1692 Before And After

Forget the Myths and Legends – This Salem Tour Proves the Truth Is Scarier

Ltinkham — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 21:32:59 +0000

Forget the Myths—This Salem Walking Tour Proves the Truth Is Scarier

You’re planning your trip to Salem and looking for a walking tour, but which one should you choose? Are you in the mood for ghost stories, or do you want the real history? The 1692 Salem Tour is the most in-depth historical tour in the city, built on over 30 years of research by a passionate local Historian. It focuses on the true story of the Salem Witch Trials, where 20 innocent people were accused of witchcraft, 19 were hanged, and one man was pressed to death for refusing to enter a plea. This isn’t legend or lore. It’s real history, told where it actually happened. They say the truth is scarier than the legends, and this tour proves it. It’s one of the most powerful and unforgettable stories you’ll hear, delivered by some of the best local guides Salem has to offer.

What Is the 1692 Salem Tour?

The 1692 Salem Tour is a two-hour guided walking tour led by local historians who are passionate about telling the true story of the Salem Witch Trials. Our guides have spent decades studying original records, court documents, and firsthand accounts to offer a factual, compelling story of the trials, free from modern myths and TV dramatization.

What Will You See on the Tour?

On this immersive walk through Salem, you’ll visit some of the most important and often overlooked locations connected to the trials of 1692 and other key moments in Salem’s history:

The Witch House
Salem’s First Church
The Rope’s Mansion
Samantha StatueHoward Street CemeterySt. Peter’s Church
Amory Park
The Salem Witch Trial Memorial
Old Burying Point Cemetery

And So Much More

Along the way, your guide will share the real testimonies, accusations, and court records that ignited the most infamous witch hunt in American history.

What Guests Are Saying

We’re proud to be one of Salem’s top-rated tours on Google and TripAdvisor. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what our guests have to say:

Why Choose Us?

Locally Family Owned & Operated
Over 30 Years of Research
Top-rated on Google and TripAdvisor
Family-friendly & Fact-focused
Local Guides with 15+ years of experience

Ready to Walk Through History?

Visiting Salem this June or July? Enjoy 15% OFF your tickets and make the most of your summer trip! Just enter code 1692SALEM at checkout.

Salem Witch Trials Sites in Danvers, MA: A Guide to Historic Locations

Ltinkham — Fri, 16 May 2025 11:34:08 +0000

Salem Witch Trials Sites in Danvers, MA: A Guide to Historic Locations

When most people think of the Salem Witch Trials, they picture the bustling streets of modern-day Salem, Massachusetts. But the true heart of the 1692 hysteria lies just a few miles away in Danvers—formerly known as Salem Village. This quiet suburban town was the epicenter of the witchcraft accusations, where the first cries of bewitchment were heard, and where many of the accused lived, worshiped, and were arrested. Today, Danvers is home to several important historical sites that still bear witness to one of the darkest chapters in American history. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the most significant Salem Witch Trials locations in Danvers, MA, offering insight into the events that unfolded and how you can visit these powerful places today.

Salem Village Witchcraft Victims’ Memorial: Honoring the Innocent

Begin your journey at the Salem Village Witchcraft Victims’ Memorial, a powerful and moving tribute to those who lost their lives during the tragic events of 1692. Located in Danvers—once known as Salem Village—this site stands as a solemn reminder of the consequences of fear and injustice.

At the heart of the memorial is a striking granite wall made up of three central panels, each 12 feet long and 8 feet high, flanked by two smaller angled panels. Etched into the stone are the names and hometowns of the 25 known victims who died as a result of the Salem Witch Trials. These names represent communities from across New England, including Salem Village (now Danvers), Salem Farms (Peabody), Salem, Andover, Billerica, Amesbury, Reading, Topsfield, Marblehead, and Rowley.

Inscribed on the angled panels are the final words of eight accused individuals—haunting last pleas for justice spoken during their examinations and tragically ignored. In total, 24 men, women, and one child perished as a result of the hysteria.

In front of the wall stands a symbolic granite sarcophagus, measuring 4 feet by 8 feet, accompanied by a carved slant-top Bible box. The front of the box features five intricately carved rosettes—motifs often seen on 17th-century Puritan gravestones—interwoven with a serpentine vine representing eternity, a reflection of Puritan beliefs. Resting atop the box is the “Book of Life,” a symbol of the eternal salvation the accused hoped for. During the trials, many were falsely accused of signing the Devil’s Book. This memorial honors their refusal to confess, preserving their hope that their true names would instead be recorded in the Book of Life.

