TODAY'S EDITION IN ONE SENTENCE: Neighbors in Swampscott and Marblehead are banding together to save General John Glover’s farmhouse from demolition, as town officials rebooted MBTA zoning after July’s repeal and heard an update on the $67 million Broughton Road overhaul, the future of the long-vacant Coffin School was opened to ideas from developers, nonprofits and community groups, Superintendent John Robidoux admitted lagging progress on staffing in his first evaluation, Rep. Seth Moulton will challenge Sen. Ed Markey for the Senate in 2026, while Indigenous stories at the Marblehead Museum and photojournalists’ reflections at Marblehead Arts Association reminded us of the enduring power of culture and craft, and Chris Stevens, the longtime editor of the Marblehead Reporter, returned to local reporting as a contributor to The Independent. - Cheers, Will 

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Can a Revolutionary Hero’s home be saved?

More than 60 residents filled a public hearing in Swampscott to urge preservation of General John Glover’s farmhouse, the Revolutionary War hero’s final home. The Historical Commission is weighing a nine-month demolition delay as advocates scramble to raise funds and organize a long-term plan. The debate reflects broader tensions between development and historic preservation, with Glover’s legacy seen as too important to erase.

Marblehead Planning Board picks liaison to help steer zoning reset

The Marblehead Planning Board appointed Josh Liebman as liaison to oversee the town’s renewed MBTA zoning compliance process, following July’s repeal of earlier plans. The board also approved expanded lighting at Piper Field, with new oversight requirements designed to balance athletic demand and neighborhood concerns. The liaison appointment signals a more deliberate and inclusive approach to future zoning decisions.

Housing Committee reviews progress on 3A compliance, redevelopment plans

The Housing Committee reviewed progress on MBTA Communities Act compliance and redevelopment efforts, including a proposed $67 million overhaul of the Broughton Road public housing complex.

 Moulton challenge to test Markey’s progressive hold on Democratic Party

Rep. Seth Moulton formally announced his challenge to longtime Sen. Ed Markey, casting the race as a choice between continuity and change. Markey, 79, touts his progressive track record, while Moulton, 46, argues Massachusetts needs younger leadership and a fresh perspective in Washington. The contest highlights not only differences in age and style but also deeper questions about the Democratic Party’s direction.

Superintendent pressed on slow staffing progress in one-year review

Superintendent John Robidoux's first evaluation revealed staffing analysis delays, prompting School Committee concern. While he noted progress on district improvement and student voice initiatives, officials requested clearer priorities before budget season begins. The discussion highlighted the need to align educational goals with available resources.

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STORIES THAT ENDURE:

 Abenaki storyteller brings tradition to Marblehead Museum

At the Marblehead Museum’s newly restored Jeremiah Lee Brick Kitchen, storyteller Anne Jennison shared tales from Abenaki and Wabanaki traditions in celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day. Her stories, passed down across centuries, drew lessons about kindness, resilience and reconciliation and highlighted the contemporary presence of Indigenous peoples.

Browse the Independent's newsletter archive

We’ve created a Marblehead Independent newsletter archive — a new feature that will be updated weekly. The archive lets readers browse past editions, revisit favorite stories and follow Marblehead’s civic debates, cultural life and everyday news, week by week.

CATCHING LIGHT: Marblehead photojournalists confront change and AI

At a recent Marblehead Current event, local photojournalists explored the evolution of their craft, from darkroom days to the digital era and now the rise of AI-generated imagery. Panelists reflected on the ethics of representation, the artistry of candid moments and the responsibility of visual journalists to maintain trust in a shifting media landscape. 

COLLEEN'S GARDEN:

Frost, a nor’easter and bugs, oh my!

Columnist Colleen Connor reflects on early frost and stormy weather in Marblehead gardens, sharing tips on protecting citrus, jasmine and dahlias while navigating seasonal pests. She highlights resilience, neighborly exchanges, and the joy of fall gardening despite challenges.

