Talk to me about Danvers and Salem (Boston, Peabody: rent, hotels)

[bethanygm]

So, we are planning a trip up there because I am writing a book about the witch trials.

Can you tell me a little bit about it? Are most of the attractions in Danvers or Salem?

I'd like some help figuring out what the best places to see are and where the best libraries are.

I'd also like to know what the town (Danvers) looks like now and what kind of vibe it has. Is it close enough to the ocean to get a nice breeze in the summer?


Also, should we stay in Boston and commute to Salem? What is the best way to do this? We have about 5 days in September, one of which is labor day. Will all the museums and stuff be closed on labor day? If they are, we'll probably go home that day.

[wivenhoe]

I don't know what attractions you're looking for or what your objective is, but I'll try to answer some of your questions, though you really should do your own research here.

In the 17th-century, Danvers was part of Salem. It was known as Salem Village and where many, but not all, of the witch accusations occurred in 1692. Most of the properties that still remain in the section of Danvers known as Salem Village are not open to the public. You'll need a car to visit Danvers.

Danvers Archival Center at the Peabody Institute Library in Danvers (Archives: Menu) houses many materials relating to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

The Phillips Library at the Peabody Essex Museum (formerly the Essex Institute part) houses the transcripts and other materials relating to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, but most of these materials are online and the Phillips Library prefers people look online before consulting their sources.

Many of the transcripts relating to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 are online (Salem Witch Trials Documentary Archive).

It's up to you whether you stay in Boston or Salem. Both have hotels as does Danvers. The public libraries will be closed on Labor Day; the museums will be open.

[capecodcathy]

Ditto what Wivenhoe said. Danvers is pretty much landlocked behind Salem and Beverly so there are no real "ocean" breezes. Danvers is more quiet than Salem, which has capitalized more on the name and history. "Salem Village" during the trials encompassed a very wide geographical area, stretching all the way to Andover.
Personally, I'd rent a car and stay in Salem. You may want to take a trip into Boston, though, to visit the New England Historical Genealogical Society. Make an appointment telling them exactly what you're researching. It will save you time.
Best of Luck!