Salem, Massachusetts, is a beautiful town in New England best known for its witch trials. But did you know that Salem also has a unique connection to Hollywood? Specifically, the classic 1960s sitcom Bewitched made Salem a must-see destination for TV enthusiasts. In 1970, the show’s cast and crew came to the town to film several episodes, forever connecting Salem with the beloved TV show.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Bewitched or just learning about it, we will take you on a journey through the magical world of Samantha Stephens and her family while providing insight into the real-world history and sights of Salem. Here you will learn about the show’s special episodes filmed in Salem, the landmarks they visited, and the lasting impact of Bewitched on the town. By the end, you will have plenty of reasons to plan your trip to the Witch City and experience the bewitching appeal of Salem.
What is Bewitched?
Bewitched was a popular American sitcom that originally aired from 1964 to 1972 on ABC. The show follows the life of Samantha Stephens, a kind-hearted witch who tires to live a normal suburban life with her husband, Darrin. However, things don’t always go as planned because Samantha’s magical powers, combined with the meddling of her eccentric witchy relatives, often create funny mishaps.
The Show’s humor and appeal stem from the dynamic between the magical and non-magical worlds, as Samantha tries to balance the two while keeping her powers a secret. The cast included Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha, Dick York, and later Dick Sargent as Darrin, and Agnes Moorehead as Samantha’s mother, Endora.
Bewitched quickly became one of the most beloved shows of the 1960s, and its popularity continues to this day. Its lasting impact can be seen in many ways, including in Salem, Massachusetts, where a few special episodes were filmed, drawing fans of the show to this historic town.
Bewitched Visits Salem: The 1970 Episodes
In 1970, during the seventh season, Bewitched filmed several episodes on location in Salem. The decision to take the show on the road was due to several reasons. First, the show’s producers were looking for a way to freshen up the series with new storylines and settings. Secondly, the city of Salem was excited to embrace its reputation as the “Witch City,” and what better way to promote tourism than by having a famous TV show about witches?
The Salem episodes of Bewitched are often referred to as the “Salem Saga” and consist of eight episodes (Season 7, Episodes 3-10). These episodes follow Samantha, Darrin, and other characters as they visit Salem for a business trip that, unsurprisingly, leads to magical adventures. Samantha’s involvement in witchcraft causes Darrin trouble, as he is trying to impress a difficult client. Additionally, the episodes make references to the historical aspects of Salem, with nods to the Salem Witch Trials and local attractions.
Here are some of the key episodes filmed in Salem:
“The Salem Saga”
- In this episode, Samantha, Darrin, and their daughter Tabitha travel to Salem. While this episode doesn’t involve time travel, the characters explore Salem’s historical sites, blending Bewitched’s whimsical style with local history. The term “Salem Saga” typically refers to the collection of episodes filmed in Salem.
“Samantha’s Hot Bedwarmer”
- This episode features a bedwarmer (a device used to warm beds in colonial times) that comes to life thanks to Samantha’s magic. Much of the episode was filmed on location at the historic House of the Seven Gables, though some scenes were shot in the nearby town of Marblehead. It combines history and comedy, bringing a touch of magic to real-world locations.
- These episodes are not only significant for Bewitched fans but also provide a unique window into Salem’s rich history and landmarks, making them a perfect bridge for travelers interested in both pop culture and historical tourism.
Locations to Visit in Salem for Bewitched Fans
If you are a Bewitched fan visiting Salem, there are a few must-see attractions where you can relive the magic of the show and immerse yourself in both Hollywood history and Salem’s witchy beauty.
Bewitched Statue
- The statue depicts Samantha Stephens sitting on a broomstick with a crescent moon behind her. It captures her character’s iconic magical charm, and the crescent moon is a nod to the show’s whimsical tone and supernatural elements. The statue stands at about 9 feet tall and has become a beloved landmark for fans of the show and tourists visiting Salem.
Hawthorne Hotel
- The Hawthorne Hotel served as the cast and crew’s headquarters during the Bewitched Salem shoot, and it also made an appearance in the episodes. The hotel is one of Salem’s most haunted buildings, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the town. Fans can stay at the hotel or simply visit for a meal at its restaurant, knowing they are walking in the footsteps of Samantha and Darrin.
