In the first ten years of its settlement, the town of Newbury witnessed murders, kidnappings, earthquakes and a plague of caterpillars. The century that followedmarked by religious conflict, Indian uprisings and public scandal proved no less challenging to the early Puritan community. In 1640, Massachusetts Governor John Winthrop noted, As people increased, so sin abounded. But through the turmoil, Newburys citizens harnessed the regions abundant natural resources and developed a thriving community. Author Bethany Groff introduces the compelling personalities that shaped the history of Old Newbury up until 1764, when Newburyport received its independence from the mother town. From the scandalous exploits of Dr. Henry Greenland to the courageous and sacrificing acts of founding families like the Emerys, Dummers and Pikes, A Brief History of Old Newbury provides a captivating glimpse into the verve of this early New England town.

The town of Newbury, incorporating the villages of Old Town, Byfield, and Plum Island, was settled in 1635. The extensive Newbury plantation was primarily agricultural, although many early residents also earned their living through shipbuilding along the Merrimack River. Newbury is rich with natural landmarks and stunning landscapes, including a large portion of the Great Marsh, the largest salt marsh in New England. Byfield was the site of early industry, with gristmills and sawmills sprouting up along the Quascacunquen, now the Parker River, as early as the 1630s. Mills producing products from nails to woolens and snuff prospered into the 20th century. Ancient houses, many of them the homes of famous sons and daughters, stand as a legacy to Newbury's early history. During the 19th century, Plum Island became a fashionable seaside resort and hunters and fishermen took advantage of the birds and fish that proliferated there. The three communities bring together a citizenry fiercely proud of its heritage and a rich history of working and playing on land and sea.

Beginning in 1924, Proceedings are incorporated into the Apr. no.