Day trip to Salem from Boston by ferry

Over 42 years ago, at school, I read Arthur Miller’s The Crucible which left an indelible impression. So while in Boston was eager and curious to visit this New England town with its’ infamous history. I did a day trip to Salem from Boston solo. The other Gallivanting Goldie was busy at a Conference in Boston.

Interestingly the word Salem derives from the Hebrew and Arabic words of Shalom and Salam meaning Peace. A bit ironic for a town that is infamous for the 1692 witch hunt.

GETTING THERE AND GETTING AROUND:-

I took the 09:30 Salem Ferry from the Boston Harbor Cruise wharf. I recommend purchasing the Ferry ticket together with the hop-on hop-off Salem Trolley ticket – works out $2 cheaper and more convenient. The cruise is 90 minutes long and affords, as it leaves Boston, the most  magnificent view from the water of the Boston skyline. The hop-on hop-off Salem Trolley picks you up at the landing so super convenient.

Once in Salem, I suggest doing the entire loop on the trolley which takes about an hour. Using it as a hop-on hop-off could be I think rather frustrating as the stops aren’t well signed at all and are mainly flag downs. Also they run only every 30 minutes. I did the loop and then walked Salem which isn’t very big so very doable.

THE SIGHTS:-

I didn’t visit any of the several museums and organized attractions most of which are “witch” associated. Instead I walked the town.

The Witch Trials Memorial:-

Located behind and next to the Old Burying Point. The memorial consists of 20 granite benches jutting out from a wall, each bench dedicated to one of the 14 women and 6 men who were executed (one was crushed to death) after being convicted of being witches. The Memorial was dedicated in 1992 by Elie Wiesel as part of the Salem Witch Trials TerCentenary. The design of the Memorial was inspired by the Vietnam Memorial.

Chestnut Street:-

I strolled down this beautiful broad street lined on either side by trees and impressive mansions. All the mansions are three floors. Look closely and you will note that the windows are all the same width but those on the third floor are shorter than those on the first and second floors. The staff lived on the third floor and taxes were determined by the height of the building and hence the shorter third floor.

Old Customs House & Derby Wharf:-

Not too much to see here but nice for a short stroll around the area.  Take note that The Old Customs House has the gold eagle on top – depicting that is a National Historic Site.

Ye Olde Pepper Companie:-

Supposedly America’s oldest candy company. Recommend their licorice and ginger candy!

Life Alive:-

Had lunch here. Perfect for the likes of me – all vegetarian! The ambience, food and drinks are unique and great.

My curiosity of over 42 years was satisfied! Had a fun day but wasn’t bowled over by Salem.

All the photos are mine taken with my iPhone.

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