Incorporated in 1734, the town’s original economic base depended on farming and grazing, with lumbering as a secondary activity. By the early 19th century, the Lee family tannery had been built and continued in operation throughout the century. The primarily agricultural economy of the town shifted in the direction of commercial businesses because of its proximity to Lowell. Residents of Tewksbury developed greenhouses and market gardens between 1890 and 1915, as the town's dominant business, while many hothouses raised carnations and other flowers commercially for city markets. So many were raised that Tewksbury held the name of the Carnation Town for years.
Tewksbury recreational Facilities include: the 126 acre Trull Brook Golf Course, and a number of public facilities for baseball, softball, football, soccer, tennis and nature observing. Tewksbury is also adjacent to the city of Lowell, which offers abundant cultural and recreational attractions.
Tewksbury is home to companies such as Acusphere, Avid Technologies and Demoulas Super Markets Inc.