How Does One Restore a Medieval Castle?

Thursday, January 16th
10:00 – 11:45 am
10:00 – 10:30 am: Coffee & light refreshments
10:30 – 11:30 am: Presentation
11:30 – 11:45 am: Q&A/Conclusion.

Join us for a detailed discussion of recent and ongoing restoration efforts at the Museum with contractor and mason Roger Tremblay and Director of Education & Visitor Services Caleb McMurphy.  In the past few years, Tremblay, and his firm A+R Construction, have headed some of the most significant restoration projects in the Museum’s history, including the renovation of the Museum’s iconic 13th-century French monastery arches, originally situated in the Franciscan monastery of Couvent des Cordeliers, in Gers, France. In 2024, Tremblay’s team intervened to save a portion of the “towers” section of the building, modeled off of an 11th-century Norman keep, which had been badly damaged by winter weather.

Over the course of an hour, Roger and Caleb will discuss these and other ongoing and upcoming restoration projects, using photos taken during the work itself to give a look behind the curtain at just what it takes to maintain such a unique and historic building. After this, audience members will have a chance to ask questions of their own and get an opportunity to become involved with Hammond Castle Museum’s continuing mission to preserve John Hays Hammond Jr.’s legacy.  

Member savings apply.

General Admission: $15

Proceeds from this program will support the restoration and preservation of the Hammond Castle Museum.

What are you doing this New Year’s Eve?

Ring in 2025 in regal splendor! Step into a world of enchantment as Hammond Castle Museum’s Great Hall transforms into the ultimate New Year’s Eve destination with our returning host Bruce Jaques. Dance the night away, indulge in gourmet treats, and uncover the mysteries of the Castle’s unique chambers. As the clock strikes twelve, join us for a spectacular champagne toast!

Reserve your tickets now to secure your spot at the North Shore’s most spectacular New Year’s Eve bash.

Doors open at 9:00 pm and the celebration goes to 1:00 am.
21 & Over, ID required upon arrival. Cash bar.
Free parking.

New Year’s Eve at Hammond Castle Museum

Ring in 2025 in regal splendor! Step into a world of enchantment as Hammond Castle Museum’s Great Hall transforms into the ultimate New Year’s Eve destination with our returning host Bruce Jaques. Dance the night away, indulge in gourmet treats, and uncover the mysteries of the Castle’s unique chambers. As the clock strikes twelve, join us for a spectacular champagne toast and witness our dazzling New Year’s illumination.

So, gather your friends, dress to impress, and create unforgettable memories at Club Castle – the North Shore’s most magical New Year’s celebration. Welcome 2025 in unparalleled style and grandeur! Reserve your tickets now to secure your spot at the North Shore’s most spectacular New Year’s Eve bash.

Doors open at 9:00 pm and the celebration goes to 1:00 am.
21 & Over, ID required upon arrival. Cash bar.

Hammond’s Original Horror Stories Come To Life In The Terror of Abbadia Mare – Opening Tonight!

Tonight’s the Night! We are thrilled to kick off the opening of The Terror of Abbadia Mare at Hammond Castle Museum!

As you travel through the Castle’s darkened corridors and rooms, you’ll encounter some of the most peculiar guests ever assembled. Are they members of a secret society, social and Hollywood royalty, or leaders straddling the boundaries of science and the occult? These stories are based on Hammond’s original ghost stories. Hammond’s writing style, reminiscent of the 1920s Weird Tale and the 1950s Pulp Fiction offers a unique blend of supernatural intrigue and kitschy charm

Featuring an incredible cast:

  • Gloucester’s own James “Jimmy T.” Tarantino as the Sailor
  • Anthony Lentz as John Hays Hammond Jr.
  • Shari Chaplin as Mrs. Irene Hammond
  • Lauren Casey as the Reporter
  • Michael Yussef Greene as Hillman, Hammond’s trusted Butler
  • Alison Landoni as the Mason

Join us for performances on October 21, 22, 23, and 25! Tickets are still available, so be sure to reserve yours now for an unforgettable night of suspense and theatrical magic inside our historic castle. 🎟️🔮.

Roaring 1920s and similar attire are encouraged but not required.  Not intended for audiences under 13 years of age. Admission: $25  

Hammond Castle Museum member discounts apply!  All proceeds from this program will support the restoration and preservation of the Museum.

Prepare yourselves, honored guests, for an adventure unlike any other, as the late John Hays Hammond Jr. comes to life for a gathering of his dearest friends and respected colleagues. Within the medieval walls of Hammond’s castle home, secrets and curiosities await.

As you travel through the castle’s darkened corridors and rooms, you’ll encounter some of the most peculiar guests ever assembled. Are they members of a secret society, social and Hollywood royalty, or leaders straddling the boundaries of science and the occult? These mysterious figures have converged at Hammond Castle for a reason, and you’re about to find out why.

This unique promenade theater performance will transport you through time and space. You’ll step into different rooms and meet a captivating cast of characters ranging from Hillman, Hammond’s loyal butler to the eccentric Hammond and his glamorous wife, Irene – each with their own extraordinary tale to share. These stories have been expertly adapted by the talented Doug Cowell and are based on Hammond’s original ghost stories. Hammond’s writing style, reminiscent of the 1920s Weird Tale and the 1950s Pulp Fiction offers a unique blend of supernatural intrigue and kitschy charm.

