Author Archives: Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

About Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

Rebecca Beatrice Brooks is the author and publisher of the History of Massachusetts Blog. Rebecca is a freelance journalist and history lover who got her start in journalism working for small-town newspapers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire after she graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a B.A. in journalism. Visit this site's About page to find out more about Rebecca.

Map of New England by Captain John Smith circa 1616

How Did Plymouth Get Its Name?

Have you ever wondered how Plymouth, Massachusetts got its name? The answer is Plymouth was first named by Captain John Smith during his expedition to New England in 1614. Smith… Read more »

How Did New England Get Its Name?

Have you ever wondered how New England got its name? The answer is New England was named by English explorer Captain John Smith during his expedition to North America in… Read more »

How Did Martha’s Vineyard Get Its Name?

Ever wonder who Martha was and how Martha’s Vineyard got its name in the first place? The answer has been lost to time but some sources claim that the island… Read more »

History of Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is a small island off the coast of Cape Cod that is home to six small towns: Chilmark, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Tisbury, West Tisbury and Aquinnah. The following… Read more »

How Did Cape Cod Get Its Name?

Have you ever wondered where the name Cape Cod came from? The answer is Cape Cod was named after the abundant supply of cod fish found in the waters of… Read more »