The Witch House
- The Witch House is one of Salem’s most famous attractions and is the only building still standing with direct ties to the 1692 witch trials. While it was not featured in the Bewitched episodes, the house’s historical connection to witchcraft makes it a fascinating spot for fans of the show to visit and imagine the magic. Visitors can tour the Witch House to learn about its history and its role in the infamous trials.
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
- Essex Street is a bustling area in downtown Salem, lined with shops and attractions embracing Salem’s witchy history. Although there’s no confirmed filming of Bewitched on Essex Street, it’s a key location in Salem’s tourism scene and makes for an enjoyable visit, where you can soak in the city’s atmosphere that inspired much of the Bewitched Salem storyline.
The House of the Seven Gables
- Although not featured in Bewitched, The House of the Seven Gables is a famous historical landmark in Salem that fans should consider visiting. As one of the oldest wooden mansions in New England and the inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, its spooky, historical atmosphere fits right in with the witchy theme of both Bewitched and Salem.
The Lasting Impact of Bewitched on Salem
The episodes of Bewitched filmed in Salem filmed in Salem had a significant and lasting impact on the town. The episodes aired during a time when Salem was beginning to fully embrace its witch-related history as a way to attract visitors. The connection with Bewitched gave the town an additional boost, attracting fans of the show to visit and explore the filming locations.
To this day, Salem proudly celebrates its connection to Bewitched. Visitors can find references to the show in local shops and guided tours. Some attractions host Bewitched-themed events, especially during October when Salem’s haunted happenings are in full swing. While Bewitched-themed events are not constant, the town’s association with the shoe remains an enduring element of its pop culture appeal.
The town also recognizes Elizabeth Montgomery, the actress who played Samantha, with a statue in her honor. The statue, which depicts Samantha riding a broomstick in front of a crescent moon, was set in 2005 and stands in Salem’s Lappin Park. Although the statue was initially met with some mixed reactions due to Salem’s tragic witch trial history, it has since become one of the most photographed attractions in the town, especially for Bewitched fans. Montgomery’s role as Samantha remains one of her most iconic, and the statue serves as a lasting tribute to her and the show’s influence on Salem
Other Fun Things to Do in Salem
If you’re visiting Salem because of Bewitched, you’ll likely want to explore some of the town’s other attractions. Salem is filled with historical sites, museums, and witch-themed activities that will enhance your trip.
Salem Witch Museum
- The Salem Witch Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Salem. It provides an overview of the 1692 witch trials, offering a dramatic retelling of the events through life-size stage sets and narrations. While the presentation is more theatrical than deeply historical, it helps bring this important period to life for visitors interested in the trials.
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
- For history fans, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a great place to explore. It includes a collection of historic buildings and wharves along the waterfront, offering a glimpse into Salem’s role as a major port city during the early days of the United States. This site is perfect for those interested in learning about Salem’s maritime history beyond its association with the witch trials.
Witch Dungeon Museum
- The Witch Dungeon Museum offers live reenactments of the witch trials and showcases a recreated dungeon where accused witches were held. Similar to the Salem Witch Museum, this museum takes a theatrical approach, providing a dramatic and immersive look into the darker side of Salem’s history. It’s a compelling stop for visitors curious about the conditions faced by the accused during the trials.
Witch Trials Memorial
- Located near the Salem Witch Museum, the Witch Trials Memorial is a solemn tribute to the 20 people who were executed during the 1692 witch trials. The memorial features 20 stone benches, each engraved with the name, date, and method of execution of an individual who was condemned. It’s a simple but powerful reminder of the tragedy that took place in Salem, making it an important stop for visitors looking to reflect on the real history behind the witch trials.
Tips for Visiting Salem as a Bewitched Fan
If you’re planning a trip to Salem to experience its Bewitched connection, here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your visit:
Visit During the Off-Season
- Salem is very busy during October due to its Halloween festivities, which draw large crowds. While this can be a fun time to visit, it can also be very crowded. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring or summer, when you can explore both the town’s Bewitched sites and its rich history without the high-season rush.
Take a Bewitched Walking Tour
- While Bewitched-themed walking tours may not be as common as other witch-related tours, some local tour companies do incorporate stops at Bewitched filming locations and offer behind-the-scenes stories about the show’s time in Salem. These details are often included in general Salem tours, so it’s a good idea to check in advance to ensure that Bewitched is featured if that’s your focus.
