Cry Innocent and Pioneer Village Open this Weekend

Over the years, visitors have expressed a unique interest in learning more about the people and events of 17th century Salem. On July 4th, History Alive! is hosting its Grand Opening with the recreation of the original 1630 Salem at Pioneer Village and reenactments of the Salem Witch Trials at Old Town Hall.

The Grand Opening promises a day of discovery and relaxation to visitors of all ages. Cry Innocent will begin at Old Town Hall at 11:30AM, followed by a 1:30PM and 3:00PM afternoon show. From either Old Town Hall or Pioneer Village, visitors can catch a free ride on the Salem Trolley between both locations with the purchase of a History Alive! ticket.

The trolley pickup for Pioneer Village comes directly behind Old Town Hall on Front Street. At the village, visitors can explore 17th century life by joining a scheduled Folkways event or simply wandering through the village on their own. Folkways events include the recreation of a Sabbath Day meeting at 11:20AM and 1:20PM; Puritan songs and dance taught at 11:40AM and 1:40PM, and Colonial games at 12:00 noon and 2:00PM.

The following ticket prices apply to both shows: $9 adults, $8 seniors/students, free for children under six years, and a $2 discount is available with the purchase of a Cry Innocent and Folkways ticket.

Having been closed the past four and a half seasons, Pioneer Village is opening its doors to the public once again!

At Pioneer Village, visitors can take a leisurely country picnic at Forest River Park. They are also invited to take part in 17th century song, dance, and games before investigating the new Pioneer Village gift shop. Free colonial refreshments such as non-alcoholic burnt wine, fruits, and ginger snaps will also be offered at various points within the village. Before leaving, visitors can take home a bundle of fresh herbs from the garden, along with recipes on how to use them.

The village attempts to recapture the essence of 1630 Salem—the first capital of Massachusetts Colony. “At Pioneer Village, visitors can experience what life was like for people who lived in the 17th century, but another very important part of our story is to demonstrate who the Puritans were and what they accomplished,” said David Goss

For More Information: go to www.gordon.edu/historyalive/productions or visit http://www.pioneervillagesalem.com/