The Manchester-by-the-Sea Museum is getting ready to kick off its 2024 speaker series on Thursday, Feb. 29 with a talk on the mushrooms of Manchester's ancient 1661 Cemetery by noted local mycologist Gary Gilbert. The free talk will be held at the renovated First Parish Church Hall on Chapel Street, located behind Santander Bank. All the museum's events in its speaker series are free to members, but registration is required HERE.
The museum, located at 10 Union Street, is housed in the classic white Federal "Trask House" building across the street from the Manchester Public Library and since its bicentennial celebration last year, the Trask House has been undergoing significant restoration. Rooms have been restored to authentic condition, and new events are planned.
Built in 1832 by Abigail “Nabby” Hooper, one of America’s first female entrepreneurs, the museum houses a replica of Nabby’s store and an eclectic collection of Manchester-made furniture, artifacts, and paintings, including several works by renowned 20th Century American painter and local resident, Charles Hopkinson.
For those curious about the history of their Manchester home or ancestors, the museum is now available with archive and research services. It's also open weekly to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays for tours and can be reserved for special events.