Starring:

  • Anthony Lentz as John Hays Hammond Jr.
  • Shari Chaplin as Mrs. Irene Hammond
  • Lauren Casey as the Reporter
  • Michael Greene as Hillman, the Butler
  • James “Jimmy T.” Tarantino as the Sailor
  • Alison Landoni as the Mason

Beginning on the drawbridge, and leading through multiple rooms within, this walking, theatrical program runs just shy of 60 minutes in total. Performances begin at 6 pm and run every 15 minutes through 9 pm.  **Roaring 1920s and similar attire are encouraged!**

Peter Krasinski Returns for One-Night-Only Performance of Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror

Internationally acclaimed pianist Peter Krasinski returns to Hammond Castle Museum for a command performance to breathe new life into the 1922 silent film Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, often called ‘the film that would change cinema history forever.’

Set in the medieval grandeur of our Great Hall, designed with near-perfect acoustics, this screening offers a unique blend of film and live music. As Count Orlok stalks across the screen, Krasinski’s masterful accompaniment on Hammond’s original 1920s Chickering & Sons grand piano will immerse you in an unforgettable symphony of sight and sound, creating a truly haunting experience this October.

Monday, October 14
The performance begins at 7:30 pm.
Admission: $40  
Hammond Castle Museum Member discounts apply!

Tickets are selling fast and the event is expected to sell out, reserve your seats now so you don’t miss out!

All proceeds from this program will support the restoration and preservation of the Museum.

Learn about the two NEW exhibits that opened this month and some more of our upcoming events here!

Audition Dates: Friday, September 6th, and Monday, September 9th from 4-7 pm.
Non-union, paid roles.

This October, the Hammond Castle Museum will present, “The Terror of Abbadia Mare” a new performance based on founder, John Hays Hammond, Jr’s original, horror stories. This room-to-room theatrical performance weaves some of the original members of the Hammond household into the stories. Hammond’s writing style is reminiscent of the 1920s Weird Tale and the 1950s Pulp Fiction and offers a unique blend of supernatural intrigue and kitschy charm.

The Museum is seeking actors to fill the following roles for this performance including:

  • Reporter: Age range: 20’s – 40’s, any build, any gender, character fits the 1920’s look, a slice of the 1920’s right away.
  • The Butler: Age range: 30’s, male presenting, slim to average build, the proper English butler who has been by Hammond and has been running his house for years.
  • Spiritualist:  Age range: 20’s- 30’s, female presenting, a spirit.
  • Sailor: Age range: 30’s-40’s, male presenting, any build, a spirit.
  • Dr. Serisan: Age range: 30’s-50’s, male presenting, South American master of black magic and a horde of zombie workers.
  • The Mason: Age range: 30’s-40’s, male presenting, blue-collar worker, a spirit.
  • Gertrude: Age range: 20’s, female presenting, high class, a spirit.
  • John Hays Hammond Jr.: Age range: 30’s-40’s, slim build, male presenting, Master of the House and host of the party.

Rehearsal dates: October 15th & 16th. 6 – 8 pm.
Performances: October 21, 22, 23 & 25. 6 – 10 pm.

Sign up at: https://forms.gle/aLjxLtDMoRpebkMo6.

No calls to the Museum, please.

Join us this Sunday evening as we host the premier of Cedric & Alysia!


Don’t miss this exclusive chance to watch “Cedric and Alysia” just days before it streams nationally on Amazon Prime and Apple TV! And that’s not all—Director Michael Rooney will be joining us and will share some behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this incredible film!

In the midst of a homeland ravaged by war, Sir Cedric Vale returns to his home castle, only to find his world turned upside down. Loyal to the Baron of Pres, Cedric is devastated to learn that the Baron has married the woman he loves, Lady Alysia. As political strife and threats from the treacherous Ring of Shadowed Blades loom, Cedric and Alysia must keep their forbidden love a secret while navigating the perilous waters of loyalty and honor.

The premiere will be held on the picturesque seaside lawn, offering a perfect blend of cinematic magic and natural beauty. Witness the saga of Cedric and Alysia under the stars, where the sound of the waves will accompany this epic story of love, loyalty, and honor. This event is kid-friendly as there is no foul language or nudity, and very limited violence, so bring the whole family!

Cedric & Alysia will be released on AppleTV and Amazon on August 6th, 2024. Be among the first to see it before its official release and watch it on location!

  • Directed by: Michael Rooney
  • Starring: Nexus Lyons, Caroline Codd, Justin C. Schilling, Nowa Clark, Craig Hart & Michael Rooney.
  • Run time: 84 Minutes
  • Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure
  • Doors: 7:30 / Program begins: 8:00 p.m.
  • Admission: $20
  • Member savings apply!

Expanded Evening Access Offers More Opportunities to Explore Hammond Castle Museum!

Responding to consumer feedback for increased accessibility, visitors can enjoy guided and self-guided tours during extended hours every Thursday night in July, August, and September, offering a unique opportunity to explore the Museum’s historic marvels in a more intimate setting. This initiative aims to cater to diverse schedules and preferences, providing enriched experiences for all guests interested in delving into the rich history and architectural beauty of the Hammond Castle Museum.

Self-Guided Tours: 6 – 8 pm.  Last entrance 7:15 pm.
Guided Tours: 6 & 7 pm

Adults: $20, Seniors: $15, Children ages 5 -12: $10, Little ones 4 and under are free with reservation.
Hammond Castle Museum Members enjoy complimentary admission to these evening Guided and Self-Guided Tours!


These specialty tours, held in dimmed light with visitors holding electric candles, explore the Museum’s occult history and the Spiritualist movement. Highlights include John Hays Hammond Jr.’s supernatural experiments with a Faraday Cage and Irene Fenton Hammond’s astrological writings. This 55-minute guided tour, set against the dramatic gothic-inspired architecture and nighttime ambiance, provides a unique, informative experience. Electronic candles are provided for optional use.

Candlelight & Spiritualism Tours are offered every Thursday evening:

  • July, August, and September at 8 pm.
  • October at 6, 7, 8 & 9 pm.

Admission: $25 Not recommended for children under 13. Member savings apply.