a brief history of old newbury from settlement to separation
in the first ten years of its settlement the town of newbury witnessed murders kidnappings earthquakes and a plague of caterpillars . the century that followed marked by religious conflict indian uprisings and public scandal proved no less challenging to the early puritan community . in 1640 massachusetts governor john winthrop noted as people increased so sin abounded . but through the turmoil newburys citizens harnessed the regions abundant natural resources and developed a thriving community . author bethany groff introduces the compelling personalities that shaped the history of old newbury up until 1764 when newburyport received its independence from the mother town . from the scandalous exploits of dr. henry greenland to the courageous and sacrificing acts of founding families like the emerys dummers and pikes a brief history of old newbury provides a captivating glimpse into the verve of this early new england town .