The Mary Celeste has a long history in Marion and is known around the world as the "Ghost Ship". Back in 1872, Captain Benjamin Briggs, a Marion resident, set out to deliver industrial alcohol from New York to Italy on a large brigantine sailing vessel. Shortly after, the ship was found drifting with its ripped sails and its crew missing including the captain, his wife, and daughter among others. Numerous books have been published on the Mary Celeste, a couple of movies and even an episode by the Smithsonian.
148 years later, a long-standing village book shop became available in the coastal town of Marion and our founder, Mike Achilles, immediately knew he wanted to use that space as a place of conversation and education. The town of Marion is something special and many say right out of a Norman Rockwell painting. With its amazing people, proximity to major highways, and seasonal growth, it is the perfect location to bring people together to sip, taste, and learn about whiskey and wine.
Our founder presented the idea to the town and carefully crafted a plan taking into account the concerns of local businesses and residents. After numerous planning board visits and interest by the residents, the town granted a change of use for the space from retail to restaurant. The town has also granted a liquor license to The Mary Celeste pending our final occupancy permit. The space itself is located on the first floor of a two-story building and all architectural, mechanical, fire, plumbing and electrical designs have been completed.
Construction is well underway with time spent on framing, structural repairs, custom shelves, bar area, and the footings for the new ADA ramp. With additional funds, we will finally be able to finish construction and open our doors.
