Welcome back to our five-part series on Salem’s historic homes! As your trusted local realtors, the Minton Regan Team is excited to share these architectural treasures with you. Today, we’re exploring the Pickering House, a remarkable testament to Salem’s rich history and the enduring power of family legacy.
A Home Across Centuries
Nestled at 18 Broad Street, the Pickering House stands as one of Salem’s oldest homes, with a history spanning an impressive 350 years. Built in 1660 by John Pickering, a carpenter from Coventry, England, and his wife Elizabeth, this house remained in the Pickering family for an astounding ten generations.
The longevity of the Pickering family’s residence is a quintessential example of New England’s deep-rooted love for family homes. It’s not uncommon in our area to find properties that have been cherished and passed down through multiple generations, creating a tangible connection to our past.
A Glimpse into Salem’s Past
The Pickering House offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in Salem across different eras. Each room tells a story from the colonial period through the American Revolution and beyond. The house’s architecture and furnishings reflect the changing styles and needs of its inhabitants over three and a half centuries.
In my personal collection, I have a 1979 book titled “Be-Witched in Historic Salem” by Captain Henry Nichols, U.S.N. Retired. It mentions, “the present owner, John Pickering...inherited the house in 1947.” This gives us a sense of how recently the house was still in family hands, making its long history feel remarkably close.
Preservation for Future Generations
In 1951, recognizing the historical significance of the property, John Pickering made the generous decision to deed the house and its contents to The Pickering Foundation. This ensured that this piece of Salem’s heritage would be preserved and shared with the public for years to come.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re intrigued by the Pickering House’s rich history, we encourage you to experience it firsthand. The Pickering Foundation offers docent-guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the house’s architecture, furnishings, and the Pickering family’s role in Salem’s history.
To schedule a tour or get more information, please contact:
Pickering House 18 Broad Street, Salem, MA 01970 Phone: (978) 744-4777 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pickeringhouse.org
Tours are typically available from June through October, but it’s best to call or check the website for the most up-to-date schedule and admission fees. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
As you explore the Pickering House, take a moment to appreciate not just its historical significance but also the enduring appeal of family homes. Here at the Minton Regan Team, we understand the deep connection people form with their homes, whether they’re historic landmarks or modern dwellings.
Stay tuned for the next installment in our Salem Historic Homes series, where we’ll explore another architectural gem that makes our community so special. If you’re inspired to find your own piece of Salem history, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you discover the perfect home to create your own legacy.