Essex National Heritage Area Guides
An ever-expanding series of thematic guides to the region, which connect residents, visitors and future stewards with heritage sites and encourage regional exploration. The Essex National Heritage Commission has produced these guides with the cooperation of local experts and participating organizations throughout the Area. View, Download and/or Request a Printed Guide (depending on availability).
Guide to First Period Architecture
In Essex County you will discover more houses constructed by America's earliest settlers than anywhere else in the country. Use this online guide to search alphabetically by community and find the buildings the early settlers constructed between 1625 and 1725.
When you buy local food, you get fresh taste and support our unique heritage. Use this online guide to enjoy, appreciate, and support the farms and farmland that contribute so much to the Essex National Heritage Area! Purchasing locally grown foods means healthy, safe and satisfying meals for you and your family. A wide variety of products is available – fruits and berries, vegetables, goat cheese, delicious ice cream and baked goods, as well as unique products from llama wool to rare varieties of flowers and more. Shop the farmers’ markets, pick-your-own berries during the summer, discover native plants for your gardens, or just appreciate the vistas of working farm land.
The Great Outdoors of the Essex National Heritage Area are rich, varied and help to define the character of this region. Download or request a printed copy of this guide and take the time to get outside and discover this region’s wealth of natural resources.
Maritime Guide: Exploring the Coast of Essex County
Use this guide to explore lighthouses, beaches, historic homes and much more! Download or request a printed copy of this guide to learn about and explore the strong maritime heritage and spectacular beauty of the Coast of Essex County.