Old Burying Point Cemetery Salem Massachusetts
Salem's oldest cemetery, dating back to 1637, featuring historic headstones and the graves of key figures from the Witch Trials era.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Old Burying Point Cemetery Salem Massachusetts
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Salem's oldest cemetery, dating back to 1637, featuring historic headstones and the graves of key figures from the Witch Trials era.
"A must-visit historic graveyard with readable 17th-century headstones, but book ahead for October!"
🎯 Book Ahead for October
In October, reservations are often required for entry. Check the cemetery's website to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🗺️ Use the Cemetery Map
Locate the map near the entrance to find notable graves like Judge Hathorne and Richard More. It helps make your visit more meaningful.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Judge John Hathorne's Grave
Near the center
Resting place of a key judge from the Salem Witch Trials, a somber reminder of the town's dark past.
Mayflower Passenger Richard More
Far right section
Discover the final resting place of one of the original Mayflower passengers, a link to early American history.
Intricate 17th & 18th Century Headstones
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the artistry and weathering of original headstones, many still readable, offering a glimpse into colonial life.
Caleb Pickman's Lightning Tree
Specific marker
Hear the chilling tale of Caleb Pickman, who tragically died by lightning, a popular story among visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for October
In October, reservations are often required for entry. Check the cemetery's website to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🗺️ Use the Cemetery Map
Locate the map near the entrance to find notable graves like Judge Hathorne and Richard More. It helps make your visit more meaningful.
👟 Stay on the Paths
To preserve the historic grounds, visitors must stay on designated paths. Respect the resting places.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the atmospheric gravestones and historic setting. Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for October
In October, reservations are often required for entry. Check the cemetery's website to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🗺️ Use the Cemetery Map
Locate the map near the entrance to find notable graves like Judge Hathorne and Richard More. It helps make your visit more meaningful.
👟 Stay on the Paths
To preserve the historic grounds, visitors must stay on designated paths. Respect the resting places.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the atmospheric gravestones and historic setting. Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful.
🚶♀️ Consider a Guided Tour
For deeper historical context and fascinating stories, a guided tour is highly recommended.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, especially in peak season. Confirm opening times on their official website before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Burying Point Cemetery as a significant historical site with well-maintained grounds and fascinating, readable headstones. Its proximity to the Witch Trials Memorial enhances its impact. However, the cemetery can become extremely crowded, especially in October, making reservations essential for a smooth visit.
"While visiting Salem, we stopped by this historic graveyard. It was crowded, so we didn’t get to look at a lot of specific graves, but it’s definitely a must visit. We would definitely take a tour to learn more about this historic place."
Jeff
"I'm a Salem resident and I am on a mission to tour all the local attractions AND historical sites.
About this one:
The Old Burying Point (Charter Street Cemetery) is the oldest colonial graveyard in Salem and one of the oldest in the United States. It is open to the public (you should check their website for opening hours) but you can only walk on the established paths.
Contrary to popular belief, no witches were buried here. Still, this cemetery is extremely relevant first of all because of the impressive range of 1600s/1700s/1800s original headstones, many still readable, and because several notable people were buried here. In particular: Salem Witch Trial's judge John Hathorne (great-great-grandfather of Nathaniel Hawthorne), Mayflower's passenger Richard More, Samuel McIntire, considered one of the first architects of the country - and many others.
I recommend to walk first to the far-right of the cemetery to have a look at the map of the graveyard so you can locate the relevant headstones. The map faces the "outside" of the cemetery (I guess it is located facing the original entrance of it) so you might not note it at first when using the current entrance (which is next to the Witch Trials Memorial on a pedestrian street). The map is "behind" a taller, rectangular stone. Locating the headstones is important for a meaningful walk through the cemetery. Still, even with the use of the map, not all stones are easy to find.
The Charter Street Cemetery is one of the most visited spots in Salem - also because of its location just next to the Witch Trials Memorial - so be aware that it gets very very busy in October. During tourist season, you should check their website as you might have to get a "ticket" in advance to get in (entrance is always free).
PROs
This is a relevant historical site where both stones and landscape are very well maintained and picturesque. It's free. Pictures are allowed.
CONs
I can't stress this enough: this place can get busy."
Valentina O.
"Free to enter - opens sometime after 10am on a Tuesday in June. We arrived around 9:30 and this was our first stop after parking and the visitor center. At that time, the gates were still locked, but we could see a lot from the memorial. We came back in the afternoon and it was all unlocked and we got to walk around inside the cemetery. Lots of very old graves and interesting style of the tomb stones. Definitely stop here if you’re visiting Salem, just make sure you don’t come too early or you’ll miss actually getting to go into the cemetery."
