Sitting 23 miles north of Boston on the banks of the Merrimack River is cheerful Andover, Massachusetts. The city dates clear back to 1636, making it hands-down one of the oldest cities in the U.S. It was originally settled under the Native American name of Cochichawicke. Ten years later, when it was incorporated, the city took the name of Andover in honor of the English town from where many of the city's settlers had come.
Andover is often called the "Home of America." It picked up this name after Samuel Francis Smith wrote the patriotic song "America" (also known as "My Country, 'Tis of Thee") while attending Andover Theological Seminary back in 1831.
Manufacturing played a major role in the Andover's early development. In fact, the city's first powder mill was established way back in 1775. Though Andover continues to attract major industries, it's also home to businesses of all sizes. City inhabitants can boast they're at a true business cross roads, thanks to major intersecting highways and a busy rail line that runs through the city. Andover is also in easy proximity to airports in both Boston and Manchester.
Cultural attractions are plentiful in this forward-thinking city, where museums and historical sites abound. Opportunities to view the performing arts are also scattered throughout the city, as are loads of sporting and outdoor activities. Andover has trails that run through conservation lands and are great both for hiking and cross country skiing. There's also Harold Parker State Forest, where 3,000 acres of open space make it a prime place for camping, biking, fishing, or horseback riding.
