Ghost Towns in Massachusetts
8 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Massachusetts.
All Ghost Towns
Dana
Dana was one of four towns disincorporated in 1938 to create the Quabbin Reservoir for Boston's water supply. Unlike the others, Dana's town common si...
Dogtown
Dogtown was a colonial village on Cape Ann abandoned by the 1830s. Legend says only old women (some accused of witchcraft) and their dogs remained at ...
Enfield
Enfield was one of four towns (Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, Prescott) disincorporated and flooded to create the Quabbin Reservoir. Residents were relocat...
Gay Head Cliffs
Gay Head (now Aquinnah) was an ancient Wampanoag fishing village known for its dramatic multi-colored clay cliffs. The area was heavily populated befo...
Prescott
Prescott was one of four towns (Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, Prescott) disincorporated and flooded to create the Quabbin Reservoir for Boston's water sup...
Boylston
Four Massachusetts towns—Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott—were drowned to create the Quabbin Reservoir, Boston's water supply. Residents were fo...
Smithville
Smithville was one of the communities destroyed to create the Quabbin Reservoir. Stone foundations, cellar holes, and roads leading to nowhere remain ...
Whitewash Village
Whitewash Village was a thriving fishing community on Monomoy Island. Frequent storms and shifting sands eventually made the harbor unusable, forcing ...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Massachusetts?
We have documented 8 ghost towns in Massachusetts. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Massachusetts safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Massachusetts?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.