Abbot Hall (Marblehead, Massachusetts) facts for kids
|
Abbot Hall
|
|
|
U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
|
Abbot Hall, Marblehead, Massachusetts.
|
|
| Location | Marblehead, Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Built | 1876 |
| Architect | Lord & Fuller |
| Architectural style | Romanesque |
| Part of | Marblehead Historic District (ID84002402) |
| NRHP reference No. | 74000374 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | September 6, 1974 |
| Designated CP | January 10, 1984 |
Abbot Hall is a special building in Marblehead, Massachusetts. It serves as both the town's government center and a cool history museum. You can find it at 188 Washington Street.
The Hall is open all year, though hours might change in colder months. It was built in 1876. The architects, Lord & Fuller, designed it in the Romanesque style. This means it has strong, rounded arches and sturdy walls.
Abbot Hall is an important part of the town's history. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes buildings that are important to American history.
It's the fourth town hall Marblehead has had. The first was built way back in 1638! Abbot Hall is named after Benjamin Abbot. He was a barrel maker and trader. When he passed away in 1872, he left his money to the town. This generous gift helped build the Hall.
What's Inside Abbot Hall?
Abbot Hall is more than just a government building. It's also a museum with amazing historical items.
- The Spirit of '76 Painting: One of the most famous things inside is the original painting called The Spirit of '76. It was painted by Archibald MacNeal Willard. You might have seen copies of it everywhere!
- Old Town Deed: You can see a very old document from 1684. It's the deed that gave the land to Marblehead. It was signed by the family of Wenepoykin. He was a Native American chief from the Pawtucket people.
- Famous People: There's a statue of Elbridge Gerry. He was from Marblehead and became a U.S. Vice President.
- Revolutionary War Art: You can also see a painting of Marblehead residents. It shows them helping George Washington cross the Delaware River during the American Revolutionary War.
- Other Treasures: The Hall also has art by J.O.J. Frost and many other historical items.
- Birthplace of the Navy: In the Selectmen's room, there's a special plaque. It says Marblehead is the "Birthplace of the American Navy"!
The Famous Clock Tower
The clock in Abbot Hall's tower is very old and special. It's a Howard #2S clock, put in place in 1877.
- How it Works: A long pendulum, about 10 feet (3 meters) long, helps the clock keep time. It's powered by a heavy weight, weighing about 86 pounds (39 kg).
- The Bell: The big bell that chimes was made by Meneely & Kimberly in New York.
- Weekly Winding: Every week, maintenance workers climb up the tower. They have to wind the clock's movements by hand!
- Local Stories: This famous clock has even been featured in many stories by local writers.
See also
