School lessons about the American Revolution often focus on the Boston Tea Party—but far fewer people learn about the importance of salt.
Cod fishing, Cape Cod’s biggest industry, relied on salt for preserving fish for export. British blockades, designed to cripple coastal communities, were preventing salt being imported.
In response, colonists relied on the sun and their ingenuity. Captain John Sears of Dennis designed the first saltworks, using solar evaporation to produce the salt essential for preserving fish and eliminating the dependance on imported goods.
At the Jericho Historical Center discover the history of the first saltworks, explore a detailed model, see a demonstration of solar evaporation, and view photographs and early artifacts.
In addition, tour an historic full cape house built in 1801, and occupied by the Baker family until 1955, containing 19th century furnishings, textiles, paintings and keepsakes. In the barn, tools and equipment from the 1800s are displayed, as well as a carriage that raced at Riverside Trotting Park. The General Store is a reminder of the important role such gathering places played in the community’s economic and social life. Of special interest is the cranberry exhibit which tells the 200-year-old story of cranberry cultivation; an industry that began in Dennis in 1816!
