Explore the coastal New England village of Essex, Massachusetts – known for shipbuilding, its estuary and pastoral landscapes, distinctive architecture, antique shops, outdoor recreation, restaurants and its clams.
MUSEUMS IN ESSEX, MA
COGSWELL’S GRANT FOLK ART MUSEUM
60 Spring Street, Essex, MA
If you love antiques, Historic New England’s Cogswell’s Grant should be on your itinerary. This 18th century farmhouse overlooking the Essex River was the summer home of collectors Bertram and Nina Fletcher Little, and is now a museum which houses their celebrated collection of American folk art.
Grounds open year round (Free). Admission fee and advance tickets required for Museum Tours offered Fridays and Saturdays only, June 2 - October 15, 2023 on the hour from 11 am - 3 pm. Free parking.
ESSEX HISTORICAL SOCIETY & SHIPBUILDING MUSEUM
66 Main Street, Essex, MA
The Essex Shipbuilding Museum tells the extraordinary story of a small New England village that built more two-masted wooden fishing schooners than any other place in the world. Shipbuilding in Essex began before 1668. By 1849 as many as 15 shipyards were producing over 50 vessels a year. In all, close to 4,000 wooden vessels had been built and launched into the Essex River.
Guided and self-guided tours available. Check their website for details.