Editorial Staff
For the first time in a generation, Magnolia's Hammond Castle Museum will be open during the winter months and has organized a robust slate of new programs and events. The expanded schedule may be a signal of the museum's goal to test year-round experiences focused on unique history, artistry, and educational initiatives.
Hammond Castle Museum is an incredibly unique museum, not just for Cape Ann but compared to museums nationally. Constructed between 1926 and 1929 and established as a museum in 1930, the castle was the home and laboratory of John Hays Hammond Jr. and, today, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Historically, the winter months were set aside for restoration work,” said executive director, Linda Harvey. “We look forward to the new energy these events will bring to Hammond Castle Museum during what was traditionally quieter months at the Museum.”
The museum will not offer a regular tour schedule. Instead, the winter programming that begin this month and run through March include an array of events designed to appeal to diverse interests:
Thursday, January 16: Rebuilding the Past: Pulling Back the Curtain on Recent Historic Restorations
Time: 10 – 11:45 AM
Details: Enjoy coffee and light refreshments at 10 AM before diving into an engaging presentation led by contractor and mason Roger Tremblay and Director of Education & Visitor Services Caleb McMurphy. Explore the challenges and triumphs of preserving the Museum’s unique architectural legacy, including recent restoration work on the iconic French monastery arches and tower sections. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.
Reserve Your Spot Here
Sunday, January 26: An Afternoon with Kevin V. Coan: An Evidential Medium
Time: 1 – 3:30 PM
Details: Join renowned evidential medium Kevin V. Coan in the candlelit Great Hall for an extraordinary group reading. Kevin will share messages of comfort and connection from loved ones who have crossed over. Please bring a printed photograph of a departed loved one to facilitate readings. Coffee and pastries will be served. Copies of Kevin’s biography,
Witness to the World Beyond, will also be available.
Reserve Your Spot Here
Friday, February 7: William Howard Taft & John Hays Hammond Sr.: An Examination of the 27th President of the United States and the "Man with the Midas Touch"
Afternoon Session: 2 – 3:45 PM
Evening Session: 6 – 7:45 PM
Details: Curatorial Director John Leysath explores the relationship between mining magnate John Hays Hammond Sr. and President Taft. Gain insight into their political influence and lasting legacies. Coffee and refreshments will precede each session.
Reserve Your Spot Here
Sunday, February 9: Frozen Princess Party
Sessions: 11 AM – 12:30 PM & 1:30 – 3:00 PM
Details: Families are invited to an enchanting day with Queen Elsa in the Great Hall. Enjoy storytelling, singing, a hot cocoa bar, and a royal red-carpet parade. Perfect for children and parents alike!
Reserve Your Spot Here
Sunday, February 23: Dungeons & Dragons Presented by Danger Wizard (SOLD OUT)
Time: 1 – 5 PM
Details: Experience the magic of role-playing games in the medieval ambiance of Hammond Castle Museum. Guided by professional Dungeon Masters, this event welcomes all experience levels. Pre-made characters and rule overviews will be provided. Teens aged 15-18 will have their own dedicated table.
** NOTE, this event is full for game participants but still open for spectators. Come on down!
Reserve Your Spot Here
Additional Winter Events include:
- February 17-21: Kids Free During the School Vacation Week: Self-guided tours for families and children up to 12 years old.
- Saturday, March 1: Venetian Carnival: A magical evening featuring masks, music, and revelry.
