Howard Street Cemetery
Salem's historic Howard Street Cemetery, steeped in Witch Trial lore and the legend of Giles Corey's ghost.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safe and visible exploration
Howard Street Cemetery
Best Time
Safe and visible exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Salem's historic Howard Street Cemetery, steeped in Witch Trial lore and the legend of Giles Corey's ghost.
"A serene, quiet, well-maintained graveyard with historical headstones and a creepy vibe."
Visit during the day
Avoid visiting at night to prevent potential issues with authorities. Daylight offers the best and safest experience. :flashlight:
Research the history
Understanding the stories of Giles Corey and others enhances the eerie atmosphere and historical significance. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giles Corey's Legend
Near the site of his alleged pressing
The infamous legend of Giles Corey, pressed to death during the Salem Witch Trials, is deeply tied to this cemetery.
Unmarked Graves
Throughout the cemetery
Many graves, particularly those associated with the Witch Trials, are unmarked, adding to the cemetery's eerie atmosphere.
Historical Headstones
Various sections
Discover weathered, artistic gravestones dating back to the early 1800s, offering a glimpse into Salem's past.
Joseph White's Grave
Middle of the cemetery
Locate the tomb of Captain Joseph White, a significant figure in a famous 1830 murder case, and the unmarked graves of his murderers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during the day
Avoid visiting at night to prevent potential issues with authorities. Daylight offers the best and safest experience. :flashlight:
Research the history
Understanding the stories of Giles Corey and others enhances the eerie atmosphere and historical significance. :books:
Look for footstones
Many graves have only footstones, adding to the mystery and historical feel of the cemetery. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Respect the grounds
This is a place of mourning. Be quiet, tread lightly, and avoid disturbing any graves or monuments. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during the day
Avoid visiting at night to prevent potential issues with authorities. Daylight offers the best and safest experience. :flashlight:
Research the history
Understanding the stories of Giles Corey and others enhances the eerie atmosphere and historical significance. :books:
Look for footstones
Many graves have only footstones, adding to the mystery and historical feel of the cemetery. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Respect the grounds
This is a place of mourning. Be quiet, tread lightly, and avoid disturbing any graves or monuments. :pray:
Wear comfortable shoes
The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Howard Street Cemetery is a historically significant and atmospheric site in Salem, often described as eerie and well-maintained. Visitors appreciate its connection to the Salem Witch Trials, particularly the legend of Giles Corey, and the artistic, albeit weathered, headstones. However, the lack of signage and the somber nature of unmarked graves can be a drawback for some.
"I'm a Salem resident and I am on a mission to tour all the local attractions AND historical sites.
About this one:
Howard Street Cemetery is the lesser-known historic cemetery of Salem, despite being located downtown just around the corner from Salem's major attractions. It is more recent than others (established at the beginning of the 1800s) and not really visible from major roads, unless you start walking on Howard Street, which is a narrow, residential alley.
This cemetery seats on the ground originally positioned behind the old Salem jail, so it is believed that Salem Witch Trial's victim Giles Corey was crushed to death in this area.
If you are familiar with the dramatic passing of Captain Joseph White in 1830, you'll find his grave in this cemetery, where the two brothers hanged for his murder were buried as well in unmarked graves. In the middle of the cemetery you'll see a row of several granite blocks and I think Joseph White's family tomb is the one with the inscription "J. White, 1819" (the date is when the family tomb was built, I guess).
This cemetery is a serene, quiet, well maintained graveyard with historical headstones. I wish there were some signage (there is none), but I do understand, of course, that this is, most importantly, a place for mourning and respect."
Valentina O.
"A historic cemetary for sure. There wasn't much signage or anything to guide your walk through the area. Most of the headstones are weathered beyond readability. Still a pretty & quiet area to walk and reflect on the history of the area."
Laura Edwards
"Very interesting and sad, most Graves are unmarked and have footstones. Had a very creepy vibe, but we loved it!"
E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Howard Street Cemetery is located downtown, just off Howard Street, a narrow residential alley. It's often described as being behind the Old Salem Jail. While it's not highly visible from major roads, it's accessible by car and within walking distance of other Salem attractions. Parking can be challenging in Salem, especially during peak seasons, so consider public transport or walking if possible. +1
It's considered lesser-known and not easily visible from main roads. You might need to actively look for Howard Street. Some visitors suggest researching its exact location beforehand to avoid missing it.
Yes, you can drive to the cemetery, but be aware that Howard Street is a narrow, residential alley. Parking directly at the cemetery might be limited, and Salem can get very crowded, especially during events.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, Salem is a walkable city, and many attractions are clustered downtown. If you're using public transport to get to Salem, you can likely walk to the cemetery from the main areas.
