salem ma witch house tour

• The Salem Witch Trials
• Metaphysics
• Sleep to Dream

The Witch House

The Witch House is one of the only remaining structures in town with direct ties to The Salem Witch Trials . You may also hear it referred to as “The Witch House,” or “The Jonathan Corwin House.” Here’s a short video introduction to the building. Keep reading past the video for much more information.

This video is part of the Salem Spotlight  series in which I tell you everything you need to know about attractions , restaurants , hotels , witch shops , tours , and a bunch of other locations in Salem, Massachusetts. Here’s some more information on The Witch House.

History of The Witch House

The house is the only remaining structure that’s directly related to the infamous Witch Trials in 1692 . Originally built for Captain Richard Davenport, the Witch House became Jonathan Corwin’s residence in 1674. The judge, who was on the court that ruled on the Salem Witch Trials , stayed in the house for 40 years, but the building remained in his family for several generations. Corwin also reportedly held meetings relating to the trials in the house. Throughout the years, The Witch House has undergone many renovations. In the 1850s, the house was sold to a local pharmacist who opened a pharmacy inside the building.

Nearly Destroyed

In 1944, the city decided to widen North Street. The house was set to be destroyed to make way, but the building survived thanks to a group of locals. They raised enough money to move the building about 35 feet to its current location. An added bit of interesting history about this house is that it wasn’t the only “Witch House” in Salem. StreetsOfSalem has an excellent examination of Salem’s other no-longer-existing witch house, complete with fascinating historical images.

Paranormal Lore

The house is also quite haunted, second perhaps only to The Hawthorne Hotel . In fact, Ghost Adventures did an episode there and ToSalem favorite  AmysCrypt  has also covered the locale. Visitors have reported a variety paranormal phenomena over the years, including seeing the ghost of Corwin himself. Guests also experience apparitions’ touch, hear the untraceable laughter of children, and feel cold spots.

What’s Inside The Witch House?

The Witch House tour is one of the best in Salem. You’ll enter through the rear of the house. Inside, you’ll find countless items from the 17th century, including some fairly disturbing illustrations of what life was actually like back in the 17th century. Additionally, there are fascinating placards that explore some pretty offbeat history. My favorites tend to explore the odd medicinal ingredients and practices of our puritan forebears.

There are, of course, plenty of relics related to puritan-era witchcraft.  For example, in one display case, you’ll find a simple black shoe. The shoe was supposedly found inside the wall of another house. According to puritan tradition, a shoe put inside the wall of a house effectively warded against witches. Another display case houses a poppet – a doll supposedly used to perform witchcraft. Such dolls were instrumental in accusing the likes of Bridget Bishop and others during the Salem Witch Trials.

The Witch House Architecture and Historical Artifacts

The Witch House is a nearly unmatched example of its period’s architecture. Only the John Ward and John Turner houses, both operated and with tours offered by the Peabody Essex Museum, competes for such pristine 17th century architecture in Salem.  In addition the witchcraft items on display during the tour, you’ll also find tools, textiles, pottery, artwork, instruments, and much more from the era. The house contains four large rooms: a kitchen, a parlor and two bedrooms. The tour begins in the kitchen, which has a brick fireplace that covers almost an entire wall. From there you wind upstairs, through the rest of the house.

Guided tours are around $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for kids. You can also just walk around the house without a guide for about 20% less. The entire experience takes about thirty minutes to an hour. There is also a gift shop on the way in and out of the house.

Hours of Operation

• March, 15 to November, 15: open everyday 10 AM – 5 PM
• Winter Hours (November, 16 to March, 14): Thursday – Sunday 12 PM – 4 AM

Address: 310 Essex Street, Salem, MA

4 thoughts on “The Witch House”

Thank you so much for the shout out. I love reading about Salem.

You’re super welcome. Big fans over here 🙂

yes i am a biggest fan of Amycrpt

She’s incredible!

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Admission and Fees

Self-guided admission is $8.25 for adults, $6.25 for seniors (60+), $6.25 for veterans, $4.25 for youths (6-14), free for children under 6. AAA members receive $1 off. Guided tours are an additional $2.25. Half-hour tours are offered daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., May-November (sometimes until 6 p.m. in October).

Hours and prices subject to change; call for latest information.

WITCH HOUSE

This historic site offers public tours and educational programs. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the social history and material culture of the 17th century, as well as providing information about the Salem witchcraft trials of 1692 and their connection to the house’s longtime owner, Judge Jonathan Corwin. The Witch House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of Salem’s historic McIntire District, was built between 1642 and 1675. It is the only home in modern Salem with direct ties to the witchcraft trials of 1692.

The Witch House was restored to its 17th-century appearance in 1945 by Historic Salem, Inc., and opened to the public in 1947. Hosts are committed to providing an exemplary program that interprets history, architecture and collections in a relevant, educational and engaging way.

The Witch House is located at 310 Essex St., on the corner of Essex and North streets. For more information, call 978-744-8815, or click here .

Historical Walking Tour

The TRUTH is scarier than the LEGENDS !

The Salem Witch House

• July 31, 2023
• No Comments

Welcome to 1692 Salem, Massachusetts, a city steeped in enigmatic history and mysterious tales of the past. If you plan to embark on a captivating journey through the dark alleys and hauntingly beautiful streets, our 1692 Salem guided tour promises an unforgettable experience. Among the many historical gems that adorn this bewitching town, none stands as iconic as the Salem Witch House on Essex Street. Step back in time with us as we explore the enthralling history of this legendary location.

