Market Square Historic District, historic district in Massachusetts, United States
Market Square Historic District is a cluster of brick buildings in central Newburyport near the Merrimack River, mostly from the early 1800s. The structures feature three to four stories with shops on the ground floor and residences or offices above, connected by shared brick firewalls.
The area began as a trading post for Native Americans and early explorers, then grew into a busy seaport especially after a canal opened in 1796. A major fire in 1811 destroyed most structures, after which the district was rebuilt between 1811 and 1832 using brick and stone.
The square served as a gathering place for trade and community life over centuries. Today visitors and locals experience how the buildings and streets still function as a living marketplace and social hub.
The district is easy to walk through in downtown Newburyport, with shops, restaurants, and galleries at street level. Since the area is near the river, it can flood during heavy rain, so check accessibility before visiting in wet weather.
After the devastating 1811 fire, town planners established strict building codes including a 25-foot height limit and mandatory firewalls between structures. These early fire safety measures remain visible today in the shared brick walls and show how the community innovated for protection.
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