Priority Development Sites in Wenham, MA

The Town of Wenham was originally settled in 1636 and incorporated in 1643. Fortunately, Wenham has retained much of its unique historic character and tranquil rural scenery. It is a town of many open views of farmlands, lakes, woodlands and old stonewalls that accompany its winding tree-lined roads.

To complement its handsome backdrop, the community is singularly fortunate to have been blessed with an active, involved citizenry, whose major goal has always been to protect what is precious from the past while continuing to plan ahead for future generations. Wenham is justly proud of its historic past; its present responsible and responsive local government; a wealth of dedicated and able volunteers; its nearly 300 acres of parks, playgrounds and recreational lands; and its excellent regional school system. Wenham is home to Gordon College. The Wenham Village Improvement Society provides a “Free Lunch for Voters” at its traditional Saturday town meeting. A walk along Wenham’s lovely main street provides a timeless picture of beautiful old homes, gardens and yards, punctuated by friendly faces, residents say, giving one a general sense of connection to all that is right about New England small town life.

Wenham has a very small business district, made up of a few buildings that have longer-term tenants. One person owns most of the property in the “downtown”.

The town also has a potential commercial development site along Rte. 128. It is zoned residential but there have been discussions to create a possible overlay zoning to allow more of a commercial project.