Combine History and Pop Culture
- While Bewitched is a fun reason to visit Salem, be sure to also explore the town’s rich history. The Salem witch trials are a significant part of American history, and there are many museums and memorials that offer a deeper understanding of the events of 1692. Balancing pop culture with historical context will enhance your visit.
Final Thoughts
Salem, Massachusetts, is a fascinating town with a rich history that spans centuries. But for fans of classic television, it’s also a place where the magic of Bewitched comes to life. The show’s special connection to Salem, forged during the 1970 filming of several episodes, continues to draw visitors to this day. While not all of Salem’s historical landmarks were featured in the show, fans can still visit key spots tied to the filming and the famous statue of Samantha Stephens.
The statue of Samantha, portrayed by Elizabeth Montgomery, was erected in 2005 and stands in Lappin Park. It has become one of the town’s most photographed attractions, especially for Bewitched fans. Salem offers a unique blend of pop culture and history, combining the show’s magical charm with the deep historical significance of the 1692 witch trials, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages.
So pack your bags, grab your broomstick, and get ready to be enchanted by the town of Salem and its magical connection to Bewitched!
Reviews of the Bewitched Statue
“One might not like the looks of this statue, but Elizabeth Montgomery and “Bewitched” helped Salem embrace its grim past and turn witches into a month-long season of big business! It is noted that for centuries, Salem’s port made it one of the wealthiest towns in New England. However, the town had fallen on hard times when the sitcom arrived and re-telling the stories of the witch trials became a way to boost the local economy. So, to give this POI a one star because one feels it’s an “ugly” statue is unfair. However you feel about it, we can now acknowledge the horrific events of 1692. (BTW, it took Salem 300 years to finally dedicate a memorial to the witch trials.)”
“You cannot miss the statue. It is in the middle of Downtown Salem. I didn’t quite map out my route for the day on foot, but it’s right at the end of Essex Street pedestrian mall. The show didn’t take place in Salem, but Samantha Stephens played a witch so how fitting is it to have her statue in Witch City.”
“We visited this as part of an evening tour wherein we learned some good information which we wouldn’t have known about otherwise. We revisited it the next day during daylight hours and didn’t have to wait at all to take a photo with the statue. Very easy to find.”
“Growing up in the 1970’s, Bewitched was still an active part of TV culture. When I saw this, I had it as a must see for our group, and it was the first thing we saw in Salem. Part of that is the statue is in a park in the middle of downtown Salem on Essex Street at the beginning of the pedestrian section. So much of this town is witches and 365 Halloween, I just think it was so smart on their part to include this to modernize the theme. It is a fun stop and made for pictures.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Bewitched
Why was Salem chosen for the Bewitched statue?
- Salem was chosen as the location for the statue because several episodes of Bewitched were filmed on location in Salem during the show’s seventh season in 1970. The town has a rich history associated with witchcraft, and the show’s connection to Salem made it a fitting location to celebrate Elizabeth Montgomery and the series.
Who designed the Bewitched statue?
- The Bewitched statue was sculpted by artist Studio EIS, a design and fabrication studio based in Brooklyn, New York. They specialize in creating sculptures of historical figures and cultural icons, and they designed the statue to capture Samantha Stephens’ iconic magical persona.
Is the Bewitched statue part of any guided tours in Salem?
- Yes, many guided walking tours in Salem include the Bewitched statue as a stop, especially those focused on pop culture and the town’s connection to the TV show. The statue is also located in a central, easily accessible area, so visitors can stop by independently as well.
Is there any information plaque or description near the statue?
- Yes, there is a plaque near the statue that provides background information about Elizabeth Montgomery, her role as Samantha Stephens, and the connection between Bewitched and Salem. It explains the significance of the statue and highlights its role in celebrating classic television history.
Can visitors interact with the statue?
- While visitors cannot climb or sit on the statue, it is a common practice for fans to take photos next to it. The statue is in a public park, and tourists are welcome to get close for pictures and selfies. However, it’s important to be respectful of the statue and its surroundings.
References
- “Bewitched in Salem,” Salem, MA Official Tourist Guide, www.salem.org
- “The Salem Witch Trials: A Day-by-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege” by Marilynne K. Roach, Cooper Square Press, 2004.
- The Witch House of Salem, www.thewitchhouse.org
- Salem Witch Museum, www.salemwitchmuseum.com
- “Bewitched: A Fantastic Television History,” by Herbie J. Pilato, Taylor Trade Publishing, 2012.