Located in the historic town of Salem, Massachusetts, the House of the Seven Gables is a magnificent example of early American architecture. Built in 1668 by Captain John Turner a wealthy merchant and ship owner, the mansion has experienced centuries of history, starting out as a private residence and evolving into a beloved cultural museum.
Historical Background
Originally known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, the house gained fame after the release of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 novel “The House of the Seven Gables”. The house remained in the Turner family for three generations until it was sold to the Ingersoll family in 1782. It was during the Ingersoll’s ownership that Nathaniel Hawthorne, a relative of the Ingersoll’s, visited the mansion, becoming the inspiration for his famous book.
In the early 20th century, Caroline Emmerton, a philanthropist and preservationist, purchased the home with the idea to restore it and use it to support the community. Caroline founded The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association, whose mission was to help immigrant families in Salem. Caroline’s work ensured the preservation of the historic mansion and transformed it into a museum that educates visitors from around the world.
Nathaniel Hawthorne Connection
Nathaniel Hawthorne’s great-great-grandfather, John Hathorne, was a judge during the Salem Witch Trials, a face that haunted him all of his life and influenced much of his work. When Nathaniel visited his cousin, Susanna Ingersoll at the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, it left a lasting impression on him. The mansion’s unique architecture and history inspired Hawthorne to write “The House of the Seven Gables”.
Hawthorne’s book brought national attention to the mansion. The house itself became a character in his story. As visitors walk through the museum, they can almost feel the presence of Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose imagination and storytelling continue to entertain readers to this day.
Visiting the Museum
Today, the House of the Seven Gables is a museum offering guided tours of the house and grounds. Knowledgeable tour guides provide deep insights into the lives of the Turner and Ingersoll Families, the construction and restoration of the mansion, and its connection to Nathaniel Hawthorne. One of the biggest highlights of the tour is the secret staircase, a hidden passage visitors can walk up adding a sense of mystery to your visit.
The historic museum is also the home to a collection of Hawthorne-related items, including first editions of his works, personal letters, and other items that shed light on his life and career. For people who love books, these items offer a nice connection to one of America’s greatest writers.
The Gardens and Waterfront
Aside from the mansion, the property has beautiful gardens and a photographic waterfront, it’s where I proposed to my wife. The Seaside Gardens designed by architect Joseph Everett Chandler feature a variety of plants that include a view of the Salem Harbour.
As you walk through the gardens, visitors can enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and take in the mansion’s history. The waterfront view offers a glimpse into Salem’s maritime past with its historic ships. The combination of the mansion, gardens, and waterfront creates an unforgettable experience and a beautiful scenic location for a wedding proposal.
Events and Programs
The House of the Seven Gables is more than just a historic museum, it also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year. From historical reenactments to seasonal celebrations and even weddings, the is always something going on at the House of the Seven Gables.
One of the most popular events is the annual Haunted Harbor tour, which takes place during the Halloween season. This seasonal tour dives deep into the darker side of Salem’s history, exploring tales of witchcraft, maritime mysteries, and haunted happenings. It is an extraordinary experience that combines lore and a touch of supernatural.
The House of the Seven Gables also offers educational programs for students of all ages. These programs are designed to engage and inspire young minds, offering hands-on experiences that bring history to life
Planning Your Visit
If you are planning a visit to the House of the Seven Gables, there are several things to keep in mind. The Witch City Museum is open all year round, but hours vary by season. It’s a good idea to check the website for current hours. Guided tours are offered throughout the day, it is recommended to book your tour in advance as tickets may sell out during the Halloween season.
When visiting the museum be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and some stairs. Don’t forget to bring a camera as photography is allowed.
Admission to the house is separate from the gardens. Ticket prices are as follows
- Mansion Tour Package – $25.00
- Mansion Tour Package for Seniors – $20.00
- Mansion Tour Package for Children (5-12) $17.00
- Grounds Pass (May 1 – September 30) $12.00
- Grounds Pass (Nov 1- April 30) $6.00
- Children Under 5 – Free accompanied by an adult
- Gables Members – Free
- Salem Residents – Free with proof of residency
- NARM Passholders – Free with card
Nearby Attractions
Salem is a town with a rich history and there are plenty of other attractions close by to explore. Just a quick walk away from the House of the Seven Gables is the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, where you can learn about Salem’s Maritime history.
