Old Salem is in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Originally Old Salem was called Salem. Moravians founded Salem in 1766 as a part of the Wachovia Tract. The Wachovia Tract consisted of almost 100,000 acres of land in the backcountry of North Carolina, according to the Old Salem website. As Salem grew, it became the center of life, worship and trade for the surrounding towns in the Wachovia Tract.
Since 1950, Old Salem has been operated as a historical attraction. Around 400,000 people visit Old Salem every year, according to the Old Salem Museums and Gardens 2015 Annual Report. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities, observe the performance of historic trades and experience the lifestyle of Moravians in Salem. These opportunities include:
-Writing with a quill pen
-Learning to paper pierce
-Refining your manners during a 19th century deportment lesson
-Watching potters, tailors and shoemakers practice their craft
-Participating in 18th century games, candle making and churning butter
Old Salem also has historical eateries to visit for meals and snacks. Those working in Old Salem dress in historic Moravian clothing to capture the lifestyle of the 18th and 19th centuries in Salem. These eateries include:
-The Flour Box, which offers pastries, sandwiches, salads and tea
-The Tavern in Old Salem, which offers locally farmed foods and alcoholic drinks
-Winkler Bakery, which offers traditional Moravian baked goods
While Old Salem is open to the public, a visitor’s ticket is required to enter certain buildings. The shops in Old Salem are open to everyone. Visit the Old Salem website for days and hours of operation as well as information on different ticket options. Old Salem is appropriate for all ages to visit.
Throughout the year, Old Salem offers many seasonal events such as Salem Christmas, Independence Day Celebrations, Harvest Day and Spring Festival, according to the Old Salem website.
Sources:
http://www.oldsalem.org/
https://issuu.com/oldsalem/docs/2015ar