Above the sarcophagus, two broken metal shackles lie separated by the Bible box—representing the breaking of the lies and fear that fueled the witch hysteria. The front of the sarcophagus bears a simple but powerful inscription:
“In memory of those innocents who died during the Salem Village witchcraft hysteria of 1692.”

This memorial does more than list names—it tells a story of resilience, dignity, and the enduring fight for truth. It is a place for reflection and remembrance, where history continues to speak to us through stone, symbol, and silence.

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

Ltinkham — Wed, 14 May 2025 14:14:53 +0000

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

Planning a vacation to Salem, Ma.? Here are the best sites and activities to add to the to-do list.

1. Take the #1 Salem Walking Tour with 1692 Before and After

The 1692 Salem tour is designed to provoke thought, stir emotions, and inspire a deeper appreciation for Salem’s rich and complex history. Step back in time to uncover the stories that lie at the heart of Witch City. Discover the city’s haunting history, its tales of adversity and resilience, and the indelible marks they’ve left on the present. The 1692 Salem Tour is your gateway to a past that is both profound and poignant, a journey that promises to be as enlightening as it is unforgettable.

Tickets sell fast, so reserve yours today!

2. Get a reading at Botanica of Salem

Experience a personalized reading at Botanica of Salem, where ancient wisdom meets modern insight. Nestled in the heart of Witch City, this metaphysical shop offers a tranquil space for tarot and tea leaf readings, guided by practitioners deeply rooted in Salem’s spiritual traditions. Whether you’re seeking clarity, connection, or a fresh perspective, each session is tailored to illuminate your path. To schedule a reading, visit the shop in person or reach out through their website.

3. Explore the Legendary House of the Seven Gables

The House of the Seven Gables is one of Salem’s most iconic historic landmarks, made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel of the same name. Built in 1668, this waterfront mansion offers a rare glimpse into colonial New England life. As you explore its secret staircases, preserved rooms, and centuries-old architecture, you’ll uncover stories of maritime wealth, literary legacy, and Salem’s complex past. A visit here isn’t just a step into history—it’s a walk through the pages of American literature.

4. Learn About the Salem Witch Trials at the Salem Witch Museum

Discover the haunting history of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials through two powerful presentations at the Salem Witch Museum. The first brings the trials to life with dramatic lighting, narration, and thirteen life-sized stage sets that guide you through the unfolding events of that dark year. The second dives deeper, exploring the origins and evolution of the word “witch,” from the European witch hunts to the cultural forces that set the stage for Salem. Together, these immersive exhibits offer a compelling look at fear, persecution, and the lasting legacy of the witch trials.

5. Attend a Trial at the Witch Dungeon Museum

This museum brings the 1692 Salem Witch Trials to life with live actors who recreate the tense atmosphere of the time. Don’t miss the guided tour of the dungeon—a carefully crafted replica of the dark, cramped cells where the accused were imprisoned as they awaited trial. It’s an eye-opening experience that adds powerful context to Salem’s history.

6. Step Inside Salem’s Past at the Witch House

The Salem Witch House is the only building still standing in Salem with direct ties to the 1692 Witch Trials. Once home to Judge Jonathan Corwin, who played a key role in the trials, the house offers a rare glimpse into 17th-century life. As you explore its dark wood interiors and period furnishings, you’ll step back in time to a world shaped by fear, superstition, and colonial justice. A visit to the Witch House is a must for anyone looking to understand the true history behind Salem’s most infamous chapter.

7. Honor the 20 Salem Witch Trials victims at the Witch Trial Memorial.

This solemn memorial honors the 20 innocent lives lost during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. As you enter, the words of the victims—protests of their innocence—are etched into the threshold, setting the tone for quiet reflection. Inside, six locust trees symbolize the injustice of the trials, chosen for their unique nature: the last to bloom in spring and the first to shed their leaves in fall. Surrounding the space are 20 stone benches, each bearing the name and execution date of a victim, offering a powerful reminder of the real human cost of fear and false accusations.

