Essex
Shipbuilding
Museum

The launching of a page that attempts to tell the story of such a proud, ship-building heritage is a daunting one. Such a story must be told no matter how intimidated the author.

It is my belief that as I delve further into the wealth of history here, it will carry me along as easily as a dory on a wave.

Directory

Essex Shipbuilding Museum
The Story Shipyard
Evelina M. Goulart

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The Essex Shipbuilding Museum


The Essex Shipbuilding Museum was founded in 1976 by the Essex Historical Society. It is housed in the former Essex Central School House, built in 1835, and located in the center of Essex.

A collection of 20 ship models, on loan from The Smithsonian Institution's Watercraft Collection are on display.




Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum
66 Main Street
Box 277
Essex, MA 01929
Telephone: 508 768 7541

The Shipyard portion is located at 28 Main Street. This was the old Story Shipyard.

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The Story Shipyard

The Story Shipyard, established in 1813, was located on a section of river front where shipbuilding flourished uninteruptedly for over 300 years. Hundreds of vessels were built here and on an adjacent acre of public land originally set aside for shipbuilding in 1668.

From sturdy little Chebacco Boats and Pinkys to Grand Banks Gloucestermen and the great Racing Fishermen -

All had the unmistakable mark of an Essex-built work vessel - magnificent grace and beauty.

The site of the former Story Shipyard was purchased in 1993 by the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum for future use as a working shipyard/museum.

(museum office, shipyard programs) 508-768-6441

The shipyard is located off route 133 near the Essex River Causeway and bridge, a block away from the schoolhouse.

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Evelina M. Goulart

Pictured above, The Evelina M. Goulart was one of nearly 4000 schooners built near where she rests.

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