Introduction to Peabody, Massachusetts
Peabody, Massachusetts, in Essex county, is 4 miles N of Lynn, Massachusetts (center to center) and 13 miles NE of Boston, Massachusetts. The city is situated in Boston's North Shore suburban region. Due to its early history, Peabody is sometimes referred to locally as "Leather City" or "Tanner City." Centennial Industrial Park is home to several medical and technology firms. Boston Acoustics, Northshore Mall, the Eastman Gelatine Division of Kodak, Christian Book Distributors, Analogic Corporation and JEOL USA are some of the major employers. Peabody is a major factor for the North Shore economy.
Peabody History
It was initially called Northfield and was established within Salem in approximately 1626. In 1868 the city was named in tribute to George Peabody, a notable philanthropist. Giles Corey is regarded as the only person who died by being pressed by stones in the Salem Witch hysteria. He had a farm in Peabody and was buried near Crystal Lake. Initially it was a farming community however, due to the numerous streams in the area, mills were constructed and the town became a primary location for New England's leather industry. Years later, the shutting down of the leather industry's tanneries significantly harmed the economy. During the early portion of the 20th century, the city participated in the automobile revolution.
Peabody and nearby Attractions
- Northshore Shopping Center
- Brooksby Farm
- Peabody Square
- George Peabody House Museum
- International Festival
- Community Concert Series
- Salem Witch Museum
- Peabody Essex Museum
- North Shore Music Theatre
- Essex Antique shops
- Salem Maritime National Historic Site
- Essex Shipbuilding Museum
- North Shore Music Theater
- Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
- New England Pirate Museum
- The House of Seven Gables
Peabody Activities
Golfing enthusiasts enjoy the Meadow of Peabody Golf Course. The North Shore beaches are popular for a variety of outdoor activities. A walk along the ocean through Nahant, Lynn and Swampscott offers scenic views, including Boston in the background. The Middlesex Fells Reservation provides hiking opportunities.
The area's charming New England villages and historic seaport towns are popular with tourists. Deep sea fishing, river cruises and whale watching are available in the region. The Parker National Wildlife Refuge and the Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge are situated in the county. The Essex National Heritage Area has thousands of historic sites and districts. Nearby Boston offers a wide variety of activities and entertainment.
Peabody Transportation
Air travel is provided at the Logan International Airport.
Peabody Higher Education
Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Endicott College and Gordon College are located in the area.
