Imagine a time long before Route 3 existed. Imagine life before the bustle of modern Massachusetts. That is Weymouth. This town boasts a rich history dating back centuries. It played a pivotal role in the early days of colonial America.
Weymouth’s story starts in 1622. Thomas Weston, a London merchant, sent a scouting ship to what is now Weymouth. He wanted to establish a settlement. Weston arrived later himself. He made arrangements with the local Native Americans. This gave him the right to settle at a place called Wessagusset.
The early days were not without conflict. In 1623, Myles Standish and his soldiers killed several Native American leaders. This led to the abandonment of the Wessagusset settlement. Later that year, more settlers arrived. They were led by Ferdinando Gorges. This group included families and Reverend William Morell. They established a church. This church continues to operate today as the First Church in Weymouth.
In 1630, Wessagusset became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. William Blaxton pointed out a healthful place to begin the city of Boston. The population around Weymouth was estimated at 300. By 1635, the settlement was growing. Reverend Joseph Hull arrived with 21 families from Weymouth, England. The General Court ordered that the Plantation of Wessaguscus be called Waymothe. The town had 300 to 400 residents. Sixty-eight held titles to land.
Weymouth has shown remarkable stability over the years. Its borders were established in 1636. There has been little change since then. Whitman’s Pond was known as Fresh Pond at that time.
The town played a role in early conflicts. In 1637, Weymouth sent five men for the Pequot War. The community also established its religious foundations. Reverend Thomas Thatcher became the first minister. He preached for 20 years.
Weymouth’s commitment to community governance is evident. The first recorded Town meeting was held in 1641. Regular meetings followed from 1651. This tradition continued until 2000.
The relationship between colonists and Native Americans evolved. In 1642, the first agreement was made. Colonists purchased the title to the town from the Native population. Weymouth also participated in broader colonial efforts. In 1643, it joined the United Colonies of New England. This confederation aimed to defend against Native Americans and foreign aggressors.
Even in its early years, Weymouth valued education. In 1647, the General Court ordered towns with over 50 householders. They had to appoint and compensate a teacher. This ensured that children learned reading and writing.
Weymouth’s connection to the sea is deeply rooted. In 1648, the town record mentioned the “herring broge.” This showed the long history of the fishery. Governor Winthrop had referred to the “ale-wife river” at Weymouth 15 years earlier.
The town continued to develop. The Bicknell House was built in 1650. It still stands on Sea Street. In 1651, Weymouth voted to pay for six months of schooling for children. This marked the first reference to public education in the town record.
Unfortunately, conflict arose again. In 1663, Native Americans burned several Weymouth houses. Despite these challenges, Weymouth persevered. The town constructed a tide mill around 1669.
Weymouth’s resilience shone during King Philip’s War. The war began in 1675. Weymouth contributed significantly relative to its population. Skirmishes occurred inside the town.
The final Native American attack occurred in 1676. Several houses were burned. The town then focused on rebuilding. In 1678, it voted to furnish a schoolroom.
The community prioritized education. In 1680, it purchased a house for the schoolmaster. A school house was built in 1681. It was located on the site of the First Church in Weymouth. A new church was erected in 1682 on the same site.
Weymouth’s story is one of perseverance. It is a story of community and growth. From its early days as Wessagusset to its role in colonial America, Weymouth has stood the test of time.