Peabody Essex Museum, one of the oldest operating museums in the United States is another must-see attraction. The museum holds a large collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
Right across the street from the House of the Seven Gables you have the Ye Olde Pepper Companie: America’s Oldest Candy Company. Started in 1806 by Mrs. Spencer, the company continues to make candies by hand today. The shop offers a variety of treats, it’s a must-see for all visitors.
Reviews of the House of the Seven Gables
“Despite all the attention given to witches, the House of the Seven Gables is arguably the most historically significant structure in Salem. It’s one of the oldest surviving homes in North America, and it was already standing—occupied by the Turner family—during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Originally built as a two-room, two-story house in 1668, it was considered large for its time, though it was much smaller than its current size. The Turner family expanded the home over the next two generations, eventually growing it to nearly 8,000 square feet. Situated along the waterfront on Salem Harbor, the house is a bit removed from the main attractions of downtown Salem.
The Turners, being merchants and sea captains, likely chose the location for its access to the water, which today only adds to its appeal. Beyond its historical significance, the house served as the inspiration and fictional setting for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel The House of the Seven Gables. Although the novel touches on themes of the supernatural and witchcraft, the real house has no direct connection to the witch trials. However, it does have a personal tie to Hawthorne—by the time he wrote the book, the house belonged to his cousin.For all these reasons, I was eager to visit the house. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to tour the interior.
It’s worth noting that the house is somewhat peripheral to other Salem attractions, but you can still enjoy a walk along the waterfront and visit the nearby Historic Maritime Park. The best views of the house are from the water’s edge. Whether you explore the inside or admire it from the outside, this historic landmark is definitely worth the effort to see.”
“Great visit, highly recommend! We bought tickets online for the 10:15 tour and arrived early, parking in their lot. This gave us time to walk around town before the tour began. The tour itself was fascinating, packed with rich history, and the grounds were beautifully maintained. Our guide was amazing, and the secret staircase was such a cool highlight. There are also a few other buildings to explore on the property. We spent about an hour and 15 minutes there and enjoyed every moment.”
“The tour guide was amazing! She was extremely knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable. The house is beautifully maintained, and the property itself is gorgeous. With your ticket, you get a guided tour of the main house and can also explore the other buildings and gardens on the grounds at your own pace. If you’re a history lover, this is a must-see in Salem!”
Questions and Answers
What is the best time of year to visit the House of the Seven Gables?
The house can be visited year-round, but many people prefer visiting in the spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom. Fall is also a popular time, especially around Halloween, when Salem becomes a hub for visitors interested in its haunted and historic past.
Is the House of the Seven Gables related to the Salem Witch Trials?
The House of the Seven Gables is not directly related to the Salem Witch Trials. However, it was standing during that period, and its history is intertwined with Salem’s broader colonial history. Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose novel The House of the Seven Gables brought the house fame, had ancestral connections to one of the judges involved in the trials, which influenced his writing.
Is the House of the Seven Gables haunted?
While there are no documented paranormal events tied to the house, some visitors have reported strange occurrences and a general eerie feeling inside the home. Salem’s long history of ghost stories and its association with the supernatural often leads to speculation about hauntings.
How long does a visit to the House of the Seven Gables take?
A typical visit lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes the guided tour of the main house and time for exploring the other buildings and gardens on the property.
What is the secret staircase in the House of the Seven Gables?
The secret staircase is one of the most exciting features of the House of the Seven Gables. It’s a narrow, hidden stairway built into the walls of the house that visitors can explore during the guided tour. It adds to the sense of mystery and charm that surrounds the house.
Final Words
Visiting the House of the Seven Gables is a wonderful opportunity to explore the history of Salem. From its beautiful architecture and its connection with Nathaniel Hawthorne, the mansion offers a unique experience for tourists of all ages.
The next time you find yourself in Salem make sure you set aside some time to visit the House of the Seven Gables, It’s an experience you will never forget.
Photos of the House of the Seven Gables
