Salem Saturdays This Autumn
2023’s Salem Saturdays in Autumn are a family affair.
The days are getting shorter, and the nights are growing cooler as Old Salem prepares to share the sights and sensations of Salem’s coziest time of year.
Our leaves change, hearth fires burn, and the smells of freshly-made goods at the Winkler Bakery make their way through the Autumn breeze.
There’s never been a better time to visit Old Salem Museums and Gardens.
Interact with our historic tradespeople demonstrating their craft, dialogue with our costumed historical interpreters, and investigate the seasonal process of harvesting and processing food before the winter season approaches.
The whole family can get hands-on at the Boys’ School with historical activities and games or process some heirloom seeds while learning about the importance of the Fall season to historical seed-saving.
Don’t forget to set some time aside to explore the Museum of Early Southern and Decorative Arts and the Moravian Collection!
Plan your visit to Old Salem today!
This Autumn, we invite you to experience:
The Visitors Center
Enjoy the new exhibits, view our exquisite Tannenberg organ, and shop for a souvenir at Stockberger Supply. Tickets can be purchased here!
Heritage Bridge
Take the journey from Winston-Salem to the Old Salem Historic District through the Heritage Bridge, and don’t forget to take a photo!
The Frank L. Horton Museum Center (including The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts)
See objects made and used by the diverse craftspeople of the early American South, including the beautiful pieces made by the Moravians, and shop for books at F. L. Horton Bookseller that features a wide variety of books related to decorative arts of the American South.
The Blum House Joinery Workshop
See how historical woodworking was done in the town of Salem and the craftsmanship that made the Moravian trades shops famous.
Miksch House & Garden
Observe how a family preserved and used produce in the early days of Salem. Explore the gardens to discover the herbs and vegetables available. Learn how gourds were carved and used by people in this area.
The Doctor’s House
Explore the history of Moravian medicine and examine the contributions of African and Cherokee people to the health of those in and around Salem. Experience daily activities in one of Salem’s largest family homes. From making medicine to seasonal hearth cooking, this early 19th century home and apothecary is sure to be a treat.
The Boys’ School
Children in Salem went to school just like children today. Learn about education in Salem, as well as 1800’s games and children’s activities. This is a great location for hands-on interaction and a deepened understanding of the cultures within historical Salem.
The Single Brothers’ House
This building was home to many of Salem’s boys and men. As a combination of a dormitory and a trades hall, it offers an intimate perspective on Moravian culture, faith, and daily life. Experience the lifestyle of a congregation community while learning about the trades, tasks, and shenanigans of many of Salem’s real historical people. Visit the pottery, located on the basement floor!
Horticulture Education Building
The gardens in Salem are always at work. Learn how gardens support the community, what is growing in the gardens at this time of the year, and how the seeds tell stories.
Winkler Bakery
Always a “must-do,” tickets are no required to visit Winkler Bakery where Sister Deborah will share the bakery’s history. Our famous sugar cake, cookies, and lovefeast buns will be available for purchase (along with lot of other sweet things). Our retail store is located upstairs where you can shop for Moravian stars, handcrafted items, stationery, books, toys and so much more! Tickets can also be purchased here!
Muddy Creek Café
Soups, salads, and sandwiches make for a great lunch.
Vogler House
The iconic Vogler House provides insight into the upscale lifestyle of the Vogler family and the enslaved residents of the house. Be sure to examine the intricate metalwork during your visit!
Timothy Vogler Gun Shop
Salem’s gunsmiths provided hunting rifles for the local community and those around. Come see the craftspeople at work in the same original space where rifles were being made historically.
Salem Tavern Museum
Learn the history of Salem’s Tavern, exploring the cultural intersection of Colonial Americans, Central European Moravians, and the enslaved people of African descent. Come see how this building contributed to connecting Salem to the outside world! Note: this is NOT the Tavern Restaurant!
Click here to view the full list of Open Venues
Consider an overnight stay at one of our historic partner venues:
The Zevely Inn (located in the Old Salem Historic District), 336.748.9299
The Historic Brookstown Inn, 336.701.3904
While in the district:
Visit Home Moravian Church, established in 1771. Volunteers from the church provide interpretation of the sanctuary from 11am – 1pm, W-Sat. (Free)
Tour Salem College’s Single Sisters Museum, located within the historic Single Sisters House on the campus of Salem Academy and College. Single Sisters Museum provides a fascinating overview of a building that has been in use since 1786. (Free)
Visit Salem Square, located directly across the street from the Single Brothers’ House – it’s beautiful, and completely free!