Join us as we travel back in time to 17th century Salem. You, the audience are the jury who decides the fate of those accused of witchcraft.
Cry Innocent is a fascinating tribute to era of 1692-93 as you join, not just as an observer but as the jury. A history lesson that has been recorded for eternity but now the verdict is for you to decide. The stage is set and its up to you?
Join us on this list of some of Salem MA haunted locations:
—The Witch House
the only structure with a direct link to the witch hysteria, it is said to still house some inhabitants of the past.
—The Old Burying Point
from descendants of the Mayflower to John Hathorne, a leading figure in the witch trials—this cemetery contains the remains dating back to 1637.
The Salem Witch Memorial
next to the Old Burying Point it represents the victims of a town on the verge of madness.
The House of the Seven Gables
the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel of the same name. A tale of curses, retributions, witchcraft, vengeance and romance is told by the great-great grandson of the leading magistrate, John Hathorne—of the 1692-93 witch trials.
Hawthorne Hotel
stay at the hotel that embodies the spirit of Salem. Some say it’s haunted by the ghosts who will never let us forget what occurred here in the 1690s!
Of course Salem is much more than witches but this town, with a name meaning Peace will forever be remembered for anything but. So, visit us—a city that offers its guest a little of everything; a place which still cast its spell on you!
Are you awake there is a secret staircase within The House of the Seven Gables? Let’s explore the intriguing questions behind this mystery.
This house served as the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name. The story of guilt, retribution, curses, romance, etc. still resonates today. Come discover a world not unlike our own; the hidden dark depths of our mind. Let’s walk step-by-step, the same pathways as are ancestors—perhaps you’ll learn some dark unspoken truths about yourself!
Taken From The Vincent Price Legacy YouTube Channel
Salem MA, the town with a haunted past had been the epicenter of the 1692-93 witchcraft hysteria . Nathaniel Hawthorne, the great-great-Grandson of Judge John Hathorne. This connection a source of embarrassment for the writer has left the world with some literary masterpieces—The Scarlet Letter, The House of the Seven Gables, etc.
But did you know, Hawthorne was often seen walking through the streets of the community with his head bowed? A town which now embraces him as their favorite son was a place Hawthorne never felt comfortable with; and thus often a source of friction between the two.
Visit us at the House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby St. to learn more about the inspired minds of Nathaniel Hawthorne and a town which will still cast its shadow over you!
She was an ordinary woman but when the accusations started her life became the symbol of the Witch Hysteria of 1692-93. As the whispers mounted her fate became a curse, forever to be remembered down through history.
Her name: Bridget Bishop. What changed within this small community which meant Peace? Why did some face the wrath of their neighbors? We may never know for sure what led to the deaths of 20 human lives and the imprisonment of countless others. But it you want to explore the possibilities come and visit Salem MA—a bewitching city that promises to cast a spell over you for centuries to come.
Make the Hawthorne, a hotel where legends are painted on the canvas of our minds your first impression of a city where mysteries and the supernatural are one.
Taken from Very Local YouTube Channel
Opened on July 23, 1925 the Hawthorne Hotel will casts a spell on you as the magic of a city fills your with spine-chilling tale of the past. Just a broomstick ride from other must see attractions; venues which teaches us stories of a place whose very name meant “Peace.” So discover why Salem MA—the Witch City is much more than its moniker seems.
Sit back and relax as you enjoy a beautiful trip to the witch city. An exquisite view of Boston Harbor as you avoid the traffic and take a journey with us. Unearth the treasures between these two cities as you listen to a narrative of our past. Whether you have memories of the Salem Ferry or are planning your first trip: Welcome Aboard!
Taken from New England Podcast (Episode 136) YouTube Channel
Come and hear the tale of Marie Hallet and Black Sam Bellamy; a love as mysterious and beautiful as the sea itself. Hallet, a barmaid and Bellamy—the pirate. Their love continues to captivates us today.
Marie Hallet continues to whisper along the shore of Wellfleet on Cape Cod. Some say she cursed the voyage of The Whydah because of a broken heart. Still roaming the dunes waiting for the lover which never returned.
At Real Pirates Salem discovered a story of her heartbreak written into history; a tragic romance filled with curses, pirates and a doomed love echoing the world of legends.
Join Vincent Price as he leads us on a tour of Salem’s The House of the Seven Gables. Explore the secrets and mysteries that call you to a past filled with intrigue, curses, secret staircases and a literary genius. Embark with this 1990 YouTube video as we take a fun and fascinating trip back to a bygone era.
