The town was founded in 1729, and has retained both natural and architectural beauty. Visitors to Bedford find an attractive historic district and town common in the center, the famous Bedford Flag on display in the library, the 1790 Job Lane house and several national historic landmarks. Bedford residents enjoy many services.
Education is a top priority, with the schools well known for scoring competitively by all standards.
The library serves everyone and has active children's programs. A senior center, open daily, offers health and leisure services. An in-town minibus service runs weekdays. Outdoor facilities include a swimming pond, a lake for boating, a bikepath to Cambridge, and walking trails through conservation lands. All services are voted by the residents at Bedford's open town meeting.