Agawam, Massachusetts, is a city steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to the Native American village originally sited on the west bank of the Connecticut River. The area was known as Agawam, or by various other names, speculated to mean “unloading place” or “fish curing place,” perhaps in reference to fish at Agawam Falls being unloaded from canoes for curing on the flats at the mouth of the Westfield River. The land that would become Agawam was purchased on May 15, 1636, by William Pynchon from the local Pocomtuc Indians. The town of Agawam was officially incorporated on May 17, 1855, and later became a city on January 1, 1973. The town’s history includes the establishment of a gin distillery by John Porter in 1771, which was later operated by his grandson as the H. Porter Distilling Company.

In the present day, Agawam is a vibrant city that continues to grow and evolve. It is part of the Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area and is known for the Six Flags New England amusement park located on the banks of the Connecticut River. The city’s ZIP code, 01001, holds the distinction of being the lowest in the contiguous United States. Recently, the city has seen the development of the New Day Church, a contemporary church that is set to open its doors on March 31, 2024, as part of a multi-site church franchise in the region. This new establishment reflects Agawam’s ongoing commitment to community and growth, showcasing how the city honors its past while embracing the future.