By the early 1840s, Essex no longer had its own fishing fleet, but had turned to year-round shipbuilding fostering a symbiotic relationship with the successful fishermen in Gloucester. Captains traveled from other ports to the town of Essex, MA and contracted for a new vessel because the Essex shipbuilders possessed unsurpassed skill and craftsmanship. Much of the skills required of shipwrights or shipbuilders were obtained through on-the-job-training, and many of the earliest shipyards and boat shops operated as family businesses passed down from generation to generation.The town became widely recognized as North America’s leading producer of the popular “schooners,” which enabled fishermen to sail far offshore and withstand rough seas. These large wooden vessels featured two masts carrying two principal sails supported by booms and gaffs and had one or more triangular head sails rigged to a bowsprit. By the 1850s, 15 Essex shipyards launched more than 50 vessels a year, most of which were built for the Gloucester fleet.  (From the National Park Service site)

Ships being built along Main Street in Essex, 1872

A view from the other direction, about 1900.

Essex Main Street, also known as the Causeway, circa 1900

The A.D. Story Shipyard in Essex Massachusetts, early 20th Century. Photo courtesy Essex Shipbuilding Museum and the Smithsonian

The A.D. Story shipyard in Essex, Mass, 1924. Photo courtesy Bob Swan

Building the frame at the Story shipyard

The Columbia is launched

This very entertaining mid-20th Century documentary is shown at the Essex Shipbuilding Museum, just a short drive from Ipswich. Viewing time: 12 minutes.