Newburyport Water Department

Newburyport Water Department Municipal Water Report Info

Newburyport has a rich historical legacy situated along the southern bank of the Merrimack River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Originally inhabited by Pawtucket Indians, the area was first settled in 1635 as part of "Newberry Plantation," now known as Newbury.

On January 28, 1764, Massachusetts established Newburyport as a separate town, noting that "the inhabitants who dwell by the water-side are mostly merchants, traders and artificers, while residents of other parts are mainly farmers," leading to difficulties in managing community affairs. Governor Francis Bernard approved this division on February 4, 1764.

At its founding, Newburyport was Massachusetts' smallest town, covering just 647 acres with 2,800 residents living in 357 homes. The community supported three shipyards and several ships, including one at State Street (formerly Fish Street) that operated the Portsmouth Flying Stage Coach between New Hampshire and Boston.

A devastating fire in 1811 destroyed much of downtown, and combined with restrictive government trade policies during the War of 1812 and the financial panic of 1816, the city experienced economic hardship. However, this fire led to improved building codes that helped preserve downtown architectural features.

The town prospered and incorporated as a city in 1851. Located near the Merrimack River mouth, it thrived as a fishing, shipbuilding and shipping center, with silverware manufacturing becoming an important industry. Local businesses participated in the triangular trade, importing West Indian molasses and exporting locally produced rum. Caldwell's Old Newburyport rum continued production well into the 19th century.

Though Massachusetts outlawed slave purchasing, ownership of slaves acquired elsewhere remained legal until the Revolutionary War, when the General Court abolished slavery entirely. Newburyport had always been uncomfortable with slavery, and abolitionism gained strong support. Several citizens are recognized by the National Park Service for their Underground Railroad contributions. The abolitionist movement reached its peak with William Lloyd Garrison, born and raised in Newburyport's anti-slavery environment. His statue stands in Brown Square, which hosted abolitionist gatherings.

Historically, Newburyport maintained a fishing fleet operating from Georges Bank to the Merrimack River. It served as a privateering center during both the Revolutionary War and War of 1812, and added whaling vessels starting around 1832. Clipper ships were later built there. Today, little evidence remains of its maritime significance—notably absent are the docks once extending into the Merrimack River and shipyards now replaced by a waterfront parking area.