Marblehead & the American Revolution
In 1775, Marblehead was the sixth-largest community in British North America — and one of the most consequential. Its fishermen and sea captains became privateers, naval leaders, and early mariners of the Continental Navy. Marblehead vessels ferried Washington's troops across the icy Delaware, carried supplies along the coast, and helped secure the maritime strength that shaped the American Revolution.
Today, nearly 300 pre-Revolutionary homes still stand in Marblehead — the largest concentration of surviving 18th-century homes in the United States. Walkable streets, Revolutionary War landmarks, and sweeping harbor views make Marblehead one of New England's most authentic destinations for celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
Explore the Marblehead Museum, Abbot Hall, Old Burial Hill, the Jeremiah Lee Mansion, the Old Town House, and Fort Sewall — then enjoy waterfront dining, storied shops, and historic inns that reflect Marblehead's enduring character. Plan your visit. Discover Marblehead.
Experience REV250 Marblehead
Birthplace of the American Navy
Marblehead mariners, led by Col. John Glover and Capt. Nicholson Broughton, formed Washington's fleet and carried the Revolution at sea.
Revolutionary War Landmarks
The Jeremiah Lee Mansion, Elbridge Gerry House, Fort Sewall, Old Town House — living history you can walk to, right in Old Town.
~300 Pre-Revolutionary Homes
The largest surviving concentration of 18th-century homes in America. Every narrow street is a step back to 1776.
Historic Walking Tours
Story-driven, historically grounded walking tours through Old Town. The stories behind the history — told by a local who knows every street.
Waterfront Dining & Coastal Inns
Award-winning restaurants and a landmark historic inn overlooking Marblehead Harbor. Come for the history — stay for the view.
Harbor & Maritime Heritage
The same harbor Washington's men launched from. Sail-dotted, rocky-shored, and still one of the great working harbors of the North Shore.
Plan your visit. Discover Marblehead.
"Boston may have had the words of liberty — Marblehead carried them across the water."— The Town That Carried the Revolution™
Plan Your Visit. Discover Marblehead.
Marblehead's leading institutions, restaurants, and inns — your guides to an unforgettable REV250 experience on the North Shore.
Marblehead's Best
Ready to Experience Marblehead?
Join us for America's 250th — where the Revolution still lives in the streets, the harbor, and the stories.
Book a Walking Tour Plan Your Visit