This is one of the stops on 1692 Before and After Historical Walking Tour.

8. Explore the Old Burial Point Cemetery.

Established in 1637, the Charter Street Cemetery is one of the oldest burial grounds in the United States. This historic site is the final resting place for several figures connected to the Salem Witch Trials, including Judges John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney. Reverend Nicholas Noyes, who served as assistant minister during the trials, is also buried here. A walk through this cemetery offers a quiet, reflective connection to Salem’s colonial past and the individuals who played roles in its most infamous chapter.

This is one of the stops on 1692 Before and After Historical Walking Tour.

9. St. Peters Church

St. Peter’s Church stands on land once owned by Philip English, Salem’s wealthiest merchant at the time of the 1692 Witch Trials. English and his wife, both accused of witchcraft, fled to New York with the aid of two sympathetic Boston ministers, narrowly escaping arrest. When he returned in 1693, he discovered that Sheriff George Corwin had seized his property. Despite this loss, English lived a long life and died in 1736 at the age of 85. He is buried in the churchyard, just steps from the place that was once his home.

This is one of the stops on 1692 Before and After Historical Walking Tour.

10. Find the grave of Judge Jonathan Corwin and Sheriff George Corwin at the Broad Street Cemetery.

Broad Street Cemetery, established in 1655, is the second oldest burial ground in Salem and a significant link to the city’s colonial past. It is the final resting place of several prominent figures, including Judge Jonathan Corwin, who presided over the Salem Witch Trials, and his cousin Sheriff George Corwin, who carried out the arrests and executions.

11. Have lunch and play in the arcades at Salem Willows.

Salem Willows Park, established in 1858, is a 35-acre waterfront retreat named for the white willow trees planted in 1801 to shade patients at a nearby smallpox hospital. Over time, it evolved into a beloved summer destination, featuring beaches, picnic areas, and a scenic promenade. Today, Salem Willows continues to offer a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and family-friendly attractions such as food and an arcade.

12. Explore the Salem Maritime National Historic Site's

The Salem Maritime National Historic Site, established in 1938 as the first National Historic Site in the United States, spans nine acres along Salem’s historic waterfront. It features twelve historic structures, including the Custom House, Derby House, and Narbonne House, as well as three historic wharves. The site also includes the replica tall ship Friendship of Salem, representing the city’s rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore these landmarks to learn about Salem’s significant role in early American international trade and maritime history.

13. Travel back in time at the Pioneer Village

The Pioneer Village, also known as Salem 1630, is America’s first living history museum, established in 1930 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Salem’s founding. Located in Forest River Park, this three-acre site authentically recreates a 17th-century colonial settlement. Visitors can explore a variety of structures, including thatched-roof cottages, dugouts, wigwams, and the Governor’s Faire House—a replica of Governor John Endecott’s home. The village also features a blacksmith shop, culinary and medicinal gardens, and other exhibits that depict early colonial life. Originally constructed as a set for a tercentenary pageant, its popularity led to its preservation as a permanent educational site. Today, Pioneer Village offers seasonal tours and events, providing an immersive experience into Salem’s early history.

14. Have a fun photo shoot at Witch Pix

The Ropes Mansion, located at 318 Essex Street in Salem, Massachusetts, is a beautifully preserved Georgian Colonial home with deep historical roots. Built in the late 1720s for merchant Samuel Barnard, the house later became the residence of Judge Nathaniel Ropes, a Loyalist judge during the Revolutionary era. The mansion remained in the Ropes family for generations until it was bequeathed to the public in the early 20th century. Now operated by the Peabody Essex Museum, the Ropes Mansion is open seasonally for self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its 15 rooms filled with original furnishings and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. The property also features a Colonial Revival garden, designed in 1912, which is open to the public year-round and showcases a variety of seasonal blooms. Notably, the Ropes Mansion gained pop culture fame as “Allison’s house” in the 1993 Disney film Hocus Pocus, making it a popular stop for fans and history enthusiasts alike.

