History of Massachusetts, USA

1497 - John Cabot reaches present day Massachusetts

The World Almanac of the U.S.A, by Allan Carpenter and Carl Provorse, 1996

1614 - John Smith sailed along the coast of Massachusetts. He wrote a book, A Description of New England, which guided settlers to the Massachusetts region.

http://www.virtualnorfolk.org/

1620 - The Pilgrims left England on the Mayflower and landed in the New World at Plymouth. Before leaving the ship, they drew up the Mayflower Compact
In 1620, a group of English Pilgrims seeking religious freedom departed from Plymouth, England, on a ship called the Mayflower. After a long and arduous journey, they arrived in the New World, specifically at a place they named Plymouth, in present-day Massachusetts. Before disembarking, recognizing the need for order and governance in their new settlement, the Pilgrims drafted and signed the Mayflower Compact. This document established a rudimentary form of self-government based on the consent of the governed, laying the foundation for democratic principles in America.

The Mayflower Compact was a significant early step towards establishing a democratic society in the New World. It set a precedent for future colonies and eventually influenced the development of democratic institutions in the United States. The Pilgrims faced numerous challenges in their new environment, including harsh weather, disease, and unfamiliar terrain. Despite these difficulties, their perseverance and... Read MORE...

1638 - Massachusetts set up the first library in the colonies.
In 1638, the Massachusetts Bay Colony established the first known public library in the American colonies. This library was founded in the town of Boston, which was a burgeoning hub of intellectual and cultural activity in the early days of colonial America. The library's establishment marked a significant milestone in the development of education and literacy in the New World, as it provided access to books and knowledge to a population hungry for learning and enlightenment.

The library's creation was largely thanks to the efforts of a clergyman named John Harvard, who donated a large collection of books to the institution. This donation formed the basis of the library's collection, which grew over time to include a wide range of works on various subjects. The library was initially open only to scholars and ministers, but it later expanded its accessibility to the general public, furthering its impact on the intellectual and cultural life of the colony.
virtualnorfolk.org

1641 - The Body of Liberties, the first code of laws of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, was established.
In 1641, the Massachusetts Bay Colony established the Body of Liberties, marking a significant moment in early American legal history. This code of laws, consisting of 100 articles, was among the first legal frameworks established in the American colonies. The Body of Liberties was designed to protect the rights of colonists and regulate their behavior, blending elements of English common law with the particular needs and circumstances of the colony.

The Body of Liberties covered a wide range of subjects, including criminal law, civil liberties, and property rights. It guaranteed certain rights to colonists, such as the right to a fair trial, protection against cruel and unusual punishment, and the right to own property. The code also addressed issues related to inheritance, marriage, and the rights of women and children.
virtualnorfolk.org

1647 - The Massachusetts Bay Colony ordered that elementary schools be established in all towns where there were more than 50 families.
In 1647, the Massachusetts Bay Colony made a significant stride in education by mandating the establishment of elementary schools in towns with more than 50 families. This pioneering move marked one of the earliest instances of compulsory education in America and laid the foundation for the public education system in the United States. The law reflected the colony's commitment to ensuring that its citizens were literate and well-educated, believing that an educated populace was crucial for the success of the community and the colony as a whole.
virtualnorfolk.org

1652 - Massachusetts declared itself an independent commonwealth. The General Court recognized that the Indians have a just right to land possession and a true right to be there based on Genesis 1 and 28, Chapter 9, 1, and Psalms 115:16.

http://www.virtualnorfolk.org/

In 1659, the Massachusetts General Court declared the celebration of Christmas to be a criminal offense.
The Puritans were attempting to suppress the excesses of the season which included rowdy public displays of eating and drinking, mockery of established authority, aggressive begging, and boisterous invasions.
easthampton.com

1684 - King Charles II cancelled the colonial charter of Massachusetts.
In 1684, King Charles II of England took a decisive step in reshaping the governance of the Massachusetts Bay Colony by revoking its colonial charter. This action was part of a broader effort by the English crown to assert greater control over its American colonies. The revocation of the charter was largely prompted by the perceived defiance of the Massachusetts government in implementing the English Navigation Acts, which regulated colonial trade and commerce to benefit the English economy.

