Gardner, established in 1785, incorporated as a City in 1923, is home to 20,770 people (2000 Census). The City is governed by a Mayor and City Council. Gardner lies 30 miles northwest of Worcester and 60 miles northwest of Boston.

Gardner is a dynamic City with so much to offer those who live in, work in, and visit our City. We have a proud history of furniture manufacturing. The City achieved international recognition as a major center for chair fabrication to the point that it became known as the "chair city of the world", a testament to this is a 20 foot tall chair sitting in front of the Helen Mae Sauter School.

Gardner is home to numerous fine furniture outlets and is often called the "Furniture Capital of New England". Manufacturing is still a significant part of our local economy, but now it is diversified rather than concentrated in chair and furniture manufacturing. Gardner is also proud to say that within her 23 square miles one can find Mount Wachusett Community College, Heywood Hospital, many unique shops and wide array of recreational opportunities including an outstanding municipal golf course and the southern terminus of the North Central Pathway which will soon offer bikers and walkers a link to downtown Winchendon.