Essex National Heritage Area

Shipwrecks of Salem Sound with Captain Ray Bates Jr.
2024-07-26 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us for an exciting harbor tour focused on the infamous shipwrecks of Salem Sound with Captain Ray Bates, Jr.

Come aboard Naumkeag with lifelong historian, author, and local diver, Captain Ray Bates, Jr., for a harbor tour to visit the sites and hear the stories of the many shipwrecks of Salem Sound. Captain Bates has been exploring shipwrecks since 1969 and has written several books on the maritime disasters that have occurred along Boston’s North Shore and Cape Ann. Essex Heritage is thrilled to partner with Ray, as he leads a tour sharing and locating the shipwrecks along the coast of Salem, Beverly and Marblehead, allowing passengers to truly “dig into the past and unearth long-lost stories for themselves.”
All passengers will receive a signed copy of Ray’s book, Shipwrecks North of Boston: Volume 1 , Salem Bay.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).
Adults: $40 Children (4-12 yr): $25 (Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount!)
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
About 1 hour and 30 minutes round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go?
All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
2024-07-26 10:00 - 14:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion at Bakers Island Light.

Explore Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light Station
Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.
This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership

What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
About 4 hours round-trip.
What should I wear or bring with me?

Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Comfortable clothing.
IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
Wild edibles may be available to nibble and sip on during this adventure but, it won’t be a full lunch. There will be a scheduled break for lunch, so please pack a sandwich or snacks, plus water, if you will need it.

Are there restrictions on who can go?
Yes. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What is the trip like?
It is an adventure aboard Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag…

Arrive at our stone beach.
Disembark and follow special host Russ Cohen as he points out the native and invasive species that inhabit the 10 acres owned by Essex Heritage.
Enjoy an hour and half of guided discovery and explore the edible options while learning about living off the grid.
Please Note: The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.
If the boat leaves the dock but cannot land on the island: In the very unlikely event that the boat arrives at Bakers Island but cannot disembark passengers, you will still have experienced a pleasant boat ride and harbor tour. In this case, you will receive a refund for 50% of your ticket cost(s). (Only full refunds will be given if the boat doesn’t leave the dock.)

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there is only one composting toilet facility at the Light Station.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Misery Island Mushroom Walk
2024-07-19 16:00 - 18:30 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join mycologist Jana Harris from Essex Forays for a guided mushroom walk at Great Misery Island.
Explore the fungi of Great Misery Island.
Join us for a guided mushroom walk for all those interested in discovering fungi growing on the Misery Island of the coast of Beverly/Salem. This unique island environment hosts conifer and hardwood trees that provide background to growing fungi. Fungi don’t stop there. Animals nesting and living on this island contribute in a major way to fungi/lichens growth on stone ruins of the island. Join us on an exploratory walk around the island with Jana Harris of Essex Forays, certified in Wild Mushroom Food Safety and member of Boston Mycological Club. Jana will ID mushrooms as we go and learn about edible and nonedible species. The trip will last about 2.5 hr and will give participants a chance to look close up at mushroom species that thrive in this secluded environment. Depending on weather there will be different types of mushrooms to explore. Please wear sturdy shoes, long pants, garden gloves (poison ivy is here), bring a water bottle, tick and bug repellent, ID field guide and basket (optional). Space is limited to 17participants. Please be aware that there is a lot of poison ivy off the trails on the island.
Boat Departure Location:
Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).
Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
About 2.5 hours round-trip (includes 30-minute boat ride each way).
What should I wear or bring with me?
Rubber-soled shoes.
Flip-flops not recommended; NO heels.
Comfortable clothing (long pants recommended)
Garden gloves
Tick and bug repellent
ID field guide
IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
Pack water and a snack if needed.
Are there restrictions on who can go?
Yes. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

What is the trip like?
It is an adventure aboard Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag…