A Gateway to the Past: The Salem Witch House

As we venture through the streets of Salem, the Salem Witch House stands as a silent witness to one of the darkest chapters in American history – the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692. Also known as the Jonathan Corwin House, this house served as the residence of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the magistrates who presided over the trials. Built-in 1642, the Witch House is the only standing structure in Salem with direct ties to the witchcraft hysteria of the 17th century.

A Witchcraft Haven: Its Enigmatic Architecture

The architecture of the Salem Witch House itself adds to its mystique. Characterized by its steeply pitched roof, wooden beams, and diamond-paned casement windows, the house showcases the classic First Period style that was prevalent in colonial New England. A tour of this house should be on your must-do list. (1692 Salem Tour does not go into the house) Walking through its creaking halls and timeworn rooms, you’ll feel an eerie connection to the past.

The Dark Reign of the Witch Trials

The Salem Witch House serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded over three centuries ago. In 1692, the village of Salem was gripped by a wave of hysteria, and a series of witchcraft accusations led to the arrest and trial of 150-200 individuals. The trials left a dark stain on Salem’s history, claiming the lives of 20 innocent people who were unjustly accused of practicing witchcraft. As we traverse the streets, we’ll delve into the stories of the accused, the accusers, and the devastating consequences of mass hysteria.

The Resilient Spirit of Salem: A Modern-Day Icon

Despite the shadows of its past, Salem has risen above its haunting history and embraced its unique heritage. Today, Salem thrives as a vibrant city, celebrating its rich culture and captivating past. Our walking tour offers a glimpse into the vibrant present and enigmatic past, showcasing the best of Salem’s historical sites and hidden gems.

The Best Walking Tour in Salem, MA

As the premier guided tour company in Salem, Massachusetts, we pride ourselves on offering an unparalleled experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Our knowledgeable guides are well-versed in the city’s history, and they will expertly lead you through the cobblestone streets, narrating tales of the past with passion and precision. The Salem Witch House on Essex Street is just one of the many captivating stops on our tour, promising an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more.

So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in the haunting history of Salem and explore its enigmatic past, look no further than our 1692 Salem guided tour. The Salem Witch House on Essex Street is but one piece of the puzzle in this mesmerizing city. Let us be your guide on this thrilling journey, and discover for yourself why we are renowned as the best walking tour in Salem, MA. Unearth the secrets of the past and savor the captivating stories that define Salem’s unique identity.

Our Most recent reviews

You will be glad you booked with Jeff! If I could leave 10 stars, I would! Jeff presented the facts and then presented his views on certain things. Our entire family agreed that our tour to Salem was the best thing about our trip. I love when he present the facts and then give opinions on what he thinks happened. You can tell Jeff is very well read and knowledgeable about the history there in Salem. His tour was so good that i asked for book recommendations bc it was so interesting. You will not go wrong booking with 1692 before and after. -Holly July 2023

No ghosts, just the facts Jeff is a very knowledgeable, friendly tour guide. As a Salem native, he has a bone-deep knowledge of the city. His historical knowledge is impeccable, but he also peppers his comments with humor and personal anecdotes. He is sympathetic to the victims of the witch trials, but he also understands what motivated their accusers. He carefully draws parallels between 1692 and more recent history. On a personal note, I certainly appreciated Jeff’s efforts to ensure the pace was right for me as someone who walks with a cane. -George July 2023

Highly recommended! Jeff is super knowledgeable about Salem, past and present. I grew up in New England so I’ve learned a lot about the witch trials, but I learned a lot more on this tour. I also appreciate that he debunks some common myths. He has clearly studied the history and is passionate about it. It was a great walk around Salem, and he even pointed out some good restaurants as we passed them. I’m very glad I took this tour! -Linda June 2023

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The Salem Witch House: Tour Review

The Witch House is an iconic first period house in Salem, Mass with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials . It was the home of Jonathan Corwin who was a judge in the Salem Witch Trials.

Despite the fact that I go to Salem often and have walked past the Witch House many times, I’ve never been inside and decided to take a tour recently to give it a review.

I visited the house on November 1st, hoping to take a guided tour but was told they were unavailable because it was too busy that time of year.

The woman selling the tickets said they only do guided tours in the spring, summer and early fall. She also said that you get the same information on the guided tour as you do on the self-guided tour.

Witch House Tour Overview:

The entire house consists of four large rooms, two on each floor, with a small foyer in between them. The floors are made of old pine floorboards and all of the rooms in the house have exposed wooden beams on the ceiling and walls, which is really quite beautiful. The walls are white and the dark wood beams contrast really nicely against them.

The entrance to the house is in the back, in a tiny gift shop where the tickets are purchased. The first room you enter on the tour is the kitchen. It is a large sparse room with a huge fireplace that takes up almost an entire wall of the kitchen. The fireplace has a large iron pot hanging in it and what appears to be the remnants of a brick oven on the back wall of the fireplace.

In the kitchen is a table with chairs and reproductions of some of the Salem Witch Trial documents on top of the table. Behind the table, the surface of the wall has been removed to expose the construction materials of the wall, which looks to be some type of brick and mortar.

In the far corner there is another table with 17th century kitchen items on it, such as a brick of tea, a cone of sugar, a tea kettle, bowls and tongs. Also on the walls are signs and displays explaining the general history and events of the Salem Witch Trials.

After leaving the kitchen you enter a small foyer in between the two rooms on the first floor. This foyer is where the front door of the house is located (but it is locked to prevent people from entering without buying a ticket.) This foyer has a glass display case that contains various 17th century objects.

