In 1692, a small town in Massachusetts became crazed with paranoia, causing the town members to believe that certain women were possessed with haunting spirits. The town initiated trials at which these ‘witches’ were questioned for practicing the ‘Devil’s magic.’ Many of these innocent women were then convicted and executed for their crimes. Salem has gained a reputation as New England’s Halloween town for their infamous history and is now visited by many tourists every autumn. If your guilty pleasures are spooky stories, exploring haunted houses and disguising yourself in costume, Salem is the place for you. Listed are seven activities and events that you can experience this fall in Salem:
1. The Witch House
This establishment was once the home of Jonathan Corwin, a judge who led and convicted many women accused of witchcraft. This is one of the few original properties once owned by a member actively involved in the trials.
2. House of the Seven Gables
This was the home of Nathaniel Hawthorne, writer of The Scarlet Letter, a novel that was potentially influenced by the Salem witch trials.
3. Witch Dungeon
The museum holds a replica of the prison cells that held the accused. After a tour of the museum, tourists sit through a reenactment of the well-known trial investigating the demonic possession of Reverend Parris’s niece, Abigail Williams. This interesting theater presentation explains the initial accusation that started the hunt.
4. Psychic Fair and Witches Market
This free market takes place in downtown Salem every day in the month of October from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors can get Tarot card readings, palm and past life readings and clairvoyant visions.
5. Candlelit Ghostly & Graveyard Walking Tours
This weekend walking tour allows you to explore the town and the various historical buildings. Guides share stories related to spiritual activity and sightings in the town. The journey covers the Joshua Ward House, Howard St. Cemetery, the Old Salem Prison and the Lyceum.
6. Witch Mansion
If you really want a scare, go to the Witch’s Mansion! The haunted house is filled with 4D graphics, animations and illusions. Needless to say, some ghosts and goblins can be found hiding in the halls of this mansion.