Sit back and enjoy a 30-minute trip from Salem to Great Misery Island.
Arrive at Great Misery Island to disembark on the beach.
Walk with mycologist, Jana Harris, for a 1.5-hour exploration of the fungi that inhabit Great Misery Island.
Be ready to depart from Great Misery Island the designated time for a 30-minute ride back to Salem.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it. You will be exposed to the elements going to and from the island.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are VERY limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. There are facilities located on Great Misery Island, but they are limited and will not be easily accessible during the walk.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM-4 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Cruising Salem Harbor with Reverend William Bentley
2024-07-12 16:30 - 18:30 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join historian Donald Friary as you travel back in time with Reverend William Bentley to discover Salem Harbor as he saw it in 1800.
During this boat tour follow up to historian Donald Friary’s virtual presentation of Reverend William Bentley’s Salem Harbor, you’ll explore the harbor with Reverend Bentley and learn more about the way he experienced it. According to his diary, Reverend William Bentley seemed to be everywhere.
He saw Salem’s ship captains departing for and returning from voyages around the world to bring exotic goods and new ideas to their home port. Mr. Bentley saw beached whales, shipwrecks, a seven-foot shark, seals and porpoises, lobsters and crabs. He noted ropewalks, shipyards, cooperages, and fish flakes, as well as privateers and smugglers. He was saddened by drownings and marveled at the frozen harbor. He knew all the islands—Bakers, the Miseries, Orne’s, Eagle, Cat, Ram—and impediments to navigation—Half-Way Rock, Kettle Bottom, Abbott’s Rocks, Bowditch’s Ledge.
About Donald Friary
Donald Friary is Director Emeritus of Historic Deerfield, Inc. and past President of the Colonial Society of Massachusetts. A Boston native, he first came to Salem on a summer camp day trip in the late 1940s. As an historian, he has been intrigued by the city for decades. Since moving to Salem in 2005, he has immersed himself in its history and can occasionally be seen walking the streets in the guise of the Reverend William Bentley (1759-1819). As Principal of History for Hire Mr. Friary is an independent consultant to museums and historical organizations. He offers walking tours of Salem through the international firm, Tours by Locals .
Boat Departure Location:
Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).
Adults: $40 Children (4-12 yr): $25 (Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount!)
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip?
About 2 hours round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go?
All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled?
Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Questions?
Please call (978) 212-9227
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Treasure Islands of Salem Sound with Chris Leahy
2024-06-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Naturalist Chris Leahy will be leading this nautical exploration of the marine habitats of Salem Sound and will help you identify all the birds you’ll see along the way. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of Salem Harbor and learn more about the amazing array of bird species who call the north shore home during the summer months.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip? About 1 hour and 30 minutes round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go? All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled? Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
PURCHASE TICKETS
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Heritage Friend Event with Marblehead Museum - New Location!
2024-06-20 17:30 - 19:00 | Marblehead Museum, 170 Washington Street, Marblehead, 01945, United States
Due to the heat, the event will take place at the Marblehead Museum with the option to visit the 1st floor of the mansion, right across the street.
NEW LOCATION:
Marblehead Museum
170 Washington Street
Marblehead, MA
New this year, Essex Heritage will be offering our Heritage Friend Event series. We will coordinate special experiences such as an open house or a behind-the-scenes tour at sites throughout Essex County, giving our partners the opportunity to showcase something new or exciting.
To kick things off, the inaugural event will be hosted by Marblehead Museum at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion starting at 5:30 p.m. on June 20th. Hear about the exciting projects in progress at the Museum while enjoying access to the grounds and an open house of the first floor of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion. Light refreshments will be provided. This event is open to Essex Heritage members FREE of charge but registration will be required. Non-member registration is $5.00 per person.
Register HERE.
*Explorer membership allows you to claim 1 free ticket, Voyager membership allows you to claim up to 2 free tickets plus children under 17 are free.
Have a question about your membership? Want to check to see if your membership is still active? Happy to help! Contact Heather Goss, Manager of Community Engagement, by email at heatherg@essexheritage.org.

