Cohasset was founded by European settlers in 1614 when the famous Captain John Smith was exploring the coast of New England. However, around 1670, the land was so sought after that it was divided among landowner proprietors. Shares of the land were divided into nearly 700 pieces, with each piece made up of long strips mixed in with different types of land. These landowners were called the “Conahasset Partners,” which was named after the Algonquian word for “long rocky place.”

Eventually, Cohasset became independent because its parent town, Hingham, was only accessible through a single road occupied by Native Americans. During that time, the road was perilous and made it impossible to ship goods and for children to attend school. This led to its final independent settlement in 1770. After that, residents of the town became merchants, fishermen, and shipbuilders. Around the same time, many people turned to the maritime business and profited greatly from cod, mackerel, and lobster, which remains an integral part of Cohasset’s industry.

There’s no question as to why the Algonquians called Cohasset the “long rocky place.” Because of its rigid, stony coastline with ledges and forests throughout, Cohasset’s coastline is unique compared to other towns along the Massachusetts Bay. However, in coastal environments like these, it’s not uncommon for pests like termites, mosquitoes, and rodents to be in abundance—especially around locals’ homes and buildings.