Essex Town Hall and TOHP Burnham Library

Essex Town Hall and TOHP Burnham Library is a municipal building with an integrated public library in Essex, Massachusetts, displaying Shingle style architecture with fieldstone on the lower level and wooden details above. The bottom floor divides between the library holding thousands of books on one side and town offices on the other.

T.O.H.P. Burnham's 1891 will set the building's creation in motion by providing funds for this combined facility. The legacy was split equally between supporting the town and establishing its public library operation.

The assembly hall with its stage and gallery seating around 550 people continues to host community gatherings and local performances. This space reflects how the building remains central to the town's social life and shared events.

The building is straightforward to enter with clearly marked sections, making it easy for visitors to find either the library or town offices. Hours and access rules differ between the library and municipal offices, so checking ahead about which area you need is helpful before visiting.

The building's clock tower chimes on the hour and was gifted to the town by L.G. Burnham. This regular hourly sound makes the structure's presence felt throughout the neighborhood.

Location: Massachusetts

Architects: Frank W. Weston

Architectural style: Shingle style architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.63170,-70.78340

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:20