See also: Timeline of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Map showing the original boundaries of Cambridge and other Massachusetts cities and towns. In December 1630, the site of what would become Cambridge was chosen because it was safely upriver from Boston Harbor, making it easily defensible from attacks by enemy ships.

Cambridge became a city in 1846, uniting three rival villages -- Old Cambridge, Cambridgeport and East Cambridge. Old Cambridge had grown slowly and still retained its charming rural character. Small shops catered to the community and to students.