The Essex National
Heritage Area
Welcome to the Essex National Heritage Area, where past is present. Designated in 1996 by the U.S. Congress, the Essex National Heritage Area covers the 500 square miles of eastern Massachusetts that lies north of Boston. It's not one location, but thousands of historical sites. Not a mile-long beach, but miles and miles of intact landscapes and glistening coastal areas. Not one story and tradition, but lifetimes of rich experiences that chronicle the history of our region, and our nation.
As you explore our historic cities and towns and natural areas, you will hear the stories of the people, and the land. Historic seaports and New England town commons; industrial mills and pristine beaches; renowned museums and wildlife refuges; working farms and inviting natural trails - from the North Shore to the Merrimack River Valley, the stories of the Essex National Heritage Area are your stories. It's where beaches sing, mills hum, and your heritage whispers.
The ENHA is part of the Alliance of National Heritage Areas (ANHA). The Alliance of National Heritage Areas is a collaboration of the 24 Congressionally designated heritage areas that represent stories of nationally significant and distinct aspects of America's heritage. For more information about the ANHA, please visit www.nationalheritageareas.org.