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Howard Street Cemetery: A Walk Through Salem's History

Explore Salem's past in this historic cemetery, the rumored site of Giles Corey's death and final resting place for Salem residents since 1801.

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Established in 1801, the Howard Street Cemetery in Salem, Massachusetts, offers a glimpse into the city's past. Adjacent to the old Salem jail, the 2.5-acre cemetery is believed to be the site where Giles Corey, a victim of the Salem Witch Trials, was pressed to death. It is the final resting place for Revolutionary War soldiers, sea captains, and early African American settlers.

A brief summary to Howard Street Cemetery

  • Salem, Massachusetts, 01970, US

Local tips

  • The cemetery is open from dawn till dusk.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
  • Be respectful of the gravestones and the history of the site.
  • Consider visiting during daylight hours for better visibility of the headstones.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Howard Street Cemetery is located in downtown Salem, adjacent to the old Salem Jail. From the Salem Witch Museum, walk east on Washington Square West, then turn right onto Howard Street. The cemetery will be on your left. No entrance fee is required.

  • Public Transport

    The MBTA Commuter Rail provides service to Salem from Boston's North Station. From the Salem train depot, walk north on Washington Street, turn left onto Church Street, then turn right onto Howard Street. The cemetery will be on your right. A one-way fare from Boston is around $9.75. Alternatively, several MBTA bus lines serve downtown Salem. Check MBTA.com for schedules and fares.

  • Ride Share

    Utilize ride-sharing services like Salem Skipper for transportation within Salem. A ride from the Salem Witch Museum to the Howard Street Cemetery typically costs around $2. Please note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.

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Discover more about Howard Street Cemetery

The Howard Street Cemetery, established in 1801, provides a poignant look into Salem's history. Before becoming a cemetery, the 2.5-acre site was an open field where Giles Corey, who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials, was pressed to death in 1692 after refusing to enter a plea. The cemetery is the final resting place for over 1,100 individuals, including Revolutionary War soldiers like Colonel Samuel Carleton, ship captains, and members of Salem's early African American community, such as Prince Farmer. Approximately 15% of those interred here met tragic ends, including ten prisoners who died when a floor in the Salem Jail collapsed. The last burial took place in 1953. Visitors can explore the grounds from dawn until dusk, observing the weathered headstones and reflecting on the lives of those who shaped Salem's story. The cemetery stands as a testament to the city's rich, and at times dark, past.

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