Lawrence, Massachusetts

Lawrence, Massachusetts is a city of approximately 70,000 located on the Merrimack River, twenty-five miles north of Boston. A multiethnic community with strong ties to its immigrant and industrial roots, Lawrence still retains a manufacturing base in the textile, shoe and electronics industries, some occupying the 19th and 20th century mill buildings which line both banks of the Merrimack.

Lawrence was incorporated in 1853, and the "Immigrant City" soon led the world's production of cotton and woolen textiles. Working conditions in Lawrence were often less than ideal; many mills were unsafe and overcrowded, and many of the workers were unskilled and spoke little or no English. In 1860, the Pemberton Mill collapse and subsequent fire killed 145 workers. The concentration of industry and sheer numbers of mill workers also made Lawrence a major force for change. In 1912, when a change in state law reduced workers' hours (and consequently, their earnings), 25,000 Lawrence textile workers went out on strike for higher wages. The American Woolen Company was among the companies involved in this labor action, which came to be known as the "Bread and Roses" strike, reflecting the workers' desire for a life that offered more than a subsistence wage. By the 1950s, the wool-processing industry was declining. Lawrence’s attempts to revive its fading economy met with mixed success. Urban renewal projects resulted in the loss of historic structures, and efforts were made to attract unpopular businesses such as trash incinerators and waste treatment facilities. Today, companies such as New Balance, Cardinal Shoe, and New England Affiliated Technology are headquartered in Lawrence, and many old mill buildings are being preserved and renovated.

As a planned industrial community, Lawrence has long had concerns around asbestos exposure. We provide information about mesothelioma treatment options in and around Lawrence at the bottom of this page. Additionally, asbestos lawyers may be able to give guidance if you were exposed to asbestos in Lawrence and then diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Jobsites in Lawrence where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

A number of jobsites in Lawrence, MA have been identified as harboring asbestos containing materials. These sites, at one point in their history, were known to have exposed a variety of tradesmen to asbestos. We will be documenting in more detail how asbestos exposure occurred at these sites in the future on this web site.

Mesothelioma Cancer Centers Near Lawrence, MA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma cancer centers that are located within a 100 mile radius of Lawrence, MA. Please click on a cancer center link to obtain more information about the clinical programs offered, professional designations, areas of expertise and how to contact the center.

Mesothelioma Doctors Near Lawrence, MA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma doctors who are located within a 100 mile radius of Lawrence, MA. Please click on a doctor link to obtain more information about his/her background, areas of expertise, professional affiliations and office locations.