Friday, October 22, 2010

Halloween Haunts – Salem, Massachusetts

With Halloween right around the corner, let’s visit a few attractions in America’s most bewitching town – Salem, Massachusetts.

The Salem Witch Museum:

In 1692, witchcraft hysteria swept through this part of the country. Over 400 people were accused of witchcraft, 19 people were hung, and one person was pressed to death. In the end, none of the accused was involved in witchcraft. Hysteria and fear led people to accuse friends, neighbors, enemies, and even a dog of unspeakable acts.
This museum takes you back in time and gives you a front row seat at the witch trials. A combination of special effects, life size figures, and narration gives you a chilling view of the events that unfolded here. You will witness Tituba, a West Indian housekeeper tell Salem Village children stories of the Devil. This was the main cause for all the hysteria. You will see the hanging of George Burroughs. And you will be extremely happy you did not live during that time period!!



See their website for more details and hours of operation: www.salemwitchmuseum.com

The House of the Seven Gables:

Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote “The House of the Seven Gables” back in 1851. This fictional story begins with a distinguished colonel accusing a local man of witchcraft just to get his land.



Well, the real House of the Seven Gables may not have quite that rich a history, but you can visit it today. The real Seven Gables was built in 1668 and the Turner Family called it home for over a century. You can tour six rooms and see the secret staircase. You will have to visit to see where the stairway is located!!

You can also visit Nathaniel Hawthorne’s home which was moved onto the property back in 1958. You can see where this famous American author was born and where he penned some of his most famous works. Three other 17th century homes are located on the property along with the beautiful Seaside Gardens. Guided tours are available. www.7gables.org

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