By Dave Watkins in News — 23 Sep 2026

Woodman's named among state's best clam shacks

Selectmen split 2-1 on government study panel. Essex selectmen weighed launching a government study committee to explore bylaw changes, a special act, or a full charter commission, while grappling with a fire budget shortfall tied to hiring a full-time chief by February 2027.Essex News

Woodman's of Essex named among state's best clam shacks. A Fast Food Club roundup of Massachusetts' best fried clam shacks included Woodman's of Essex alongside Ipswich's Clam Box among the state's top roadside seafood spots.Fast Food Club

Sat, Sep 26, 9:30 a.m.: Library patio and garden opening set for Saturday. The T.O.H.P. Burnham Library plans to cut the ribbon on its new patio and garden Saturday, Sept. 26, at 9:30 a.m., following weeks of planning by the Friends of the Library.Essex Public Library
Mon, Sep 28, 10:15 a.m.: Library book group meets to discuss Phoebe Variations. Essex's adult Book Group meets Monday, Sept. 28, at 10:15 a.m. in the library to discuss The Phoebe Variations by Jane Hamilton, available at the circulation desk.Essex Public Library
Mon, Sep 28, 5:30 p.m.: Mother's support group returns after cancellation. The library's Mother's Support Group, led by maternity nurse Makenzie O'Bryan, returns Monday, Sept. 28, at 5:30 p.m. after last week's session was cancelled; registration is required.Essex Public Library

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Compiled from official town feeds, community organizations, and local press. Outside reporting is attributed inline.