15. Visit Proctors Ledge.

Proctor’s Ledge Memorial in Salem, Massachusetts, marks the confirmed site where 19 innocent people were executed during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. For centuries, the exact location of the hangings was uncertain, with many believing they occurred atop Gallows Hill. However, in 2016, researchers confirmed that the executions took place at the base of the hill, now known as Proctor’s Ledge . Dedicated on July 19, 2017—the 325th anniversary of the first executions—the memorial features a semicircular granite wall with the names and execution dates of each victim engraved on individual stones, providing a solemn space for reflection and remembrance. Located at the intersection of Pope Street and Boston Street, the memorial is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, offering visitors a poignant reminder of the consequences of fear and injustice

16. Read a stone at the Howard Street Cemetery

Established in 1801, this historic cemetery is the final resting place of several Revolutionary War soldiers and early Salem residents. Among the graves is the oldest known stone, marking the death of Benjamin Ropes, who was tragically crushed while launching the fore-topmast of the ship Belisarius. Before the cemetery was created, the land was an open field, and the building next to it served as Salem’s old jail. For years, it was believed that this spot was where Sheriff George Corwin pressed Giles Corey to death during the Witch Trials. However, historians now believe the actual site is located in a nearby parking lot.

This is one of the stops on 1692 Before and After Historical Walking Tour.

17. Visit The Pickering House

The Pickering House, located at 18 Broad Street in Salem, Massachusetts, is one of the oldest continuously occupied homes in the United States. Built around 1664 by English settler John Pickering, this First Period Colonial house remained in the Pickering family for over 350 years, spanning ten generations. Notably, Colonel Timothy Pickering, born here in 1745, served as a Revolutionary War officer and held several key positions in the early U.S. government, including Secretary of State and Postmaster General under President George Washington. The house underwent significant renovations in 1841, adopting Gothic Revival architectural features such as gabled roofs and decorative trim. Today, the Pickering House is preserved by a nonprofit organization and offers seasonal tours, providing visitors with a glimpse into Salem’s rich colonial history.

18. Take a stroll at Pickering Wharf.

Pickering Wharf is a vibrant waterfront district in Salem, Massachusetts, offering a blend of maritime history and modern attractions. Established in 1979 as part of a revitalization effort, the area was designed to resemble an 18th-century seaport village, complete with boutique shops, restaurants, and a marina. Visitors can enjoy dining on fresh seafood, shopping for unique gifts, or simply strolling along the harbor. The wharf is also home to the replica schooner Fame, which offers sailing tours of Salem Sound, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich seafaring past.

19. Go shopping at Essex Street Pedestrian Mall

The Essex Street Pedestrian Mall is a vibrant, car-free corridor in the heart of downtown Salem, Massachusetts. Lined with cobblestone and brick, this historic street is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Peabody Essex Museum and the Salem Witch Museum . The mall also features the Samantha statue from the TV show “Bewitched,” a nod to Salem’s pop culture ties. Seasonal festivals and street performances add to the lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for both history buffs and casual visitors.

20. If you visit Salem in October, you are in for a treat.

Every October, Salem, Massachusetts transforms into a Halloween haven during the Salem Haunted Happenings Festival. This month-long celebration features a variety of events, including haunted houses, psychic readings, historical tours, and family-friendly activities. The festival kicks off with the annual Haunted Happenings Grand Parade on the first Thursday of October, setting the tone for a month filled with spooky fun and historical exploration. Visitors can enjoy street performances, seasonal markets, and themed attractions that honor Salem’s rich history and embrace the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re seeking thrills, history, or festive entertainment, Salem Haunted Happenings offers something for everyone.

Visit Salem on one of our Salem Walking Tours, Salem Witch Tour, Salem Night Tour, Salem Day Tour, or Salem History Tour

The Salem Witch House

The Final Resting Place of the 20 Victims

The 1692 Salem Tour: A Walk Through History

Our 1692 Salem Tour allows visitors to step back in time and explore the memorials and landmarks that define the Salem Witch Trials legacy. Discover the stories of the twenty executed victims and uncover the tales of other notable figures who played pivotal roles in the trials. Explore Salem with a historian who will lead you through the cobblestone streets, providing insights into the events of 1692 that are seldom considered and discussed. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect with history in the very place where it happened.

Are Salem walking tours Worth it?

Ltinkham — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 20:10:07 +0000

Are Salem walking tours Worth it?

Discover the Best Guided Experiences in Salem, Ma.