The Die is Now Cast: Essex County’s Political and Military Response to the Intolerable Acts
2024-06-05 18:00 - 19:30 | Meredith Farm, 41 Cross Street, Topsfield, MA, 01983, United States
In December 1773, a mob of Boston residents stormed three merchant ships moored at Griffin’s Wharf and quickly destroyed the chests of East India Company tea located onboard. Three months later, in response to the Boston Tea Party, Parliament passed a series of laws known as the Boston Port Bill. These legislative acts essentially stripped Massachusetts colonists of their constitutional, economic, and political rights.
Nicknamed the “Intolerable Acts” by New Englanders, the passage of these punitive laws pushed Massachusetts, including the colonists of Essex County, to the brink of war.
Join historian Alexander Cain as he explores Essex County’s political and constitutional responses to the Intolerable Acts and the steps the colonists of the county took to prepare for war with England after reconciliation became impossible.
Purchase Tickets

This program is part of Essex County Revolution 250.
Essex County Revolution 250 is an initiative of Essex Heritage in partnership with Massachusetts Rev250 and dozens of regional museums, heritage sites, and organizations, with the intention of raising awareness and highlighting the diverse stories of Essex County, Massachusetts residents, free and unfree, during the American Revolutionary period. For more information visit essexheritage.org/rev250
Meredith Farm is a privately owned, 188 acre farm in Topsfield, which has been recently renovated. It’s 1793 Barn houses an extensive private collection of artifacts related to American history.

Abenaki Woodland Stories with Anne Jennison
2024-05-18 11:00 - 12:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us for a special program with Anne Jennison who will share some of her favorite traditional Abenaki/Wabanaki woodland stories.

Join Native American storyteller, historian, and educator, Anne Jennison, for a special in person performance of traditional Abenaki/Wabanaki stories. This engaging and interactive presentation features the “Animal People” and their adventures in the Northeastern Woodlands. These stories are kid-friendly and meant for audiences of all ages to enjoy!
This event is free but registration is strongly encouraged as space is limited, so be sure to secure your seats.
About the Storyteller
Anne Jennison is a traditional Native American storyteller with both European and Abenaki heritage. Anne’s storytelling skills have been polished by more than 30 years of experience sharing Indigenous lesson stories with audiences of all kinds. With Master Degrees in both Storytelling and History, Anne also brings a wealth of cultural and historical knowledge to enrich her retelling of timeless Northeast Woodlands Native American stories. Anne is listed on the New Hampshire Traditional Artists Roster as a traditional Abenaki storyteller & craftsperson. You can read more about Anne here.
This Teaching Hidden Histories program has been made possible thanks to generous funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The Great Debate: Birthplace of the American Navy
2024-05-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Are you Team Beverly or Team Marblehead? Where is the birthplace of the American Navy? Two local towns that have argued with each other for centuries over this question. Help us settle the Great Debate once and for all!
Come out and support your town as historians K. David Goss (Beverly) and Charlie Newhall (Marblehead) as they battle it out to decide the TRUE birthplace of the American Navy.
The debate will be moderated by David Olson former Editor-in-Chief of the Salem News.
Privateer Rum will be on hand to represent the winning side (in their opinion), and offer samples from their lineup.
Purchase Tickets
We will also have a limited number of commemorative buttons in support of Beverly or Marblehead (first come, first served)
Discounts available for members of Historic Beverly, Marblehead Museum, or Essex Heritage, please contact us for more information (info@essexheritage.org)

Debater Bios:
David Goss enjoys history and is an author of seven books on American colonial and maritime history and happens to teach history at Gordon College. A Massachusetts native—-he was not born at Beverly Hospital, however his wife and all his children were born there. Once upon a time he actually served as executive director of the Beverly Historical Society.
Charlie Newhall was not born in the Mary Alley Hospital nor was he in the U. S. Navy. Neither was his Marblehead-raised father, who was in the Air Force. He happens to be a United States History teacher at St. John’s Prep in Danvers and does know how to sail and has done so well East of downeast into the Canadian Maritimes where he claims to never have privateered. However, he does know the response to “Down Bucket.”
This program is part of Essex County Revolution 250.
Essex County Revolution 250 is an initiative of Essex Heritage in partnership with Massachusetts Rev250 and dozens of regional museums, heritage sites, and organizations, with the intention of raising awareness and highlighting the diverse stories of Essex County, Massachusetts residents, free and unfree, during the American Revolutionary period. For more information visit essexheritage.org/rev250
This event is generously sponsored by Privateer Rum:

