Narbonne House
Explore centuries of architectural evolution in this unique 'witness house' from 1675, preserved as an open-air study.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Specific summer hours
Narbonne House
Best Time
Specific summer hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of architectural evolution in this unique 'witness house' from 1675, preserved as an open-air study.
"It's a very interesting and of historical relevance example of a house built in the 1600s. "
🎯 Check NPS Website First
Hours vary; confirm on Salem Maritime NHS site before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the exterior and yard offer historical context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Evolution
Throughout the house
Witness centuries of changes, from its 1675 construction to later modifications, showcasing architectural history.
17th-Century Butcher's Shop
First Floor
Explore the space that once served as a shop for Thomas Ives, a butcher, offering a glimpse into early commerce.
Witness House History
Exterior and Interior
As one of Salem's oldest buildings, it stood during the Witch Trials, offering a tangible connection to pivotal history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Understand Its Unique Preservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check NPS Website First
Hours vary; confirm on Salem Maritime NHS site before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the exterior and yard offer historical context.
🗣️ Ask the Rangers
Park rangers offer great insights into the house's history.
🖼️ Not for Picture-Perfect Shots
Focus on history, not Instagram aesthetics inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check NPS Website First
Hours vary; confirm on Salem Maritime NHS site before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the exterior and yard offer historical context.
🗣️ Ask the Rangers
Park rangers offer great insights into the house's history.
🖼️ Not for Picture-Perfect Shots
Focus on history, not Instagram aesthetics inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Narbonne House a valuable, free historical site, particularly for its unique preservation as an architectural study showcasing centuries of change. While its sporadic opening hours and lack of period furnishings are noted drawbacks, its significance as a 'witness house' and a representation of modest family life makes it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts.
"I'm a Salem resident and I am on a mission to tour all the local attractions AND historical houses.
About this one:
I visited the Narbonne House in 2023 during Salem Ancestry Days. I often drive in front of it so I was very curious! I have never seen it opened, so I asked a park ranger who kindly explained that it has been closed lately because of Covid, but they plan to open it more often to the public this year.
The Narbonne House is part of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which is the first of its kind in the United States.
What it is:
The Narbonne House is an interesting example of a middle-class family home from the 1600s (built specifically is 1675 for butcher Thomas Ives). On the Salem Maritime National Historic Site website you can read all its history and of its residents across the centuries.
Entrance is from the back facing the big yard of this property. At the time of my visit, only the first floor was open to the public, that includes the kitchen, a small area that served as a shop and the living areas with a display of recovered artifacts. Because it was a special open house, there was a "special appearance" by Miss Mary Narbonne (who lived in the house until her death in 1905) who answered questions from visitors. Kudos to the actress, who answered my questions even though they were not "as if" she was Mary Narbonne (sorry, I am never good at talking to historical impersonators 😊).
There was also a park ranger who explained, among other things, the stages of the house through the various additions and modifications.
The website mentions that the "Narbonne House has not been restored to one time period. Instead, Salem Maritime is preserving it as an architectural study house to show how the structure changed over the nearly 330 years of its existence".
This means that the condition of the house reflects the wear of time and it is not furnished.
PROs
This is a very interesting and of historical relevance example of a house built in the 1600s and that went through several changes and many owners and residents. It is definitely worth a visit if you find it open to the public while visiting the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
It's free.
CONs
It is typically closed, although it might be opened more this year. The only way to know is by checking the Salem Maritime National Historic Site website or asking at the information desk of the park. --- UPDATE: this summer (2023) the Narbonne House is going to be open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays 10am-12pm --
Also, just be aware that this is not a place to visit to get a nice picture 😊 (at least the inside). It reminded me of the Gedney House, although the Narbonne House is definitely not down to its bare bones as the other property is."
Valentina O.
"This building is owned and operated by the National Park Service through Salem Maritime National Historic Site. As one of the oldest extant buildings in Salem, it is considered a "witness house", having stood during the Salem Witch Trials in 1690. This house was only open by ranger led tour the last time I visited, but ample signage outside tells the full story."
Abigail Epplett
"Some interesting, very old houses to see in Salem. Not sure if you can go in. We viewed them from the outside (found by chance while we were looking for the candy store.)"
Hannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Narbonne House is located within the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. If arriving by car, parking can be found in nearby lots. For those using public transport, it's accessible via the Salem Commuter Rail station, though you might need a short walk or local bus to reach the exact site.
Yes, Narbonne House is situated in the historic maritime district of Salem, making it a walkable distance from many downtown attractions and hotels.
Walking is often the best way to explore Salem's historic sites, including Narbonne House. Consider comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Narbonne House is part of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and is typically free to enter when open. However, it's crucial to check the official National Park Service website for current hours and any potential tour requirements.
Opening hours can be limited and vary seasonally. Historically, it has been open on specific days like Thursdays and Fridays during summer mornings, or for special events. Always verify current hours on the Salem Maritime National Historic Site's official page.
No, Narbonne House is not always open. It has experienced closures, including during COVID-19, and its public access can be sporadic. Checking the NPS website is essential.
When open, tours may be ranger-led, providing in-depth historical context. Some visits have included historical reenactors, like a portrayal of Mary Narbonne.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore areas like the kitchen, a former shop, and living spaces. The house is preserved as an architectural study, showing its evolution over centuries rather than being furnished to a single period.
While the exterior can be picturesque, the interior is more of an architectural study and may not be ideal for typical 'pretty' photos. Focus on capturing the historical details and evolution.
It's one of Salem's oldest extant buildings, a 'witness house' that stood during the Salem Witch Trials. It represents a middle-class family home and its changes over nearly 330 years.
Special events, such as Salem Ancestry Days or historical reenactments, have occurred at Narbonne House, offering unique visitor experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Narbonne House is located in Salem's historic maritime district, which is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering a variety of cuisines.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside historic house museums to preserve the artifacts and structure. It's best to consume food outside or at nearby dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house, especially its historic architecture and the surrounding grounds of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, offers good photographic opportunities.
Photography policies can vary. While some visitors have taken interior photos, it's always best to check for signage or ask a ranger for permission before taking pictures inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the 'witness house' aspect – explaining that this house was standing during the time of the Salem Witch Trials can capture their imagination. Rangers often provide accessible explanations, and if historical reenactors are present, they can make the past come alive. Encourage kids to look for differences between rooms and imagine life in different centuries.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the layers of history visible in the structure, from its 1675 origins to later modifications. The house's role as a 'witness house' during the Salem Witch Trials adds another significant historical dimension. Don't miss the chance to learn about its various residents and their contributions to Salem's community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Story of Narbonne House
This preservation method means the house reflects the wear of time and is not furnished like a typical period home. You'll see evidence of changes in construction, room layouts, and architectural styles, offering a fascinating look at how homes were adapted and lived in across different centuries. It’s a tangible lesson in the evolution of domestic architecture in Salem.
Visitors can explore the first floor, which often includes the kitchen, a small area that once served as a shop, and living areas. The house's history is rich, with residents like Sarah Narbonne, who lived there her entire life and was a seamstress, contributing to its story.
Narbonne House: A Witness to History
The house represents the lives of people of modest means, forming the backbone of Salem's economy before, during, and after its maritime shipping supremacy. Unlike the grander mansions found elsewhere in Salem, Narbonne House provides a more grounded perspective on the lives of ordinary families.
Its ownership history is also notable, with nearly 300 years of continued occupation, including 200 years by members of one family. The house was eventually purchased by the National Park Service, ensuring its preservation for future generations to learn from.
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