One such object in the display case is an old black shoe that was found in the wall of a house (putting shoes in the wall was an old tradition.) The display case also has a poppet, which is a doll often used in witchcraft, that was also found in the walls of another old house.

The poppet is accompanied by sign explaining that a similar doll was found in the walls of Bridget Bishop ‘s house. None of the items in the case belonged to anyone involved in the witch trials and they weren’t found in this house, but they’re very interesting nonetheless.

After leaving the foyer you enter the parlor. This room contains a dining table set with plates and bowls. On the walls are signs explaining what type of objects a typical 17th century household would have.

Also on the walls are old spoons encased in glass as well as a fork that belonged to John Proctor . The fork is a two-pronged fork with a curved wooden handle. It was really interesting but because it’s so dark in the house it was hard to see it and was even harder to get a photo of it.

This room, and the house in general, is very dark because of the small windows and the lack of modern lighting. There are a few small lights on the walls in each room, but they don’t produce much light. Plus, the curtains on the windows in most of the rooms are drawn, probably to prevent sunlight from damaging the artifacts, but it makes it even darker in the house. As a result, all of the signs and objects in these rooms are really hard to see.

Visitors are allowed to take photographs in the house, which is nice because most historical houses and museums don’t allow this, but you’re not allowed to use a flash which sort of makes taking photos pointless since it is so dark in there.

When I was in this parlor, a woman who seemed to work there walked in with a few other people and started shining a small flashlight on some of the objects in the room while discussing them. If you have to use a flashlight just to see the objects on display in the house, I think it’s fair to say that the house is too dark.

Upstairs there are two large bedrooms and another foyer in between them. Climbing the stairs to the second floor, you enter the foyer first. This is where the seasonal exhibits are held. On November 1st the exhibit was supposed to be the history of Thanksgiving, but when I was there is was still the history of Halloween.

The exhibit itself is just a couple of framed signs hanging on the wall which explain the origins of the holiday. There’s also a bowl filled with some kind of food on a table and a sign accompanying it explaining what type of meals people ate during the autumn in the 17th century.

The windows in this foyer provide really nice views of downtown Salem. From the left window you can see views of bustling Essex Street and North Street and from the right you have a nice view of the First Church in Salem next door.

The bedroom to the right of the foyer has a big beautiful white canopy bed in the corner. The room is set up very nicely and really gives you the feeling you are inside an old home instead of a museum. An old bed warmer hangs next to the fireplace and the room has a writing desk next to the bed, and a chest with a lantern and candles on top of it.

There’s also another small chest by the foot of the bed with either a bowl or a chamber pot on top of it and a small bassinet at the foot of the bed. There’s also another desk by the window, sort of in the middle of the room near the door, with a mannequin next to it dressed in a 17th century dress.

The bedroom to the left of the foyer is a bit cluttered and dark. There is a bed near the window and some random objects on top of it. There’s a writing desk next to the bed, a chair in the far corner, and several bassinets near the bed.

On the other side of the room are several chests and bureaus, a spinning loom, some small chairs, a mannequin dressed in a man’s 17th century outfit and a giant weaving loom with a sign explaining how people used to weave fabric in the 17th century as well as a fireplace on the inner wall.

What I found really interesting about this room were the old exposed beams on the ceiling, which were split and worn from age, and the old pine floorboards where, in the corner of the room near the fireplace, you could peer through the cracks in between the floorboards and see light coming from the room below.

The thing that I found perplexing at first about the upstairs bedrooms is that they appeared to be filled with random objects that don’t really seem to belong there and are set up in an awkward way (desks and chests in the middle of the room and a large weaving loom that takes up half the room.)

There are also ropes draped between these objects to prevent people from walking around the rooms and a sign in one of the rooms asking people to help protect the original pine floorboards by not standing beyond the sign.

I then realized that, since the house is so old, the floorboards are probably too weak to allow people to walk on the them so they have instead filled the rooms with numerous objects to take up space and have roped it off to keep people out.

My Verdict on the Witch House Tour :

My biggest complaint about the self-guided tour is that there is almost no context for the objects in the house and no information on the history of the house itself or Jonathan Corwin. The way the house is presented, it is more of a museum about 17th century living than anything else.

The house is filled with random, everyday household objects from the 17th century. This was interesting to see but it all seemed so out of place. None of the items belonged to Corwin or his family and, in fact, some of the items belong to some of the witch trial victims, which made even less sense.

I just wish they would add some information about the history of the house, Jonathan Corwin himself and his role in the Salem Witch Trials to the displays to help give the house itself some context. Or perhaps they could add a short guided tour explaining this. It would be really easy and simple to do, it wouldn’t take more than 5-10 minutes.

As of now, there are only a few signs around the house even stating that it belonged to Jonathan Corwin and these are easy to miss because it’s so dark and cluttered in the house. I seemed to have missed every sign explaining who the house belonged to because I only saw them later while looking at other tourist’s photos of the house online.

The signs that I did see where a bit overwhelming and off-putting. There are a lot of them throughout the house and they all have long dense passages of text which you have to squint to read in the dim lighting. It feels like you enter the house and just start squinting and reading trying to make sense of everything.

What I do like about the tour is that it provides a very rare glimpse into a first period home. There aren’t a lot of these houses remaining and it was wonderful to walk through the house, peer out its windows and listen to the creaky floorboards under your feet.

