Since English colonists founded Salem in 1629 at the Native American village called "Naumkeag," women have played an integral role in shaping its development from a small fishing village, to a leading maritime trading port, to a center of industry, to what it is today — a thriving city that celebrates its past while it builds its future.

The world may know Salem for the witchcraft trials of 1692, there are dozens more women's stories to tell. Patriots, educators, writers, artists, philanthropists, preservationists, social reformers, abolitionists, suffragists, business owners, entrepreneurs — Salem women have been there, ready to do what needed to be done.

Learn more about the women, their organizations, subjects of interest, and historical sites associated with them on the Salem Women's Heritage Trail

We have also provided the walking route of the Salem Women's Heritage Trail — or buy the book, which features more text and dozens of historical photographs!

And here is a list of Salem women's history research resources if you want to go further on your own!

Enjoy!