Weir Village, Massachusetts

The village takes its name from fishing weirs which were placed across the Taunton River from pre-colonial times until the early 20th century, to catch herring (also known as "alewifes").

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, ocean-going vessels would dock at Weir Village and was a vital part of the city of Taunton's economy, which included brickmaking, iron, textiles and machinery.

Weir Village was also an important early transport hub for grain leaving the interior areas of southeastern Massachusetts for export.

The former Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant is located further south, with its tall, twin smokestacks visible from many surrounding areas.

[3] In recent years, the Neighborhood Corporation, a non-profit group has been active in revitalizing Weir Village and surround parts of Taunton.