Andover's (now called North Andover) first settlements were made about Cochichewick Brook, a "fair springe of sweet water." By 1835, North Andover had two textile mill districts (Sutton Mills and Stevens Mills) on the river.
The early settlers of what is now North Andover chose to establish their homes near Cochichewick Brook, which was noted for its purity. As a result, by 1835, the town had expanded to include two prominent textile mill areas along the river: Sutton Mills and Stevens Mills.