Hingham, Massachusetts
Plymouth county. A pleasant town on Boston harbor, and an agreeable resort for citizens and strangers. It lies 11 miles S.E. from Boston by water, and 14 by land. Hingham cove is 5 miles S.W. from Nantasket beach, about 6 W. from Cohasset harbor, and 24 N.N.W. from Plymouth. First settled, 1633. Incorporated, 1635. Population, in 1830, 3,357; 1837, 3,445.
Major-general Benjamin Lincoln, was born in this town, Jan. 23, 1733; he died May 9, 1810.
This town is remarkable for its healthiness and longevity. During 50 years, 8 persons died in one house, whose average age was 84 years.
About 80 sail of vessels belong to this place which are engaged in the cod and mackerel fishery, and coasting trade;—aggregate tonnage about 5,000 tons.
In this town is an iron foundry, considerable ship building, a steam bucket factory; and large quantities of other wooden wares are manufactured, and some salt.
The amount of manufactures of Hingham, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was $237,078. They consisted of leather, boots, shoes, iron castings, hats, ploughs, cabinet, tin and wooden wares, silk, salt, vessels, umbrellas, spars and blocks, cordage, carriages, hammers, and hatchets. The product of the cod and mackerel fishery, the same year, was $113,700. Total amount of the fishery and manufactures, $350,778.
Derby Academy, a free school, and the Willard Private Academy, are highly respectable seminaries, and promise great privileges to parents.
A commodious steam-boat plies between this and Boston, in summer months, two or three times a day. The hotels are large, and furnish excellent accommodations. Baker's Hill presents extensive and delightful views of Boston harbor. An excursion to Hingham is very pleasant.