By cancelling the charter, King Charles II aimed to bring Massachusetts more directly under royal control. This move dissolved the existing government structure in Massachusetts and placed the colony under a new royal charter, which granted increased authority to the crown-appointed governor. This event marked a significant shift in the relationship between the colony and the English monarchy, setting the stage for further changes in governance and increasing tensions that would eventually lead ... Read MORE...

1686 - King James established a government in Massachusetts. He made Sir Edmond Andros the governor of the colony.

http://www.virtualnorfolk.org/

1690 - The battle of Quebec was fought between the colonies of New France (ruled by France) and Massachusetts Bay (ruled by England). It lasted from October 16 through October 24 and resulted in a French victory.
The Battle of Quebec in 1690 was a significant military engagement during King William's War, a conflict between England and France fought in North America. The battle took place between the colonies of New France, which was under French rule, and Massachusetts Bay, which was under English rule. Lasting from October 16 through October 24, the battle was part of a larger campaign by the English colonies to capture French Quebec and weaken French control in North America.

The French, led by Governor-General Louis de Buade de Frontenac, successfully defended Quebec against the English forces, commanded by Sir William Phips. The battle ended with a French victory, largely due to the strong fortifications of Quebec and the difficulty of the terrain for the English attackers. The French victory at the Battle of Quebec in 1690 helped secure French control of the region and demonstrated the strategic importance of Quebec in the ongoing conflicts between European powers for dominance in... Read MORE...

1722 - July 25 - The Three Years War begins along the Maine and Massachusetts border.
The Three Years War, which began on July 25, 1722, was a conflict fought along the border of Maine and Massachusetts (which was a single province at the time). The war was primarily between British settlers and Native American tribes, particularly the Abenaki, with some support from the French. The conflict stemmed from tensions over land ownership, as the British settlers encroached on territory that the Native Americans considered their own.

The war was characterized by brutal raids and counter-raids, with both sides committing atrocities against the other. The Native American forces, led by Chief Gray Lock, launched several attacks on British settlements, resulting in the deaths of many settlers and the capture of others. In response, the British organized military expeditions to retaliate and protect their settlements. The war continued for three years, with intermittent fighting and periods of relative calm. It eventually ended in 1725 with the signing of a peace treaty, which ... Read MORE...

1727 - October 29 - Severe earthquake in New England

onthisday.com
October 29, 1727

1749 - June 25 - A general fast was called on account of drought in Massachusetts. It was the year of the famous dry spring in which fields and villages burned.

WeatherForYou.com
June 25, 1749

1775 - First battle of American Revolution fought at Lexington and Concord; Paul Revere made famous ride; first ship of U.S. Navy commissioned
The year 1775 marked a pivotal moment in American history with the first battles of the American Revolution taking place at Lexington and Concord. Tensions had been escalating between the American colonies and British authorities over issues of taxation and governance, leading to armed conflict. Paul Revere, a silversmith and patriot, became a legendary figure for his midnight ride to warn the colonial militia of the approaching British troops.

The battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, were the first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War. The skirmishes resulted in the British forces retreating to Boston under intense fire from the colonial militia. This event galvanized the colonies and led to the formation of the Continental Army and the formal declaration of independence from Britain in 1776. Additionally, in this same year, the USS Hannah, a small armed vessel, was commissioned by the Massachusetts Provincial Congress, marking the humble... Read MORE...

1780 - May 19 - The infamous "dark day" in New England tradition. At noon it was nearly as dark as night. Chickens went to roost, and many persons were fearful of divine wrath. The phenomena was caused by forest fires to the west of New England.

