Funeral home. You can check back closer to the event for more information.
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Pawtucketville Social Club
While growing up, Jack would frequently visit the Pawtucketville Social Club where his father worked as a manager for the establishment. He would play pool and hang out at the social club. The center helped to preserve the traditions of French-Canadians during the Great Depression. Pawtucketville Social Club is located at 123 University Ave.
So let us all live as Kerouac did. “Let’s all just say, “the hell with it?” and become really creative at last … free, basking, wandering, idly stopping here and there, tasting, enjoying.” Enjoy your adventures at these amazing sights that helped this writer become the man who has inspired millions.
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