The Town of Marblehead is a picturesque seacoast town steeped in history. In its early years fishing and the shoe industry were its two main sources of income. Today it is mainly a residential community with some minor industry and a few unique retail stores.
While Marblehead has been know through the years as the "Birthplace of the American Navy," in recent times the town has also been known as one of the yachting capitals of the world. Pleasure boating is certainly a popular pastime of its residents. Visitors come from all over the world to view the original of the famous painting, "The Spirit of '76", which is housed in Abbot Hall in the office of the Board of Selectmen, as well as to see the beautiful harbor crowded with sailing, fishing, lobster and pleasure boats.
Another major attraction for visitors are the narrow crooked streets in the Historic District, lined with Colonial and Victorian buildings, some of which have been placed on the National Register. The town offers residents and visitors a series of events in the course of the year, including an arts festival, tall ships cruise, regatta and race week, jazz concerts and Christmas walk.
