Derby Square and Old Town Hall, Salem
Derby Square, a quaint plaza in the center of Salem, derives its name from the prominent Derby family. Elias Hasket Derby, often referred to as "King Derby" and one of the wealthiest individuals in New England, once owned the land. His legacy looms large in the annals of Salem's history. As you stroll through Derby Square, you're retracing the footsteps of a merchant dynasty that played a pivotal role in shaping the city.
Adjacent to Derby Square, Old Town Hall stands as a testament to Federal architecture and the enduring spirit of Salem. Dating back to 1816-17, it is the oldest surviving municipal structure in the city. The building's design showcases the work of both Charles Bulfinch, a renowned Boston architect of the Federal period, and Samuel McIntire, Salem's celebrated architect and woodcarver.
The second floor of Old Town Hall, known as the Great Hall, has always been a cherished space for public gatherings. In its storied past, it also housed town offices until 1837. Today, this space continues to serve as a vital hub for community events and activities, reflecting Salem's commitment to maintaining its historical connections.
The steps between Old Town Hall and Front Street are more than just a passageway; they serve as a vibrant stage for community life. Here, you'll find the Salem Farmers' Market, where fresh produce and local goods abound. The Salem Jazz & Soul Summer Series infuses the air with musical harmony, while the Derby Square Flea and Salvage Market invites treasure hunters to explore eclectic finds.
Adjacent to Derby Square, Old Town Hall stands as a testament to Federal architecture and the enduring spirit of Salem. Dating back to 1816-17, it is the oldest surviving municipal structure in the city. The building's design showcases the work of both Charles Bulfinch, a renowned Boston architect of the Federal period, and Samuel McIntire, Salem's celebrated architect and woodcarver.
The second floor of Old Town Hall, known as the Great Hall, has always been a cherished space for public gatherings. In its storied past, it also housed town offices until 1837. Today, this space continues to serve as a vital hub for community events and activities, reflecting Salem's commitment to maintaining its historical connections.
The steps between Old Town Hall and Front Street are more than just a passageway; they serve as a vibrant stage for community life. Here, you'll find the Salem Farmers' Market, where fresh produce and local goods abound. The Salem Jazz & Soul Summer Series infuses the air with musical harmony, while the Derby Square Flea and Salvage Market invites treasure hunters to explore eclectic finds.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Salem. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Derby Square and Old Town Hall on Map
Sight Name: Derby Square and Old Town Hall
Sight Location: Salem, USA (See walking tours in Salem)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Salem, USA (See walking tours in Salem)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Salem, Massachusetts
Create Your Own Walk in Salem
Creating your own self-guided walk in Salem is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Salem Introduction Walking Tour
While first-time visitors to Salem won't want to miss the city's plethora of witch-themed attractions – the Witch House and Salem Witch Trials Memorial are two of the most popular – there is more to this mysterious city than just witchcraft. Salem boasts everything from spectacular 17th-century architecture to tranquil beaches and world-class art museums. Check out Salem's... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Salem's Historical Homes Walking Tour
There’s no shortage of historic homes in Salem, considering that it’s one of the oldest cities in the United States. Even if you’re not really into history, you can appreciate the architectural style of the times. Some of these historic houses are open to the public as museums while others are privately owned. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Salem Maritime National Historic Site Tour
The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a National Historic Site consisting of 12 historic structures, one replica tall-ship, and about 9 acres (36,000 m2) of land along the waterfront of Salem Harbor in Salem, Massachusetts, United States. Salem Maritime is the first National Historic Site established in the United States (March 17, 1938).[1] It interprets the Triangle Trade during the... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.4 Km or 0.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.4 Km or 0.2 Miles