Location: 19 Cambridge St, Salem, MA (about 30 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Universally Accessible: No
Cost: $40 per ticket ($50 if you purchase day of tour tickets)
Parking: There are several parking garages in Salem, as well as metered on street parking.
Summary: The John Fullington home, constructed in 1807, is full of lots of surprises.
Although records show this home was built in 1807 by John Fullerton, it was really built by John Fullington, a bricklayer. The house has gone through some changes since it was originally built, though. It is now stylistically considered a mid 1860s home. While the original structure may have been in the federal Style, the house has been redesigned in the Second Empire Style around 1865. Some of the elements of the Second Empire Style include the mansard roof with flared eaves punctuated by dormer windows, large and small decorative brackets and the recessed side hall entrance containing double doors. The front doors were recently restored by a Salem based artisan. The door hood is topped by a flat cornice upon which rests a rectangular bay window.
During the late 19th century, renovations in the rear extension were added, creating a larger kitchen as well as a small upstairs bedroom.
James J. Buckley, a wine merchant, acquired the property in 1865. He most likely was responsible for the major renovations that were made to the house at that time. Buckley owned a liquor store on Washington St and shared the home with his wife Margaret and their son James O. Buckley. After Buckley’s death in the early 1870s, Margaret continued to live in the house until 1919 when it was sold to Isabella Murphy, the widow of John Murphy. Her son, Edward, a painter and leather worker, lived there with his wife until the 1950s. Mary Murphy occupied the house until the 1980s.
The home tour guide made an astute observation at the entry way of the home and I agree – the owner of the home must not have cats. If you know, you know.
The home did have some unique and unexpected features like this bell above the doorway.
Besides a certain type of decor I will touch on later, the owner of the home has a special affinity for our 16th President. The top hat on the book is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln. There’s also an Easter egg on the floor on the right side of the Christmas tree.
One of the pieces of decor that stood out to me were the chairs.
This chair is a 1880’s Victorian chair model.
I also liked the Christmas decor in and outside of the home.
I agree with this sign!
And, if you’ve been following my posts, you know I appreciate most of the lighting fixtures of these homes. This light had an environmental feel to it.
Now, back to the special theme of the home that I alluded to previously and the “Easter egg” from earlier in the post. This home like some of the homes on the tour had a theme or certain type of decor. The theme of this home was rocking horses! The owner of this home really likes rocking horses.
As you can see, the Fullington home was full of charm, Christmas cheer and a few pleasant surprises!
Location: John Ward House, 148 Washington St, Salem, MA (about 30 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Universally Accessible: No
Cost: $40 per ticket ($50 if you purchase day of tour tickets)
Parking: There are several parking garages in Salem, as well as metered on street parking.
Summary: The Joshua Ward House, rumored to be haunted, is said to be Salem’s oldest Federal style brick building. It was the first home on the Christmas In Salem’s Boughs & Blooms historic homes tour.
Salem’s not just a Halloween destination anymore and the throng of crowds at the Christmas In Salem historic homes tour, titled “Boughs & Blossoms, is proof of this. The event, which included tours of 12 historic homes, and a bonus tour of a tiny home, attracted thousands of visitors to the Witch City. And it seems to be a bigger event each year.
While you can visit the homes in any order you choose to, a list is provided of the homes on the tour and the Joshua Ward House was the first house on this list. I found most of the information for these blog posts in the guide book given to each person on the tour. But, all of the info about the homes aren’t just in the guide books. The tour guides also provided additional information not included in the guidebook which I am including in these posts.
Like many of the countless people who walk past this grand home, I always wondered what it looked like inside. So, it was very exciting to finally see the interior of this mysterious building.
Joshua Ward, a merchant and privateer, built the house shortly after the Revolutionary War. It is said to be the oldest Federal high style brick house in Salem. The house was built adjacent to Ward’s business activities by the waterfront and would have extensive views down to the harbor. It was built with the assistance of famed Salem architect and wood carver Samuel McIntyre. In fact, you will see Samuel’s handywork or influence in many of the homes in the tour.
For all of the gearheads out there, I used my Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR with a 24 mm while photographing this and all of the houses. Except, I did use my 90D Canon with a 18 to 400 mm lens for the photo of the exterior of the house so I could fit the entire exterior of the house in the frame. I also had to use a 1.4 aperture for most of the photos of the interior because of the low light environment.
