Peabody is conveniently located 18 miles north of Boston at the junction of Routes 128, 1 and Interstate 95. The city is a diverse and vibrant community and in many ways is the North Shore's regional employment hub. From its growth as one of the worlds great leather-producers with over one hundred tanneries, to todays modern, highly...
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Peabody is conveniently located 18 miles north of Boston at the junction of Routes 128, 1 and Interstate 95. The city is a diverse and vibrant community and in many ways is the North Shore's regional employment hub. From its growth as one of the worlds great leather-producers with over one hundred tanneries, to todays modern, highly successful Centennial Industrial Park, newly renovated North Shore Mall and rejuvenated downtown, Peabody continues to be a focal point for the North Shore economy.
Settlement of the area began in 1626 when what is now Peabody was part of Salem and called Brooksby Village. Early residents were farmers, but the abundant streams made it a logical location for water powered industries. By 1668 the tanning business had become well established, earning Brooksby Village the nickname, "Tanner City." Brooksby separated from Salem in 1752 to join the township of Danvers. After the American Revolution, the township flourished, and in 1855 the southern part was incorporated into the separate Town of South Danvers.
Confusion from the similarly named towns resulted in renaming the community. In 1868 South Danvers became Peabody in honor of George Peabody, the international financier and philanthropist born in 1795 at 205 Washington Street, South Danvers. The population of the town grew steadily until the town meeting form of government grew too cumbersome. In 1916 the citizens of Peabody voted to become incorporated as a city.
Peabody residents are driven by civic pride to participate actively in community projects. The "Pride in Peabody" program brings individuals, organizations and businesses together to enhance restore and maintain the beauty of the city. Similar uniting initiatives include the International Festival, the Brooksby Harvest Festival, the Holiday Festival and the Community Concerts series. This community spirit enriches an already prosperous city loved by its citizens.
As an integral part of the North Shore's family of communities, Peabody residents and visitors have access to a vast array of sites and activities among the historical seaport towns, quaint New England villages, deep sea fishing, whale watching, river cruises, sunset sails, and world class beaches. A wonderful place to begin an exploration of Peabody's rich history is the Peabody Institute Public Library near Peabody Square. In Peabody Square itself are a various ethnic restaurants that serve some of the best dishes that Brazilian and Portuguese cuisine offers.
In August 2008, the average home sales price for a single family home or condo in Peabody, MA was $274,475. While this data is collected from the MLS and deemed reliable, it is not guaranteed.
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