Salem Common (Washington Square), Salem

Salem Common, or Washington Square as it is also known, has played an integral role in the life of the city since its formal designation as a training field in 1714.

It wasn't until 1802 that the Common underwent significant enhancements. This open expanse was thoughtfully leveled, and soon after, a wood fence and gates were erected, marking the beginning of its transformation into a desirable residential neighborhood. Over the next two decades, Salem's leading merchants seized the opportunity to build grand Neo-Classical mansions facing the Common, creating an awe-inspiring architectural ensemble. Among these elegant structures stands the Andrew-Safford House, a masterpiece of Neo-Classical design dating back to 1818, gracing 13 Washington Square West. As the neighborhood continued to evolve, various revival-style houses sprang up on the remaining lots, forming a captivating concentration of early to mid-19th-century dwellings.

In 1850, the iconic wood fence that encircled the Common was replaced with an ornate cast iron fence adorned with distinctive pineapple finials and stately granite entry posts, adding a touch of elegance to this historic space. Salem Common's transformation continued in 1926 when a new Colonial Revival-style bandstand, designed by architect Philip Horton Smith, was erected in the center of the Common, commemorating Salem's Tercentennial. This bandstand has since been a focal point for community gatherings and events.

Throughout its storied history, Salem Common has been a hub for public gatherings and a place of refuge. In 1914, when the Great Salem Fire devastated the city, the Common served as a temporary home for many residents who had lost their houses.

The Washington Square District, encompassing Salem Common, is not only home to this historic green space but also hosts several other notable landmarks. The Hawthorne Inn (Hotel), constructed in 1925, adds a touch of modernity to the district. The Essex Institute complex, now part of the Peabody Essex Museum, stands as a testament to Salem's rich cultural heritage. A statue of Salem's founder, Roger Conant, sculpted by H.H. Kitson in 1913, provides a link to the city's earliest days. The Civil War Memorial at the head of Winter Street reminds visitors of the sacrifices made during this pivotal period in American history. Additionally, the Phillips School, dating back to 1883, is an important part of the district's educational legacy.

Salem Common, or Washington Square as it is also known, continues to be a vibrant gathering place for the community, where the echoes of history meet the aspirations of the present. It embodies the enduring spirit of Salem, where elegance and civic pride coexist in harmony with the city's storied past and its ever-evolving future.