The Witch History Museum, located on the pedestrian walkway in downtown Salem, provides visitors with a live historical presentation in which tour guides tell the stories of the witches of Salem. Olde Salem Village truly sets the scene for these retellings, as the museum features 15 full size settings that depict the many tales. The museum explains the different roles that various people played during the witch hysteria, and corresponding trials. Furthermore, because the demonstration is with an actual guide, it becomes a very interactive experience for the guests where questions and participation are encouraged.
This abbey's history dates back to 1954, when its parent abbey, the Benet Lake Abbey in Wisconsin, founded it. Apartments for the elderly were established in 1980 in Hingham and in 2001, the Abbey Center opened and now serves the South Shore with social, educational and cultural events. Named after a medieval monastery in England, Glastonbury Abbey hosts lecture series and retreats and conducts adult education programs in scripture. The grounds are beautifully kept and the Abbey Center itself is tucked into the woods.
The Salem Athenaeum is a library and historical society, originally founded more than 200 years ago by wealthy patrons. It serves as a library and museum. The library hosts events and is open to the public.
As a small-town museum, the Ipswich Museum provides a fascinating look into the history of a beautiful, old coastal Massachusetts town. Artifacts and architecture from the town's founding years and art and photography from the past 350 years are on display throughout two properties — the 1677 Whipple House and the 1800 Heard House.
Best and worst time to go to the Ipswich Museum
The museum is open all day Thursday–Saturday, and on Sunday afternoons. Because of the museum's size and location, you will rarely find it too busy for enjoyment, but you should plan your visit to Ipswich for June, July or September, when you can enjoy many of Ipswich's outdoor charms as well, including Crane Beach. In addition, the museum puts on special exhibits during the summer months, often showcasing local contemporary artists.
Must see/do at the Ipswich Museum
Ipswich contains more First Period (circa 1625-1725) houses than any other community in the U.S., and the superior preservation shows off that particular architecture to good effect. The arrangement of original and historical furniture and the accompanying tour offer an interesting look into colonial life in Ipswich. In the Heard House, make sure to check out the exhibit on Ipswich's fascinating history of trade with China.
Admission to the Ipswich Museum
You can choose either to see the museum in its entirety, including the Heard House, the Whipple House and outbuildings, or you can choose one house. The first option will cost $7-20, and the second will cost $5-15.
Parking and public transportation to the Ipswich Museum
There is a parking lot at the main entrance at the Heard House, as well as a public public parking lot around the corner on South Main Street. If you are staying outside of Ipswich, the Newburyport/Rockport line of the MBTA commuter rail from North Station in Boston services the Ipswich train station, which is half a mile from the Ipswich Museum.
Food at the Ipswich Museum
There is no cafe within the museum itself, but downtown Ipswich is only a 5-minute walk away, with several food options readily available. After your tour, go for coffee or ice cream at Zumi's or a sandwich at the Five Corners Deli.
Insider tip for visitors to the Ipswich Museum
The Ipswich Visitor Center is located in the historic Hall Haskell House just down the road from the Ipswich Museum. If you haven't gotten your fill of history after visiting the museum, stop by the Visitor Center for a wealth of information on other sites in Ipswich, including walking tours of the historic downtown and its many First Period homes.
Author's bio: Julia O'Connor is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer transplanted from Boston to Denver. She is thriving on the transition and has enjoyed the exploration of both cities and everything in between.
Founded in 1981, the Sharon Historical Society continually receives donations of Sharon's rich historical past including paintings, farm equipment, maps, and more. Be sure to check out the gift shop in the main entrance as well as the newest farming exhibit located in the carriage house outside.
This organization makes its home in an historic building: the Fisher School, which was build in 1845. The society is dedicated to the preservation of the town's rich history. Throughout the year, members organization education programs and fund-raising events, are all listed on their Web site.
