We often hear people ask, "What is North Andover like?" And the more specific, cringeworthy version, "Is North Andover like Andover?"
We thought it would be fun to have a discussion thread about what makes us North Andover. And we're interested to know how you describe North Andover to people who don't live here.
Is North Andover unique, or similar to other New England towns? How would you describe your town to out-of-towners? What about North Andover should out-of-towners know about?
Let us know what you think in the comments. And as always, keep it clean.
Dan Conroy
12:37 pm on Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Very unique. It's not what it used to be, but it has a charm that can't be ignored.
Carol Majahad
4:04 pm on Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Is it like Andover? North Andover is unique because the original settlement ( Meeting House and all the house lots) of Andover in 1645 was located here in the vicinity of Court Street and Academy Road. What other early town had to change its name when the second parish decided to split off as a separate town in 1855? North Andover has charm and a little known history--and you can discover it at the Parson Barnard House this Saturday between 11am and 3 pm>
Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care
5:56 pm on Wednesday, August 29, 2012
North Andover stays true to its "Hometown" feel. Everyone knows everyone. How many towns do you know your Police, Fire and Selectman on a first name basis? It really is a community. NA supports the local businesses too...as a business owner I cannot express my gratitude to all the residents that have made my business successful and FUN !
De
10:18 pm on Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Honest view from a student birthed from the North Andover Public Schools system:
Many bullies & theives at NAMS. Pot smokers & alcoholics galore at NAHS.
Salem St & beyond is where the rich people live. Woodridge is our town's trailer trash.
On the bright side, no need to worry about gun violence.
Bryan McGonigle2
11:25 am on Thursday, August 30, 2012
We're spending $38 million every year on those schools. I hope this isn't the majority view of recent graduates.
NA_Resident
4:47 pm on Thursday, September 13, 2012
I grew up in the "trailer trash" and I've done pretty well for myself. Most of the kids that I came up with me have done well too. That was a pretty nasty generalization and indicative of the town's ongoing holier than thou attitude. I'm not surprised to see its still alive and well.
Bryan McGonigle
11:35 am on Thursday, August 30, 2012
To me, North Andover is a "big small town." It has that nice small town appeal but it's conveniently along two highways and in the middle of the Merrimack Valley so it's not too out-of-the-way. It's also full of people who are very involved in the community. Oh, and there are lots of turkeys roaming around. And apparently three pigs.
Bill Callahan
7:25 am on Friday, August 31, 2012
As someone who moved here from elsewhere, I find North Andover a vibrant and diverse community on the rise. I've been impressed by efforts like the RAISE program in the schools and the way the community comes together for events like the Sheep Shearing festival and the concerts.
I'm impressed by the host of civic groups from the North Andover Soccer Association to the Family Cooperative Pre-School to the Lion's club.