The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum

I attended a plein air event with a friend, hosted by the Cape Ann Plein Air Association. The location was ideal for the demonstration painter who was describing his thought process as he was painting a local historical landmark situated on the grounds of the shipyard.

If you like history and boats, this place is a hidden gem. A true glimpse into what makes Essex so special.

I simply just enjoy small town hidden spots. This is by far the best. Be sure to walk the yard as well.

We stopped to look around. Jeff came out and made everything we saw come to life Amazing

We had a fantastic visit here. First, we received a friendly welcome and an informative tour inside the visitor center/museum. Then we spent a long time exploring the shipyard before heading to the schoolhouse. There, Jim spent a couple of hours- way past closing time- giving us a tour and sharing stories. It’s a wonderful place, highly recommended if you love maritime history!

This was one of the best museum experiences that my husband and I have had in a long time. Richard Clark, a docent at the museum, gave us a personalized tutorial on shipbuilding that was vivid and informative. Do not miss the school house where Mr. Clark volunteers! Highly recommend!

Loved this place! If you like pretty and polish, this may not be your museum, but if you like real and working, you too will love it here. Take your time and discover...all kinds of stuff! There is a lot more here than will at first meet the eye. They build actual wooden boats here too. And by all means don't skip the old schoolhouse annex up the hill and down the block. For some perspective, the day after I visited here, I visited the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath. Of the two, and yes it's a close call, but I prefer Essex. Bath is sprawling, professional, and informative. But Essex...the place itself is an 'exhibit' in it's own right. It makes me smile.

What a great place if you are interested in ships and history. There is a fee, but it's worth it, because it goes toward preserving the grounds.
had great talks with the people that work there, bought a book and will definitely go back.

We took the guided tour and I have to say we loved it. A big surprise as I am a land lubber, but a well deserved five stars for the guides knowledge and passion.

If the names "Bluenose" and "Thebaud" are familiar to you, if you know the difference between "Chewbacca" and "Chebacco", then you'll be right at home here. The museum is an all too brief look at the schooner building industry that defines Essex. There's enough to be educational, but you'll leave hankering for more. The exhibits are fascinating. The ship models are beautiful. Do yourself a favor and take the guided tour. Justin is a font of knowledge, some first-hand and some told to him by those who were "there", and he really brings the exhibits to life. Then, if you haven't already, go sail on "Ardelle" out of Gloucester, or "Fame" out Salem; both were built the old-fashioned way right across the creek at Harold Burnham's shop.

This is a great place. Amazing history so close up! Plus the Farmers Market is excellent!

So much to learn and see. Understanding the history and people. A major gem which should not be lost. Worth the tour and visit

Incredible museum, shipyard, and tour! Truly worth the visit if you’re interested in naval architecture or New England history.

My grandchildren love this place. The tour guide was very knowledgeable.

Really great grounds and displays. Loads of old boats and ship building displays

Great history of schooner building!

Great place. Quaint, historic, and beautiful spot. Wonderful programs.

Amazing pieces of history well preserved and cared for.

Excellent source for local historical information. And there certainly is plenty to learn about.

Interesting display of a craft...all too quickly going away..