Town of Kingston

History of Kingston, Massachusetts

Before European settlers arrived, Kingston was within the tribal home of the Wampanoag people. Even before the Mayflower landed, the Wampanoags had been severely damaged by rapidly spreading pandemics from earlier contacts with Europeans. Several ancient Native American burial sites have been located within the borders of Kingston.

Originally the north precinct of the town of Plymouth, Kingston was first settled by Europeans in 1620, shortly after the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock. Modern day Kingston is believed to be the site of several battles during King Phillip's War from 1675–1676.

The Major John Bradford Homestead

Major Bradford's home, built in 1675, is still standing and open to the public today. According to tradition, the house was nearly burned during King Philip's War before the Major discovered the fire. Major John Bradford died on Dec. 8, 1736, in Kingston, at the age of about 84, and was laid to rest in the Old Burying Ground at First Church in Kingston.

The Jones River Village Historical Society works to collect, preserve and educate the public about the history of the Town of Kingston. The Homestead is located at 50 Landing Road, Kingston, MA 02364.

Kingston Irish Heritage Trail

Longtime former co-host of WCVB-TV's "Chronicle" Peter Mehegan was appointed ambassador for Kingston on the Scituate–West Cork, Ireland Sister City Committee developing the South Shore Irish Heritage Trail.

In 1847, when the Irish were being devastated by famine, 50 tons of corn was loaded onto the brig Gustavus, built at the Holmes boatyard in Kingston, and sent to Ireland. "The captain of the ship was besieged by people wandering the streets of Cork who were starving and wanted to get out," Mehegan said. Many immigrants went on to make Kingston their home.