First settled between 1649 and 1652, the area which is now named Groveland was called variously "Merrimacke Lands", or "Rowley by the Merrimacke". After about 1668 it was simply known as Merrimacke, until it was incorporated as part of the town of Bradford in 1657. By 1726 Bradford had become large enough that it was deemed necessary to divide it into two parishes, and the section now known as Groveland was called Bradford, East Parish. On February 11, 1850, the East Parish voters elected to separate from the West Parish. On March 6, 1850, after numerous ballots and great debate, the name Groveland was chosen, and the town was incorporated on March 8th.

With rich meadows and fields bordering the Merrimack River, this area in the former Indian territory of Pentucket, was primarily agricultural. However, in the early days of the town, grist mills, fulling mills, and later saw mills, were established along Johnson's Creek. By 1837 these had been replaced by a brass foundry, which subsequently evolved into a shoe-thread factory, a woolen factory, and finally a 4 story mill employing some 400 workers in the manufacture of flannel.

Today, Groveland remains a charming New England town with a decidedly rural appeal. Its delightful town center and marvelous antique homes belie the fact that a supermarket and shopping center are just minutes away on the other side of the river. With its new subdivisions as well as established neighborhoods, it provides a variety of house styles and prices from which to choose. Boasting contemporary town offices and a new library overlooking "The Pines" on the river, one of the town's many parks and recreation areas, Groveland has much to offer established residents and newcomers alike.

Spotlight on Groveland

Population: 6,038

Square Miles: 9.37

Tax rate fiscal 2008: $10.13

Government: Town Meeting; Board of Selectmen

How to contact:

Selectmen: Chair, William Darke 978-372-8700

Hospital/Emergency: Merrimack Valley Hospital , Haverhill 978-374-2000

Schools:

Superintendent, Pentucket Regional School District 978-363-2280

Pentucket Regional High School 978-363-2957

Pentucket Middle School 978-343-8921

Bagnall Elementary 978-372-8856

MBTA Commuter Rail Service to Boston with station in Haverhill

Schedules and Information: (800) 392-6100 or www.mbta.com