Spring Annual Meeting
2024-04-23 08:30 - 22:00 | Hamilton Hall, 9 Chestnut Street, Salem, MA, 01970
Join us for a morning of networking & regional engagement! The meeting will be held at Hamilton Hall (9 Chestnut Street in Salem) on Tuesday, April 23 at 9:00 am. Attendees are welcome to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am for networking and coffee.
The agenda will include an update on what’s happening in the Heritage Area, announcing Partnership Grant recipients, voting in new Commissioners, special awards, and more.
Register here: https://forms.gle/m1Xt7u6js62eiP7W6
Many thanks to Hamilton Hall for hosting!

Under the Sea Storytime: Tales & Touch
2024-04-18 14:00 - 15:30 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us during April school vacation week for a special family event where we will be “diving in” to all things under the sea! Come enjoy some ocean-themed stories, songs, and games, followed by a craft and the chance to meet and learn about real Salem sea creatures from Salem Sound Coastwatch’s touch tank!
REGISTER HERE
This FREE event is presented in partnership with the Salem Public Library and Salem Sound Coastwatch. It is geared towards children ages 3+ (with caregivers), but open to all. Registration is strongly encouraged, space is limited.
Enjoy a sneak peek of our periwinkle craft!
https://essexheritage.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Make-Your-Own-Rocking-Periwinkle-FINAL.mp4

Teaching Hidden Histories: Reexamining the American Revolution Through Multiple Local Lenses
2024-04-06 08:30 - 13:00 | St. John’s Prep, 72 Spring Street, Danvers, MA, 01923
Join Us!
Saturday, April 6, 2024
8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
St. John’s Prep, Kenneally Commons, Danvers
Space is limited. Please email Beth Beringer (BethB@essexheritage.org) for information on registering.
PDPs for Educators Offered! All are welcome.
Essex Heritage invites you to a FREE workshop. Youth in the region are asking their teachers for a more accurate and honest portrayal of U.S. History and how events impacted ALL of the people that live in America. Using primary sources from institutions throughout Essex County, local educators, historians and scholars will help us reexamine the American Revolution through the lens of women, Black and Indigenous people.

What is the current interpretation of the American Revolution in our regional public history and educational programming?
What are the stories related to these topics that our institutions are not telling, especially as it relates to women, Black and Indigenous people’s perspectives?
How has commemoration of the American Revolution celebrated and perpetuated traditional narratives about the Revolution in our area? How has it invited us to consider other narratives?
What strategies can we use to teach and interpret a more inclusive understanding about this history, especially as we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution?

Participants will consider these and other questions through educator facilitated activities, critical discussions and a panel presentation moderated by Dr. Bethany Jay, Professor at Salem State University and editor of Understanding and Teaching American Slavery, 2016.
Panelists and contributors include:

Toni Waldron, Educator, Royall House and Slave Quarters, Medford
Jeanne Pickering, Historian and Vice President, Topsfield Historical Society
Pamela Ellis, Tribal Historian and Genealogist, Natick Nipmuc Indian Council
Maryann Zujewski, Education Program Manager, National Park Service
Lauren McCormack, Director, Marblehead Museum
Lou Meyi, Marblehead Racial Justice Team
Brian Sheehy, History Department Coordinator, North Andover Public Schools
Charlie Newhall, History Teacher, St. John’s Prep, Danvers
Zhane Burton, Teacher, Prospect Hill School
Lucy Keller, Research Coordinator, Historic Beverly
Beth Bower, Trustee, Historic Beverly
Cathy Kelley, Education Manager, Cape Ann Museum
Christopher Locke, Collections Manager, Lynn Museum/LynnArts
Jonathan Streff, Teacher, St. John’s Prep

Our generation, especially as people of color, black kids, we have a hunger to see ourselves represented in our communities, in the media and in our classrooms and the spaces around us.
– Vanessa Basame, Student, Co-President, Masconomet Regional High School ACE Club 2023
An effective history and social science education incorporates diverse perspectives and acknowledges that perceptions of events are affected by race, ethnicity, culture, religion, education, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, and personal experience.
-Guiding Principle 2 for Effective History and Social Science Education Massachusetts Curriculum Framework for History and Social Science, 2018
This program is part of Essex County Revolution 250.

