A place where non-profit Cape Ann organizations can post press releases directly and then those press releases will be reposted to http://www.goodmorninggloucester.com . This is not an advertising space for businesses, fitness or wellness organizations, or music listings.
The web address will be http://www.capeanncommunity.com
To have your community organization news posted here, contact Joey C who will grant access for you to post directly.
Check out this compilation of video messages from GPS alumni, created by Marty Del Vecchio for the Gloucester Education Foundation’s recent 20th Anniversary Gala.
Please consider a donation to GEF’s year-end appeal before 12/31 to help support thousands of more kids like Rebecca, Trinity, Olivia, AJ, Thea and Nate. The programs that sparked their love for music, engineering, science, dance, theater and community – and led them to labs at Harvard and Northeastern; stages at Emerson, Suffolk, and Berklee; and tall ships sailing to St.Croix! – were make possible by the generosity of the Gloucester community. Over 20 years, YOU have helped raise over $11M for GEF! Thank you!
The doors to the newly reimagined Sawyer Free Library are open, and the excitement across Gloucester is undeniable. This extraordinary community space is far more than a beautiful building — it is a reflection of who we are: rooted in tradition, fueled by creativity, and committed to an inclusive and vibrant future.
Inside, visitors will find welcoming areas for children, teens, and adults; expanded digital resources; and a sustainable, accessible design that ensures everyone in our community has a place to learn, gather, and grow. The Library has once again become our civic anchor — a place where curiosity is sparked, connections are made, and democracy is strengthened.
But while the ribbon has been cut, our work is not done.
Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have reached 65% of our $28 million goal. To fully realize this once-in-a-century project, we must raise the final $8 million. One hundred percent of this year’s Annual Appeal supports the Sawyer Free 2025 Capital Campaign, helping us finish what we started and ensuring this remarkable community investment endures for generations.
This is Gloucester’s library. It belongs to all of us.
As we approach the end of the year, we hope the greater Cape Ann community will thoughtfully consider supporting the Annual Appeal. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit www.sawyerfreelibrary.org or mail a contribution to:
Sawyer Free Library, Annual Appeal, 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930
Thank you for your generosity — and for believing in the power of libraries.
Genesis of Gloucester Harbor: 1690–1715
Saturday, December 20 | 2:00–3:00 PM
Community Room | Sawyer Free Library, 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester
Before Gloucester rose to fame as a world-renowned fishing port in the 1800s, the Inner Harbor was already a bustling center of overseas trade. But this transformation didn’t happen overnight. In the 1600s, Riverdale and Annisquam were the centers of activity, while the Harbor remained a quiet, lightly settled corner of town. So how — and why — did the Harbor evolve into Gloucester’s commercial heart?
Join the Sawyer Free Library for an illustrated talk with author and historian Robert Booth, who will explore the people, businesses, and turning points that sparked the Harbor’s development between 1690 and 1715. Booth will also discuss the methods and historical clues that help us understand this pivotal era.
This presentation draws from research for Booth’s upcoming book. A respected local historian educated at Harvard and Boston University, Booth is curator emeritus of the Pickering House in Salem, former director/curator of the Manchester-by-the-Sea Museum, and a consultant on historic restoration and interpretation. He is the author of several acclaimed works, including:
Please register at sawyerfreelibrary.org.
We hope you’ll join us for this fascinating look into Gloucester’s early maritime beginnings.
The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation is proud to present the original silent movie ‘Peter Pan,’ a 1925 American fantasy-adventure film as part of its Tenth Anniversary Series. It will be narrated by acclaimed actress Lindsay Crouse and accompanied on the pipe organ by maestro Peter Krasinski. This is great entertainment for the whole family during the holidays!
Tickets are available at the door and online (strongly recommended) with more information at: http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org. General admission is $30, students $10, under age 12 free.
The historic 1806 Meetinghouse, home of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, is located on the green at the corner of Middle and Church Streets (GPS 50 Middle Street). Parking is available on the green and around the historic district. The side entrance at 10 Church Street has an elevator to the main level, if needed.
For decades the silent movie ‘Peter Pan’ was thought to be lost but in the 1950’s a well preserved copy was discovered in a vault in Rochester, New York. The film is based on a play written by Sir James Barrie and was directed by Herbert Brenon in 1924 and was filmed on Santa Cruz island. The plot explores fantasy, adventure and is a playful film armed with technical ingenuity and classic source material.