The house is very well preserved and it is a treat to see it up close and personal. It is a beautiful old house and walking through it feels like taking a step back in time. Despite the lack of context and information about the house, I would definitely still recommend visitors check it out.

History of the Salem Witch House:

To learn about the history of the Witch House, I actually had to do a lot of digging online to find out anything about it. The house was built in the mid 1670s for Captain Richard Davenport who then moved to Boston before he finished building it. In 1675, Davenport sold the partially constructed house to Judge Jonathan Corwin who then completed it and moved in with his wife and children.

Some historians used to believe that the house was built in the 1630s and that religious leader Roger Williams lived in the house while he was preaching in Salem.

As a result, there are a lot of 19th and early 20th century photos and drawings that refer to the house as the Roger Williams house.

The reason they believed this was due to a town document from 1714, according to an Essex Institute Historical Collections periodical from 1888:

“In 1714, Jonathan Corwin was allowed two shares in the common lands ‘for his house and Mr. Williams cottage right.’ That is to say, it was proved, in 1714, to the satisfaction of the Proprietors of the Common Lands in Salem that ‘Mr. Williams’ had lived before 1661 where Jonathan Corwin was then living. The ten acre lot in the Northfield which went with this house in the sale to Corwin is shown to have belonged to ‘Mr. Williams’…That ‘Mr. Williams’ meant Roger Williams cannot be doubted. It is clear that it was perfectly understood at the time whom the expression applied. If there had been more than one Mr. Williams in Salem’s early history, the records would not have so invariably omitted the first name. But there was, in fact, no other to whom that title would have been given. The prefix ‘Mr.’ was used only for magistrates, ministers, eminent merchants and persons holding some official position. The only other ‘Mr. Williams’ who figures in our Colonial records at that period was Francis Williams of Piscataqua and Strawberry Bank, now Portsmouth.”

Historians now believe the house was instead built in 1675, which was decades after Williams was banished from Salem in 1635.

Some sources also state that a few of the pretrial examinations of the Salem Witch Trials may have been conducted in the house when Corwin lived there. There is no mention of the house being used for the examinations in any of the primary sources on witch trials but it is possible that it may have happened.

Corwin lived in the house for 40 years until his death in 1718. The house remained in the Corwin family for many generations and has been renovated many times since then. When Corwin’s grandson, George, died in 1746, his widow removed the gables from the house, added some extra rooms and replaced the peaked roof with a gambrel that covered the entire frame.

The house remained in the Corwin family until the 1850s when it was sold to a pharmacist named George Farrington who added a pharmacy to the side of the building. The main house itself also later served as an antique store called the Witch House Antiques.

In 1944, the house was slated for demolition when the street it was located on, North Street, needed to be widened. A group of local citizens formed an organization called Historic Salem Inc and funds were raised to help move the house back 35 feet from North Street to its present location on Essex Street.

Around the same time, the house was restored to its 17th century appearance by Boston architect Gordon Robb, with the assistance of architect Frank C. Brown, and it was turned over to the city of Salem. It opened as a historic house museum in 1946.

What I couldn’t find out is why it is called the Witch House. Some sources state that Farrington was the first person to call it the Witch House when he was trying to promote his pharmacy business there.

Other sources state that locals starting calling it the Witch House because of its ties to the Salem Witch Trials and the name simply stuck. There are photos of the house as far back as 1901 with visible signs on the house calling it the Witch House, which indicates that it acquired the nickname a long time ago.

Salem Witch House Tickets and Hours: Website: witchhouse.info Address: 310 Essex St, Salem, MA

The Witch House is owned and operated by the City of Salem Park and Recreation Department and is listed on the National Register of historic places.

2 thoughts on “ The Salem Witch House: Tour Review ”

Great article! I love the Witch House! Thanks for writing this. 🙂

I enjoyed reading your article about the Salem Witch House and the connection to Roger Williams and Jonathan Corwin. I recently came across genealogical information connecting my family to that of Roger Williams through our Colwell ancestors and was having a hard time finding Williams personal history. It has been extremely difficult to locate information on Roger Williams’ early life, family and home in Salem, if not impossible. I have gathered information piece-meal and when I came across your article on the Salem Witch House it gave me in-depth details that I found no where else and I was thrilled. I am also a relative of the San Souci brothers who operated the San Souci Department Store in Olneyville, Rhode Island. Their department store had been an institution in Rhode Island during the early part of the 20th century. I thank you for taking the time to give us a more in-depth look into the Salem Witch House and the history and people behind it. Excellent article, too bad the lighting was so dark in the house.

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Witch House

Price & Hours

• Facilities 3.0
• Atmosphere 4.0

The name of this famed Salem attraction can be misleading – it was never home to any witches –nevertheless, it warrants a visit. Formerly the residence of infamous Judge Jonathan Corwin, the Witch House is the only structure in Salem still standing that has direct ties to the 1692 witch trials. Because of this, it is a crucial stop on any Salem itinerary (and included on many of the best Salem tours ).

Situated on the corner of Essex and North streets, this foreboding mansion has a gloomy history. During the Salem witch trials, Corwin was one of several judges who presided over the pretrial examinations of citizens accused of witchcraft. Today, the house is open to the public as a museum and is considered one of Salem's most haunted destinations (the spirits of the people Corwin sentenced to death supposedly haunt its halls).

Past visitors recommend you visit the Witch House if you want a glimpse into Salem's eerie past. While travelers praised the house's spooky exterior and well-preserved artifacts, many wished there was a guided tour option so that they could ask questions and learn more about the history behind the house.