The cemetery is located near the Old Salem Jail and is a short walk from other major Salem attractions, making it a convenient stop during a day of exploring. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Howard Street Cemetery is a public historical site and does not require tickets for entry. It's a place for respectful visitation.
The cemetery is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's important to note that visiting after dark is discouraged and may result in being arrested.
There is no admission fee to enter Howard Street Cemetery. It's a free historical site for visitors to explore.
It is strongly advised against visiting Howard Street Cemetery at night. Many sources mention that you can get arrested if you are there after hours, and it's considered unsafe and disrespectful.
While it's a public space, it's best to visit during daylight hours. Access may be restricted or discouraged outside of these times for safety and preservation reasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Established in 1801, it's the fourth oldest cemetery in Salem. It's historically significant as it's believed to be the site where Giles Corey was pressed to death during the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. It also contains the grave of Captain Joseph White and unmarked graves of those hanged for his murder. +3
Giles Corey was accused of witchcraft and refused to enter a plea, leading to him being pressed to death. His restless spirit is said to haunt the cemetery, with some believing his ghost appears before disasters strike Salem. 
Expect to see historical headstones, many of which are weathered and difficult to read. A significant portion of the graves are unmarked, adding to the cemetery's eerie and somber atmosphere. You'll also find the tomb of Captain Joseph White. +3
Reviews generally describe the cemetery as well-maintained and a serene, quiet place. Despite the age of the headstones, the grounds are kept in good condition.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and many visitors capture the historical headstones and atmospheric setting. However, always be respectful of the site and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The weathered headstones, the rows of footstones, and the overall atmospheric setting offer great photographic opportunities. The mist can also add a dramatic effect to your shots.
Many visitors find the cemetery to have a 'creepy vibe' due to its history and unmarked graves, which can make for atmospheric and haunting photographs.
While generally permitted, always be respectful. Avoid disturbing graves or being intrusive. Drone photography might be subject to local regulations.
A camera that handles low light well can be beneficial, especially if you're aiming for atmospheric shots. However, a smartphone camera can also capture the essence of the place.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally best to avoid flash photography in cemeteries out of respect for the site and any potential paranormal activity visitors might be sensitive to.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to prepare children for the solemn nature of a cemetery and to emphasize the importance of respect. The unmarked graves and weathered stones can spark curiosity about life in earlier times. Keep the visit relatively brief and combine it with other, more interactive Salem attractions to maintain engagement.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
+2 The cemetery's history of tragedy and unexplained phenomena contributes to its reputation as one of Salem's most haunted locations. +6While many report a strong 'creepy vibe,' actual paranormal experiences can vary. It's recommended to visit during the day for safety but to be open to the atmosphere and any sensations you might experience. Researching the specific hauntings and historical accounts beforehand can enhance your exploration. Remember to be respectful of the site, even while seeking out the supernatural.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Taphophiles
+2 The weathered headstones and numerous footstones are of particular interest to taphophiles (cemetery enthusiasts). Beyond the Witch Trials, the cemetery holds the grave of Captain Joseph White and the unmarked graves of those convicted of his murder, offering insights into different facets of Salem's history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Giles Corey
Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts often report feeling a strong, unsettling presence within the cemetery, attributing it to Corey's restless spirit. Some legends even suggest that his ghost appears as an omen before significant events or disasters in Salem. The cemetery's atmosphere, amplified by the stories of Corey's suffering, makes it a focal point for those interested in the darker side of Salem's history.
+5While the exact burial site of Giles Corey is unknown, the cemetery's historical connection to his final moments makes it a place of profound historical and spectral significance. The unmarked graves and weathered stones contribute to the enduring mystique surrounding this legendary figure and the events of 1692.
Historical Significance Beyond the Witch Trials
+2Notably, the cemetery contains the grave of Captain Joseph White, a prominent figure in a sensational murder case from 1830. The two brothers who were ultimately hanged for his murder are also believed to be buried in unmarked graves within the cemetery. The presence of these graves adds another layer of intrigue and historical weight to the site, connecting it to different eras of Salem's past.
The headstones themselves, though often weathered and difficult to read, are testaments to the artistry of early stone carving. Many feature footstones, a common practice in older cemeteries, which adds to the unique visual character of Howard Street Cemetery.
+1Navigating the Eerie Atmosphere
+1Many visitors find the cemetery to be a quiet and reflective place, perfect for contemplating the past. The weathered gravestones and the sense of history create a somber yet captivating environment. Some visitors have even reported unusual phenomena, such as unexplained mists or feelings of a presence.
To best experience this atmosphere, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility. Researching the cemetery's history beforehand can also deepen the connection to the stories held within its grounds, making the visit more meaningful and, for some, more chilling.
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