York's local historical society oversees the bulk of the town's collection of historic buildings, some of which date to the early 18th century, and most of which are astonishingly well preserved or restored. Tickets are available to eight Old York-operated properties in all; one good place to start is at the barn-red Old Gaol , which still has its (now-musty) dungeons and was built in 1719 as a jail to hold criminals, debtors, and other miscreants. It's the oldest surviving public building in the United States. Next, cross the street to the yellow Jefferds Tavern, near the old burying ground. Inside, changing exhibits document various facets of early life. A 10-minute walk along Lindsay Road brings you to Hancock Wharf, next door to the George Marshall Store. (Also nearby is the Elizabeth Perkins House, with its well-preserved Colonial Revival interiors.) Finally, just down the hill from the jail is the Emerson-Wilcox House, built in the mid-1700s and periodically added onto through the years; it's a virtual catalog of architectural styles and early decorative arts.
Kittery and Yorks
Travel Guide
Kittery and Yorks› Attraction
Museums of Old York
207 York St, USA
Our Rating
Neighborhood
York
Hours
Museums open late May–Labor Day Tues–Sat 10am–4pm (some properties have shorter hours). Labor Day–mid-Oct open Thurs–Sat only; closed mid-Oct–late May.
Phone
207/363-1756
Prices
Admission per building $8 adults, $5 children 6–15; pass to all buildings $15 adults, $10 children 6–15
Web site
Museums of Old York
Map
207 York St USA Kittery and YorksNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.