Established in 1640 as Pentucket, Haverhill was incorporated as a city in 1870. Originally settled as farm land, the city evolved into a major industrial center through the establishment of saw and grist mills in the late 17th century, tanneries and boat yards in the early 18th century and shoe manufacturing, its leading industry for 180 years. Haverhill shoes were known for quality and design.
The City has a tremendous array of active and passive recreational opportunities: four 18-hole golf courses, a downhill ski area, two horseback riding academies, a public skating rink and a sailing program. The Merrimack River meanders through the city, providing walking, jogging, bird watching and boating opportunities. A growing number of bald eagles inhabit the city along the Merrimack.
Haverhill is home to companies such as Magellan Aerospace, Dynawave Inc., Boston Coffee Cake Company, Cedar's Mediterranean Foods and Hans Kissle