In a town already steeped in spectral lore, the Joshua Ward House stands out as one of Salem’s most chilling landmarks. Its brick façade may seem stately and serene, but beneath the surface lies a legacy of cruelty, tragedy, and a haunting that refuses to fade.
A Foundation Built on Fear
Constructed between 1784 and 1787, the Joshua Ward House is one of the earliest brick homes in Salem. It was commissioned by Joshua Ward, a wealthy merchant, ship owner, and rum distiller who made his fortune importing molasses from the West Indies. The house was built on Washington Street, directly atop the former site of Sheriff George Corwin’s home — the infamous “Strangler” of the Salem Witch Trials.
Corwin personally oversaw the torture and execution of accused witches, including the brutal pressing of Giles Corey, who died refusing to confess. After Corwin’s sudden death in 1696, his body was reportedly buried in his basement to prevent it from being stolen or ransomed by angry locals. Though later reinterred in the Broad Street Cemetery, many believe his spirit never left.
A House of Prestige
The home’s interior was crafted by Samuel McIntire, Salem’s most celebrated woodworker and architect. His original staircase still survives, making it the oldest known McIntire staircase in existence. The house was so esteemed that President George Washington specifically requested to stay there during his 1789 visit to Salem — a rare honor that cemented its place in American history.
Over the centuries, the house changed hands and identities. It was known variously as the Fiske House, the Old Washington House, and now the Washington House, currently operating as a boutique hotel called The Merchant.
Paranormal Activity
Despite its elegance, the house is infamous for its paranormal phenomena:
- Apparitions: A shadowy male figure believed to be Corwin himself, often seen near staircases or doorways.
- Choking Sensations: Guests have described feeling strangled or short of breath — eerily echoing Corwin’s methods.
- Poltergeist Behavior: Books flying off shelves, lights flickering, and objects moving without explanation.
- The Lady in Black: A mysterious female apparition captured in a now-famous photograph during a real estate shoot. Her identity remains unknown, but her presence is undeniable.
The Curse of Giles Corey
One of the most enduring legends tied to the house is the curse of Giles Corey. Before his death, Corey is said to have uttered a final warning: “More weight.” His spirit is believed to haunt Salem, appearing before disasters — including the Great Salem Fire of 1914. Some believe his energy lingers near the Joshua Ward House, a place tied to his tormentor.
Visiting the House
Today, the Joshua Ward House is privately owned and NOT open for public tours. However, its reputation draws countless paranormal investigators, historians, and curious travelers to its doorstep. Even from the sidewalk, many report an unsettling energy — a heaviness that clings to the air.
If you visit, tread lightly. The past here is not just remembered… it’s felt.
Have You Experienced the Joshua Ward House?
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