A little blue heron stands perfectly still, its eyes locked on a tiny froglet just below the waterline. In that split second, Gloucester photographer Joyce Wood pressed the shutter — and captured the grand prize of the Essex Heritage Photo Contest 2025. Her image, “Little Blue Heron and Froglet,” is one of fifteen winning photographs that remind us why

Essex County’s Most Haunted Free Event Series Every September, Essex County’s darkest secrets emerge during Trails & Sails – 16 days of free events that unlock the paranormal history hiding in plain sight. This isn’t just Massachusetts’ beloved heritage festival; it’s your gateway to the supernatural stories that shaped one of America’s most haunted regions. For 24 years, Essex National

Essex County, Massachusetts, is a region steeped in history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From colonial-era settlements to maritime heritage, from scenic coastal paths to historic town centers, this corner of New England holds thousands of stories waiting to be discovered.  For 24 years, Trails & Sails has been the crown jewel of Essex County’s cultural calendar, transforming the entire

Get Ready for 16 Days of Inclusive Exploration Experience extraordinary places in your own backyard during Trails & Sails, a free event series brought to you by Essex National Heritage Area designed to welcome everyone. Be guided through accessible experiences on land and sea, explore historic properties with accommodating features, and take part in cultural activities that celebrate and empower

Essex Heritage Presents 22nd Year of Trails & Sails: 10 Days of 150+ Free Events Across Essex County. The long-standing program helps connect people to the incredible historical, cultural, and natural resources of the Essex National Heritage Area! August 28, 2023 – Presented by Essex Heritage, Trails & Sails is an annual event series that features more than 150 free