Megan and Mark Pesce, the Concordian couple who own the Dunkin’s around town, have always made community the focal point of their business. For years, they have donated coffee and treats to local sports teams and generously given to fundraisers and philanthropic events. So when the time came to renovate their Thoreau Street store, they wanted to find a way to pay tribute to the town that they and their family call home.

“Given the street where this store is located, Thoreau Street, we naturally thought about the Transcendental authors who are such an iconic part of our town’s culture,” said Megan. “Thoreau, Emerson, and the Alcotts were all such a huge part of the literary history of Concord – we thought it would be a nice idea to feature them in artwork in the newly renovated store.”

Megan Pesce at the ribbon cutting for the renovated store

| ©Voyager Publishing

Keeping with their tradition of supporting the community, Megan and Mark looked around for a local artist to commission three paintings featuring Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and the Alcott family with a whimsical twist – they would be enjoying a cup of Dunkin’ coffee while writing, or treating themselves to a snack while picnicking on the lawn. The Pesces reached out to Margot Kimball of Village Art Room and were introduced to West Concord artist and resident Michael Sprague.

“This was such a fun and inspiring project,” said Michael.  “I loved the opportunity to connect our Concord heritage (in a lighthearted way) to the newly renovated Dunkin’. I really appreciate that Megan and Mark Pesce made a point of working with a local artist. It really demonstrates their commitment to our local community.” 

“The pandemic has only reinforced our deep appreciation for our community,” said Mark Pesce. “The amazing turn-out of friends and neighbors is what made it possible for us to weather such a difficult storm. Thanks to them, we are still be here – serving up good food and great coffee - in the town we love so much. We thought this project would be a fun way of saying thanks!”

The artwork, and the newly renovated store, were highlighted in a Concord Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony in November. Now open to the public, you can stop by and visit these fun paintings at the Thoreau Street Dunkin’ anytime. You can also learn more about Michael Sprague’s art by visiting his Instagram page @mikesprague_artist.