If you’re planning a trip to Salem, Massachusetts, chances are your list of must-see attractions includes places like the Ropes Mansion, the Samantha statue, Howard Street Cemetery, the Witch Trials Memorial, and the Old Burying Point Cemetery. While each of these spots is worth visiting, seeing them on your own means you’re likely to get just a brief glimpse into their history—maybe a few sentences from a plaque or guidebook.

But Salem’s story runs much deeper.

Why Take a Walking Tour in Salem?

Salem is one of the most walkable and historic cities in New England, but without context, it’s easy to miss out on the layers of meaning behind each site. A well-curated walking tour isn’t just about checking off landmarks—it’s about understanding the complex, often tragic, and always fascinating history that shaped the city.

Here’s what makes walking tours so valuable:

Go beyond the plaques: A local guide will bring each location to life with rich stories, hidden facts, and historical connections you won’t find on your own.
See more, stress less: In just two hours, you can cover half of your must-see list, saving time for museums, shops, and a relaxing lunch.
Ask anything: Tour guides are locals who know the best places to eat, shop, and explore. Want to know where to get the best lobster roll or find a one-of-a-kind Salem souvenir? Just ask.
Discover hidden gems: From secret gardens to overlooked historical spots, a good guide will take you to places you might never find on your own.

Choosing the Right Walking Tour in Salem

With so many tour companies in town, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

If you’re looking for real history, our 1692 Salem Tour by 1692 Before and After LLC is the one to take. Created by a Salem native after 30 years of research, this tour shares facts, not fiction, and takes you through the true story of the 1692 witch trials as it winds through the heart of the city. It’s not just a sightseeing tour—it’s a thought-provoking walk through one of America’s darkest chapters.

Looking for something else? Here are a few great options:

Ghost Tours: Check out Black Cat Tours and Spellbound Tours—two of the oldest and most respected ghost tours in Salem. They share verified haunted history and eerie local legends.
Architecture Lovers: Take the Salem Merchants and Mansions Guided Architecture Walking Tour for a deep dive into the city’s stunning homes and colonial streetscapes.
Kids Tours: If you traveling with young children the Salem Kids Tour is perfect for the whole family and offers age appropriate history and ghost stories.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a history buff, ghost story lover, or casual visitor, a walking tour is one of the best ways to experience Salem. It turns a simple sightseeing trip into an immersive journey—and leaves you with lasting memories and stories to share when you return home.

So yes, walking tours in Salem are absolutely worth it.

And if you want the most historically accurate and impactful tour in town, book your spot on our 1692 Salem Tour today. You won’t just see the city—you’ll understand it.

1692 Before And After

Forget the Myths and Legends – This Salem Tour Proves the Truth Is Scarier

Forget the Myths—This Salem Walking Tour Proves the Truth Is Scarier

What Is the 1692 Salem Tour?

What Will You See on the Tour?

What Guests Are Saying

Why Choose Us?

Ready to Walk Through History?

Salem Witch Trials Sites in Danvers, MA: A Guide to Historic Locations

Salem Witch Trials Sites in Danvers, MA: A Guide to Historic Locations

Salem Village Witchcraft Victims’ Memorial: Honoring the Innocent

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

20 Best Things To Do In Salem Ma [Visit Salem]

7. Honor the 20 Salem Witch Trials victims at the Witch Trial Memorial.

8. Explore the Old Burial Point Cemetery.

9. St. Peters Church

10. Find the grave of Judge Jonathan Corwin and Sheriff George Corwin at the Broad Street Cemetery.

15. Visit Proctors Ledge.

16. Read a stone at the Howard Street Cemetery

18. Take a stroll at Pickering Wharf.

19. Go shopping at Essex Street Pedestrian Mall

Other Blog Posts

The 1692 Salem Tour: A Walk Through History

Are Salem walking tours Worth it?

Are Salem walking tours Worth it?

Discover the Best Guided Experiences in Salem, Ma.

Why Take a Walking Tour in Salem?

Choosing the Right Walking Tour in Salem

Final Thoughts

Other Blog Posts

The 1692 Salem Tour: A Walk Through History

December 1692 – Events of the Salem Witch Trials

December 1692

Day-By-Day chronicle of events during the Salem Witch Trials

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November 1692 – Events of the Salem Witch Trials

November 1692

Day-By-Day chronicle of events during the Salem Witch Trials

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