Essex Shipbuilding Museum

This unique museum was established in 1976 as a local repository for all of the shipbuilding artifacts of the local residents. Most of the collections of photos, tools and ship models came from local basements and attics, allowing Essex to truly preserve its local history. Most of the collections are housed in the town’s 1835 school house (check out the Old Burying Ground behind it). The historical society also operates the Waterline Center in the museum shipyard, a section of waterfront property where shipbuilding activities have taken place for hundreds of years. The historic Essex-built schooner, Evelina M Goulart, is moored here. From Rte 128, take exit 15 and turn left on School St (which becomes Southern Ave). Take a left onto Rte 133; the museum and shipyard are on the right-hand side after crossing a causeway and a bridge.