The entrance to the home was decorated tastefully.
I thought this light was pretty unique.
While many inns, homes and other historical dwellings claim “George Washington slept here”, he really did sleep in the Joshua Ward home. When Washington visited Salem in 1789, diarist William Bentley recorded that Washington requested to sleep in the Joshua Ward house. He is said to have slept in the second level, southeast front bed chamber. When the home was turned into a hotel in the 19th century, it was known as the Washington Tavern in recognition of Washington’s visit. This bust was made in George’s honor.
Ok, now to address the elephant, or ghost, in the room. Since this is Salem, of course there is a connection to ghosts. The house has been widely said to be haunted. The house is said to be haunted because the home was built on the land where where High Sherriff George Corwin had his house. George Corwin was the person who issued the arrest warrants for the people accused in the Salem Witch trials. He is also the person who is said to have placed the stones on Giles Corey’s body to force his confession of being a witch. Giles never confessed. Instead, he’s alleged to have cursed Corwin and the city of Salem. His and the victims of the trials spirits are said to reside in the home. For whatever it’s worth, the tour guide at the house chuckled and told me he has never seen or heard any paranormal activity (although he did tell me he’s seen UFO’s or UAP).
The home has been refurbished and turned into a boutique hotel. It is also a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The work of art above the fireplace is called See No Evil.
The hotel has some luxurious accommodations. As long as you don’t mind sharing them with some uninvited guests!
Universally Accessible: This home was universally acceptable. But, many of the homes on the tour were not.
Cost: $40 per ticket ($50 if you purchase day of tour tickets)
Parking: There are several parking garages in Salem, as well as metered on street parking.
Summary: As part of the of the Christmas In Salem tour, the tour included a tiny home. The “Not So Tiny Home” gave a glimpse into a different type of home.
Christmas In Salem is known for the ornate historic homes in Salem, MA. But, this year there was a special home on the tour.
Considered a “bonus home” on the Christmas In Salem “Boughs and Blooms” historic homes tour, the “tiny home” on Broad St is part of the Peabody Essex Museum’s exhibition, “Not-So-Tiny Home.”
The creation of the New England couple Chloe Barcelou and Brandon Batchelder, the “Not So Tiny” home is a custom-built, 300-square-foot steampunk caravan. The tiny home was built to resemble a fairy-tale cottage, pirate ship and Victorian adventure.
Most of the inside of the home was built using recycled film sets, thrifted finds, and salvaged materials. The home is filled with secret compartments, fold-out furniture and other creative spatial solutions.
The tiny home was not open for tours. So, I was not able to take photos from inside the tiny home. But, I was able to find this photo of the inside of the tiny home on msn.com. Looks like a home I could get used to!
This is just a preview of the Christmas In Salem historic homes tour. There are many more homes on the Boughs and Blooms historic homes tour that I will post as soon as I can edit them!
Location: Witch City Mall, 186 Essex St, Salem, MA
Cost: $15 for Adults
$9 for Children 12 & under
Hours: The International Monster Museum opens at 11:00 am daily (call for closing times, as they change seasonally).
Parking: There is parking available in the parking garage at Witch City Mall. There are additional parking lots and garages as well as metered on street parking in the city
Summary: Dozens of monsters, trolls and other scary creatures come alive at the International Monster Museum
Salem, MA, isn’t just known for witches. In fact, one stroll down the Essex Street Pedestrian will reveal monsters, zombies and goblins, And not just during October.
The International Monster Museum on Essex St has become one of the hotspots to see some of these spooky creatures.
Upon entering the museum, you are struck by a variety of famous and not so famous characters.
The attention to detail in the making of the monsters is impressive.
There were also artifacts such as this vampire hunter kit.
And this bottle of vampire blood.
Once you enter the dimly lit maze of monsters (don’t worry, they give you a lantern to help you see), you are surrounded by creepy characters of all kinds. Be ready, though, as some of the statues and figures are animatronics.
The life like statues come in all shapes and sizes.
It can be scary at the museum. So, don’t lose your head during your visit!
Not all of the figuresd are standing upright!
There are many twists and turns in the museum. And you never know what you’ll find around any of those corners! Some of the statues, like this one of a werewolf, have signs that give a description and the origins of the creature.
Old person alert. I always think of Wolfman Jack whenever I see depictions of a werewolf, especially when he’s dressed.
