Waterfront history
In 1635, only 15 years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, a farming community calling itself Newbury was founded on the Parker River. Over time, a portion of the Newbury population created a waterside settlement on the Merrimack River where better waterfront access was available to the sea. Throughout the 17th century, this settlement on the Merrimack River grew and eventually dominated as a center for fishing, trading and maritime industry. More and more waterfront wharves were built throughout the mid-1600’s and a thriving ship-building industry was soon established.
In 1764, Newbury Port separated from the Town of Newbury as its economy flourished as a trade center for the West Indies and Europe. By the late 18th century, a walk along the waterfront could require one to pass under the overhanging bowsprits of docked ships. To ensure continued public access to the waterfront during this growth period, the public “wayes to the water” were established allowing passage from Water and Merrimac Streets to the Merrimack River. In 1811, a historic fire swept through sections of the downtown and waterfront leveling most of the wooden structures. But the city rebounded stronger than ever with a massive rebuilding effort that created the distinctive brick buildings that currently characterize Newburyport architecture today. Then in 1851, the City of Newburyport incorporated, adding many of the civic buildings, monuments, and parks that complete the integrated landscape that we all enjoy so much today.
For more information see Waterfront history.
What makes this location interesting?
While standing exactly on GZ (this should be obvious once you are there) and facing south say something out loud and you should be pleasantly surprised.
Claiming a find
Attach a photo to your log of either:
• Your GPS device or a personal item at the location OR
• You and your team/group (Note: A face is not required in the photo).
Virtual Reward - 2017/2018
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between August 24, 2017 and August 24, 2018. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards on the Geocaching Blog.