The Marine Society at Salem was founded in 1766 by sea captains to provide relief for disabled and aged members and their families; to promote knowledge of this coast; and to communicate observations for making navigation more safe.
The Society continues to hold quarterly meetings in the Cabin, located atop Salem's historic Hawthorne Hotel. Membership includes descendants of the original Salem sea captains as well as working mariners. The Society continues to fulfill its original purposes, and also provides scholarships for aspiring mariners as well as generous support for local maritime and historical programs.
