Located in Essex County, Massachusetts, Peabody was founded in 1626. Pronounced 'PEA-buh-dee' — not 'Pee-body.'. Named for philanthropist George Peabody.
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Founded1626|Population54,000|Peak54,000(2024)|CountyEssex County
Top 10 Most Important Events for Peabody, Massachusetts
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1626Founded: Originally part of Salem.
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1868Named for Peabody: George Peabody, philanthropist.
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2010Modern Era: Peabody continued to develop as part of the greater metropolitan area, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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2020Modern Growth: Peabody continued to grow as part of its metropolitan area.
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Complete Historical Timeline
1626Culture
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1868Culture
Named for Peabody
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Modern Growth
Did You Know?
1
Pronounced 'PEA-buh-dee' — not 'Pee-body.'.
2
Named for philanthropist George Peabody.
3
Historic leather and tanning industry center.
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Peabody is located in Essex County, Massachusetts.
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Peabody was founded in 1626.
Famous People from Peabody, Massachusetts
JW
Jack Welch
Writer, Businessperson · Born Nov 19, 1935 · Died Mar 1, 2020 (age 84)
MB
Matt Bloom
Coach, Film Producer · Born Nov 14, 1972 · Age 53
GP
George Peabody
Entrepreneur, Banker · Born Feb 18, 1795 · Died Nov 4, 1869 (age 74)
BD
Brad Delp
Composer, Singer · Born Jun 12, 1951 · Died Mar 9, 2007 (age 55)
RW
Rochelle P. Walensky
Civil Servant, Academic · Born Apr 5, 1969 · Age 56
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