History of Merrimac, Massachusetts, USA

1638 - Merrimac is settled

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

1854 - West Amesbury
West Amesbury, a post-village of Amesbury township, Essex co., Massachusetts, near the Merrimack river, 41 miles N. N. E. from Boston.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1876 - Merrimac is incorporated

Massachusetts City and Town Incorporation and Settlement Dates

Merrimac Massachusetts, 1890
Merrimac is a thrifty and attractive manufacturing town situated on the north bank of the Merrimack River, and bounded by Amesbury on the east, West Newbury and Haverhill on the south, and Newton in New Hampshire on the northwest and north. The West Amesbury (Merrimac) Branch Railroad connects this town with the Western Division of the Boston and Maine Railroad.

The villages are Merrimac, near the centre, Merrimacport on the river, and Birchdale, near Amesbury. The first two are post-offices. The assessed area of the town is 4,969 acres, including 786 acres of woodland. The town is pleasantly diversified with hill, valley and plain, with a fine pond (Kimball's) at the northeast side, 90 feet above the sea, and covering 498 acres. From it flows Powow River, forming the divisional line with Amesbury, and turning several mills in that town. There is an extensive plain near the central village, marked by a meeting-house, and a burying-ground, noted for the old fort and the militia... Read MORE...

1895 - Merrimac
Merrimac (formerly West Amesbury), a post-village in Merrimac township, Essex co., Mass. on the Merrimac River, and on a branch of the Boston & Maine Railroad, 8 miles N.E. of Haverhill. It has a bank, 3 churches, and manufactures of carriages and felt shoes. Pop. in 1890, 2633.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1906
Merrimac (formerly West Amesbury), a banking post-village in Merrimac township (town), Essex co., Mass., on the Merrimac River and on the Boston and Maine R., 8 miles NE. of Haverhill. It has manufactures of carriages. Pop. in 1900, 2131.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

2023 - Here's a list of places to see and things to do in and around Merrimac:
Merrimac Public Library:

Start your exploration by visiting the local library. It's a great place to connect with the community and maybe find a good book to enjoy in one of Merrimac's parks.

Lake Attitash:

If you're into outdoor activities, Lake Attitash is a lovely spot for boating, fishing, or simply taking a lakeside stroll. The serene surroundings make it a peaceful retreat.

Merrimac Town Forest:

Nature lovers can explore the trails in Merrimac Town Forest. It's a beautiful place for hiking and birdwatching, especially during the fall when the foliage is stunning.

Merrimac Old Town Hall:

Take a stroll through the historic district and check out the Merrimac Old Town Hall. It's an iconic building that reflects the town's rich history.

Local Eateries:

Merrimac may have some hidden culinary gems. Check out local restaurants or diners for a taste of authentic local flavors. Sometimes the best experiences are found in small-town eateries.

Fruitlands... Read MORE...