I like how the used the lighting to both give you light to see while still giving an eerie feel.
The museum thought of all of the different types of monsters, creepers and whatever these are!
Fans of the movie Leprechaun, both of you, may enjoy these statues!
As random as it may seem, this ghoul is supposed to be eating the entrails of Edgar Allen Poe, Uhm, yuck.
Just when you think you’re about to leave and the horror has ceased, these monsters lurking by the exit!
Even though I visited in September, the museum had a real Halloween feel to it. Halloween season is beginning sooner each year it seems. In fact, I mentioned to one of the staff that September is basically “pre-Halloween season.” Before you know it, they’ll start decorating and celebrating in August!
If you missed the museum this past Halloween season, don’t worry it is open all year round. Because it’s always spooky season in Salem!
I have been reading and reviewing books about New England or written by people from New England. Today’s review is about a book that has recently turned into a movie; The Long Walk by Stephen King (339 pages). I read the story from the Bachman Books, a collection of Stephen King book. But, you can also purchase the book as a stand alone.
On its surface, the plot for The Long Walk seems both cruel and unpalatable. And it is both of these things. But, in Stephen King fashion, it is also very readable. The name basically says it all. I did find it hard to believe I could be so engrossed about a story of this nature.
Summary: On Essex St in Salem, MA, there is a hidden gem; a special, hidden gnome village on Essex St.
If you’re not looking for it you could easily miss a special village in Salem, MA. But, this place is not any city, town or hamlet in the city. In fact, sometimes it doesn’t even stay in one area!
While the village does indeed stay in one area, figurines, homes and other parts of the village are moved from time to time. Or, maybe they move on their own!
The villagers like to relax with their instruments.
But, it’s not all fun and relaxation at the village. Keeping up the village takes a lot of work. So, the gnomes are hard at work watering plants and flowers and doing other upkeep!
Although I’m not exactly sure, I think these gnomes began appearing a few years ago when the city had a gnome or fairy trail. Small displays were placed in various locations around the city and people were encouraged to find them all. It appears this village has lived on from that earlier display.
Sometimes, the gnomes get up to some questionable behaviors! But, we all like to cut loose sometimes.
The gnomes have a simple, happy life except for one luxury. They do like their castles and specialty homes! These may look like simple, small dwellings. But, with the price of rent these days, I’m sure they are not so cheap!
I am not sure how long the gnomes will remain in their present location. So, you may want to see them before they go south for the winter!
Location: Salem Commons, N, Washington Square, Salem, MA (about 40 mins northeast of Boston)
Cost: Free
Dog Friendly: Yes
Summary: People enjoyed dancing, music, lawn games, classic cars and a vintage marketplace at Salem Commons earlier this month.
The annual Salem Lawn Party was the tops! People celebrated in their best vintage clothing and dusted off their dancing shoes! In fact, if you didn’t know any better, you might think it was the 1920s. But, the biggest attraction wasn’t the dancing nor was it the other activities such as the lawn games. No, one other thing took center stage.
The cars are always a popular attraction at the event! People love to walk around the cars, sometimes even being able to sit in them. So, it took me a long while to be able to take this photo without people being in the way.
What would a vintage lawn party be without some swinging music? Annie and the Fur Trappers provided the musical entertainment and kept the party going.
People were dressed to the nines in their finest vintage wear.
One of the more nattily dressed people at the party was Moustache Mike. Mike’s suit was slightly different than most suits, though. People could write on his suit. In fact, he encouraged it!
In addition to all of the positive and fun messages on his suit, there was some signatures from some very popular with ties to Salem. The famous Addams Family of Salem signed his suit!
Of course, there was also dancing! As someone with two left feet, I’m always impressed with their agility, grace and talent.
Even dogs like to dance!
There were also lawn games such as Cornhole, bocce and outdoor bowling!
The vintage market sold items that were popular during the olden days!
The party isn’t just for humans. Dogs like Penelope, a 5 year old pit mix, had fun at the party!
Cats also liked the event! Sal, a 2 and a half year old Maine Coon cat, had a fun time, while still keeping an eye out for the dogs!
While this year’s party is over, there’s plenty of time to work on your dance moves for next year’s party!
Location: Palmer Cove Park, 38 Leavitt St, Salem, MA (about 40 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Cost: Free
Universally Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: There is a small parking lot at the park for about 7 cars. There is also local on street parking and several parking lots and garages in the area.