Tickets to the Witch House cost $9 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for children ages 6 through 14 and children 5 and younger enter for free (tickets cannot be purchased online). From mid-November to April, there is a small window of opportunity to visit the museum – it is only open Thursday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. After April 1, the Witch House opens daily to visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last entry into the house is 15 minutes before close. Check out the museum's website  for more information.

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More Best Things To Do in Salem, MA

#1 The House of the Seven Gables

Built in 1668 for Capt. John Turner I, this waterfront mansion was home to three generations of Turners before being sold to Capt. Samuel Ingersoll in 1782. After Ingersoll's death, the property was inherited by his daughter, Susanna Ingersoll. Susanna's cousin, now-famous author Nathaniel Hawthorne, visited her here often and the property eventually became the setting for his 1851 novel, "The House of the Seven Gables." Although the official name of the house is the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, the home quickly took on the name given to it by Hawthorne.

In 1910, the home opened to the public as a museum. Philanthropist Caroline Emmerton, the museum's founder, hoped to preserve the home for future generations and use the proceeds to help fund settlement programs for immigrant families. Today, the museum honors her wishes by funding social work and offering various types of educational programming, including English language classes and community-based conversations on immigration. At the museum, visitors can marvel at original period features that span four centuries, including the home's extraordinary Georgian paneling, and climb a hidden staircase that leads to the structure's attic. In addition to the House of the Seven Gables, the property boasts a collection of six historic buildings set along Salem Harbor. Other buildings within the collection include the Hooper-Hathaway House, the Retire Beckett House, the Counting House and the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace, which was moved here from its original location on Union Street in 1958. It also includes a visitor center and a museum store where guests can purchase unique souvenirs. The whole campus has been designated a National Historic Landmark District.

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The Witch House at Salem

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Visiting The Witch House in Salem Massachusetts

The witch city of Salem, Massachusetts, holds a piece of history plucked straight out of the 17th century. Visiting The Witch House in Salem, Massachusetts, is like stepping back into history.

Standing on the corner of North Street and Essex Street, the striking black Witch House is the only remaining structure from the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

Luckily, the Great Salem Fire, which swallowed up most of the city in 1914, didn’t touch the McIntire District. This meant the Witch House and a handful of other beautiful historic houses survived the disaster unscathed and remained fully intact.

Many structures with ties to the witch trials that made it through the fire were torn down or destroyed. These historic buildings were not protected by any kind of historical society.

The Witch House almost met the same fate. The citizens of Salem were utterly ashamed of the harsh witch trial stains it left on the city’s history. Fortunately, the Essex National Heritage Commission was created, and members banded together to save the house.

The Witch House was once home to Judge Jonathan Corwin. He played a crucial role in the Salem Witch Trials and convicted several women and men accused of witchcraft.

During the time he served on the Court of Oyer and Terminer, 19 people were condemned to death by hanging. In addition to those deaths, hundreds of people were banished to jail to await their trials.

Due to the harsh conditions of the jails, many perished before they even got the chance to sit in front of the court.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please see my  Privacy Policy  for more information.

Stepping Inside The Witch House

As I approached the 17th-century house, its black exterior, multiple gables and prominent brick chimney placed right in the centre made it stand out against all others nearby.

Even sitting next to the historic district, the Witch House still seemed out of place. After snapping a few photos of the iconic and aesthetically pleasing exterior, I headed towards the entrance at the back of the house inside the tiny gift shop.

To avoid the inevitable rush of tourists, I arrived just moments after The Witch House opened and attempted to pull open the door.

It was stuck.

“Are they not open?”

I pulled again, this time tugging harder before the door burst open, and I was thrown back in shock.

“Oh, it’s just a little tight due to the rain,” the woman in the gift shop told me as I wandered inside.

The interior of the house was dark, and the floors creaked as I walked over to the gift shop counter. I scanned the walls, looking at all The Witch House souvenirs.

Little witch pins, dark postcards showing The Witch House in spooky foggy lighting, books on the history of the witch trials and all sorts of other witch merchandise lined the walls. I stood there thinking how appalled Jonathan Corwin would have been, knowing that this was what his home had turned into.

Self-guided Tour of The Witch House

The only option for me that morning was to take a self-guided tour. I usually enjoy self-guided tours because I like roaming at my own pace, taking as many photos as I want and trying to imagine myself living alongside the place’s original residents.

However, I definitely think that if you’re offered a guided tour of The Witch House, you should snap it up! You’ll get to ask your guide as many questions as you like and learn so much more than exploring on your own. If a guided tour is available the next time I’m in Salem, I’ll be sure to take it.

Inside The Witch House

The first stop was the kitchen, which had a brick fireplace that covered the entire left wall. When I was there, I could imagine women in their long dresses lifting up the large black pot hanging above the fire.

When I toured the House of the Seven Gables in Salem , I learned that women would soak their skirts in water to prevent them from catching fire when doing daily chores.

Along the opposite wall sat a table with several books and documents from the Salem Witch Trials, including a tattered copy of Memorable Providences, Relating to Witchcraft and Possessions written by Cotton Mather.

The author, a Puritan minister, living in Boston, wrote several books about witchcraft that were responsible for the people of Salem catapulting themselves into the hysteria of the witch trials.

Moving further into the house, I discovered a small room with a display case full of 17th-century witch trial trinkets. Some of the items were early forms of folk magic, such as Witch Bottles. These bottles were full of hair, fingernails and urine from everyone living in the home.

