Salem Massachusetts, not just Another New England Witches Brew

Salem, Massachusetts is another New England adventure reminiscent of an era of mass hysteria and Puritan mis-information. Today travelers are

invited to visit the Witches Museum and take a walk through history at the grave sites of many of those men and women put to death as a result of beliefs of the time.

When you are through with your walking tour how about a narrated trolley tour to learn even more about a different time in American history, a time which many declare to be the lowest time in the area's timeline.

Far more important than the witch trials is the role the city played in world trade. Early area history boasts that its seaport may have been the most important seaport in the United States, which for many years sent ships of the era all over the world to bring back goods from exotic ports, trading cod from these cold Atlantic waters along the way. All through the late 17th century and throughout the 18th century New England residents witnessed the beginning of the U.S. import/export business grow and prosper as our young nation developed. Only a small piece of the harbor remains but the National Park Service does a fantastic job of helping visitors learn and experience early maritime life.

A visit to this very interesting city isn't complete without a stop at Salem Willows Park , a public park since 1858, especially if you have children with you who need to run off some energy. Treat them to some homemade ice cream and a harbor cruise. After all, historians claim that America's first ice cream cone was served here. Contact the charter companies to plan the best time for a whale watching cuise. Are you a Literary historian? Born July 4, 1804 Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist, short story writer and native of Salem. Among his most noted works is "The House of the Seven Gables" which was inspired by the Turner-Ingersoll mansion built in 1668 and located on Turner Street at Salem Harbor. This is a beautiful old home and from the outside you can easily view the seven triangular points (seven gables) above the roofline and take the tour inside to experience the hidden staircase for yourself. The house where Hawthorne was born has been relocated on this property and is available for viewing.

To view photos of the area click on Salem Travel Photos.