The Select Board authorized a downtown perambulation — a colonial-era tradition of walking and documenting public ways — before the end of the year.
The practice dates to 1641 in Massachusetts and has been revived in Marblehead after a period when the walks were not conducted regularly.
Town Engineer Maggie Wheeler outlined a route beginning at Abbot Hall and passing through historic streets and alleys, including Lookout Court, Prospect Alley, portions of Front Street, Gingerbread Lane and Knight’s Hill.
Wheeler said a previous downtown perambulation before the COVID-19 pandemic attracted approximately 200 participants.
The walks serve both historical and practical purposes, helping document public ways and preserve awareness of public access.
Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer will coordinate with town officials and Town Historian Don Doliber to establish a date before Dec. 31.
