Essex Historical Society & Shipbuilding Museum
(978) 768-7541
essexshipbuildingmuseum.org
66 Main Street, Essex

Photo by Arlene Taliadoros

Shipbuilding in Essex began before 1668. More than 4,000 wooden vessels have been launched from the banks of the Essex River.  Visit the Essex Shipbuilding Museum to learn the story of how the determination and enterprise of a small village of New Englanders developed the American Fishing Schooner – a vessel that  powered the fishing industry and changed maritime history. The Essex  Shipbuilding Museum is open April through December. Summer hours:  Memorial Day Weekend to October 31, Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. Off season hours, April to Memorial Day Weekend and November 1 to mid-December: Saturday and Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm. Guided Tours: Adults $10, $8 Seniors, $5 Children, under 5 years old free.  Self-Guided Tours: $7.