PrimaryResearch.org > Primary Research through the History of Beverly > Beverly Hall of Fame > John Winthrop
John
Winthrop, Jr. was born on February 12, 1605 in Groton Suffolk England
and died on April 5, 1676 in Boston Massachussetts. John was a US senator,
however, he played significant role in Beverly. He set up the first flaking
house in Beverly, which was located in Ryalside. Fish flaking is the process
in which the fish is caught, killed, gutted, stretched, and salted.
Although this does not seem like much, Beverly's fish flaking house can
be linked to a much larger picture. Cod was Beverly's biggest export during
the 17th century. This is because its flesh contains less than 1% fat
and is easily preserved through drying; salted fish last much longer than
dried. This export opened up the door for trade relations. Not only did
Beverly's wealth increase, but this created an opportunity for communication
with other countries. Money, products, and ideas were shared.
Amy Synenki