These bottles, along with sharp nails and pins, were placed inside larger clay bottles that would hang upside down over the fireplace to keep bad spirits and witches away. Other items, like bones, dolls and shoes, were placed within the walls and under the floorboards to protect the house and family from bad spirits.

The tiny room leads into the hall, which displayed medical recipes for concoctions like snail water which was used to cure rheumatism and treat pain. To make snail water, baked snails were added to the strong ale.

There was another book that held instructions for making water from cow dung, as it was believed dung was a useful ingredient for helping cure all kinds of ailments.

The rest of the house featured textiles, furniture and information on life in the 17th century. Everything from how people ate without utensils to how children would drink beer as it was safer than water.

The Puritans Beliefs

The Puritans were strict parents were when it came to raising their children. Puritans believed that children were born stained with sin and had to repent and put full faith in God to get into heaven.

After the witch trials ended, Corwin continued practicing law in the general courts, dealing with cases of piracy and disputes among the citizens of Salem.

He also became a judge for the Superior Court of Judicature, which laid the foundations for the current judicial system in the United States.

Although Jonathan didn’t pay for his role in the deaths of the innocent who perished in the witch trials, tragedy still fell on his house and family. Ten out of his 12 children died within the first few years of their lives.

If you want to take a stroll through historic cemeteries in Salem to see the burial places of some of the witch trial judges, be sure to visit the Old Burying Point . To visit the grave of Judge Jonathan Corwin, visit Broad Street Cemetery.

Related Post: Visiting the Old Burying Point Cemetery in Salem

The Witch House History

I really enjoyed walking through the ancient halls of The Witch House, but I still had questions about it and the Puritans who lived in Salem before and during the witch trials.

I asked the woman who worked in the gift shop if the house was painted black when Jonathan Corwin owned it since, nowadays, it fits into the Gothic aesthetic and holds a sort of dark beauty.

She told me that black paint was very expensive back then and that the house was actually dark because of multiple coats of linseed oil. As it aged, the house got darker and darker.

The Puritans of Salem

She also mentioned that, despite what we think today, Puritans didn’t wear black and white. Just like the paint, black clothing was also very expensive at the time.

Most Puritans wore earthy-coloured clothing, giving them a more muted appearance. I’m not sure why Puritans always appear wearing black and white in books, pictures and films, including the 1996 adaptation of Arthur Miller’s “ The Crucible .”

Why did the Puritans come to America?

What I found most interesting about the Puritans is that they fled to America after being persecuted for their beliefs. When they arrived, they chose to crucify anyone who didn’t follow their Puritan beliefs. Talk about hypocrisy.

The Puritans lived incredibly boring lives — drab clothing, cold New England winters, church eight hours a day, no dancing, no singing, no playing games, and judgement from your neighbours if you didn’t behave in a certain manner.

It was a tough life, and the hysteria that occurred during the witch trials made it even worse.

The Witch House is a beautiful building which gives a great insight into the life of a rich 17th-century family. The Witch House also offers a small glance into the witch trials in which Jonathan Corwin played a large part in.

If you’re looking for more information on the subject, I highly recommend taking a local history tour . These tours will delve deeper into the insanity surrounding the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

How to Visit The Witch House

Address: 310 ½ Essex Salem, Massachusetts

Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 7 days a week

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More information about Things to do in Salem

• Witch History in Salem Massachusetts
• Spooky Travel Guide: Salem Massachusetts
• Haunted Places in Salem MA
• The Old Burying Point & Witch Trials Memorial
• The 13 Best Salem Witch Trials Tours
• The 9 Most Haunted Hotels in Salem Mass

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• The House of the Seven Gables in Salem, Massachusetts
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Henry Sewall Jr. House

Early Massachusetts settler Henry Sewall Jr. was only 20 years old when his father, Henry Sr., sent him from England to the New World in 1635, with servants, cattle, and provisions – an investor in a new plantation. Sewall received a grant of 500 acres in Newbury. Henry Sr., a rather unorthodox and ornery man, with reports of violence in his past, arrived in 1636. Some would later say Sewall Sr. was “deranged,” but the community tolerated him no matter what trouble he caused, particularly in church.

30 High Road, Newbury, MA, USA

More About Henry Sewall Jr. House

Henry Jr. married Jane Dummer, daughter of another early settler, Stephen Dummer, in 1646. When Jane’s parents decided to return to England the following year, Henry Jr. and Jane went with them. It was there that five of their children were born, including sons Samuel in 1652 and Stephen in 1657. Henry Jr. returned to Massachusetts to settle the estate of his irritable father in ‘57; in 1661, wife Jane and the children followed. Samuel was nine years old; Stephen was four. They re-settled in Newbury.

In his later diaries (1674-1729), Samuel Sewall ’s memories of his Newbury childhood were idyllic. He spoke of Plum Island’s views of the Atlantic, fishing in the Merrimack, the grazing cattle and sheep. Sewall was taught by his “dear master,” Newbury’s first minister Rev. Thomas Parker, and was accepted to Harvard College in 1667 when he was 15 years old. Samuel remained there for seven years, receiving his first degree in 1671, and his Masters in 1674. He returned to Newbury after graduation, and then married Hannah Hull in 1676. The wedding took place in the Hull family home in the south end of Boston. (Macy’s is on the site today.) Hannah’s father, John Hull, was a successful merchant and the colony’s mint master, which made him a very wealthy man. Samuel moved into the Hull home and lived there the rest of his life.

