2012 Cape Ann Guide – Experience Cape Ann…serving Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Rockport. Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.
Issue link: http://capeannguide.epubxp.com/i/133875
ROCKPORT At the northern-most tip of Cape Ann, and a mere 37 miles from Boston, sits the picturesque seaside village of Rockport. Settled in 1690, Rockport quickly became the leading supplier of granite as evidenced by the many outcrops of its old quarries. With Bearskin Neck and its many shops, studios and restaurants jutting out from the town's center into its charming harbor, Rockport today boasts a thriving artist community and some of the most widely painted sea and landscapes in the world, including Motif #1. The harbor remains home to an active fishing fleet, offering visitors a unique chance to observe artists at their craft or lobstermen hauling their traps. Along Rockport's historic Main Street, from Dock Square to Beach Street, Rockport is filled with scores of enticing gift shops, galleries, restaurants, candy stores, clothing stores and boutiques, alongside extraordinary cultural venues, most notably the Rockport Art Association and the Shalin Liu Performance Center. ESSEX Originally inhabited by Native Americans of the Agawam Tribe, Essex, incorporated in 1819, went on to play a significant role in the shipbuilding industry, serving as the site of construction for more than 4,000 schooners. Today, the Essex River, home to some of the best clam flats in the world, allows visitors of all ages the opportunity to meander through its rich tidal waters and along its banks by guided boat tour or a self-guided, adventure seeking, kayaking expedition. The town delights all with a wonderful array of antique and specialty shops and restaurants which feature local, award winning seafood. It was here in scenic Essex that the fried clam was invented by "Chubby" Woodman nearly 100 year ago. MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA Founded as Jeffery's Creek in the mid1800's, this town is located at the southerly end of Cape Ann. A trip to Singing Beach, aptly named because of how the sand resonates when you walk on it, or Tuck's Point is worth your time and then some. Unique retail shops, great restaurants and enticing galleries, jewelry stores and boutiques fill this town of just over 5,000 residents. The Manchester Historical Museum's Trask House is a must-see to get the complete story of this town, its remarkable heritage and its beautiful, historic architecture. ❖ www.capeannchamber.com | www.capeannvacations.com | www.rockportusa.com 11