MARBLEHEAD — A well-worn footpath to the ocean on Marblehead Neck is now under legal examination after a nearby homeowner moved to limit public access, prompting broader questions about the future of the town’s historic “paper streets.”
The path in question, Cove Lane, runs between homes on Kimball Street and ends at a small beach facing Chandler Hovey Park. Although it is just a narrow, grassy strip, it has served for decades as an informal route for residents heading to the shore. Town maps identify it as a traditional passageway.
At the cove’s edge lies a small, rocky beach with views across the harbor. Town officials say this beach area clearly belongs to the municipality.
Recently, signs have appeared marking the path as private property.
The change came in July, when Gerald M. Shea, who lives at 13 Kimball St., filed a legal notice asserting his private ownership. The document, recorded on July 21 at the Southern Essex District Registry of Deeds, warns that no public right-of-way should be assumed “by custom, use or otherwise” and specifically names several individuals as having no claim to access.
Shea could not be reached for comment.
The new restrictions drew swift reaction. On July 30, summer resident Jeff Korzenik, who lives on Waldron Court, noticed the signs while visiting what he calls his “favorite beach.” That night, he posted photos and details on Facebook to alert others.
Korzenik sees the dispute as part of a larger issue for Marblehead, not just the Neck.
He said he is worried the move could set a precedent for closing off other historic paths.
He added that what makes Marblehead so special is the history that is preserved.
For him, the matter is about preserving shared heritage.
