It is perhaps the spookiest and most historic place in the U.S. Salem, Massachusetts is full of rich history. The most famous historic period being the Salem Witch Trials. A time when many were accused of practicing witchcraft. 19 men and women were accused and killed during that period. Some met their fate by being hung while one was actually crushed to death. Now centuries later the town is a tourist attraction.
People from all over journey for miles just to see this place of history and to get a glimpse of the past. In the middle of town lies Burying Point the 2nd oldest cemetary in the U.S. It is there that you may visit the graves of early settlers as well as those involved in the witchtrials. Many of the graves date back to the early 1600's. Among the tombstones sits the Gallows tree where many were hung. Outside of the cemetary are stone ledges and each one inscribed with the name of those who were falsely accused and hung for witchcraft.
Their name and date of death are listed as well as how they died. Visitors are welcome to place flowers on the ledges. Surrounding the cemetary are old houses which stand as landmarks of the past. Also surrounding the area are various occult shops and museums. Two museums worth seeing are the Salem Witch Museum and the New England Pirate Museum. Both give you an idea of the past and share with you some historic facts.
If you are seeking something truly exciting then you may want to check out Salems 13 Ghosts. A 3D interactive haunted house which features 3D paintings and each visitor is given a pair of 3D glasses which enable you to see ghosts coming out of the walls and paintings. If it is true history you are craving then two must see places are "The Witch House" and the famous "House of Seven Gables" made famous by writer Nathaniel Hawthorne. Tours are offered for the House of Seven Gables and the prices are $12 for adults, $11 for seniors (65 and over), $11 for AAA members and $7.25 for children ages 5-12.
The most exciting time to visit Salem is in October when their are festivals and numerous ghost tours. Visitors can also visit with Psychics and Fortune Tellers. At a low price you can see renactments of the Salem Witch Trials as well as participate in the trials. Salem is located on the east coast of Massachusetts and is 15 miles from Boston.