WeatherForYou.com
May 19, 1780

1788 - Massachusetts became sixth U S. state

www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

1803 - May 8 - A freak spring storm produced heavy snow from southern Indiana to New England. The storm made sleighing possible in Massachusetts, but also ruined shade trees in Philadelphia.

WeatherForYou.com
May 8, 1803

1815 - September 23 - One of the greatest hurricanes to strike New England made landfall at Long Island and crossed Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
It was the worst tempest in nearly two hundred years.
WeatherForYou.com
September 23, 1815

1816 - September 27 - A black frost over most of New England kills unripened corn in the north resulting in a year of famine.

WeatherForYou.com
September 27, 1816

1820 - Massachusetts and Maine separated
In 1820, Massachusetts and Maine underwent a significant event that would forever change their political landscapes. Prior to this separation, Maine was considered a district within Massachusetts, but as Maine's population grew and its economy diversified, the people of Maine began to seek separate statehood. The process of separation was complex and involved negotiations between both regions, as well as approval from the U.S. Congress.

The separation was finalized on March 15, 1820, when Maine was admitted as the 23rd state of the United States. This event marked the end of a long-standing relationship between Massachusetts and Maine, as they were no longer united under one government.
worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

1833 - Constitutional amendment separated church and state, Puritanism in government ended

www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

1839 - Massachusetts
MASSACHUSETTS
This ancient commonwealth, the mother of New England colonies, of free states, and of American liberty, was first permanently settled by Europeans, at Plymouth, on the 22d of December, 1620.

The history of this state is deeply interesting: it is interwoven with every political and moral event of important occurrence in the settlement and progress of the whole of North America, which preceded or was connected with the revolution of 1775.

The name of this state probably arose from the name of a tribe of Indians formerly at Barnstable; or from two Indian words—Mos and Wetuset; the former signifying an Indian arrow's head, the latter, Hill. It is stated that the Sachem who governed this region about the time of the landing of our forefathers, lived on a hill in the form of an Indian arrow's head, a few miles south of Boston, and was called by the Indians—Moswetuset.

Massachusetts is bounded east, southeast, and south by the Atlantic ocean. It has, exclusive of the... Read MORE...

1847 - NECCO (New England Confectionery Company) wafers were first produced in 1847 in Massachusetts

In 1847, the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) introduced its iconic NECCO Wafers to the confectionery world. This marked the beginning of a sweet and enduring legacy that would last for over a century. NECCO Wafers quickly became a beloved treat, known for their distinctive texture and classic flavors. They were produced in a variety of colors and flavors, each with its own unique taste.

NECCO Wafers gained popularity not just for their taste, but also for their durability and portability, making them a favorite among soldiers during the Civil War and both World Wars. The company's commitment to quality and innovation helped it thrive for generations, becoming a household name in the world of confectionery. The production of NECCO Wafers continued until 2018, when the NECCO factory in Massachusetts closed its doors, marking the end of an era in American candy history.

1852 - Massachusetts became the first state to require that all children must attend school.
In 1852, Massachusetts made history by becoming the first state to enact compulsory education laws, mandating that all children between the ages of 8 and 14 attend school for at least 12 weeks per year. This landmark legislation, known as the Compulsory Attendance Act, aimed to ensure that children received a basic education, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. The law was a response to the growing recognition of the importance of education in a rapidly industrializing society and was seen as a way to prepare future generations for the challenges of an increasingly complex world.
virtualnorfolk.org

1860's - Massachusetts sent over 160,000 troops to battle in Civil War

www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

1868 - The Legislature of Massachusetts, during its late session, incorporated twenty-five manufacturing companies, with an aggregate capital of $4,375,000.

