One of the beautiful historic homes in Salem, MA
I had trouble choosing a title for this post. Though I was only in Salem for a very quick three days, it felt that I'd gone back to the Seventeenth and Nineteenth centuries. And as quickly as I'd gone back in time I was catapulted back to the present the moment I stepped off the train in New York City.
I spent my time in the past via my college class mini-reunion. I attended two colleges and both have mini-reunions -- small off-campus get-togethers between the standard five year reunions. I've traveled to a half dozen different places, made new friends and caught up with friends from college days. It's been an extraordinary privilege and Salem was one of the best.
The House of the Seven Gables
Before my visit Salem brought two ideas to mind. One was the Witch Trials of 1692 and the other was this beautiful Seventeenth Century house in the picture above that inspired a novel. I gained so much knowledge of both from tours, lectures and museum visits. I was delighted to find that that Salem was a treasure trove of beautiful colonial and Nineteenth Century architecture. I was also delighted that lilacs were everywhere in Salem and it was the perfect week for them to bloom.
Lilacs on beautiful Chestnut Street, one of the loveliest streets in Salem
It wasn't all seminars and lectures, there was time to chat during our walks and leisurely meals. I especially enjoyed lunches with friends at Red's Sandwich Shop, which had the friendliest staff, great coffee and delicious omelets. I liked it so well that I went there for both lunches during my visit.
Samantha, from Bewitched
Our group chose to visit Salem in the spring, before the crowds arrive in the fall for Halloween festivities. The streets and restaurants weren't crowded and the weather was beautiful. It's highly unlikely that I could have taken this photograph without dozens of people in the picture in October, when over a million visitors -- including 90,000+ on Halloween -- come to Salem.
I returned home and back to this century with great memories, new friends, photographs and a miserable cold. My nose has been running and I've had a cough that sounded like a barking seal. I've taken it easy for few days -- 95 degrees and lots of pollen -- and I am barking a lot less. I'm still tired, but feeling better and am beginning to get organized for my trip to England in just a few weeks.
As ever, thanks for visiting, and as our tour guide in Salem wished us, have a magical day.
9 comments
What a gorgeous place Salem is, Carol. Thanks for sharing your travels with us and feel better soon!
I love historical houses and museums. Thanks for sharing your experiences and photos here.
Apart from the cold, which fortunately had the good grace to wait, it sounds like a wonderful time. Friends, history, springtime in Salem! What's not to love?
I couldn't help but but shiver at the mention of Salem. Those witch trials were terrible. Those old houses are beautiful, but also spooky. I can't imagine the stories they could tell!
I did enjoy seeing your photographs, the old houses are beautiful and that lilac looks wonderful.
Hope you feel better soon as you look ahead to your travels to England.
All the best Jan
I love the old houses. They have such character.
I've never been to Salem so I appreciate seeing pictures from there.
We have also been to Salem in the "off" season and it is a lovely place to visit without any crowds. Glad to read about your reunion and meting and making new friends, and nice that the weather cooperated too. Maybe the next time you are in NE we can meet up as I know you did not have much time during your reunion. We also have eaten at Red's and also enjoyed the food.
Salem!! A place to visit on my...I hope to visit one day bucket list!!!! Thanks for sharing. I will avoid fall whenever or if I do get to visit.
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