Samuel Sewell was elected to the General Court in 1683 at the young age of 31. Shortly thereafter, he became the governor’s assistant and was an influential figure in Boston and beyond. Sewall is most remembered today for his fascinating diaries and for his role as a judge on the Court of Oyer and Terminer, the emergency court established to hear the Salem witchcraft cases of 1692. As an esteemed, learned, and wealthy man of Boston, he joined others of his stature as judges – William Stoughton (Chief Justice), Peter Sargeant, Wait-Still Winthrop, and John Richards of Boston; John Hathorne, Jonathan Corwin, and Bartholomew Gedney of Salem; and Nathaniel Saltonstall of Haverhill. When the court was abolished in October of 1692, Sewall was subsequently appointed to serve on the Superior Court of Judicature in December.

Sewell, who suffered many deaths in his own family, outliving eight of his fourteen children and two of his three wives, suffered great guilt for his part in the witch trails. He was the only magistrate to ask forgiveness publicly after the trials were over. On January 14, 1697, he stood in his pew in Boston’s South Church while his apology was read aloud by Rev. Samuel Willard to the congregation. Sewall had written, “…Desires to take the Blame and Shame of it, Asking pardon of Man, And especially desiring prayers that God who has an unlimited Authority, would pardon that Sin …” Sewell observed a personal day of fasting on that date for the rest of his life.

Samuel Sewall was an unusual man, forward-thinking and progressive for his time. Not only was he alone among the judges in apologizing for his actions during the witch trials, he also wrote The Selling of Joseph in 1700, the first anti-slavery tract published in New England.

Samuel Sewall died on January 1, 1730 and is buried in the family tomb at the Granary Burying Ground in Boston.

Samuel’s brother Stephen Sewall , who resided in Salem, was the Oyer and Terminer court clerk in 1692. In that role, he was an eye witness to the court’s day-to-day proceedings.

Rev. Samuel Parris, in whose Salem Village parsonage the afflictions first began, became concerned about his daughter Betty’s welfare in March of 1692, about a month after the troubles began to escalate. Betty was taken into the Stephen Sewall home on Salem’s Essex Street (then called Main Street). It appears her strange behavior and afflictions subsided in about two weeks, once she was no longer influenced by the growing circle of accusers.

Two days before the last hanging date in September of 1692, Cotton Mather was commissioned by Governor William Phips to write a defense of the proceedings. Mather requested the court documents from Stephen that would most convince skeptics of the reality of witchcraft and specters. Mather’s work was published as The Wonders of the Invisible World .

Stephen Sewall died in Salem in 1725 at the age of 68.

Henry Sewall Jr. built the house at 30 High Road in Newbury before 1678. His sons Samuel and Stephen both lived here for a time.

Sewall grave in Boston's Granary Burying Ground, the third oldest cemetery in the city.

Albert Herter's 1942 mural The Repentance of Judge Samuel Sewall hangs in the Boston State House. https://malegislature.gov/VirtualTour/Artifact/65

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Tours for Touring Tourists

29 Congress Street Salem, MA

Daniels House Tours

1 Daniels Street Salem, MA

Inside the Daniels House

Witch City Walking Tours

32 Derby Square Salem, MA

Salem Trolley

8 Central Street Salem, MA

Salem Uncovered Walking Tours

1 Houdini Way Salem, MA

Salem Witch Walk

125 Essex Street Salem, MA

Salem Historical Tours & Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour

Salem Food Tours

159 Derby Street Salem, MA

Salem Walking Tours (Formerly Salem Morning & Afternoon Stroll)

190 Essex Street Salem, MA

Spellbound Tours

213 Essex Street Salem, MA

Black Cat Tours

234 Essex Street Salem, MA

Salem Kids Tours

316 Essex Street Salem, MA

Forest Lore Tour

75 Willson Street Salem, MA

Candlelit Ghostly Walking Tour

288 Derby Street Salem, MA

Salem Night Tour

127 Essex Street Salem, MA

Salem Witch Hunt: Myths & Misconceptions

2 New Liberty Street Salem, MA

Salem Wax Museum of Witches & Seafarers Tour

1 New Liberty Street Salem, MA

1692 Before and After, LLC

272 Essex Street Salem, MA

Salem Vintage Postcard Tours

Bewitched Historical Tours

131 Essex Street Salem, MA

St. Peter’s Church Historic Presentations & Tours

24 Saint Peter Street Salem, MA

Wolfe Adventure Tours, LLC

163 High Street Newburyport, MA

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Ultimate Historic Salem And Witch Trials Self-Guided Walking Tour

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• 6 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Massachusetts

As the state where the Mayflower famously landed Pilgrim settlers on Cape Cod , history flows through every corner of Massachusetts . From its historic ports to its infamous witch trials, this Bay State has remarkable small towns whose sights and attractions both preserve and seamlessly blend history with the present. Whether visiting the second oldest lighthouse in the country, picnicking in a 19th-century English garden, or enjoying a shore so beautiful it inspired colonists to settle in the area, Massachusetts and its small towns have something to inspire any traveler. From spunky college towns to spirited beach communities, this New England state will leave you breathless.

Provincetown

Perched at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a haven for free spirits. As the temperatures rise, this quaint coastal town bursts to life with visitors eager to indulge in the beauty of the sand dunes, beaches, and lively downtown scene. Thrill-seekers can opt for a 1-hour SUV adventure with Art’s Dune Tours, providing a breathtaking view of the rolling, sandy hills against the backdrop of the Atlantic . For the more independent traveler, the 5.25-mile Province Lands Bike Trail offers an alternative way to explore the dunes. Rental stores like Provincetown Bike Rental can be found on Bradford Street while stores like Arnold’s Bike Shop are conveniently located closer to the scenic bike trail.