Lorelei Stathopoulos, Salem’s Famous Love Clairvoyant—Owner
Ancient wisdom whispering from the past. Spells, magic and a community of witches can be found at Crow Haven Corner. At Salem’s premier witch shop discover hand crafted crystals, incense, books and more. Even get a psychic reading with an authentic witch.
Step into the mystical realm where generations have honored the spells cast by those who have come before us.
Explore the wonders of 19th century travel; imagine seeing the world from the perspective of those who didn’t have the means. Step behind the scenes as you discover the mysteries of The Friendship of Salem. A replica of an ”East Indianman” merchant ship built in 1796-97. Take a trip to the unknown as we journey to Russia, China and other far off places.
DYN a witness testified that Bridget Bishop came to him in the middle of the night and removed his bodily fluid. In other words, Bishop was hanged—in part because someone had a dirty dream about her.
Rumor has it that Turner Seafood Restaurant, located in Salem MA is haunted. Some claim the the aroma of apples still permeates the air.
Bridget Bishop used to own this land and cultivated apples in an orchard here. Does Salem’s first victim still wander the property? Do you have the courage to join us for an evening of delicious seafood and a touch of the paranormal?
Video from Wortifacatot YouTube Channel (@wortifactor)
A community which is still haunted by its past.
Dare to walk among the mysterious surroundings of the 1692-93 witch hysteria. Stroll the streets Nathaniel Hawthorne once stepped. Journey back to a time where Salem was a maritime port. Discover the supernatural stories behind a location which still sends chills up one’s spine.
Come, explore a world of curses, spells and magic; where truth is revealed in the whispered voice of the spirits that lingers among us. Join us as we learn about the dark history of a town whose very name means—Peace.
Come on board the Salem Trolley and travel to places which has transformed a nation; we stop at all the major attractions within the city. Let our tour guides tell you the mysterious lore and the secrets of a community steeped in history. Sit back as you discover a spirit realm which is still trying to speak, or perhaps warn us today. Imagine being in the past as you ride through the streets to an era of time which is still very much alive. So, buckle up and let the power of time reveal its voice.
Haunting tales that has whispered the name Giles Corey. A man who has cast a shadow of mystery over a town whose very name meant peace. This tale isn’t just folklore, it is steeped with authentic history.
Corey, a man whose mere specter echoes through the centuries. An intriguing past, a curse and a haunting reminder of what happens when fear and intolerance rules.
Are you a believer in the power of words? If you dare, visit the bewitching locations where this accused witch has touched history; a dark mantle of fear that is still hidden in the wind.
(Note: This is a mock media alert to showcase my ability to write one)
October 1, 2024
Kate Fox
Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism
136 Blackstone St.
Boston, MA 02109
Dear Ms Fox
What must it have been like to be accused of something you know you didn’t do? Imagine being in your 70, a very pious woman and being thrown into jail for consorting with the devil?
At the Salem Witch Museum, Salem MA you can learn more of these stories and of the terror which ensued within this community. The year is 1692, fear has gripped the people of this community and soon 20 individuals will be sentenced to death; and countless others will have their lives destroyed.
Merry Ward, Director of the Sales at the Salem Witch Museum would like to speak about a new package available from the museum. She and the historical institution has put together a series of courses and talks about the history of witchcraft. How did the subject evolve and how did a small town which meant Peace become the symbol of intolerance and oppression.
If you would like to learn more on this project, please feel free to contact us at The Salem Witch Museum (merryw@salemwitchmuseum.com) or Thomas McGovern Jr at immaculatecopywrting@yahoo.com.
Product/Services—The Witch House operates as a museum. It tell the story of the living conditions within Salem, MA during the late 17th century.
Unique Qualities—Thehouse was owned by Jonathan Corwin, a prominent figure in the 1692-1693 witch hysteria in Salem, MA. It is the only structure still standing from that time.
Mission Statement—Our mission is to provide factual evidence of what it was like to live during the events which occurred in Salem and its surrounding communities during the time of this tragic event known as the 1692 Witch Hunt.
Year Museum Opened—1948
Number of Employees—3 (along with numerous volunteers)
Products/Services
Service provided—We are a museum which teaches visitors about what it was like to live during the 1692-1693 Salem Witch Hunts
The Benefits—The knowledge of learning of the past is always valuable and knowing what occurred in this community during the late 17th century is fascinating and frightening. The question arises, how did a town which meant Peace turn into a place where terror and intolerance became the norm. Find out, as you stroll through the house with the only known ties to the Salem Witch Hysteria. Your questions will begin here at The Salem Witch House.
