Gloucester's "Man at the Wheel" statue is inscribed, "They that go down to the sea in ships, 1623-1923." Photo/C. Danko © 2001-2011
In 1991 the fishing boat Andrea Gail was lost at sea off the coast of Newfoundland with six crew members. Years later, Sebastian Junger wrote about the tragedy in The Perfect Storm, and in 2000 the story was released as a movie starring George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg. Hollywood took interest in the fishing port of Gloucester for a short while, but for residents who live in the city, the fishing trade has been a way of life for hundreds of years.
Gloucester, said to be the oldest fishing seaport in the United States, is a mixed-income city with about 30,000 residents. In the summer, tourists flock to the area, going on whale watches, relaxing at the local beaches, visiting the artist shops in the Rocky Neck area and nearby Rockport, and partaking in the summer festivals including St. Peter's Fiesta, a summer parade and festival that honors the patron saint of the fisherman. For year-round residents, Gloucester remains a working fishing harbor with a history crafted by the tough men and woman who make their living weathering rough seas.
The city's Maritime Trail is a series of walks in the waterfront area with markers that educate visitors on the region's boating history. Guides to the trail are available at the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, at 33 Comercial Street, and at the Gloucester's Visitor and Welcoming Center, located at Stage Fort Park off of Route 127.
Getting There
Gloucester, MA, is a North Shore city that juts out into the ocean about 40 miles north of Boston. The best way to reach it is by Rt. 128. If you're heading from the south follow Rt. 128 north. You will eventually enter Gloucester. Be aware that Rt. 128 splits from I-95 (which heads to Maine) in the Peabody area. Stay on the left lanes at the split and continue straight ahead on Route 128.
Resources
Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce
Gloucester's Visitor and Welcoming Center
Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center