Hannah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Burying Point Cemetery is located at 51 Charter St, Salem, MA 01970. It's easily accessible by foot from downtown Salem, often visited in conjunction with the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. Parking can be challenging, especially in October, so consider public transport or walking if staying nearby.
Parking in Salem, particularly near the historic district, can be very limited and expensive, especially during peak season like October. There are public parking lots available, but they fill up quickly. Walking or using ride-sharing services is often recommended.
Yes, many guided walking tours of Salem include a stop at the Old Burying Point Cemetery. These tours offer historical context and stories about the notable figures buried there, making the visit more insightful.
Yes, general admission to the Old Burying Point Cemetery is free. However, during the busy October season, timed entry reservations may be required, which are also free but need to be booked in advance.
Many visitors find that exploring Salem's historic sites, including the Old Burying Point Cemetery, is best done on foot. The cemetery is centrally located near other key attractions like the Witch Trials Memorial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the cemetery is free to enter, timed entry reservations are often required, especially during the busy month of October. It's crucial to check the official website for current requirements and book your slot in advance to guarantee entry.
Opening hours can vary, but the cemetery is generally open from late morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can change seasonally.
Yes, you can visit in October, but be prepared for large crowds. Reservations are highly recommended, and sometimes mandatory, for entry during this popular month.
Visitors are required to stay on the established paths and are not allowed to walk on the grass to help preserve the historic grounds and headstones.
The main restriction is to stay on the paths. Photography is generally permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast collection of 17th, 18th, and 19th-century headstones, many still readable, including those of Judge John Hathorne, Mayflower passenger Richard More, and architect Samuel McIntire. The cemetery is also adjacent to the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
Yes, notable burials include Judge John Hathorne (great-great-grandfather of Nathaniel Hawthorne), Mayflower passenger Richard More, and architect Samuel McIntire.
Many visitors and paranormal enthusiasts believe the cemetery is haunted due to its age and association with the Salem Witch Trials. Stories of restless spirits and eerie encounters are common. 
The memorial, located next to the cemetery, honors the victims of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. It's a place for reflection and remembrance, often visited in conjunction with the cemetery. +1
A typical visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in reading headstones and exploring. If you take a guided tour, it might be longer.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the Old Burying Point Cemetery. It's a popular spot for capturing atmospheric shots of historic gravestones and the general ambiance.
Look for the oldest and most weathered headstones, especially those with intricate carvings. The juxtaposition of the old stones against the sky or surrounding foliage can be very photogenic. +1
While photography is permitted, visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the burial ground. Avoid intrusive photography and always stay on the designated paths.
Visitors often capture close-ups of unique headstone inscriptions and carvings, wide shots of the cemetery landscape, and photos that highlight the historical atmosphere. +1
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check the cemetery's official guidelines or inquire on-site, especially during busy periods, to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make the experience more manageable with younger children. The adjacent Salem Witch Trials Memorial also offers a space for reflection and discussion about historical events. Keep the visit concise and focus on a few key figures or interesting gravestones to maintain engagement.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
+2While there's no guarantee of a spectral encounter, the atmosphere itself is often described as chilling. Visitors often share stories of unexplained phenomena and the palpable sense of history. Remember to be respectful of the site, even while seeking out its more mysterious aspects. Exploring during twilight hours, if permitted, can further enhance the spooky ambiance.
🏛️ History Buffs
Make it a point to seek out the graves of Judge John Hathorne and Mayflower passenger Richard More. Understanding their roles in American history adds significant depth to a visit. The cemetery's location next to the Salem Witch Trials Memorial also provides a crucial context for understanding this pivotal period in American history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Old Burying Point Cemetery
+3Among its notable interments are Judge John Hathorne, a prominent figure in the witch trials and great-great-grandfather of author Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Richard More, a passenger on the Mayflower. The cemetery also features the work of Samuel McIntire, a renowned architect considered one of America's first. The weathered, original headstones, many still legible, offer a tangible connection to the lives and deaths of those who shaped early American history.
Visitors today can explore the cemetery, which is meticulously maintained. The experience is enhanced by understanding that this site is not just a collection of old graves, but a living testament to Salem's complex past. The stories embedded within its stones, from tragic deaths by lightning to the somber legacies of judicial figures, continue to draw visitors seeking to connect with history.
Navigating the Cemetery and Its Stories
When visiting, remember that the cemetery is a place of respect. Visitors are instructed to stay on the established paths to protect the delicate grounds and historic headstones. This rule is consistently emphasized to ensure the preservation of this important historical site. While photography is generally permitted, it's important to do so respectfully, capturing the atmosphere without disturbing the peace of the grounds.
Many visitors recommend taking a guided tour to truly appreciate the depth of history and the fascinating, sometimes eerie, stories associated with the cemetery. These tours can bring the weathered stones to life, offering insights into the lives of Salem's early inhabitants and the events that shaped the town.
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