\
        WE  VISIT CAPE ANN

 

 

The Puritans founded the Massachusetts Bay Colony early in the 17th century. Since then fishing has been a major industry in Gloucester and nearby towns. The fishermen have lived a hard and dangerous life. Even today many men and boats are lost during storms. The book and movie " The Perfect Storm" portrays a true life tragedy. 

Although the fish plants in Gloucester import much of the fish they process today, men still fish for swordfish out of Gloucester harbor and work lobster traps in the nearby waters. Many tourists also visit the area today, drawn by the picturesque villages on Cape Ann and the artists that have settled there.  Rockport is a major tourist destination. The towns of Ipswich and Essex remain quieter with charming houses dating back to the 17th century. Sailing vessels, made of wood, are still crafted in Essex.

 

The famous statue of the fisherman faces Gloucester harbor. It is in tribute to the more than 5,000 men from Gloucester who lost their lives at sea. Their names are also inscribed on a memorial plaque.

 

As ships grew larger Ipswich harbor was too shallow to accommodate them.

The Whipple house, in Ipswich was built in 1655.
 
Many beautiful old houses in Ipswich have been preserved.

Several houses on Middle Street in Gloucester date back to earlier centuries

 

A popular park on the Gloucester waterfront
The Sergeant House is open to visitors during the summer.
 

 

The Schooner "Adventure", in Gloucester harbor is being preserved to remember the era of sailing ships.

Our guide explains the characteristics of a dory used on the sailing schooners.

 

 

Rockport is now a major tourist attraction.

 

 

A large model of a sailing schooner that was constructed in Essex A shipbuilder demonstrates techniques for preparing wood in specific shapes and sizes.

 

A "hands on" demonstration of how planks are shaped for the sides of a ship

Two models of sailing schooners

 

  To return to main page click on  the mermaid.