Salem Visitor Center

Salem Visitor Center, run by the National Park Service sits near the site of the old Armory. It features a sizable bookstore, three-story atrium exhibit space and a 200 seat theater. The information desk is heavily trafficked.

In 1982, the head house of the Salem Armory was destroyed by fire. The drill shed survived, and in 1994 it was converted into the Salem Visitor Center, which is operated by the National Park Service. In 2002, the Peabody Essex Museum created Armory Park on the site of the head house.

The Essex County Armed Services Memorial was erected in this location. It is dedicated to the citizens of Essex County who served in the United States Armed Forces. There is a replica of an 1801 Revere Bell as part of the installation.

See Also

Vertical File in Salem Collection - National Park Service Visitor's Center

National Park Service Regional Visitor Center

Essex County Armed Services Memorial

"Ceremony marks the beginning of long-awaited armory project" Salem Evening News, Feb. 25, 1992, p. 1

"A long and winding political road ends; Armory walls soon to house Visitors Center" Salem Evening News, June 18, 1994, p. 1