The First Day of Fall was much like the last day of Summer: warm, sunny, dry. But it was not humid, for which everyone was thankful, I’m sure. It certainly was a long hot summer, and a season of discontent for many. Fall always brings fresher air and perspectives, and in Salem, larger crowds: the city is already busy, and will get busier with every passing day through Halloween. I took a long walk when I got back from school looking for the new and notable, both of which are easy to find these days. There was definitely a calm-before-the-storm feeling in the air: I plan on hiding in my house or getting out of town for most of October (following this event, which looks like fun, and is long overdue) after my full immersion last year, so this felt almost like a last walk on a first day.
Lots of color around town, even though the leaves haven’t turned yet….
Still green…..
Old and New courthouses; can’t wait for the new “Hotel Salem” on Essex Street with its rooftop bar–finally an aesthetically appealing design!
Odd Fellows Hall; Emporium show window; the Salem Farmers’ Market in full swing.
September 23rd, 2016 at 9:47 am
Such nice photos! I love this time of year, sort of a blending of two seasons. Have to get myself up there for the day before the full October onslaught.
September 23rd, 2016 at 10:52 am
Absolutely! You have until October 1!
September 23rd, 2016 at 11:05 am
Great variety of photos and I think the Newmark building will make a fine hotel. I always liked the uniqueness of the brick color in the downtown (somewhat similar to the YMCA) and the ornamentation/details of the facade.
September 23rd, 2016 at 2:46 pm
The hotel isn’t planning on removing the Newmark’s ghost sign are they?
September 23rd, 2016 at 3:41 pm
Oh, I don’t know Jen–good question and point. We better find out.
September 23rd, 2016 at 8:21 pm
So Salem is sort of, like, Halloween city? That makes sense. But I guess I’d not imagined what it must be like living through that year after year!
Glad it’s getting dryer there! Same here in Washington DC. And hopefully this December won’t be another Christmas in Singapore!!
September 23rd, 2016 at 8:34 pm
Oh yes, Laura, Witch City. Read back through some of my posts with that label and you will see!
September 25th, 2016 at 5:26 am
That’s right! I remember now. And to demonstrate my empathy and take a stand, albeit from afar, I’m going to get historically grounded and read A Storm of Witchraft by Emerson W. Baker, which you actually recommended. It’s been on my shelf, waiting for a “demonstrative” moment to start reading it!
September 25th, 2016 at 8:32 am
He’s my friend and colleague, and the book is great–it’s both a good introduction to the Trials as well as a contribution to the vast literature.