Haverhill, Massachusetts, is a historic city located in Essex County along the Merrimack River, blending rich heritage with modern appeal. Originally settled in 1640, Haverhill played a significant role in early American industry, particularly in shoe manufacturing, earning it the nickname "Queen Slipper City." Today, the city offers a mix of historic landmarks, scenic parks, and a thriving downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore sites like the Buttonwoods Museum, Winnekenni Castle, and the Riverfront Boardwalk, while nature enthusiasts can enjoy recreational activities at Plug Pond and the surrounding trails. With its deep roots in history and a growing arts and dining scene, Haverhill provides a unique experience that highlights both its past and its evolving future.

Here are some of the must-visit places in Haverhill:

Winnekenni Castle

A picturesque stone castle built in 1875 with a combination of fieldstone and brick, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle hosts various events throughout the year, including wine and cheese receptions, an Independence Day pancake breakfast, and a classic car show.

John Greenleaf Whittier Birthplace

The childhood home of the famous Quaker poet and abolitionist, John Greenleaf Whittier, this landmark offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life. Visitors can explore the farmhouse and learn about Whittier's life and work.

Buttonwoods Museum

Named after the sycamore trees planted on the property in the early 1940s, this museum is housed in a historic building and showcases the history of Haverhill and the Merrimack Valley. The museum's collection includes furniture, glassware, and ceramics, illustrating the importance of the Merrimack River in trade, commerce, and travel.

Museum of Printing

This museum features a vast collection of printing equipment and materials, showcasing the evolution of printing technology from letterpress printing to photographic and electronic technologies.

Dustin Garrison House

A historic First Period house built around 1700, this landmark is one of the few surviving brick houses from that era in Massachusetts. The house is connected to the captivating story of Hannah Duston, who was captured by Native Americans in a 1697 raid on Haverhill. While this house was under construction, Duston and her newborn were captured. She later escaped after killing and scalping her captors.

Haverhill Firefighting Museum

This museum houses a collection of antique fire trucks and firefighting equipment, offering a fascinating look at the history of firefighting in Haverhill. The museum also features an interactive children's corner, where kids can dress up in firefighter gear and imagine driving to a fire in child-size firetrucks.

Tattersall Farm

A 150-acre property with conservation areas, hayfields, meadows, and wooded trails, Tattersall Farm provides opportunities for passive recreational activities such as walking, jogging, and cross-country skiing. The farm also has community garden plots and hosts family-friendly events and educational programs.

Riverfront Cultural District

Recognized by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the Riverfront Cultural District is a vibrant area with arts, culture, and creative activities. The district encompasses Washington Street, Railroad Square, and Essex Street, offering a compact, walkable area with a variety of cultural experiences.

Gale Park

Occupying three-quarters of an acre, Gale Park is the site of several city memorials and monuments, including a World War I memorial, a Spanish-American War monument, and a Women Veterans memorial. The park also features the city's only public fountain. Originally the site of the Ayer House, built in 1712, and later the Children's Home orphanage, Gale Park has a rich history.

Main Street Historic District

This district showcases a variety of architectural styles from different periods in Haverhill's history, reflecting the city's evolution over time.

Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge

This historic covered bridge connects Haverhill to Bath, New Hampshire, and is a popular spot for scenic views and photography.

Washington Street Shoe District

This historic area played a significant role in Haverhill's industrial past as a major shoe manufacturing center, earning the city the nickname "Queen Slipper City". The district is currently undergoing redevelopment, with potential for new businesses and residential spaces.

Statue of Hannah Duston

Located in Grand Army Republic Park, this statue commemorates Hannah Duston, a colonial woman who became famous for killing and scalping her Native American captors after being captured in a raid on Haverhill in 1697. This statue holds the distinction of being the first statue erected in honor of a woman in the United States.

Notable Residents

Haverhill has been home to several notable figures who have made significant contributions in various fields:

• Alexander Graham Bell: The inventor of the telephone spent time in Haverhill as a tutor to the deaf son of a prominent shoe magnate, who later invested in Bell's telephone concept.
• Rowland H. Macy: The founder of the Macy's department store chain held the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in Haverhill.
• Louis B. Mayer: A co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) studios, Louis B. Mayer was a resident of Haverhill.
• Tom Bergeron: The television personality, comedian, and game show host is a native of Haverhill.

Recreation and Entertainment

Haverhill offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors:

• Golf: The city has four 18-hole golf courses, providing options for golfers of all skill levels.
• Skiing: Ski Bradford, a downhill ski area, offers winter recreation for skiers and snowboarders.
• Horseback Riding: Two horseback riding academies provide opportunities for equestrian enthusiasts.
• Ice Skating: A public skating rink offers ice skating for recreation and exercise.
• Sailing: A sailing program provides opportunities to learn and enjoy sailing on the Merrimack River.

Haverhill was also the inspiration for Riverdale, the setting of the "Archie" comic strip.

Essential Services

Courthouse

The Haverhill District Court

The Haverhill District Court serves the city of Haverhill and surrounding towns, including Boxford, Bradford, Georgetown, and Groveland. It handles various cases, including criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental health, small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and motor vehicle offenses. The court is located at 45 Ginty Boulevard, Haverhill, MA 01831.

Police Station

The Haverhill Police Department is committed to ensuring public safety and community policing. The department is structured into several divisions, including:

• Patrol Division: Responsible for responding to calls for service, patrolling the city, and conducting preliminary investigations.
• Investigative Division: Handles follow-up investigations of major crimes.
• Narcotics Division: Investigates drug-related offenses.
• Traffic & Safety Unit: Focuses on traffic enforcement and safety education.
• Gang Task Force: Addresses gang-related activity and violence.

The Haverhill Police Department is located at 40 Bailey Boulevard, Haverhill, MA 01830.

Hospitals

Haverhill has access to several hospitals that provide a wide range of medical services:

Holy Family Hospital - Haverhill

Located at 140 Lincoln Avenue, Haverhill, MA 01830, this hospital offers a variety of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized care in areas such as cardiology and orthopedics.

Anna Jaques Hospital

Located at 25 Highland Avenue, Newburyport, MA 01950, Anna Jaques Hospital has medical offices in Haverhill that provide primary and specialty care for the whole family. Services include laboratory services, breast health, gynecology, pediatrics, and women's health care.