The recipient organization will augment and enhance the delivery of high-quality interpretive and educational visitor services at salem maritime and saugus iron works national historic sites

The National Park Service (NPS) National Office awarded a Cooperative Agreement totaling $155,738 to Essex National Heritage Commission on August 25, 2025, under the Heritage Partnership Program (CFDA 15.939). The agreement, with a completion date of April 30, 2030, supports enhanced interpretive and educational visitor services at Salem Maritime and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Sites. The recipient will coordinate three primary deliverables: (1) employment of a paid intern to develop, promote, and execute park programming; (2) design and fabrication of indoor and outdoor exhibits highlighting American 250 and the 400th Anniversary of Salem (Salem 400); and (3) organization of special events and programming, including logistics coordination for a major Salem 400 festival and creation of 7–10 educational programs targeting school-aged youth.

This award supports the Heritage Partnership Program's broader mission to engage communities in environmental stewardship and preserve nationally significant cultural and historical resources through heritage area management plan implementation. Essex National Heritage Commission, a Salem-based nonprofit with substantial experience administering NPS grants for heritage preservation and community education, will deliver products and services that enhance public understanding of the region's maritime history and cultural significance while advancing educational outreach to both school groups and general park visitors through interpretive programming and commemorative events.

Tasks fall into three categories: (1) coordinating a paid intern to develop, promote, and execute park programming. (2) design and fabrication of indoor and outdoor exhibits focused on american 250 and the 400TH anniversary of the city of salem (salem 400). (3) special events and programming - coordinating logistics for a major salem 400 festival, creation of 7-10 programs for school-aged youth.