The Marblehead Historical Commission will present a new exhibit at the Old Town House, 1 Market Square, beginning on July 8.
“Mapping Marblehead: The Twentieth Century and Beyond” continues the Historical Commission’s project of presenting the highlights of Marblehead’s history. This is the third and final in a series of three planned exhibits. The goal is to tell the story of Marbleheadin a way that can be appreciated by all ages, encouraging residents and visitors to walk through the exhibit, and then out into the town with a greater understanding of its past. The interactive maps and video displays present the history of Marblehead in a way that organizers said can be enjoyed by all.
Funded by a grant from the Harold B. and Elizabeth L. Shattuck Memorial Trust, the exhibit will run from July 8 through October 23. Regular exhibit hours are Fridays from 1 – 4 p.m. , Saturdays from 10 – 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 – 4 p.m. All are welcome, and there is no admission charge.
The exhibit includes interpretive panels, artifacts, and interactive maps illustrating Marblehead’s growth and expansion. Marblehead entered the twentieth century as a small, poor, antiquated town with declining local industry, a beautiful coastline, and an attractive proximity to Boston. It exited the century an outwardly focused, wealthy, commuter town with a harbor full of recreational boats. Tied to the sea, Marblehead’s location and history continue to define it.
Marblehead Historical Commissioners David Krathwohl and Pam Peterson have collaborated to present highlights of Marblehead’s history through text, artifacts, and interactive computer displays. Exhibit designer, and local resident, Helen Riegle of HER Design has created an exhibit that will engage and excite visitors of all ages.
Docents from Marblehead’s Historical Commission will be onsite during open hours to interpret the displays for visitors. Schools, and groups of all ages, are encouraged to take advantage of the exhibit as well.
