Jim McAllister, the Official Historian of Salem, shines a spotlight on the famed architect-woodcarver of Salem, the times in which he lived, the work he left behind (including Hamilton Hall and the Gardner-Pingree House), and the 400-plus building historic district that now bears his name.

Jim has conducted countless tours of, and lectured extensively about, the history of Salem and Boston’s North Shore. Through the international Elderhostel program Jim taught more than 250 courses on local history, architecture and art. He has also served as an historic consultant to many local organizations and institutions.

He was the recipient of both the Essex National Heritage Commission’s first ever Heritage Hero Award and the regional Storyteller Award given by the North of Boston Visitor and Convention Bureau.