THE RETURN OF THE EDITOR: 
Chris Stevens joins the Independent as a contributor

Former Marblehead Reporter editor Chris Stevens has joined the Independent as a contributor. Stevens possesses deep roots in North Shore journalism, multimedia storytelling skills and strong passion for community reporting. She will focus on feature writing and general news coverage.

The 2026 Scarecrow and Stroll: The annual Scarecrow Stroll and Contest will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Gerry Playground on Stramski Way. Families can trick-or-treat among decorated scarecrows for $6 admission, with costumes encouraged. Entry in the contest is free for families, businesses and organizations, with setup from 9 to 11 a.m.

Rotary Club's 5K for mental health: The Marblehead Rotary Club will host its annual 5K run to benefit local schools through Inner Explorer, a nonprofit that provides daily mindfulness programs to help students manage stress and build focus and self-control.

POLICE LOG: BMW vanishes with keys inside, bar patron attempts to spit at bartender. 

Beatles tribute concert: A free, family-friendly Beatles tribute concert will be held at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion on Friday, Oct. 31, at 5:30 p.m.

Mini Green Home Tour:  A Marblehead family will open 34 Pinecliff Drive from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, for Sustainable Marblehead’s Mini Green Home Tour, showcasing a Tesla Solar Glass Roof.

Miles for Mary 5K: The Miles for Mary 5K race will return Oct. 18, raising funds for brain-cancer research while honoring the memory of Mary O’Donnell. The community event begins at Marblehead High School and welcomes runners, walkers and families for a day of remembrance and support.

Candlelight concert at St. Michael's: A candlelight chamber concert titled “The Colors of Quartets” will take place at 8 p.m. Oct. 18 at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, featuring works by Bernard Henrik Crusell and François Devienne. The performance continues Marblehead’s tradition of intimate, live classical music.

Nonprofit offers free energy coaching: Sustainable Marblehead has launched a volunteer Energy Coaching Program to help residents navigate clean-energy upgrades such as heat pumps, solar panels and weatherization. Coordinator Lisa Wolf said the effort aims to make home energy improvements simpler and more approachable.

The Honey Badgers, Don Pallotta at Me&Thee Oct. 17:  Me&Thee Music will host a split-bill concert Friday, Oct. 17, featuring Delaware folk/Americana duo The Honey Badgers and musician and social activist Dan Pallotta.

OBSERVER REPORTS: At its Sept. 30 meeting, the Board of Health discussed preparations for flu clinics, updates on waste-collection logistics and continued public-health monitoring ahead of the fall respiratory season.

Friends of Abbot Library membership drive: Celebrate National Friends of Libraries Week Oct. 19–25 with a new membership to support programs and book sales.

Three female foster kittens need homes: The Marblehead Animal Shelter is looking for adopters for three playful foster kittens — Dewey, Ripper and Bat. All are healthy, socialized and ready for new families; shelter hours and contact details are available online.

Halloween trick-or-treating, Spooktacular party set for Oct. 30: Families can celebrate Halloween downtown Oct. 30 with trick-or-treating at local businesses and a Spooktacular at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church.

Holiday Pops 2025 at Abbot Hall set for Dec. 13: Marblehead Harbor Rotary’s biggest fundraiser of the year will once again bring Maestro Dirk Hillyer and the Hillyer Festival Orchestra to Abbot Hall. The evening includes a Champagne Reception, music, and community spirit, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits and projects. Tickets go on sale Nov. 12 at rotaryclubofmheadharbor.org.

Survey launched to map residents' health needs: The Board of Health has partnered with the University of Massachusetts Boston on a community survey to identify residents’ most pressing health needs. The results will guide future wellness and planning efforts.

HELP WANTED: Full-time infant, toddler and preschool teachers

The Marblehead Children’s Center is seeking full-time infant, toddler and preschool teachers, offering competitive pay, benefits, free child care and a supportive teaching environment (gail@marbleheadchildrenscenter.com, 781-631-1954).