2006 marks the 10th anniversary of the creation of the Essex National Heritage Area. This prestigious designation by US Congress – in recognition of Essex County’s national importance to the heritage of the United States – has proven to be a remarkable opportunity to preserve our common history and address issues of concern. A lot has been accomplished in the last 10 years. Individually and together – we are making a difference where it matters.

For one year, through print and electronic newsletters, we will showcase people and organizations that share a common vision to create the future of Essex County by sustaining and creatively interpreting its heritage. It is through these innovative energies that the history, culture and natural resources of Essex County come to life for all to enjoy! Criteria and a method for nomination of milestones are being developed by the Friends of the 10th Committee. Your input and participation are welcome. Call or email Mary Williamson, ENHC Development Coordinator, at 978-740-0444 for details.

If all goes according to plan, municipal officials and trail advocates promoting development of a trail system linking eight ENHA communities will receive valuable support from the National Park Service. The ENHC recently aided in the submission of an application to the NPS Rivers and Trails Program. NPS staff assistance is being requested to help form a loose knit, working coalition dedicated to fulfilling the promise of the long proposed Border to Boston Trail, a 30 mile-long rail-trail linking Salisbury, Newburyport, Newbury, Georgetown, Boxford, Topsfield, Wenham, and Danvers. The ENHC was previously instrumental in engaging the Rivers and Trails Program as a partner in the creation of the nonprofit Coastal Trails Coalition.

The Essex National Heritage Commission would like to welcome Patricia Trap to the region. The National Park Service has selected Ms. Trap to be the new Superintendent for Salem Maritime and Saugus Ironworks National Historic Sites. She joins us in late August from Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. ENHC welcomes her to the East Coast and to the Essex National Heritage Area!

Our website is highlighting special weekend events from our homepage. ENHC site visitor numbers peak mid-week, so this is an excellent opportunity to feature your organization's upcoming events online! Submit events through our calendar and our webmaster, Jeanne Pickering, will pick up the information from there. Visit the ENHA calendar or see this weekend's highlighted events...