Newburyport, Massachusetts

Newburyport is a small coastal city located in Essex County, Massachusetts. Although it is officially a city, its population of about 17,189 (according to the 2000 census) is closer to that of a town. Like many cities and towns in the area, numerous old buildings have been historically preserved, and consequently Newburyport enjoys a vibrant tourism industry.

History

Newburyport was first settled in 1635, and officially incorporated in 1764. Situated near the mouth of the Merrimack River, Newburyport is a historic seaport on the North Shore.

Related Topics:
1635 - 1764 - Merrimack River - North Shore

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Newburyport History Includes:

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• First United States Coast Guard station
• First of many subsequent Clipper ships built here
• First "Tea Party" rebellion to oppose English Tea Tax
• The death and burial of the great 18th century evangelist George Whitefield.
• Major center for privateering in the War of 1812
• Mentioned in H. P. Lovecraft story, "Shadow over Innsmouth"

Notable Inhabitants:

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• "Lord" Timothy Dexter, eccentric
• William Lloyd Garrison, abolitionist
• John P. Marquand, author
• Donald McKay, shipbuilder
• Benjamin Perley Poore, journalist