St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
April 11, 1868

The Great Blizzard of 1888
This storm was one of the most severe recorded blizzards in the history of the United States of America. 20-60 inches all along New England, with Massachusetts sustaining particularly heavy damage. Winds of more than 45 miles per hour produced snowdrifts taller than 50 feet. Some people were stuck in their houses for more than a week, unable to exit through their snow-clogged doorways. Around 400 people in the Northeast died during the course of the blizzard and its aftermath, and more than 100 people died at sea after 200 ships sank off the East Coast.
facebook.com

1895 - Massachusetts
Massachusetts, one of the Eastern or New England states, and one of the original thirteen states of the American Union, is bounded on the N. by Vermont and New Hampshire, E. by the Atlantic Ocean, S. by the Atlantic Ocean and by Rhode Island and Connecticut, and W. by Rhode Island and New York. There are several islands within the state limits (Nantucket, Martha's Vine yard, Elizabeth Islands, &c.); and in the S.E. the peninsula of Cape Cod extends into the sea, forming Cape Cod Bay, and, from its shape, is sometimes called the "right arm of the commonwealth." Area, 8315 square miles, of which the land area is 8040 square miles, or 5,145,600 acres, and the water surface 275 square miles...

The state of Massachusetts was almost entirely of English descent, the only prominent exceptions being a small colony of Huguenots which settled in and near Oxford, one or more of Germans in the northeastern part of Worcester co., and the later Scotch-Irish Presbyterian settlement at Coleraine.... Read MORE...

1903 - Marconi sends and receives the first wireless transatlantic communication
One hundred years ago on Saturday, a young Italian inventor named Guglielmo Marconi stood on a sandy bluff on Cape Cod and sent a 54-word greeting from President Theodore Roosevelt across the ocean to England's King Edward VII.

A few hours later, the king responded, completing a dialogue that at the time seemed like pure magic.

Marconi had launched the era of global wireless communications...
Brian Carovillano on January 18, 2003 (www.crn.com)

1903 - You didn’t need a license or plates to drive in Massachusetts until 1903.
Before that, all you needed was a set of wheels.
www.onlyinyourstate.com/massachusetts/interesting-history-facts-ma/

1907 - First motorized fire wagon developed by Knox Manufacturing Company

www.worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

1914 - July 29 – In Massachusetts, the new Cape Cod Canal opens; it shortens the trip between New York and Boston by 66 miles, but also turns Cape Cod into an island
The opening of the Cape Cod Canal on July 29, 1914, marked a significant moment in transportation history. This man-made waterway, located in Massachusetts, effectively transformed Cape Cod into an island by connecting the Cape's two land masses, Cape Cod itself and the mainland, through a canal. The canal's construction was a monumental engineering feat, as it shortened the maritime route between New York and Boston by an impressive 66 miles, offering ships a quicker and more direct passage.

The canal's opening had both immediate and long-term impacts. Initially, it revolutionized shipping, allowing vessels to bypass the longer and often treacherous journey around the outer edge of Cape Cod. This not only saved time but also reduced the risks associated with navigating the Cape's unpredictable waters. Over time, the canal's strategic importance continued to grow, especially during periods of conflict, as it provided a vital shortcut for military and commercial ships traveling... Read MORE...

It is prohibited to dance to the “Star Spangled Banner” in Massachusetts, thanks to an excessively patriotic 1917 law.

rd.com

1922 - April 13 – The State of Massachusetts opens all public offices to women.

wikipedia.org
April 13, 1922

1938 - April 28 – The towns of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott in Massachusetts are disincorporated to make way for the Quabbin Reservoir.
In 1938, the landscape of Massachusetts underwent a significant transformation with the disincorporation of four towns: Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott. These towns were sacrificed to make way for the construction of the Quabbin Reservoir, a massive water supply project that would serve the growing needs of Boston and its surrounding communities. The decision to flood these towns was not made lightly, as it involved the displacement of hundreds of residents, the relocation of cemeteries, and the dismantling of entire communities.