Summary: 7 “faceless dolls” (Muñeca Sin Rostro) have been installed at Palmer Cove Park and Pioneer Terrace, Salem, MA. And, a special path has been installed to view the statues and reflect.
The Punto Urban Art Museum (PUAM) have found a way to mix art with an education. The seven 12 foot fiberglass statues were painted by a group of artists who used the statues for expression and storytelling.
The ceramic Muñeca Sin Rostro (“faceless dolls”) were originally created by Liliana Mera Lime in 1981. Liliana, a pottery worker in the town of Moca, a province in the Dominican Republic, wanted to depict a small figure of a woman. However, she lacked the tools and molds to make a small ceramic figure. This would prove to be a blessing in disguise. The doll was handcrafted by hand on a potter’s wheel with elements like ruffles, baskets and hats and one distinct feature, or lack of a feature. The dolls all had a head with no facial features. These full-sized dolls, which were originally smaller figurines, have been replicated with each artist’s interpretation and messages.
There are 7 statues at Palmer Cove Park. I did have a hard time finding the 7th one on my list. In fact, I had to make 2 visits to find them all. So, don’t forget to go to the area by the public garden to find them all!
Another special part of the park is a walkway that was installed earlier this year as a memorial to those lost from Covid-19.
Salem
The first Muñeca Sin Rostro is fittingly called “Salem.” Created by painter and sculptor Ramon Santiago, a native of the city of Moca, Espaillat province in the Dominican Republic, “Salem” is a representation of the city bearing the statue’s name. Ramon said his work of art is dedicated to the hardworking people of Salem. Examples of the hardworking people of Salem can be found not only in elements of people working at a job, in their yards and, most importantly, with their families. The various bold colors are meant to represent how diverse and vibrant the city is.
Los Ninos Y El Carnaval
“Los Ninos La Carnaval” represents children and their participation in the Dominican Republic’s carnival. The statue, made by Luis Rivera, a native of San Cristobal, displays the most representative costumes from different regions of the country: the Lechones of Santiago, the Ecol Devils of San Cristóbal, the Devils of La Vega, the Plátanus of Cotuí, and the Taimácaros of Puerto Plata, among others. The flowers represent the joy of the Dominican people. The flowers symbolize the diversity and racial mix that define us as a nation which is a fusion of Indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage. A graduate of the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo and the Escuela de Diseño de Altos de Chavón, Luis has developed a versatile artistic style that spans sculpture, stained glass, jewelry, and carnival costumes. Luis is the co-creator of Urbelconica, a project that has helped reimagine the traditional Muñeca sin Rostro, beloved Dominican symbol of resilience and shared heritage, into large-scale public sculptures brought to life through the talent of many Dominican artists.
Oswald’s Ocean
“Oswald’s Ocean” was created, or at least conceived, by a 4 year old; Oswald. The artist, Yixuan Zeng, was captivated while reading Oswald’s design for the doll. Yixuan said the faceless doll designs reminded him of Chinese porcelain figures. Yixuan was inspired by Oswald’s passion for the color blue and sea life. He enjoyed making the sea creatures Oswald had described and envisioned the dress as being a dynamic sea scene beneath the waves.
Oswald said he is 4 years old and loves the color blue and sea life. Oswald did contribute beyond designing it. He added blue glitter to the hat.
MariposaCibaeña
Angela Gonzalez, a Dominican artist, wanted to highlight Las Hermanas Mirabal (more commonly known as the “Butterfly Sisters”), the sisters who fought for women’s rights. They were the only women who stood up to the last Dominican dictator. Angela chose to feature the Dominican flag as the main background design. She also added the national plants and, of course, a butterfly.
Angela said her doll represents the flavors, music and nature of the Dominican Republic, The bottom of the dress is made from plantain leaves which were used to make pasteles en hojas, a leaf-wrapped plantain pocket. You may have to look closely, particularly at the bottom of the statue, to see other objects that represent the Dominican Republic such as tropical plants such as coconut, bananas, sugar cane and eggplant. Musical instruments and other foods are also included.
Harmony
The artist for this statue, Vicky Ortega, said her doll was meant to serve as a celebration of those who represent the multiple cultures and as an homage to the strength of our multicultural community. The statue illustrates her own cultural blend by combining traditional Mexican dress embroidery with features of the American flag. Vicky wanted to express the strength of a new identity that draws from multiple traditions.
