Concord parcel at Attawan Road formally named 'Wheeler Field' after donor family

The Concord Natural Resources Commission voted unanimously to name a 3.3‑acre conservation parcel at 10A Attawan Road “Wheeler Field,” honoring the donor family that gave the land in 1946.

Commission members reviewed historical research compiled by a town volunteer and a recorded affidavit confirming the parcel is under the commission’s care and custody. Longtime neighbor and public commenter Adam Winstanley told the commission he and other neighbors support the name and that the donor Berkeley Wheeler was the historic giftor. “We would support that decision if it was named Wheeler Field,” Winstanley said, noting neighbors hope a formal name and wooden sign will help signal the land’s protected status and encourage future donations.

Commissioners discussed alternatives, including names that reflect Indigenous place names or local history, but several members said recognizing the donor is appropriate and consistent with other named town conservation parcels. A motion to name the parcel Wheeler Field passed unanimously. Commissioners asked staff to follow up on signage placement, and the commission noted Article 97 protections recorded for the parcel.

What happens next: staff will schedule installation of a wooden sign and record any necessary documentation; neighbors and conservation staff will coordinate on sign location and text.