The Taunton River is rich in history. The area served as a vital waterway for both Native American settlements as well as Colonial settlements. There are historic sites of Native American trails, river crossings, settlements, remains of colonial grist mills, ship building yards, industrial iron works, as well as paper and textile mills found all along the Taunton River. In addition, Paleo Indian artifacts have been found in the Taunton River area dating back as far as 12,000 years.
The Taunton River Stewardship Council prioritizes the preservation and education of culture and history within the Taunton River watershed.