Ancient Wooden Planks Preserved from a 17th-Century Salem Jail


Two large, weathered wooden wall planks on display from an old jail in salem massachusetts, showing their rough texture and worn surface.
Photo Credit: benrekemeyer

Long, rough boards stand upright behind a protective case, each one full of cracks and knots that hint at many decades of use. Thick iron braces hold them in place, and the faded sign nearby explains their history. Deep brown tones cover most of the wood, though some spots look almost black where they might have been soaked by rain or water over time. They seem heavy and strong, like they once formed part of a solid barrier no one could easily break through. It’s fascinating to think about the countless stories and events these planks must have witnessed back in the 17th century.


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