In 1996, the United States Congress recognized the national significance of the historic 500-square-mile region north of Boston, Massachusetts, by establishing the Essex National Heritage Area (Essex NHA).Essex NHA covers 34 cities and towns and is managed by Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage), a nonprofit organization that rallies communities around promoting and enhancing the unique character of Essex County. This includes the thousands of historic, cultural, and natural places that were crucial in shaping our nation; the places that led to this region's designation as a National Heritage Area; the places that make Essex County like nowhere else.Essex Heritage involves residents in actively supporting over 10,000 historic, cultural and natural places that make this area a great place to live. They do this by offering inspiring events like Trails & Sails—which boasts 150 unique experiences over 10 days—and by developing programs and partnerships that support the hundreds of heritage organizations and historic sites within the National Heritage Area. Essex Heritage also owns and maintains the 10 acre Bakers Island Light Station at Bakers Island in Salem Harbor. Essex Heritage provides public access to the light station for special tours and overnights during the summer season.