Daniel is a copywriter who has well and truly been bitten alive by the 'travel bug'. After ticking off several North American National Parks and exploring Europe by train, his sights are now set on South East Asia. Usually with at least one camera locked and loaded, you'll find Daniel wherever there are mountains, lakes or beaches.
Massachusetts, known for its rich history, is also home to a lesser-known side – a collection of intriguing ghost towns, each with its own unique tales to tell.
Join us as we travel across Massachusetts, from the mysterious Whitewash Village to the industrious Haywardville, uncovering the histories of 12 forgotten towns.
Whitewash Village
Whitewash Village, established around 1710, breathes an air of mystery with its subtle traces on Massachusetts’ Monomoy Island. Once a thriving harbor and a haven for sailors, today, relics from the past peek through the sands at low tide. Despite its demise after a 19th-century hurricane, the village’s spirit still lingers in the form of wooden fragments and brick foundations.
Long Point
Journey to the tip of Cape Cod to explore the remnants of Long Point, a once-thriving fishing village in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Today, only a lighthouse and a military mound attest to its vibrant history, from settlers floating their homes across the harbor to Civil War defenses humorously dubbed “Fort Useless” and “Fort Ridiculous.” This ghost town, cocooned in history and mystery, makes for an fascinating exploration.
Catamount
Discover the mystical beauty of Catamount, an abandoned village turned popular outdoor destination in Colrain, Massachusetts. Home to a historical landmark – the first U.S. flag-flying schoolhouse, Catamount now serves as the perfect backdrop for hiking and snowmobiling adventures. Immerse yourself into the scenic expanse of the Catamount State Forest and journey through the echoes of the past.
Dogtown
Step into the forgotten past of Dogtown, an abandoned village nestled in Gloucester on Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Once a thriving community offering protection from pirates and enemy natives, it now lies as a ghostly reminder of its historic past. Meander through the remnants of this once-bustling settlement and delve into its rich history.
Questing
Questing is an enigmatic ghost town located in southwestern Massachusetts. Once a fort town with a mysterious past, it now opens its arms to outdoor enthusiasts, offering serene hiking trails, inviting meadows for picnics, and a haven for skiing and hunting.
Davis
Explore the hidden vestiges of Davis, a deserted mining village in Rowe, Massachusetts. Once the state’s largest iron pyrite mine, Davis now boasts an eerily beautiful landscape dotted with the remnants of a blacksmith shop and numerous cellar holes. This ghost town, once a local tourist attraction, is a compelling witness to the industrial revolution’s impact on the region.
Prescott
Uncover the intriguing tale of Prescott, an abandoned town that once thrived in Hampshire County, Massachusetts. Named in honor of Colonel William Prescott, a significant figure in the Battle of Bunker Hill, today, the village of North Prescott invites visitors to trace its historical roots.
Norton Furnace
Journey back in time with Norton Furnace, an abandoned settlement tucked away in Bristol County, Massachusetts. Boasting a past rich in iron manufacturing and commerce, the area, now known as Meadowbrook, whispers tales of its industrial heyday. Explore this ghost town and piece together the story of a forgotten era of prosperity and industry.
Dana
Delve into the hidden story of Dana, a town forever imprinted in Worcester County, Massachusetts. Lost to the formation of the Quabbin Reservoir, the ghost town of Dana can now be explored on foot, revealing the remnants of homes and a preserved town common. Experience the poignant memory of this National Register of Historic Places site and its narrative of sacrifice and survival.
Enfield
Immerse yourself in the history of Enfield, a former town now submerged beneath the Quabbin Reservoir in Hampshire County, Massachusetts. Despite its underwater fate, the spirit of Enfield lives on through the Quabbin State Park, a treasure trove of history and nature, and the scenic Quabbin Hill with its observatory and lookout. This site, teeming with both history and natural beauty, paints a vivid picture of Enfield’s past and present.
Greenwich
Greenwich is a submerged town in Hampshire County, Massachusetts. Once celebrated for its picturesque lakes and ponds, Greenwich is now concealed beneath the Quabbin Reservoir, with only a few hilltop islands remaining. Allow your imagination to wander through this lost town, an inspiration for H.P. Lovecraft’s fictional narratives, and delve into a story of transformation and adaptation.
Haywardville
Uncover the unique history of Haywardville, an abandoned village tucked away in the Middlesex Fells Reservation, Massachusetts. Known for its vital role in the early rubber industry, Haywardville now offers tranquil trails through the Spot Pond Archaeological District. This once-thriving settlement, intricately restored by Charles Eliot, invites visitors to immerse in nature and delve into its intriguing past.
8 Most Unique Places To Kayak In The US- Stunning Beauty
Looking for a unique and thrilling way to explore the natural beauty of the United States? Look no further! From the bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico to the rugged beauty of the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin, there’s something for every adventure seeker.
The 10 Most Beautiful Hikes In The US- Discovering America
This article highlights the most beautiful hikes in the US from California to Maine. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail on this list that will leave you awe-inspired. So, put on your hiking boots and get ready to explore the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes of America’s most beautiful hiking destinations.
10 National Parks To Skip If You Have Young Children
This article is a must-read if you’re planning a national park trip with young children! Don’t get stuck in rugged terrain, limited water access, or super-long hiking distances with your kiddos! Learn about the challenges and potential dangers of visiting these parks with young children and plan your trip accordingly for a safe and enjoyable experience.