Hauntingly Beautiful Salem, MA
When you think about Salem, MA. The first thing that might come to mind is the infamous Salem Witch Trials from 1692 to 1693. When mass hysteria polarized Colonial Massachusetts and more than 200 people were accused of Witchcraft or being a Witch. Thirty innocent souls were found guilty, 19 ultimately hanged and the rest died in a cold, unforgiving jail cells awaiting execution. Moving forward in time, more than 300 years, the wrongs committed in those first years have lingered, and stand as a reminder of a time in history to never be repeated! This is one thing I love about learning history, is to learn the painful lessons from our past and to look for a better way going forward as to not repeat past mistakes and atrocities. We are all imperfect human beings, but if we humble ourselves, recognize societal wrongs, and right them for future generations. That is progress. Teaching and learning from history is one of the biggest gifts we can give ourselves. History is important and facts do matter, if they are lost, what mistakes will be repeated?
The town of Salem is so much more than the dark history of the Witch Trials, it is a gorgeous colonial Cape Cod town that embraces their history both good and bad. It is a beautiful coastal town rich with awe inspiring landscapes, breathtaking colonial homes and architecture, wonderful restaurants, amazing shopping, and of course the Halloween Happenings and festivals. I have been to Salem twice, once in the summer, and again a few years later on Halloween. It is a short Ferry ride from Boston. There is also a commuter train with daily access or a 30 minute car ride from Boston. Below are a few highlights from my trips. It is truly a beautiful and interesting town to visit. Worth every effort to go! I love Salem, and look forward to my next trip there.
The Harbor & Coastline
We took a ferry from Boston Harbor to Salem’s Harbor, it took about an hour, and it was a beautiful ride! If you are staying in Boston, I would recommend taking this mode of transportation to see Salem. You not only get an incredible view of the Boston Skyline, but you have a gorgeous view of the stately homes dotting the landscape that enjoy beautiful Atlantic Ocean views. We took the ferry when I visited on Halloween, so we could get a nice view of the famous New England Fall Leaves, even though it was a rainy day, the breathtaking views of the fiery red, shimmering gold, mossy greens, and the vibrant autumn orange colors of the landscape was a scene the lens of my camera could not capture, only your eyes and soul could take in the beauty that is there to witness.
Upon arriving in Salem via the ferry, you are a short walk to Derby St. where there are attractions immediately to check out! The House of the Seven Gables, Ye Olde Pepper Candy Comapnie, Salem Maritime Historic Site, Witche’s Brew Cafe, Lot’s of wonderful little shops, and of course the beautiful neighborhood and homes.
The House of the Seven Gables
House of the Seven Gables is a historic landmark. It is one of the oldest timber mansions still standing on it’s original foundation. It was originally built in 1668 for Captain John Turner, the head of the most successful military families of the new colonies. It is best known today as the home of the world renowned author, Nathaniel Hawthorn. You can read more about the history of this mansion, and Nathaniel Hawthorn at the following website. It truly is a beautiful, interesting, and relaxing place to visit.
More Derby Street Sightseeing
Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie. The oldest candy company in America
The Ye Ole Pepper Candy Company is located at 122 Derby Street. They are said to be the oldest candy company in America, dating bavk to 1806. The Gibralters are the original candy made of Sugar, water, cream of tartar, and either lemon or peppermint oil. I tried them, and they aren’t bad, and worth the nostalgia, but not my favorite either. The store has a wide variety of chocolates, fudge, hard candies and more. It smells like sweet bliss inside, and you’ll have a hard time choosing your favorite.
Salem Witch Village & Wax Museum
Burying Point Cemetery & Witch Trials Memorial
The Witch Trial Memorial is incorporated at the old Burying Point Cemetery at 51 Charter Street at the corner of Liberty Street. It is a surreal place to visit, eerily peaceful yet very sad. Each of the 20 people wrongfully put to death are memorialized here, with stone benches etched with their names, date and manner of death, and quotes from them. The Burying Point Cemetery is one of the oldest cemetery’s in America, there are even, Mayflower Pilgrims buried here. Below are photographs I took on my visit. This is definitely worth the time to visit, and pay your respects, thinking about the hardships the souls in this cemetery must have endured, and being grateful for being born in an era that reaps the benefits from those who came before us.
Haunting Messages Etched in Stone
OH LORD, HELP ME... GOD KNOWS I AM INNOCENT... I AM WHOLLY INNOCENT OF SUCH WICKEDNESS.... I DENY IT TO MY DYING DAY!... I DO PLEAD NOT GUILTY..... I WOULD CONFESS, I SHOULD SAVE MY LIFE...
Halloween in Salem
Anywhere in Salem on Halloween is fun! The day we went, it was raining and windy, but that didn’t matter! We made the best of it and it was actually kinda nice that the weather scared off a lot of would be revelers and it wasn’t as crowded as usual. Essex Street is a people watchers paradise! Grab a seat and a snack and watch the people go by dressed to impress. There are lots of shops, restaurants, museums, and such down Essex Street, very touristy, but fun none the less. Below are a couple of Youtube videos that are not mine, but capture what I experienced quite well. I went in 2019 so the video from that day goes with many of the pictures I took.
As you can see people come to Salem on Halloween and release their most outrageous alter ego. There is a lighthearted, fun atmosphere all day and into the night. Celebrating Halloween in Salem is on a lot of people’s bucket list for very good reason! I know I barely scratched the surface while I was there, but I made memories with my BFF that I will always treasure and I know we will always look back on and smile! Rain and all.
Can’t forget about the dogs!
I know there is much more to see in Salem, and I know I will return there one day soon. It is a destination that is worthy of your bucket list! It is charming, historical, and gorgeous! I can’t wait to explore more of what this lovely area has to offer. I hope you enjoyed some of my pictures and stories. Please subscribe to my newletter to be informed of new posts as they beome available. Or leave me a comment below. I would love to hear from you.