After an exhilarating journey through the dunes, Provincetown invites you to unwind, boasting 45 miles of tranquil shoreline to bury your toes in the sand and savor the ocean’s cool breeze. Race Point Beach is the town's prettiest (and busiest) beach, while other shores like Herring Cove are favored for their peaceful waves. After a day in the sun, Commercial Street is a charming retreat, with 3 miles of cute shops and restaurants to sample. The Lobster Pot is 1 local landmark that stands out from the crowd, serving fresh, seafood classics with a waterfront view.

Famous for the notorious witch trials where over 200 people were accused of witchcraft, Salem has long captivated those intrigued by the town’s grisly yet compelling past. And while October is by far the busiest time to appreciate the small town’s chilling history, Salem has jaw-dropping historical sights that keep people coming year-round. The town's history transcends the trials to encompass other distinctive features, such as the Derby Wharf Light Station (established in 1871) and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Once a bustling colonial port town, the Salem site features 12 distinct historic structures spread across 9 acres on the Salem Harbor. Other notable town attractions include Salem’s House of Seven Gables, a 17th-century mansion in the post-medieval style that served as inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne's namesake novel.

For those keen to delve deeper into the town’s darker history, there is the Salem Witch Museum or the History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour, which offers a captivating journey through the town. Led by a local historian, the tour provides insight into 400 years of Salem's history, including the infamous trials, while showcasing centuries-old structures. For an even more immersive experience, the nighttime tour is conducted by lantern light, offering the ultimate spooky adventure.

Newburyport

Less than 1 hour north of Salem, the cozy coastal town of Newburyport may seem sleepy, but the sights and experiences are bucket list-worthy. Relaxing pursuits like exploring the Custom House Maritime Museum or strolling the Clipper City Rail Trail can provide a delightful introduction to your visit. But to truly be awe-struck, you will want to set aside a few extra hours, or even devote a whole day to Newburyport’s wonders.

Maudslay State Park is just one example of a Newburyport landmark that you could by all means devote an entire day to. The park features 16 miles of trails winding through wildflower meadows and pine forests, but the true highlight is the immaculate 19th-century gardens. Alternatively, for a more thrilling experience, you might consider embarking on a whale watching excursion with Newburyport Whale Watch. Departing from downtown Newburyport, the voyage travels from the Merrimack River to the Gulf of Maine , offering potential sightings of humpback, minke, and finback whales , as well as seals, seabirds, and even sharks. All in all, whether you are after an enchanting day of hikes and picnics in gorgeous historic gardens or an exhilarating ocean adventure, Newburyport promises experiences that will leave you breathless.

Another under-1-hour drive will bring you to charming Gloucester . Like Salem, this coastal Massachusetts town has a rich maritime past. As the home of America’s oldest seaport, Gloucester maintains a vibrant coastal culture, from museums like Maritime Gloucester to annual events like the Gloucester Waterfront Festival, happening this year on August 17th to 18th, 2024. Hosted at Stage Fort Park, the free-admission event will feature 175 stalls, from artisans to food vendors and much more. Summertime in Gloucester is also incredibly popular with beachgoers, and the town has some really stunning shores, like Good Harbor Beach, Wingaersheek Beach, or Stage Fort Park. The latter overlooks Gloucester harbor and is known for being the same shores that were first settled back in the 1600’s.

With a year-round population of around 14,000, the quaint island of Nantucket is another popular summer destination, its population swelling upwards of 80,000 people in July and August. Downtown is known for its old-world charm, from cobblestone side roads to centuries-old structures. Nearby, Old North Wharf is brightened with hydrangeas in the summertime and the waterfront cottages cast a picture-perfect scene. A brief walk from downtown will also bring you to Brant Point, a serene little shore with the Brant Point Lighthouse, America’s second oldest beacon. Small but mighty, the lighthouse was first erected in 1746 and is still in operation today. For a larger shore, Madaket Beach can be reached via a 6-mile paved path for bikers, hikers, and even cars. While back in town, other attractions like the Nantucket Whaling Museum or the Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum (opening for the season on May 27th, 2024) are a fun way to escape the heat and learn more about the island’s history.

Northampton

As the proud home of Smith College, Northampton is a cultural hub for artists and academics. So if you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a youthful and spirited college town atmosphere, this Massachusetts town has all you need. The college itself offers a multitude of captivating attractions open to the public, such as the Smith College Museum of Art. For just $5USD, adults can explore four floors of world-class artistry, including several pieces by Monet and Picasso . Additionally, the college boasts the beautiful Botanic Garden of Smith College, a mesmerizing showcase of diverse and exotic plants. A leisurely stroll by Paradise Pond across the street extends the bliss, providing a picturesque conclusion to your time at Smith. Elsewhere in town, downtown Northampton is renowned for its shopping. Browse for a new read at Raven Used Books before crossing the rainbow crosswalk to Thornes Marketplace, a charming 3-story mall with a ton of quirky independent shops.

Final Thoughts

From sand to sea, and everything in between, Massachusetts continuously proves itself to be one of the best New England states. Whether you visit for an exhilarating day of whale watching in Newburyport or a mellow afternoon of shopping and museums in Northampton, there is something for every traveler. And while each town on this list offers a distinctive vibe, one thing they share is their ability to leave visitors breathless.

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