History :
Ayer's history dates back to 1667 when the first mill, used to grind corn in the agricultural community, was built. Originally part of the town of Groton, Ayer was incorporated in 1871 and named in honor of Dr. James Cook Ayer, a prominent resident of Lowell who provided the funding for the construction of Town Hall (1873-76). The Town's growth was influenced by a period of rapid development of railroad transportation during the mid 19th century. Though only 9.5 square miles in area the Town became a major junction for both east-west and north-south rail lines, and developed into an important commercial center.
During the Civil War an army training camp, Camp Stevens, was located near the Nashua River. Camp Devens, which eventually became Fort Devens, was established at the onset of World War I. The presence of thousands of military and civilian personnel on the base shifted Ayer's commercial development towards meeting their needs until Fort Devens was closed in 1994.
The Town today is a reflection of its history. Within its relatively small area the Town boasts numerous industries, a thriving, historical downtown, unique to the region and modern commuter rail service to Boston .
Mattress/Box Spring Recycling Update Curbside Pickup Option Now Available to Ayer Residents Currently, there are no mattress/box spring recycling services offered at the Ayer Transfer Station. However, Town residents will now have the option to…
Read More »The second FY 2024 Budget Public Forum will be held on Wednesday, March 8 at 6pm in-person at the Ayer Town Hall or by remote participation on Zoom. (Zoom ID: 849 4805 4993 or Call In 929-205-6099) All FY 2024 Budget documents can be found…
Read More »Ayer is expected to experience a hard cold snap over the next few of days. The DPW Water Division would like to warn you about the common occurrence of frozen water pipes in this type of weather and make sure you keep the name and number of your…
Read More »Dear Citizens, Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Town of Ayer’s “Community Newsletter”. This new public communication initiative designed by our Town Clerk’s Office is intended to provide you with valuable information…
Read More »Eligible household may receive monthly rental assistance of $500 per month for one year through this program. A total of 5 grants are available. Please call the Office of Community and Economic Development (978) 772-8220 ext.142 or email…
Read More »FY23 Third and Fourth Quarter Real Estate/Personal Property Tax bills have been mailed. Third quarter bills are due by Wednesday February 1, 2023. Cash, check and credit/debit card payments accepted at the counter during Town Hall hours, (Monday,…
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