Essex County Revolution 250 is an initiative of Essex Heritage in partnership with Massachusetts Rev250 and dozens of regional museums, heritage sites, and organizations, with the intention of raising awareness and highlighting the diverse stories of Essex County, Massachusetts residents, free and unfree, during the American Revolutionary period. For more information visit essexheritage.org/rev250

Essex Heritage Photo Contest Reception
2024-03-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Come celebrate the talented winner’s of the 2023 Essex Heritage Photo Contest at a special reception scheduled for March 6th at 6:00pm at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center in Salem. Light refreshments will be available and winning photos will be on display. There will be a brief awards ceremony beginning at 6:30pm.
This event is free and open to the public, you may RSVP here.

Charlotte's Little Salem
2024-02-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join Salem’s own abolitionist, writer, and educator, Charlotte Forten, for a special craft time at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center.

Join Salem’s own abolitionist, writer, and educator, Charlotte Forten, for a special craft time at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center. With clay, wood, and coloring materials, kids and their caregivers will contribute to building a 3D miniature city of gratitude for the freedoms and comforts long fought for during Charlotte’s lifetime.
Spend the morning with Charlotte making your very own little home and other mini goods, while learning about her life along the way. Participants will also be inspired by the writings dear to her as she grew from a schoolgirl to a schoolteacher — the first Black woman to teach in an integrated classroom!
All ages are welcome, but this activity is recommended for kids 7 and up. The event is FREE, but registration is strongly encouraged to ensure availability of craft materials. Space is limited.
This program is a production of History Alive, Inc., and was supported in part by an Essex Heritage partnership grant.
Kids will use crayons and clay to decorate their little homes which are pre-painted and easy to assemble.

March to Burial Hill, Marblehead
2024-01-27 17:00 - 18:00 | Old Burial Hill Cemetery, Marblehead, MA, 01945, United States
General John Glover died on January 30, 1797 and is entombed at Old Burial Hill. The commander of the Glover’s Marblehead Regiment; Captain Seamus Daly will deliver an oration remembering General Glover’s service to the country, state and town. Following the oration, members of the regiment will render honors by firing three musket volleys and will then march back to the Old Town House. Members of the public and reenactors are invited to join the regiment as they march under lantern light and drumbeat from the Old Town House on Washington St., Marblehead to General Glover’s tomb. While members of the regiment will be in 18th-century attire, members of the public are welcome to attend in 21st-century attire, and are encouraged to bring candle lit lanterns.

1779 letter from General George Washington unveiling
2024-01-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Marblehead Museum, 170 Washington Street, Marblehead, 01945, United States
Marblehead Museum is thrilled to announce the acquisition of a 1779 letter from General George Washington to Marblehead’s heroic Revolutionary War general, John Glover. This special letter, featuring George Washington’s signature, is a reply to John Glover’s request to resign from the Continental Army due to the recent death of his wife, Hannah. The response, penned by Washington’s aide-de-camp, replies, “I am sorry for the unfortunate occasion that urges you to leave the service; but as I cannot take the measure on myself of accepting your resignation, I have therefore referred your letter to Congress. . . . [S]hould your resignation [be] accepted, it will be with that concern which I cannot help feeling on the loss of a good officer.”
This significant piece of Marblehead’s history was purchased at auction from Swann Auction Galleries thanks to a generous donation by Glover’s Marblehead Regiment.
The Marblehead Museum and Glover’s Regiment invite the public to an official unveiling of the letter at 3pm on Saturday, January 27th in the 2nd-floor JOJ Frost Gallery and Carolyn Lynch Education Center at the Marblehead Museum (there is no elevator – and no off-street parking available). The letter will continue be on display in the Museum when it reopens on March 1, 2024. Open Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am-4pm March through May; Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10am-4pm, June through December.