The Quabbin Reservoir project was part of a larger effort to address Boston's increasing demand for water, driven by population growth and industrialization. The reservoir, which began filling in the 1930s and was completed in the 1940s, created a vast body of water that covered the former towns and their histories.
April 28, 1938

1938 - Sept. 21 - The Great Hurricane brought terror to large parts of New England.
A great hurricane smashed into Long Island and bisected New England causing a massive forest blow down and widespread flooding. Winds gusted to 186 mph at Blue Hill MA, and a storm surge of nearly thirty feet caused extensive flooding along the coast of Rhode Island. The hurricane killed 600 persons and caused 500 million dollars damage. The hurricane, which lasted twelve days, destroyed 275 million trees. Hardest hit were Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Long Island NY. The "Long Island Express" produced gargantuan waves with its 150 mph winds, waves which smashed against the New England shore with such force that earthquake-recording machines on the Pacific coast clearly showed the shock of each wave.

WeatherForYou.com
September 21, 1938

1944 - Black-out Will Be March 26
The next black out will not be next Sunday as stated yesterday but March 26. The state committee gave two weeks advance notice instead of one - with commendable foresight inasmuch as the event will affect every man woman and child in the commonwealth.
The Berkshire Evening Eagle
Pittsfield, Massachusetts
March 14, 1944

1944 - September 9 - The "Great Atlantic Hurricane" ravaged the east coast.
The storm killed 22 persons and caused 63 million dollars damage in the Chesapeake Bay area, then besieged New England killing 390 persons and causing another 100 million dollars damage.
The Weather Channel
September 9, 1944

1946 - November 13 - General Electric scientists produced snow in the Massachusetts Berkshires in the first modern day cloud seeding experiment.

The Weather Channel
November 13, 1946

1954 - August 31 - Hurricane Carol swept across eastern New England killing sixty persons and causing 450 million dollars damage. It was the first of three hurricanes to affect New England that year.

WeatherForYou.com
August 31, 1954

1955 - August 19-20 - Rivers throughout Central Massachusetts and Northeastern Connecticut overflow, causing millions of dollars damage.

oldewebster.com
August 19, 1955

1957 - Massachusetts Turnpike opened
The opening of the Massachusetts Turnpike in 1957 was a significant event in the state's transportation history. Stretching 138 miles from Boston to the New York state line, the turnpike was one of the first long-distance, limited-access highways in the United States. It was a crucial link in the interstate highway system, connecting the major cities of Boston and Worcester to the west and providing a faster and more direct route for travelers and commerce.

The construction of the turnpike was a massive undertaking, involving the creation of new interchanges, bridges, and overpasses. The highway was designed to handle a large volume of traffic and included innovations such as the Weston Toll Barrier, one of the first automated toll collection systems in the country.
worldatlas.com/ webimage/ countrys/ namerica/ usstates/ matimeln.htm

The Blizzard of 1978
Almost 100 years after the blizzard of 1888, Massachusetts survived the blizzard of 1978. The storm itself lasted from February 5 to February 7, and it was one of the most catastrophic nor'easters ever to occur in the state. The storm killed about 100 people in the Northeast and injured a whopping 4,500. Adjusted for inflation, the damages caused by the blizzard would amount to $1.89 billion today. While a typical nor'easter only lasts in full force for about 6 to 12 hours, this storm raged for a full 33 hours.
facebook.com

2023 - Massachusetts has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in the Bay State:
1. Freedom Trail (Boston): Start your journey in the heart of Massachusetts by exploring Boston's Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile-long path takes you through 16 significant historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and the Old North Church.

2. Fenway Park (Boston): If you're a baseball fan, catch a game at Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox. The park is famous for its unique character and history, and even if there's no game, you can take a guided tour.

3. Salem: Dive into the spooky history of Salem, famous for the Salem Witch Trials. Visit the Salem Witch Museum, Witch Dungeon Museum, and explore the historic streets.

4. Cape Cod: This picturesque peninsula offers beautiful beaches, charming villages, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and whale watching. Don't forget to try the delicious seafood.

5. Martha's Vineyard: Take a ferry to this idyllic island known for its stunning beaches, quaint towns, and pristine... Read MORE...