The House of the Seven Gables — Attraction in Salem

I'm a Salem resident and I am on a mission to tour all the local attractions AND museums.

About this one:

I have visited the House of the Seven Gables multiple times over the years and I had the pleasure to take the tour once again recently.

The house was built in the 1600s for Captain John Turner and passed to his heirs. The estate was sold to Captain Samuel Ingersoll in the 1700s. He was married to Susanna Hathorne, cousin of Nathaniel Hawthorne, who used the house as inspiration for his "The house of the Seven Gables" novel. He never lived here but he visited multiple times his second cousin (called Susanna as her mother) and her adopted son Horace.

When the property was acquired by the philanthropist Caroline Emmerton at the beginning of the 1900s, it was turned into a museum and a place for education to help the community, and today it's still both.

You can take a 45 minute tour of the house, which nowadays offers a glimpse of the different centuries that the house has been around. You can visit rooms restored as they were in the 1600s (when it was built), 1700s, 1800s (when Hawthorne was around) and even 1900s. Interestingly, the place was modified to look like the partially-fictional house in Hawthorne's novel, in a unique case of literature shaping reality instead of the other way around. A very memorable section of the tour is the secret passage from the living room to the attic, used by one of the characters to constantly appear out of thin air. You can go through it or skip it if you suffer from claustrophobia. Also a little cent-shop was added on the first floor since it was part of Hawthorne's story.

The museum includes a beautiful garden by the water and other properties, in particular Hawthorne's birth place. It's furnished and self guided.

Let me tell you clearly: I LOVE the House of the seven gables!

If you can visit during the spring or fall, that's when the gardens look their best.

PROs

It's quintessentially Salem. It encapsulates everything that you long to find when visiting the town: some Witch Trials references (mainly because of Hawthorne and his novel), Salem's maritime and mercantile history, a beautiful waterfront, an interesting architecture, and a sense of enchantment, timeless beauty and uplifting inspiration. I also appreciated, during the tour, a mention of the house connections with native history and the history of slavery.

CONs

Absolutely nothing to say here!

Make sure to book your spot online in advance since this is a very...

Visiting the House of the Seven Gables Museum was an unforgettable experience that transported me back in time. Nestled in the charming coastal town of Salem, Massachusetts, this historic site is a true gem for anyone interested in literature, history, or simply the beauty of early American architecture.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was steeped in history. The house itself, with its distinctive gables and rich backstory, is a stunning example of 17th-century architecture. The meticulous restoration and preservation of the property reflect a deep respect for its historical significance. Each room we entered was filled with fascinating artifacts and stories that brought Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel to life.

Our tour guide, Connie, was nothing short of exceptional. With her infectious enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, she truly made the experience memorable. Connie's storytelling skills were captivating; she wove together the history of the house, the Hawthorne family, and the social context of the era in a way that was both informative and engaging. She encouraged questions, making the tour feel interactive and personal. It was evident that she was passionate about the history of the house and its literary connections, which made the tour all the more enriching.

Connie also took the time to highlight lesser-known stories and anecdotes that added depth to our understanding of the house's significance. Her ability to connect the dots between the historical context and the themes of Hawthorne's work was impressive and left a lasting impression on all of us.

The grounds surrounding the museum are equally enchanting, providing a serene backdrop for exploration. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and the views of the water are simply breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the history we had just learned.

In conclusion, the House of the Seven Gables Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone in Salem. The combination of the stunning architecture, rich history, and Connie's outstanding guidance made for a truly remarkable experience. I left not only with a greater appreciation for Hawthorne’s work but also with a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the house itself. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to immerse themselves in the captivating...

Our visit to the House of the Seven Gables in Salem, Massachusetts, was an unforgettable journey into American literary history and architectural beauty. The tour provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of Nathaniel Hawthorne and the rich past of this iconic house.

Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the well-preserved structure and its picturesque setting overlooking Salem Harbor. The house, with its steep gables and dark wood exterior, exudes an aura of mystery and charm that beckons visitors to explore further.

The guided tour was exceptionally informative and engaging. Our guide was not only knowledgeable about the house's history and architecture but also shared intriguing stories about the Hawthorne family and the inspiration behind Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The House of the Seven Gables. Walking through the rooms, we felt transported back to the 17th century, surrounded by period furnishings, artifacts, and detailed restorations that captured the essence of the era.

A highlight of the tour was the secret staircase, a narrow, hidden passage that added an element of adventure and excitement. Climbing these stairs and discovering the hidden corners of the house was a unique experience that delighted both adults and children in our group.

The surrounding gardens were equally enchanting, offering a serene and beautifully landscaped space to reflect on the tour and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor. The combination of historical insight and natural beauty made the visit even more special.

In summary, the House of the Seven Gables tour is a captivating experience that blends history, literature, and architecture in a way that is both educational and entertaining. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in American heritage and the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne. We left with a deeper appreciation for the stories embedded within those seven gables and the legacy of one of America's...