Massachusetts Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Marion, Massachusetts

Population: 4,496

Located in Plymouth County

Marion's luxurious oceanfront location on the Atlantic Ocean has shaped the town's present as a quiet seaside nook for residents. Historically, Marion began welcoming visitors, looking to kick back and relax in gorgeous surroundings, in the mid-1800s. Wealthy Boston vacationers started frequenting Marion's sparkling shores, and a new railroad allowed for easier travel between the South Coast and northern points. The new money coming in was evidenced by the stately homes built along the water, many summer retreats for generations who still spend time in Marion today. Marion boasts its share of historic homes and buildings as a result, and the town maintains a quaint village feel, with brick buildings adorned with plaques, nestled on narrow streets.

Boating is a favorite activity, and the town is well known for its annual competitions. The Marion-Bermuda Cruising Yacht Race includes area veteran racers and newcomers with the goal to sail the 645 miles due south to Bermuda over several days. This event, as well as the Buzzard's Bay Regatta, is an annual tradition, highlighting Marion's fantastic harbor.

In addition to yachting and boating, Marion boasts several pristine beaches and parks for the little ones. Take a stroll along Bird Island and view the town's oldest lighthouse. One of the first lighthouses built on Buzzards Bay in 1819; it was decommissioned in 1935 because it needed extensive repairs. However, a major fund raising effort in 1994 yielded $123,000 to restore the lighthouse; and it was re-lit in 1997.

The town maintains its nautical ties first forged in the 1800s. Marion helped supply the gear and necessities for ships setting sail from neighbors New Bedford and Fairhaven, and its main export commodity was sea salt. Today, tackle shops and boat repair services still dot the waterfront.

Marion's recreational offerings extend beyond the sun and surf, and the town is a cultural hub of activity. Marion was once home to famous writers and artists, and their work can be seen in the Marion Art Center. Consisting of two galleries, a small theatre and a studio, the Art Center also offers a special camp for children during the summer with dance, theater, music and art workshops. Wealthy town resident Elizabeth Taber donated the library, which bears her name, Union Hall, Music Hall and Tabor Academy, among other buildings, to the town in the late 1800s, helping to lay the foundation for the arts Marion celebrates.

Educational offerings include public and private schools, the most well known being Tabor Academy. Located on miles of land, the Academy boasts an oceanology laboratory, a hockey rink, an enormous library and theatre, and its own access to the ocean where students engage in kayaking and rowing.

Many Marion homes are historic, and new building is at a minimum, which can minimize the available real estate. Approximately 2,500 homes stand in Marion. Prices are modest, but can rise depending on location.

Whether tuning into the latest jazz band at one of the musical venues or sipping an espresso at a coffee shop, there is much appeal all year. Marion is an historic delight, and a modern-day sanctuary.