Once upon a time, there was a genius inventor whose power over invisible forces brought him great riches. The inventor used his wealth to collect beautiful artifacts and treasures from around the world until he fell in love with an enchanting woman. As a testament to his love, the inventor built his lady a magnificent medieval castle where the pair lived out their days.
Sounds like a fairytale, right? Remarkably, it’s all true.
That’s the story behind Gloucester’s Hammond Castle, the one-time home of John Hays Hammond Jr. Perched on the rocky cliffs of Gloucester Harbor, the castle is a truly remarkable place with an even more intriguing history.
Hammond Castle
Hammond Castle
Wikimedia Commons
Hammond is known as the “Father of Radio Control” and was responsible for the technology behind all modern radio remote control. An avid collector of antiques and oddities, he traveled the globe in search of fantastical objects and art.
Hammond Castle
Wikimedia Commons
The castle was constructed in 1926 as a wedding present for Hammond’s wife, Irene Fenton Hammond. The architecture reflects the inventor’s love of all things ancient and enchanting, incorporating elements of multiple period styles. The estate now houses Hammond’s extensive collection of ancient Roman, Renaissance and Medieval artifacts. Self-guided tours are available and allow guests to explore all the hidden nooks and corners of this magical estate.
Flickr/NikiSublime
Robert Linsdell
Flickr/John Hoey
Michelle Souliere
Flickr/RachelC.Photography
The castle includes a splendid great hall, courtyard, Renaissance dining room, two guest bedrooms, the inventions exhibit room, the library, the war room, the kitchens, the Natalie Hays Hammond exhibit room, servants quarters, as well as several smaller rooms and passageways. There’s even a secret passageway!
Flickr/NikiSublime
Robert Linsdell
Flickr/John Hoey
Michelle Souliere
Flickr/RachelC.Photography
During October, the castle hosts haunted tours and other seasonal events.
FLickr/Eric Kilby
Flickr/Eric Kilby
Flickr/RachelC.Photography
Flickr/John Hoey
Flickr/NikiSublime
The castle is open Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 1 – September 4.
FLickr/Eric Kilby
Flickr/Eric Kilby
It is also open Thursday nights July 6 through August 17.
September 10 – October 8, the castle is open Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Adults: $10 Seniors Seniors: $9 Children: $8 (6-12)
80 Hesperus Ave. Gloucester, MA 01930
Have you been to Hammond Castle? What was your experience like? Let us know!
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