Why teach Cape Ann?
CAM's program are designed to engage students in learning strategies for looking at art and historical objects through discussion and interactive activities. They are encouraged to make meaningful connections between the Museum’s unique collection, broader themes, and their own lives.
First a home to Native Americans, then colonized by Englishmen in 1623, later a preeminent seaport in Age of Sail and recently an untypical artists’ colony – a long human drama has transpired here. In our galleries, students make connections across disciplines; across social, political, and economic ways of life, schools of thought, and past and present.
Our permanent collection and changing special exhibitions tell the stories of America’s oldest seaport from the perspective of artists, laborers, patrons, and the land itself.
Our Mission
Cape Ann Museum aims to make the art, history, and culture of Cape Ann relevant to young visitors. We recognize that metacognition – what we know of others and ourselves – is altered and deepened by access to the humanities. That’s why we offer free admission, monthly art workshops, and low-cost vacation weeks to all visitors under 18.
Field Trips
We welcome school groups from preschool to university. To get a sense of what's on offer explore our Collections and Exhibitions or take a virtual tour.
Scheduling a Field Trip
Field trips are booked year-round, Tuesday through Friday, with at least three weeks' notice. For information and scheduling please call the Education Department at (978) 283-0455 x125 submit a reservation request form to [email protected].
Guided Visits
Guided Gallery Visits are 60-90 minutes and can be scheduled at the Museum or in the classroom. Visits are free to Cape Ann Schools.
Led by a CAM Educator, students learn strategies for looking at art and historical objects through discussion and interactive activities. They are encouraged to make meaningful connections between the Museum’s unique collection, broader themes, and their own lives.
Teachers can choose one from one of the Museum’s theme-based offerings or build a visit around specific areas of interest including some of our most popular collections.
Scheduling a Guided Visit
Guided Visits are booked year-round, Tuesday through Friday, with at least three week's notice.
Classroom Resources
The Cape Ann Museum offers many opportunities for children and adults to engage with the rich art, history and culture of Cape Ann. Find high quality classroom resources and engaging materials here.
Visit the Library and Archives
The Library and Archives at the Cape Ann Museum is rich resource for teachers and students to view primary source documents, literature and digital resources. When scheduling ask about visiting Library and Archives as part of your tour.
To learn more about the CAM Library and Archives, including links to online resources, please visit Library & Archives.
Professional Development
Periodically we partner with Essex Heritage and other organizations to offer Professional Development opportunities—contact [email protected] for more information.
Accessibility
The Cape Ann Museum is committed to accessibility. All spaces are handicapped accessible. Wheelchairs and audio assistive technology are available upon request. If you or anyone in your group requires additional support, please speak to the CAM staff when scheduling.
And remember, admission is always free for MTA members!
Schedule a Visit
To schedule a visit please fill out a Request and a CAM Educator will contact you within 48 business hours. (Please note: The Museum's hours are Tuesday-Sunday.)