The House of the Seven Gables

Introduction and Historical Background

Built in 1668 for Capt. John Turner I, this waterfront mansion was home to three generations of Turners before being sold to Capt. Samuel Ingersoll in 1782. After Ingersoll's death, the property was inherited by his daughter, Susanna Ingersoll. Susanna's cousin, the now-famous author Nathaniel Hawthorne, visited her here often and the property eventually became the setting for his 1851 novel, "The House of the Seven Gables." Although the official name of the house is the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, it quickly adopted the name given by Hawthorne.

Museum Establishment and Activities

In 1910, the home opened to the public as a museum. Philanthropist Caroline Emmerton, the museum's founder, aimed to preserve the home for future generations and use the proceeds to help fund settlement programs for immigrant families. Today, the museum honors her vision by supporting social work and offering various types of educational programming, including English language classes and community-based conversations on immigration.

Museum Features

Visitors can marvel at original period features that span four centuries, including the home's extraordinary Georgian paneling, and climb a hidden staircase leading to the structure's attic. In addition to the House of the Seven Gables, the property includes six historic buildings set along Salem Harbor. These include the Hooper-Hathaway House, the Retire Beckett House, the Counting House, and the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace, which was relocated from Union Street in 1958. The campus also features a visitor center and a museum store where guests can purchase unique souvenirs. The entire site has been designated a National Historic Landmark District.

Visitor Experience and Recommendations

Travelers recommend making the House of the Seven Gables one of your first stops when you arrive in Salem. Recent visitors appreciated the friendly staff and knowledgeable tour guides, with many noting that the fascinating history behind the house inspired them to buy a copy of "The House of the Seven Gables" at the museum's gift shop. Several visitors highlighted the home's secret passageway as the highlight of their visit but cautioned that the stairs are steep and the passageway is small, which might not be ideal for travelers who are claustrophobic.

Visiting Information

Located on Salem Harbor, the House of the Seven Gables is generally open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Note that COVID-19 and annual preservation and maintenance projects may affect daily hours. Advance reservations may also be required, so checking the official website before your visit is advisable.

Admission Fees

Guided tours of the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion cost $20 for adults and $12 for kids ages 5 through 12. For a grounds pass, which does not include interior access to the mansion, tickets are $5 for both kids and adults. Children 4 and younger, along with Salem residents, receive free access to the entire property.