Through luck and foresight, the Balch House has survived while the hundreds of homes from the same era have fallen to progress or decay.

The John Cabot House is a Georgian style mansion built in 1781 during the Revolutionary War, and the home to an important ship owner.

John Hale was born in Charlestown, MA in 1636 and came to Beverly to preach when it was still known as the “Bass River Side” of Salem. The property mirrors the evolution of the community of Beverly.

The American Story can refer to many things, including the history of the United States, the values and ideals that define the country, and the stories of its people.  Beverly: An American Story should serve as a unifying force for Beverly residents by providing a shared narrative and identity through stories from our city’s  history. It can inspire people to work together to achieve common goals,  overcome challenges, and understand their place in the world and their role in shaping the future.

Explore the namesakes of Beverly’s streets, avenues, and neighborhoods. Featuring images from the museum’s collection, the exhibition presents the faces and stories behind some of the city’s most familiar locations, introducing visitors to those whose names are part of the city’s history.

On view through December 21, 2024

These are stories of citizens, black and white, battling against the unjust system of slavery; of enslaved men fighting for freedom for our nation, though not free themselves; of a woman using the law to emancipate her family; and of the racism that affected Beverly’s black population, long after they were freed from bondage.

History grows with time and preservation needs increase as well. Please help us continue these important programs with a gift to the Fund for Beverly History. Your support will make a significant difference.

This program provides an opportunity to our generous supporters – individuals, families, organizations and businesses –to support important and necessary conservation work through tax-deductible donations.

There are a number of giving options that allow donors to fulfill their philanthropic goals while contributing to the richness of Historic Beverly’s collections and its financial stability.