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Marblehead, Massachusetts

Population: 19,971
Located in Essex County

Known as the "birthplace of the American Navy," Marblehead, Massachusetts boasts many points of interest. During the day you can experience Marblehead's history and architecture on our Walking Tour or browse our various shops and galleries. As the evening settles in, enjoy an evening of Fine Dining at one of over 20 restaurants and then retire to one of over 35 Bed and Breakfasts.

If you plan to come for one of our seasonal events, like the Festival of Arts and the Christmas Walk, remember to make your reservations early as many places fill up quickly.

History of the Area
The town of Marblehead, Massachusetts has a dynamic and varied history. Its early settlers were fishermen and seafarers. The town's prosperity immediately preceding the Revolutionary War was based on fishing and overseas Atlantic trade, making Marblehead, Massachusetts a flourishing colonial community.

In 1775, wealthy merchants supported the American Revolution by providing ships and funds for the cause of independence, and the town sent an entire regiment under the command of Colonel, then General, John Glover, who was highly respected by George Washington for his courage and abilities.

The town's fishing industry was decimated by the Revolution, and later in a devastating gale on the Atlantic Grand Banks in 1846. Shoe manufacture replaced fishing as the town's leading industry, until it was destroyed by two great fires in 1877 and 1888.

By the end of the 1800s, growing interest in yachting and the town's beautiful harbor turned the town into a summer resort, popular because of its cool breezes, scenic beauty, and quaint historic charm.

Today, Marblehead, Massachusetts is a year-round residential town, which offers access to its harbor, history, and hospitality through its yacht clubs, many historic buildings, enticing shops, fine restaurants, and charming bed & breakfasts.

Courtesy of the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce

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