BEVERLY

Known as the birthplace of the United States Navy, Beverly is one of the oldest communities in Massachusetts. Exquisite architecture combined with modern structures makes Beverly a perfect mix of the past and present. The gorgeous greenery has also earned it the nickname "The Garden City" of the North Shore.

LOCATION

Manchester-by-the-sea shares the northeastern border with Beverly. Danvers is to the west, Wenham to the north and Salem to the south. Boston is a quick 18-mile drive to the north.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Beverly is the land of many historical firsts. The first cotton mill was established in this town. Religion also played a major role in the beginning and soon the first Sunday school in America was seen here. Understandably, the overzealous religious atmosphere sparked the anti-witchcraft craze most people associate with nearby Salem. History buffs will know that the period actually began and ended in Beverly in the late 1600s.

In conjunction with its U.S. Navy ties, Beverly was home to a naval base from 1775-1778. The first commissioned ship by the Navy also launched from Beverly Harbor. To learn more about Beverly, click here to visit its official Web site: Town of Beverly.

Shoe-making was big business in the city during the mid-19th century. The world's largest shoe manufacturer, the United Shoe Machinery Corporation, saturated the North Shore and Beverly was not immune. When the industry died in the 1970s, Beverly was left with its unique Shoe headquarters. The 34-acres have since been transformed into the Cummings Center business complex.

VISITORS GUIDE

History aside, Beverly draws many visitors thanks to its North Shore Musical Theatre which offers Broadway-worthy productions. Some of America's oldest families still have homes in the city and they are among the faithful theatergoers.

The "garden" nickname was informally bestowed based on the unbelievable garden found in Lynch Park. Summer months are filled with weddings, garden tours and visitors enjoying the outdoors in the public garden areas. Of course, spectacular scenery is also as close as the coast.

Those seeking a higher education will want to consider attending Endicott College or the local North Shore Community College campus that make their home in Beverly.

REAL ESTATE

Prospective residents hoping to settle in a family-friendly city should strongly consider giving Beverly a try. Click here for Beverly MA MLS Homes - Condos for sale.

OTHER HELPFUL LINKS

Town of Beverly

Beverly Citizen Info Service

Massachusetts Dept of Eductation