Incorporated in 1668, the once thriving "carriage capital of the world" centered its development around the rushing waters of the Powow River. In addition to carriages, Amesbury's unique manufacturing history includes shipbuilding and hat making.

Home to an impressive collection of historic sites, recreational areas, and annual festivals, the Town of Amesbury is a family-friendly community that features an ideal mixed-use town center with a well-varied stock of housing and growing employment base. 

One of Amesbury's historic sites is Lowell's Boat Shop located on the banks of the Merrimack River. Built in 1793, it is the oldest operating boat shop in America. This working museum continues to make wooden boats in the more than 200 year-old tradition of Lowell’s craftsmanship. It is on both the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can view boat builders at work, schedule a guided tour, go rowing, or view exhibits.

In addition, the town is home to the adult residence of John Greenleaf Whittier, the famous abolitionist, journalist, poet, and essayist. The guided tour includes the historic house and artifacts as they were when Whittier lived there, as well as grounds and summer kitchen.

Helpful Links

Town of Amesbury Website
State Information Page for Amesbury

State Legislators

Amesbury Statistics

Amesbury Trail Maps

Amesbury Town Forest
Powow River Conservation Area