Marblehead Historic District
Marblehead, Massachusetts
- Address:Marblehead, MA 01945
- Website: Marblehead.org
- Map:
Map - Trail:
The Marblehead Historic District is one of the largest contiguous colonial districts to be placed on National Register, the nation’s official list of important sites and structures that preserves local, state, and national heritage. It was established under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 to provide eligible property owners with some federal tax benefits and federal grants for approved historic preservation. Official Map
From the beginning, Marblehead was a maritime port, with its colonial prosperity based on overseas Atlantic trade in the lucrative commodity of dried salt cod. By the 1760s, it had grown to be one of the ten largest towns in Britain's North American Colonies. Although the town sustained grave hardship due to its zealous support of the Revolution and the service of nearly a thousand men in the War of 1812 as well, economic growth through fishing resumed in the 1820s and 30s, until a devastating North Atlantic gale destroyed half the fishing fleet and claimed the lives of 65 men and boys. Like many others, the town turned to shoemaking, but here, primarily in small factories or piece-work done in private homes by spinster women or by older men in 10-footer shops scattered through town. By the later 1800s, Marblehead's appeal as a seaside resort began to attract summer visitors and yachting enthusiasts. For the next century into today, it has been recognized as a premier yachting and sailing center.
Nearby Area Sites
- Crowninshield Island
This modest coastal island features a variety of marine ecosystems, including several tidal pools, a small sandy beach, a field, a salt marsh, and a wooded hilltop. From a jagged granite promontory, visitors can take in views of Fort Sewall, Gerry Island, Marblehead Light, and Marblehead Harbor. - Fort Sewall
First established in 1644, this fort was used as a defensive breastwork for more than 200 years. Now a public park. - Jeremiah Lee Mansion
The Jeremiah Lee Mansion is a magnificent colonial Georgian home built by American craftsmen in 1768 when Lee was the wealthiest merchant and ship owner in Massachusetts. Preserved in its nearly original state, the house stands as a tribute to both colonial America's strong ties to England and its independent commercial success. - Marblehead Historic District
The Marblehead Historic District is one of the largest contiguous colonial districts to be placed on National Register, the nation’s official list of important sites and structures that preserves local, state, and national heritage. - Marblehead Museum and Historical Society
The Marblehead Museum properties include the Jeremiah Lee Mansion and Gardens and the G.A.R. and Civil War Museum. The Museum also includes the J.O.J. Frost Folk Art Gallery, a permanent installation of paintings and sculpture by Marblehead native J.O.J. Frost.
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