Local history museum, Gift shop, Museum, Tourist attraction
Salem Witch Museum
Housed in a former church in downtown Salem since 1972, this museum retells the 1692 witch trials through thirteen life-size stage sets, then traces how the image of the witch took shape over time.
The story
The visit begins in a large, dark room where round swivel stools face thirteen life-size scenes that light up in turn. Figures, lighting and narration follow the accusations, spreading fear and executions of 1692, and a red circle bears the names of the accused. Scenes include a tableau of the Devil, the pressing of Giles Corey and the hanging of George Burroughs. The narration can be given in eight other languages on request. A docent then leads the second part, Witches: Evolving Perceptions, which covers the European witch trials, the emergence of the stereotypical witch and the wider phenomenon of witch-hunting, among artifacts and informational panels. The museum's stated purpose is to be the voice of the innocent victims of witch hunts. Its shop stocks books on the trials alongside locally made treats.
Good to know
TAGGG AI- ✦Tickets can be bought online the night before, and you receive a coloured sticker marking your tour time at check-in.
- ✦In the first presentation, take a stool in the centre of the room so you can see all the scenes.
