Abbot Hall

Abbot Hall is a Romanesque Revival brick building on Washington Street featuring a clock tower, stone trim, and a large auditorium with seating for about 1,200 people. It functions as the town hall and also houses the Maritime Museum.

Benjamin Abbot bequeathed funds in 1872 to construct this municipal hall, which architects Lord and Fuller completed between 1876 and 1877. The building's completion represented a major milestone in the town's development and civic life.

The Selectmen's Room displays the Spirit of '76 painting and the original 1684 Town Deed, while the Maritime Museum preserves the area's naval history. These collections reflect how deeply the sea has shaped this town's identity and values.

The building is located on Washington Street and easy to find on foot, with a clear facade that makes it simple to locate the entrance. The interior spaces are open to visitors, but it is helpful to check current hours in advance before your visit.

The clock tower's bell and mechanism came from a donation by James Gregory, a local seed merchant, who gave them during the 1877 dedication ceremony. This generous gift shows how business leaders in town supported the community's growth.

Location: Marblehead

Inception: 1876

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Made from material: brick

Part of: Marblehead Historic District

Address: 188 Washington Street

GPS coordinates: 42.50271,-70.85252

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02