Salem, Massachusetts, the "City of Peace", was founded in 1626 by Roger Conant. It is the second oldest settlement in New England. Salem boasts a rich history which includes a vital role in the colonial spice trade with the East Indies. The town was the birthplace of the National Guard and the home of the Salem Witchcraft Trials of 1692. Today, Salem is like any modern city in the United States. It is a vibrant urban community with a downtown area full of shops and restuarants. There are many outdoor cafes, ethnic eateries, fine dining establishments, malls, department stores, and open markets in our downtown retail district. Salem also has a waterfront with 18.5 miles of shoreline and seven public beaches for recreational and commercial use. Over 1 million people visit Salem every year. Most of the tourists visit the town's museums and historic architecture to learn about Salem's rich historical history. Salem is a pedestrian friendly city with easy access to its downtown attractions. Salem, Massachusetts is the home to grand mansions that housed many of the country's first millionaires. Salem is proud to be the home of an up and coming artist community. While visiting Salem, many tourists decide to take a historical tour to enrich their understanding of the town's rich history. Below is a link to an excellent historical tour company that offers a variety of different tours.