Rockport MA

Located on the tip of Cape Ann, Massachusetts, Rockport is bordered by Gloucester to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the North, South and East. With an estimated population of just under 7,000, a thriving tourism and fishing industry, a school system among the best in the country and virtually non-existent crime rate, Rockport has established itself as one of the premier destinations to live and work in Massachusetts. Originally part of Gloucester, Rockport was incorporated as an independent town in 1840 and initially thrived as source of granite with the quarries of Rockport shipping stone all over the eastern seaboard throughout the 19th century before failing with the development of concrete and the advent of the great depression. While still a strong fishing port, Rockport has since developed into a well respected art colony as the boulder strewn beaches have long since made Rockport a popular vacation destination. Now home to the Rockport Art Association and Motif #1, A red fishing shack on Bradley Wharf which has for years been one of the most famous sites on Cape Ann as the subject of hundreds of paintings and photographs, Rockport remains one of the premier art havens on the eastern sea board. Its fantastic mix of lodging and fine dining options, combined with art and history, make the town one of the best to live in or visit.