Masonry in New England dates back to the early 1600s when European settlers brought traditional stone and bricklaying techniques to the New World. The abundant natural stone found in the region—granite, limestone, and fieldstone—became the foundation for homes, churches, and civic buildings. Early masons relied on locally sourced materials, giving each structure a distinct character that reflected the landscape and available resources.

Colonial homes often featured stone foundations and chimneys, with brick becoming more common as trade routes expanded. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Federal and Georgian architectural styles incorporated refined brick facades and symmetrical stonework. Cobblestone roads, stone walls marking property lines, and slate-roofed buildings became staples of New England’s architectural identity.