Harborwalk Links
Gloucester's History to Its Present
BY LAURIE FULLERTON Gloucester has always been balanced
between sea and rock, fishermen and fine artists, independent individualists and strong communities. Now, with its inaugural Harborwalk in place, visitors will get this visual and written glimpse of Gloucester'
s real story.
The new Harborwalk is a 1.2 mile loop that links the downtown to the waterfront along a marked trail and stops at a series of up to 41 granite-styled "story moments" that inform and inspire. "The goal of the Harborwalk is to give
people a chance to linger and immerse themselves in the stories of Gloucester,
" said
Carolyn Kirk, Mayor of Gloucester, whose city received a state grant to develop and build this unique attraction. "The walk is authentic Gloucester, right down to the seaglass and granite paving that leads the way.
" While many visitors can complete a 1.2
mile walk rather briskly, the idea is to absorb oneself in the "story moments" by using both imagination and modern technology. At each granite post, along with a brief explanation, quote or photograph, there is a Quick Response Code that will link ones mobile phone to more in-depth, online information about each piece of Gloucester's rich character. Each stop challenges locals and visitors to
think, look around and contemplate the times which Gloucester has lived through. For example, many visitors and locals alike will be surprised to learn that famed American artist Edward Hopper completed 90 paintings based on the city of Gloucester. He is featured as one of the many fascinating "story moments" on the walk. "When you catalog the works of Edward Hopper, you really catalog our city,
"
said Catherine Ryan, a senior art industry professional from Gloucester who worked on the Harborwalk exhibit. "What is so great about the Harborwalk is visitors will realize that you can really follow in Hopper's footsteps."
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