The Great Halifax Explosion: An Anniversary Presentation
2023-12-07 18:30 - 20:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
On December 6, 1917, during the height of WWI, a massive explosion took place in Halifax Harbor in Nova Scotia, Canada.

On December 6, 1917, during the height of WWI, two ships trying to navigate Halifax Harbor collided resulting in the largest man-made explosion of the pre-atomic age.
Essex Heritage President, David Read, will recount the events leading up to this devastating tragedy and the impressive Massachusetts rescue effort. Relive the personal stories and riveting details of the weeks that followed – and learn about the most important train to ever travel through Essex County.
Join us for a special presentation on about this historic day and learn why the citizens of Nova Scotia still send a special gift of appreciation each year!
This 1.5-hour lecture will be followed by a brief Q&A.
TICKETS $10 Essex Heritage Members; $12 Non-Members. (member discount applied when you enter your member “promotional” code)

Salem Witch Hunt: Myths & Misconceptions Walking Tour
2023-11-12 13:45 - 14:45, 2023-11-12 11:45 - 12:45, 2023-11-11 13:45 - 14:45, 2023-11-11 11:45 - 12:45, 2023-11-10 13:45 - 14:45, 2023-11-10 11:45 - 12:45, 2023-11-05 13:45 - 14:45, 2023-11-05 11:45 - 12:45 and 5 more dates | Salem Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Learn the true causes and events behind the Salem Witch Trials in our documentary film, then discover the myths during our walking tour.

The Salem Witch Trials happened over 300 years ago, and it has been dramatized in books, documentaries, movies, and even TV shows. Over the years it has been presented so many times in so many ways that the line between fact and fiction gets blurred.
Our walking tour seeks to debunk any misconceptions you might have about the Salem Witch Trials, by sharing historic images, documents, and locations to uncover these myths and discover the truth behind this infamous time period in Salem’s history.
All walking tour tickets include entry to our documentary film Salem Witch Hunt: Examine the Evidence which features authentic dialogue taken from court transcripts and commentary by renowned Salem Witch Trial scholars. Scenes depicted in the film were shot at actual locations associated with the Witch Trials of 1692. (Film is shown 11:00am,1:00pm and 3:00pm) You can choose to see the film before or after your walking tour.

FAQs
How long is the tour and where does it go?
The tour lasts 60-75 minutes, and travels less than 1 mile around downtown Salem. The tour includes stops at the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, and the site of the original 17th century jail.
Where does this tour leave from?
All tours leave from in front of the Salem Armory Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket?
You do not need to print our your tickets you can just show the confirmation email to the tour guide or staff at the Essex Heritage Information Desk.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?
For detailed information about parking/transportation to Salem in October CLICK HERE
Is this tour handicap accessible?
Not entirely, a few of the areas that the tour goes are uneven, narrow, or dirt paths that are not easily navigated with wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Please also be aware that the tour lasts 60-75 minutes and does not include places to sit so be prepared to stand the entire time.
For any questions and information please call (978)224-2036 or email KathrynR@EssexHeritage.org
PLEASE NOTE: We will only cancel the tour due to extreme rain, so be prepared for any kind of weather as October temperatures can be unpredictable, and this tour takes place entirely outdoors. Ticket holders will be notified by email or text if we decide to cancel last minute.
REFUNDS WILL NOT BE ISSUED IF YOU MISS YOUR TOUR DUE TO PARKING OR TRAFFIC ISSUES; TRAFFIC IS HEAVY IN OCTOBER, AND PARKING IS EXTREMELY LIMITED, PLEASE PLAN IN ADVANCE TO ARRIVE ON TIME.
The city has an interactive parking map for the downtown CLICK HERE to view that.
