“ On February 26, 1775, a small body of English troops under Colonel Leslie, sent from Boston to destroy supplies stored at Salem, was met at North Bridge and forced to retire, this being one of the first instances in the colonies of armed resistance to Great Britain. For many years after the Revolution, Salem was an important commercial centre, and it was by Salem merchants that American trade was opened with China, Japan, Africa, and Brazil. But, the depth of the harbor being insullicient for vessels of large draught, Salem's trade was gradually transferred to Boston and New York. ”

“ There are in the city an almshouse, the Bertram Home for Aged Men, Home for Aged Women, City Orphan Asylum, and Salem Hospital, besides two other hospitals. Formerly noted for its commercial importance, Salem is at present primarily an industrial city, the various industries having in the census year 1900 an invested capital of $7,450,935, and an output valued at $12,257,449. Boots and shoes, cotton goods, leather, machinery, and lumber products constitute the leading manufactures. ”

“ The government is vested in a mayor, chosen annually, and a bicameral council, and in subordinate officials, who are either elected by the council or chosen by popular vote. For maintenance and operation, the city spends annually about $552,000, the main items being: for schools, $118,000 ”