Background
The Witch House opened to the public in 1948 after being restored to its 17th century appearance by architects, Frank C. Brown and Gordon Robb.
As we know The Witch House was bought by Jonathan Corwin in 1675
It remained in the Corwin family until 1836. The house eventually became the property of George Corwin (Jonathan’s grandson); when he passed his widow, Sarah became the owner.
Bought bySarah Cushing in 1836 and sold by her1851
1851 the house is bought by George Farmington who put an annex on it. He is reportedly the first person to refer to the building as The Witch House
At the beginning of the 20th century the building was used as apartments, an antique store as well as a drug store
During the 1940, the house was threatened with demolition but was saved when an agreement with the city was reached. It was moved to its current location at 3101/2 Essex Street.
The Witch House is now operates as a museum by the city of Salem, MA
As a museum on the national register of historic places we take pride in the fact the house is the only structure that has survived from the time of the witch trials, 1692-1693. It is dedicated to telling the story of that time and the history of that community driven to the brink of madness.
Bios
Directors
Elizabeth Peterson
Elizabeth Seater
General Manager
Verona Porter
News
Press Release-
July 24, 2024 The Witch House Announces New Tour Training
(Note: This is a mock press release to showcase my ability to write one)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Witch House Announces New Tour Training
Calling all Tour Guides
Salem, MA—September 19, 2024-The Weekend of October 17 The Witch House, Salem MA will be conducting a special training event for new tour guides.
“To me there is nothing more fraught with mystery & terror than a remote Massachusetts farmhouse against a lonely hill. Where else could an outbreak like the Salem witchcraft [hysteria] occur.”— H.P. Lovecraft
We know what happened in Salem, MA in 1692 but could living in such close quarters have been a factor also? Learn about the community and the house, whose walls were there (oh, if they could only speak what a story they would tell!)
How did a town that meant Peace go down the road to being one of terror and intolerance? You, as a tour guide will be the voice of the spirits of those within that community. You will tell their story and be our guide to this journey through 1692-1693.
“You’re a liar! I am no more a witch than you are a wizard. If you take my life away, God will give you blood to drink.”—Sarah Good, executed on July 29, 169
“RESPECT”— Bridget Bishop
Join us as we delve deeper into the horrors of 1692 and its consequences. Tour Guides will learn at our exclusive training this October and travel back to Salem— a town on the brink of madness. Click here to register for your chance to be a guide at The Witch House.
About The Witch House, Salem MA
Built between 1620 and 1645, the house became famous for being the home of Jonathan Corwin. Making a name for himself as a predominant figure in the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Even though no proof exists that any of the trials or pre-trial interrogations took place in the house, The Witch House stands as the only structure from those days; and is thus a must see.
If you love a good ghost story then look no further than Turner’s Seafood in Salem, MA. Famously known for once being the apple orchard of Bridget Bishop (the first supposed witch to be hanged during the 1692 witchcraft hysteria.) The site is now restaurant and supposedly haunted!
Picture yourself accused of something you know you’re innocent of. Bishop eventually married three times, inherited vast amounts of wealth and is said to have bewitche her husband to get control of his fortune. But it was spring, 1692 the provincial government of Salem final found a way to deal a fatal blow to Bridget Bishop!
She had been cited for bewitching fives girls, conjuring pigs and flying monkeys “torture Neighbors,” etc. Her trial lasted eight days. When it came to an end she would be the first person to be hanged in the Massachusetts Bay colony.
Turner’s Seafood, located at 43 Church Street in Lyceum Hall where many notable people have spoken, Fredrick Douglass, Ralph Waldo Emerson, etc, (Probably the most fascinating thing to happen here took place on February 12, 1877. Salem, MA can claim the honor of being the place where Alexander Graham Bell introduced the telephone.) Known as the Salem Lyceum Society, it became a popular spot for speakers for a vast range of subjects to speak.
And, if you want a good seafood dinner and an atmosphere of history there is no place like Turner’s Seafood. The seafood menu has tantalizingly choices for their customers. From the appetizers to their main courses, all are delicious. A Turner’s Seafood the desserts looks great as well, even though I have never partaken in them. As we dine in the history of the place you will appreciate a time lapse which takes you to a bygone era.
So, why not stop by and enjoy this amazing place that has you stepping back in time Many people have seen “a woman in a long, white gown drifting throughout the building,” as well as the smell of apples which can be sensed inside.
So, make your reservation at the famous Turner’s Seafood Restaurant and you to may meet the spirit of Bridget Bishop; still searching for the respect she never received in this world. Book by this weekend and receive a free drink to get you ready for your encounter—you’ll probably need it!