The presentation will be narrated by Lindsay Crouse, American actress who made her debut in the 1972 revival of Much Ado About Nothing. She has played many roles in numerous films and received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination. Lindsay is a resident of Annisquam and a well-known celebrity on Cape Ann.
The film will also be accompanied by Peter Krasinski, a master of improvised silent movie accompaniment, whose exciting performances delight kids and adults alike. Krasinski will display the diverse power of the 1893 Hutchings/Fisk organ, creating music that adds mystery, intrigue and excitement to this memorable and nostalgic film.
‘Peter Pan’ is presented in collaboration with the Cape Ann Community Cinema.
Timeline: Cape Ann Screening — The Flying Santa
Friday, December 19 | 3:00–4:00 PM
Community Room | Sawyer Free Library, 2 Dale Ave., Gloucester
The Sawyer Free Library is delighted to welcome Kory Curcuru of 1623 Studios for a special screening of Timeline: Cape Ann — The Flying Santa.
More than 90 years ago, a Maine pilot began a heartfelt tradition: air-dropping Christmas packages to lighthouse keepers and their families who guided him to safety. Over time, the route expanded to Cape Ann and eventually reached Coast Guard stations and lighthouses across the country. Remarkably, the Flying Santa tradition continues to this day.
This captivating film tells the story of one man’s generosity and the enduring spirit of community that helped shape Gloucester’s identity. A Q&A with Kory Curcuru will follow the screening.
This free public event is open to all. Registration is requested at sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Middle Street Walk
Saturday, December 13 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Sawyer Free Library · 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester, MA
Celebrate the 27th annual Middle Street Walk, a beloved Gloucester holiday tradition where “the past is present!” Enjoy a festive day filled with music, art, community events, and FREE horse-drawn wagon rides along historic Middle Street. The Sawyer Free Library is excited to be part of the celebration with special programs for all ages.
10:30–11:30 AM — Holiday Music & Card Making for Kids
Drop in for cheerful music and hands-on card-making fun — perfect for children and families.
12:00–2:00 PM — Walker Creek Saxophone Quartet Performance
Enjoy a live performance from this talented saxophone quartet, filling the Library with seasonal favorites and jazzy flair.
1:00–4:00 PM — Tours of the Saunders House Historic WPA Murals
Professional conservator Lisa Mehlin will lead 15-minute guided tours of the newly restored WPA murals in the historic Saunders House. Learn about their remarkable history and the intricate conservation process. Registration required at SawyerFreeLibrary.org.
1:00–1:30 PM — Gingerbread Creation Contest Winner Announcement
Join members of the Middle Street Walk Committee — including Barbara Catalini of Cakes by Barbara — in the Children’s Room as they announce the winners of the 2025 Gingerbread Creation Contest. All gingerbread entries will be on display!
More details on Middle Street Walk festivities city-wide will be shared soon. We hope you’ll join us for this magical Gloucester tradition!
Discover natural ways to support your health through the cold and flu season at the Sawyer Free Library with Rivka Schwartz of Health and Hearth, a local herbal and wellness practice.
In this informative and practical workshop, you’ll:
The program will include samples, take-home recipes, and an information packet so you can continue your wellness journey at home.
All are welcome. Registration requested at sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Gloucester residents are welcomed for FREE EVERY TUESDAY at the Hammond Castle Museum. Nearly a dozen Christmas trees, dozens of wreaths, garlands and hand-made bows, two Menorahs, and playful 3D printed touches including gumdrop garland and a replica of the castle styled as a whimsical gingerbread house fill the space. Thousands of twinkling lights and flickering candles set the scene while nutcrackers, gingerbread men, and hidden gnomes and elves add a bit of fun for little ones exploring with their families.
Over the last several seasons, we have grown this program, and that tradition of care has long been guided by our Director of Collections, Beth Welin, whose thoughtful eye has shaped its beauty from the start. This year we were also fortunate to have the generous support of Elaine Quinn, of Elaine Quinn Interiors whose time, encouragement, and friendship helped us elevate the experience for the 2025 season.
We invite you to join us and experience the beauty and joy of the season. Proof of Gloucester residency is required at check-in for all those with Gratis Day admission reservations.
– Gloucester Gratis Days Self-Guided Tours are available every Tuesday throughout the entire 2025 tour season from May 6th through January 4th.
– Advance registration is recommended but not required. You may also register upon arrival in the Museum Shop.
Cape Ann Community 