Hammond Castle
Historic Home in Gloucester, Massachusetts
Visit a Castle this summer right here close to home...
The Hammond Castle Museum was constructed in the late 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr., known as the Father of Radio Control. The Museum’s architectural style is a mixture of a medieval castle, a Gothic cathedral, and a Renaissance-era French village set amongst Roman ruins. It was built as his home and laboratory and designed to accommodate his private collection of artifacts from ancient Rome through the Renaissance. Visitors can explore the many rooms of the museum, as well as enjoy the picturesque grounds and view of the Atlantic shore line. We promise, it's stunning!
The History of the Hammond Family
Hammond was a protégé of Alexander Graham Bell and collaborated with other technological giants like Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. He held over 800 patents on more than 400 inventions during his lifetime, including work in sound reproduction, amplification, and television. Hammond's wealth from the sale of some of his patents to the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) in 1923 helped fund the construction of the castle.
IMAGE: The Gloucester Clam
In Recent Years
Hammond Castle Museum has recently experienced a remarkable revitalization, transitioning from a tranquil museum and wedding venue into a dynamic and lively hub within the Cape Ann community. This transformation includes the introduction of newly curated exhibits, popular children’s programs, and various events designed to engage the broader community. Now in its 48th consecutive season, the museum welcomed 50,000 visitors last year from across the United States and numerous foreign countries. Dedicated to its educational mission as envisioned by its founder, Hammond Castle Museum is on track to become a premier STEM museum in Essex County.
Tours at Hammond Castle
Guided Tours - led by a member of the museum’s talented tours staff, last approximately 35-40 minutes and cover essential information about the building's history and its inhabitants, including major areas like the former Laboratory, the Great Hall, and the Courtyard, after which visitors can explore other rooms and exhibits independently.
Self-Guided Tours - allow visitors to explore the galleries at their own pace, with a Self-Guided Tour Booklet providing detailed information about the building's history and a suggested route, with the last ticket sold at 3:15 pm to ensure ample time for exploration before the museum closes at 4:00 pm.
Thursday Evening Guided Tours - available in July, August, and September, offer a 35-40 minute guided experience similar to the daytime tours, covering major areas and allowing for further independent exploration, providing a unique evening perspective of the museum.
Thursday Evening Self-Guided Tours - also available in July, August, and September, let visitors explore the galleries at their own pace with the aid of the Self-Guided Tour Booklet, with the last ticket sold at 7:00 pm for an evening experience of the museum.
Spiritualism & Candlelight Tours - available in July, August, September, and October, offer a 55-minute guided exploration of the Spiritualist movement and the occult history of the museum, featuring John Hays Hammond Jr.'s supernatural experiments and Irene Fenton Hammond's astrological writings, enhanced by the gothic architecture and night-time ambiance, with electronic candles provided for optional use.
Gloucester Gratis Days - provide Gloucester residents with complimentary self-guided tours every Tuesday throughout the regular season until early November, in line with John Hays Hammond Jr.'s vision of offering the local community access to ancient architectural art, requiring proof of residency upon check-in and allowing at least 60 minutes for exploration.
The Castle is also available for engagement and wedding rentals.
As Mentioned, the Views are Spectacular and There are Special Events Throughout the Year:
This July 5th... Their annual seaside concert: Enjoy a spectacular performance featuring new arrangements and beloved classics, including stirring excerpts from the iconic 1812 Overture. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening with family and friends. Experience the beauty of live music in a breathtaking coastal setting, and celebrate Independence Day with a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
Don’t miss this magical evening of music and celebration by the sea! Amenities: Beer and wine cash bar and light snacks will be available for purchase.
Tuesday, July 9th, Don’t miss their Sleeping Beauty Princess Party! Celebrate the Magic of make believe!
IMAGE: Cape Ann Community
Join them every Wednesday morning in July & August for Bubbles and Books!
Fairytales do come true at castles by the sea! Kids 12 & Under $5 / Adults: $10
Doors open at 10 am. Stories start at 10:15 am.
There will be multiple bubble machines blowing hundreds of bubbles! They also have snacks and music. They encourage little ones to dress up in their favorite crown, gown, or anything else that makes them happy!
More to Do at Hammond Castle
Hammond Castle hosts weekly events, with something for everyone! From historic exhibitions, poetry readings and concerts, balls and galas, and more, this picturesque venue is more than just a museum!