About Duxbury

A little History...

The area now known as Duxbury was inhabited by Native Americans as early as 12,000 to 9,000 B.C.  By the time European settlers arrived here, the region was inhabited by the Wampanoags who called this place Mattakeesett, meaning “place of many fish.”  Here the Native Americans cleared land for crops, hunted game both small and large, and fished along the many brooks.

In 1620, the English settlers known as the Pilgrims established their colony in Plymouth.  Some families came to establish a new religious community, others for the opportunity to own land and improve their lives.  It was a small group whose number increased slowly at first.  Per the terms of their contract with financial backers in London, they were required to live together in a tight community for seven years.  At the end of that term, in 1627, land along the coast was allotted to settlers for farming.  Each man was given twenty acres for himself and an additional twenty for each person in his family.  Thus, the coastline from Plymouth to Marshfield was parceled out and many settlers began moving away from Plymouth.

At first, those who settled in Duxbury came to work their new farms just in the warmer months and returned to Plymouth during the winter.  It was not long, however, before they began to build homes on their land, and soon requested permission from the colony to be set off as a separate community with their own church.  Duxbury, which originally included land that is now Pembroke and Bridgewater, was incorporated in 1637.

Why Live in Duxbury?

Duxbury, MA is a small coastal town in Plymouth County located 30 miles south of Boston. It has a population of about 15 thousand people and is known for its beaches, bike paths, and historical architecture. The town also boasts several parks and trails such as the Powder Point Bridge Nature Trail or Miles Standish State Park which offer plenty of outdoor activities to exploring nature.

Busy day on Duxbury Beach in Massachusetts

Duxbury is another sought after community offering excellent schools, great community services, and a safe, vibrant residential atmosphere. Snug harbor, located on Duxbury Bay is one of the most picturesque and attractive recreational boat basins along Massachusetts coast.

For most, Duxbury is known for having one of the most beautiful and accessible beaches in Massachusetts, namely Duxbury Beach. It is a 7.5-mile long barrier beach that extends from Marshfield in the north to Gurnet Point and Saquish Beach in the south. And, yes, you can drive on the beach.

Today, Duxbury is also the sixth largest cranberry producer in Massachusetts and has become famous for its delicious oysters. (Psst…Check out Island Creek Oysters)

My Top Restaurant Picks

Island Creek Oysters definitely exactly how it sounds!  If you want delicious oysters

Sun Tavern if you are someone that enjoys fine dining

Winsor House for Raw bar, oysters and weekend brunch!

If you are considering buying a home in Duxbury, MA, please feel free to contact Realtor Deborah Grigas at Coldwell Banker Realty at 978-407-0993 or by email at Deborah.grigas@cbrealty.com.