Hamilton Hall

Located at 9 Chestnut Street, this famed building, designed by Samuel McIntire, was built in 1805 and named in honor of Alexander Hamilton, who had visited Salem, where he had many admirers. The hall was built by wealthy Federalist merchants who wanted a place for dances and social gatherings after growing tensions with the Republicans resulted in the two groups refusing to share an assembly hall. The hall's upstairs ballroom, where tall gilt-framed mirrors reflect the arched windows, makes the hall notable. The ballroom also has a wooden floor set upon springs, which cushions the movements of the dancers. Only a few of these type of floors remain intact in the country. Two other distinct features are the musician's balcony and a rare Rumford Roaster, which in the early 1800's was the most up-to-date means of cooking for large numbers. Hamilton Hall has maintained its original use as gathering place for dances, assemblies and community events. A group called the Ladies Committee of Hamilton Hall has sponsored lectures for over 60 years.