As a Mexican-American, Vicky often felt she didn’t belong in either culture. However, over time she learned to embrace both her heritage and nationality which helped shape who she is.
Lift Each Other Up
Created by Sheila Farren Billings, My Muñeca, “Lift Each Other Up”, is meant to express how language can either divide us or bring us together. Sheila says it is up to us to use language wisely and well. Sheila included quotes from remarks that neighbors made at a meeting about the project, with translations of course.
La Reyna De La Cosecha
The artists for this statue (Rigo Peralta and Melanio Guzman), said this sculpture honors the deep roots of agricultural labor as well as the cultural legacy of muñecas de tusa, traditional Honduran corn husk dolls. They said the corn husk dolls, which Melanio’s grandmother used to make and sell at Honduras flower festivals, is a reminder of the hard worker of the field laborers. It was fittingly located by the community garden.
Along the newly paved walkway, there is a memorial remembering the 140 Salem residents who lost their lives from Covid-19. The walkway is meant to give people a space to wander, reflect and enjoy the statues and park. It also gives people an easier and more accessible way to enjoy the park. It’s hard to imagine the park was just all grass without paths to allow people an easier access to move around. Benches give visitors a chance to sit and reflect while they enjoy the scenic views of Palmer Bay Cove.
Parking: There are several parking lots and metered street parking in the area
Summary: Dozens of bricks representing people, places and things related to Boston (and some of the surrounding areas such as Cambridge) are installed on the ground of the alley way on Winthrop St.
Watch where you’re stepping on Winthrop St in Boston, MA! You may be stepping on history.
The roughly 100 bricks scattered along Winthrop St (don’t worry, I won’t include them all), which were created by sculptors Kate Burke and Gregg LeFevre in 1985, depict something related to Boston. The alleyway is easy to miss. So, you do have to pay close attention. It is located between Otis and Arch Streets
One of the bricks, which were funded by the Edward Ingersoll Browne Fund, is something any Boston driver can relate to. In fact, I think he cut me off the other day.
Yes, Boston drivers can be animals at times. At least he’s using the “10 and 2” steering wheel method.
Like them or hate them, Boston is also known for its sports teams and sports in general. These bricks represent everything from the Boston Marathon (the longest active marathon in the United States) to the oldest Major League Baseball park in the states (Fenway Park) as well as some rowers and the most winning team (in terms of championships); the Boston Celtics.
This Boston Bruin logo was included in this brick which also contains logos of the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, or more commonly known as “the T” in Boston) as well as the logo for the New England Sea Aquarium in the left hand corner. “I can walk like a penguin.” If you got that reference your AARP card is in the mail.
Of course, Boston is a city of firsts. These bricks show off some of the firsts the city may or may not be known for. For instance, did you know the first wooden golf tee was invented in 1899 by Dr. George Franklin Grant in Boston, MA?
Another sports first is the claim to the use of the first baseball glove. Although it is debated (one historical reference states the first “buckskin” gloves, which were more like actual gloves, were worn as early as the 1860s). But, the first gloves that resemble what we use now are said to have been worn by first baseman Charles Waitt in Boston.
One more first represented by the bricks on Brick Alley is the first First Night which should really be called “First Morning” or “Last Night”. But I digress.
Boston held its first (and the country’s first) First Night December 31, 1976. I guess people just went to bed at a reasonable hour before then.
Another first in Boston is the first resident. After all, it had to be someone. And that someone was Rev. William Blaxton (also spelled Blackstone). He moved to what would later to Shawmut Peninsula which would later become known as Boston in 1625.
Since it is an area so rich in history, there were also several bricks dedicated to the history of the city.
This brick could signify a few different battles or clashes in Boston or were part of the “Boston Campaign” of the American Revolutionary War. But, I am assuming this brick pays tribute to the “shot heard around the world” and the subsequent Battle of Lexington and Concord just outside of Boston. I’m not saying who shot first, though.
The first public park is indeed in Boston. Boston Common was established in 1634 by the Puritans to serve as meeting place for public, military and recreational purposes. A lot of effort and care were used to show all of the paths in the park.
These swan boats which are in use every summer in the public garden adjacent to the Boston Commons,. They have been in operation in one form or another since 1877 when Robert Paget, a ship builder in Boston started making them.
