Headquarters
"I am delighted to help Ocean Alliance preserve this landmark for Gloucester and our nation. Its
restoration is a clear example of how historic properties can be saved for community use. With a
research institute in this space, the citizens of Gloucester and our country will benefit from expanded
knowledge of our most important resource---water. It is a privilege to be a part of American history."
- Wallis Annenberg, The Annenberg Foundation
FOR AN OVERVIEW OF THE RESTORATION, CLICK HERE 
FOR A VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE PAINT MANUFACTORY, PLEASE CLICK HERE
For Ocean Alliance videos on the history of the Paint Manufactory and our restoration design concept for these buildings, please visit our VIDEOS page.
In 1863, The Tarr and Wonson Paint Manufactory revolutionized the fishing industry with the invention of copper paint. The new paint was used to coat the hulls of ships, improving their speed and maneuverability. This was critical both in battle and in bringing fish to market. Fisherman used the paint factory's smoke stack as a navigational aid. The 120–year–old former paint factory is one of our last links to a time when Gloucester was the capital of the fishing industry, making it a Gloucester icon.
Situated at the entrance to the harbor, the historic paint factory buildings (among the most depicted by New England artists) will become the new headquarters of Ocean Alliance. They stand on more than 1000 feet of waterfront. By consolidating our waterfront activities, including a home-dock for our research vessel Odyssey, we can expand our water access & better support our local research programs. When completed, the renovated facility will simplify logistics, and facilitate expanded programs for the people of Gloucester and for visitors and resident scientists from across the world.
