..., there had been no new cities in Massachusetts since the incorporation of Salem and Lowell in 1836. But following the example of Boston's three little neighbors, New Bedford became a city in 1847, Worcester in 1848, and Lynn in 1850. Then came Newburyport in 1851, Springfield in 1852, Lawrence in 1853, Fall River in 1854, and so the list has lengthened, year by year. With the exception of the three ...