Another first is the Boston subway system. The subway system in Boston is the first in this country (the first subway stops were Boylston and Park Street). The first trains began operating in 1898 and I think they’re still in use today. At least it feels that way,
The Boston Latin School, which was founded in Boston in 1635, is the first public school in the country. It has been in continuous operation since it formed on April 23, 1635. And, no, I wasn’t in attendance. I’m not that old.
While the sewing machine is in its earliest forms was not invented in Boston, the inventor of the first practical and commonly used sewing machine was a mechanic from Boston named Elias Howe. Elias invented the first modern lockstitch sewing machine in 1845. The underlying lockstitch design Elias invented became the foundation for most modern day sewing machines and is still used to this day in most sewing machines.
Boston is also known for its many arts and entertainment. These bricks include the POPS (the Boston Pops). Although they’re most famously known for their performances during the 4th of July celebrations on the Charles River Esplanade, they perform on many other occasions at many other venues.
This brick is a tribute to the ballet dancers that perform at the many events throughout the year. But, I will always get Nutcracker vibes when I see them.
The opera is also a staple of the art which is plentiful in the area.
This brass instrument is commonly used in the Boston Pops concerts and at other concerts throughout the city.
The Franklin Park Zoo in Boston, MA, is one of the oldest continuously running zoos. But, not the oldest in the country. The 72 acre zoo opened on October 4, 1912.
Boston is proud of its history and accomplishments. One of those accomplishments championed by President Kennedy, from Boston, was sending astronauts to the moon by the end of the decade, although he was not alive to see it to fruition. This brick shows both the moon and the approximate distance to the moon.
This brick shows some of the most famous people from Boston in their final resting places.
Speaking of final resting places, many of these newspapers no longer exist. A few, like the Boston Herald, the Boston Globe and Christian Science Monitor are still in operation, though.
This historical event was a real mess. The Molasses Flood of 1919 was just that; a flood of molasses. On January 15, 1919, a 58 foot tall and 98 foot diameter molasses storage tank in Boston’s North End burst, releasing 2.3 millions of molasses into the streets. The dark brown syrup is said to have reached speeds of 35 miles per hour and left a 10 foot deep, 100 yard tidal wave that destroyed everything in its path. Twenty one people were killed and 150 more people were injured. Wen the air is just so and the breeze is just right, it’s said you can still smell the thick scent of molasses.
These bricks are representative of the protests and how we have worked to make the world a little bit better.
I never liked tea anyway.
“Yes”. “No.” I wish they’d make up their minds.
The Underground Railroad did include parts of Boston, specifically the north slope of Beacon Hill and other areas in Boston.
The Stamp Act was another political issue that was hotly debated and protested. If only things were still so simple today.
We have a lot of famous landmarks and buildings. A few of them were represented in the alley.
As it is stated clearly on it, this brick is a depiction of the State House in Boston, MA. Yes, the dome is really covered in real gold leaf. And you wonder why we’re so grumpy.
This brick is an artful design of the Old North Church in Boston, MA
The Custom House Tower, also located in Boston, MA, is also on one of the bricks.
Some of the bricks would need a little explaining. So, what’s a “Smoot”!?
A “smoot” is a non-standard unit of measurement (defined as 5 ft 7 inches). This measurement perfectly fits Oliver Smoot, an MIT fraternity pledge from 1958. The fraternity members used poor Oliver to measure the Harvard Bridge in Cambridge, MA (it measured 364.4 smoots long). The fraternity brothers measured him, made him lie on the bridge, marked his full body length and continued the process until they had covered the entire length of the bridge. And I thought I had a lot of free time. The “smoot” has remained a tradition at MIT and a well known landmark (by locals at least). And each year the fraternity repaints the yellow markings.
Another brick that may need some explaining is this brick that has “George or Paul?” No, not those George and Paul. There are two statues in Boston of two pretty famous people. One statue with George Washington on a horse is in the Boston Public Garden. The other statue is of Paul Revere, undoubtedly on his ride to warn us all about the British, is located in Paul Revere Mall in Boston’s North End.
This may seem like a pretty straightforward design on the brick below. It is the Longfellow Bridge which spans the Charles River and connects Boston’s Beacon Hill to the Kendall Square area of Cambridge, MA (or vice versa). The bridge has an interesting history and background. The S and the P are meant to represent “salt” and “pepper” as it is also known as the “Salt” and “Pepper” bridge because the shape of the central towers on the bridge resemble salt and pepper shakers. Great. Now I’m hungry.
