Continuing our quest to visit National Historic places, we arrive at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
Built in 1871, the Lighthouse on Derby Wharf completed the system for the Harbor of Salem.
Yes, even back in 1819 you had to pass through Customs and pay duty on goods brought into the country. Back then, it was a hugh part of U.S. revenue and provided the means for the government to build lighthouses and beacons, and even provided medical care to needy sailors!
The Derby House, built in 1762 for shipbuilder Elias Hasket Derby, stood in sight of the owner's ships and wharves. It is the oldest brick house in Salem.
Derby (1739-99) was Salem's most prominent merchant and quite possibly America's first millionaire. Active in both European and West Indies trade, he was also respected as a knowledgable shipbuilder.
The Narbonne-Hale House was built during the 17th century and was both a home and shop for craftsmen and tradesmen.
The Hawkes House (1780) was used as a privateer prize warehouse by Elias Haskey Derby during the Revolution. It was designed by the great architect Samuel McIntire, and later purchased in 1801 and acquired its present form by Benjamin Hawkes, owner of the shipyard next to Derby Wharf.
The House of Seven Gables was originally built in 1668 and became famous due to the novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne. This is just a partial view. With tourists everywhere and narrow streets, we could not get a photo of the front, which faces the harbor.
The following are photos taken during both our walk and bus tour of the town. They are in no special order, but allow a glympse of what Salem looks like to us, at least the houses and buildings that we find appealing. Hope you agree!
eat=embedwebsite">Touring Salem, MA
Although Salem is far more commercial than anticipated, we do love the way they celebrate Halloween. Here are a few of the decorations we see around town. I think you'll agree they go all out:
For further information:
Salem Maritime National Historic Site;
House of Seven Gables 978.744.0991;
The Salem Athenaeum 978.744.2540;
The Corwin House Association 978.744.8815;
Historic New England 978.744.0440
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