When it was originally built in 1845, the bridge was named the West Bridge. It was rebuilt in 1906 and eventually it was named the Longfellow Bridge after a certain writer penned a poem about the original bridge (West Bridge) entitled “The Bridge.”
These two seemingly random creatures actually have a very close connection to our history. They are both located on a very old and important historical building; the Old State House. Located on Washington St in Boston, the original State House is also near the site of the Boston Massacre. In any event, this lion and unicorn are located on the exterior of the building near the roof. These are the same figures used in the coat of arms for the United Kingdom which are reminders of its past.
These are only roughly half of the bricks on the alleyway. So, there are many more for you to find on your own! Just don’t forget to look down!
Location: Salem, MA (about 30 mins northeast of Boston, MA)
Summary: Artists from the Salem, MA, area showed off their talents at the 2025 Salem Arts Festival.
Welcome to part 2 of my blog post about the Salem Arts Festival!
One of the more interesting parts of the Salem Arts Fair was the art from local artists that were on display in the Old Town Hall. Yes, that town hall. The Old Town Hall in Salem, MA, is the very same building that was used in the filming of Hocus Pocus.
Yes, this very same building was the home to the works of dozens of artists in the Salem, MA area.
Everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs were on display during the festival. These are some of my favorites from the event!
After viewing the art in the Town Hall, I was surprised to see a group of acrobats setting up on the lawn of the visitor’s center! The acrobats entertained the crowd with gravity defying tricks!
During a break in the action, one of the performers picked a spectator from the crowd to challenge him to a contest. Although it was pretty obvious her “random choice” was not very random at all, it was still fun to watch, especially when she acted like she thought everyone was clapping for her and not him! It was very cute and entertaining! In fact, watching the spectators’ reactions were just as fun to watch as the young juggler was to watch.
What a way to end the festival! The Salem Arts Festival definitely didn’t disappoint, although I do wish the weather was nicer, particularly since it was in June! But, that’s New England for you!
Summary: Artists from all over the Salem (MA) area showed off their artistic abilities at the 17th annual Salem Arts Festival.
As summer is winding down, sadly, it’s true, I thought it was the perfect time to post photos from the annual Salem Arts Festival in June of this year! Ok, I should have posted them earlier. But, it’s been a busy summer! And I plan to show off more photos from my busy summer soon!
The 17th annual arts festival featured art and artists from all over the Salem, MA, area.
The theme for this year’s festival was Hissstory. As the sign below states, the hissstory project repurposed banners from previous events in the city. These repurposed parts were used to form a very long snake! Citizens of Salem were encouraged to create their segments of the snake which was displayed on Front St; the staging area for the performers. Recycling, or repurposing, at its finest.
The festival ran from June 6th to 8th. But, because of the rainy weather, I only attended on the 8th of June.
Since there was so much art and entertainment at the festival, I have decided to post this blog post in 2 parts. This post will include the popular “Mural Slam” as well as some of the dancers and musicians at the festival.
Without a doubt, the main event of the festival is the mural slam. Twelve artists painted uniquely creative works of art.
The murals weren’t finished until later in the day after I left. So, I stopped by the next weekend to photograph them when they were done. Plus it’s fun seeing how some of the murals evolved. At least it’s fun for me. Maybe I need to get out more.
Paige Doyle-Elwell
Howie Green
Colomba Klenner
Jess “Pickles” Clark
Max Pro
Daphne Powers
Bruce Orr
Naijah Nine
Caoin O’Durgy
Sarah Egan
Jennifer Wackerle
Bobbie Smith
There were additional murals and other works of art that were not part of the mural slam. The elephant was made by Polyvios Christoforos for the 2018 Salem, MA, mural slam. Bonus points if you can name all of the 4 buildings in the painting with the homes.
But, the art wasn’t just the murals and in the old town hall. There were also musicians and dancers. Matt Savage Groove Experiment kicked off the festivities on the second day of the festival. Matt is the keyboard player and composer for the band.
One of the more interesting and creative parts of the festival were the dancers. There were tap dancers.
But, the most interesting dancers were the interpretative dancers.
I hope you join me in part 2 of my blog post from this event which I will post soon!
New England Nomad 